Compass no. 781

As we commemorated Remembrance Day, our Spirituality and Service Captains shared the importance of remembering the sacrifices of defence personnel and their families with Prep-5 and Years 6-12 students at their respective services. Pausing to reflect and understand that people from diverse backgrounds, including indigenous people, have stood together to defend our values and freedoms reminds us of the debt of gratitude we have to our forebears. We show our gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by previous generations and current serving personnel and their families by making the most of our gifts and talents to make a difference for others.

As we remember those who sacrificed so much to protect our values and freedoms so that we might live in peace, we are encouraged to live with gratitude and grace. We are encouraged to be peace makers within our friendship groups, families, peers, colleagues and community. Jesus died to bring the peace of forgiveness into our hearts and lives. Through His grace and forgiveness, we are encouraged to extend the hand of forgiveness and peace within our relationships. As people who have been given so much, God’s love frees us to live with gratitude and grace as forgiving and forgiven people of peace.

The respect shown by our Prep- Year 12 students across both Remembrance Day services and the meaningful messages conveyed by our Spirituality and Service Captains provided the opportunity for staff, students and parents to reflect and remember together the sacrifices of previous generations. We thank Pastor Mark Winter and Chaplain Mark Hauser, Spirituality Captains Hamish and Symiah, our student leaders and musicians for leading our community in these important remembrance services.

An exciting opportunity will soon be available for families to sponsor a seat in our new College Gymnasium. We are currently inviting families to register their interest in this special initiative. For a $500 contribution, you can leave a legacy on behalf of your child or family through sponsoring a seat. All donors will be recognised on a wall plaque. Your support will help create a space that brings community together through learning, celebration, competition and connection.

We celebrate with our Year 7, 8 and 9 Dance Academy students the enjoyment and success they experienced in the Time to Shine Competition held at St Theresa’s over the weekend. We congratulate Mia on her choreography and the team on their performances and their placings of 2nd in the Jazz and Lyrical sections and 3rd in the Contemporary Dance section. We thank Mrs Kristy Astwick for her leadership and support of the Dance Academy.

Recognising the important role that the performing arts play in the development of young people and within our lives, Pacific will be expanding its offering of Dance and Drama to our Prep-5 students next year. Our Prep and Year 1 students will engage in a lesson per week for one semester and our Years 2-5 students one lesson per week for the year. We have appointed a specialist Junior and Middle years dance and drama teacher to lead this program, which will also provide additional co-curricular performing arts experiences for our young people next year. The decision to expand the performing arts program is part of our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan and also something raised as an important hope within our Friends of Pacific meeting at the start of the year. We look forward to this extension of the performing arts that play a critical role in nurturing creativity, confidence and social and emotional skills to shape healthier, more resilient and expressive individuals.

Our robotics teams also performed very well at the First LEGO League (FFL) Unearthed Challenge at Morayfield over the weekend. The students employed their design thinking skills to work as a team, innovating and having fun as they competed. We congratulate all our teams on their enthusiastic and capable engagement with the competition. We celebrate with our Pacific 1 team, who were placed 1st in the Engineering Excellence category and have earned a place in the National finals, our Pacific 2 team, who were recognised for the impact of their multipurpose solution and our Pacific 3 team, who were awarded a Breakthrough Award nomination for an impressive working prototype. Well done to all teams. We congratulate and thank Mrs Nicole Schirripa and Mrs Janine Stone for their capable and inspiring leadership of our robotics students.

Director of Student Engagement, Ms Leigh Finter, has provided a summary of useful ideas and links for families as they prepare for the age restriction changes for access to social media commencing on 10th December for young people under the age of 16. A planned, informed and progressive approach within families will best support young people in making this change. Ms Finter’s article highlights some of the valuable information and resources provided by the eSafety Commission.

We wish our Year 12 students all the best as they complete their final external exams over the coming days. We look forward to joining them in important learnings that occur during the alternate day program and celebrating with them as they enjoy their graduation, farewell chapel and formal at the end of next week.

We wish all students, and particularly our Year 6 to 11 students, who are completing exams and assessments over the next fortnight, calm minds as they prepare for and complete these tasks. Our teachers have been supporting students in learning important skills to facilitate a planned, calm and progressive approach to revision, which helps build confidence and capacity. Every small step makes a difference.

We offer a prayer of thanks for the sacrifices made by our defence service personnel and their families in protecting our values, freedoms and way of life. We pray that God would equip us to be peacemakers and world leaders to be people of peace.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal 

As the year draws to a close, we take this time to reflect and rejoice in another year of Pacific’s journey. The high quality of education our staff engage with and deliver, in conjunction with an exceptional co-curricular and outdoor education program, is to be celebrated. The vast range of opportunities provided to our students, on a firm foundation of Lutheran mission, is indeed the Pacific Way. This year we have seen our students excel in areas including Sport, Academics and Service Learning on numerous levels, including international. We have celebrated Arts, Music and STEM and delighted in our community coming together at OCEANfest once again. From the Early Learning Centre to the Senior School spaces, we have been witness to our College community growing in God’s love and sharing that love and compassion with our wider community. 

In line with our Strategic Plan, our building program continues with the Gym Complex Stage 2 in its planning stages, in addition to the other refurbishments. We look forward to completion of Stage 1 in the coming months and celebrating the official opening with the College community early next year. Ensuring our students are provided with high quality and innovative learning spaces is a key priority of the College. To ensure we can meet the needs of our College moving forward, Council recently ratified a fee increase for 2026. This decision was not made lightly. After due diligence, deliberation and advice from industry experts, we have taken into account the impact of rising costs inclusive of improved programs, increased fixed expenses, utilities and salaries, construction costs and a significant reduction in government funding due to the changing characteristics of our parent body. The 2026 fee schedule has been uploaded to our website. College Council is committed to its fiscal responsibilities, in conjunction with delivering the expectations of our community and the ongoing development of the College’s facilities and programs. Parents are invited to contact Business Manager, Mr Ryan Lovell if they have queries in regard to the 2026 Fee Schedule.

 We congratulate all Pacific students for their hard work and engagement throughout 2025. We thank all our staff for their leadership of the College and for ensuring students and families are well supported and cared for throughout their Pacific journey. On behalf of the College Council, I wish all our students, staff and families a safe and joyous holiday. May God bless you all this festive season and may we all rejoice in the gift of Jesus’s birth and God’s enduring love.

Mr Mark Altman, College Council Chair

When Jesus sat down on the mountain side and began to teach (Matthew 5:1-12), his words painted a picture of a kingdom unlike any our world has known. In the Beatitudes, he revealed the heart of those who are truly blessed; not by power, wealth, or victory, but by the character shaped through humility, mercy, and peace. His words offer timeless wisdom for those seeking peaceful ways to resolve conflict.

Jesus begins with the “poor in spirit” and “the meek” (vv3 & 5). These are not the weak, but those humble enough to see their own faults and recognize that they need God’s grace, love and mercy. In any conflict, peace begins when we approach the other person not with pride and superiority, but with a spirit that listens, understands, and admits where we too have fallen short. God blesses us when we are willing to lay down our defences and allow His Spirit to soften our hearts.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (v7). Mercy is the willingness to forgive even when wronged and to choose compassion over revenge. In conflict, mercy breaks the cycle of blame and bitterness. When we show mercy, we reflect the very nature of God, who has first shown mercy to us. Peaceful resolution to conflict often starts when we dare to respond with grace and love instead of retaliation.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (v8). Purity of heart involves seeking the truth within a right relationship with God, others and ourselves, rather than gaining personal victory in every situation. When our motives are sincere and we aim to restore relationships rather than dominate them, we begin to see God’s Spirit at work in ourselves and the process. It is then that our words and actions become instruments of God’s gracious healing rather than causing harm.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (v9). True peace is not simply the absence or avoidance of conflict. It is the presence of justice, love and reconciliation within daily life. Peacemakers do not run from conflict, but they enter it prayerfully, guided by the Holy Spirit and seeking to transform it. By doing this we bear the family resemblance of our Heavenly Father, who sent his Son to reconcile the entire world to himself.

Jesus ends by blessing those who are persecuted and insulted for doing what is right (vv10-12). Sometimes when we pursue peace and follow God’s process it brings misunderstanding and rejection. But Jesus assures us that God sees and honours our efforts. His blessing does not rest on worldly success, but on our relationship with him through Jesus and our faithfulness to follow his ways. The joy He promises to give us is much greater than any temporary pain we may experience from conflict, because it is the joy of living as full citizens of His kingdom.

God blesses us when we seek peace not because it is easy, but because it reflects His nature within us. Each of these beatitudes point to clear steps towards peaceful conflict resolution. Through humility, mercy, purity of heart and courage we can be true peacemakers bringing reconciliation within any relationship. As we live these qualities, we become instruments of God’s peace in a world that hungers and thirsts for real peace.

As Jesus demonstrated from the cross, true peace is born out of love, forgiveness and complete trust in the Father’s will. When we walk this path empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are not just peace lovers. We become peacemakers and carry the unmistakable mark of being God’s beloved children.

God bless us as we strive to be peacemakers at Pacific and within our whole community.

Pastor Mark Winter, College Pastor

As many of you will be aware, the age-restriction changes for social media platforms, commencing on December 10th present a significant transition moment for our students and families. With the intention being to ensure young people’s online experiences are safer, healthier and more balanced, we believe that now is the ideal time for our students and parents to start putting in place strategies and mechanisms to assist with establishing new habits, including encouraging some of our tech savvy students who currently have social media accounts to archive digital platforms, rather than being suddenly required to make sweeping changes at the last minute.

Below is a roadmap for parents and students, including practical suggestions for your family and links to 30-minute webinars offered by the eSafety Commissioner for parents and carers. (You can register here: eSafety – Parents & Carers).

Quick family ideas for November:

Check screen time together

• Open Screen Time (iPhone) or Digital Wellbeing (Android).
• Ask: “What surprises you? What feels good? What could we change a little?”
• No lecture, just curiosity.

Start ‘phone-free windows’

Try something realistic:

• no phones at dinner
• phone-free first hour after school
• screens off 1 hour before bed

Consistency beats perfection.

Taper, don’t delete

Rather than a sudden shutdown, try gradually reducing daily scroll time.

Even 10–15 minutes less each day makes a difference.

Digital clean-up

Choose one platform per week: 

• archive old posts
• remove unwanted followers
• check privacy
• save special photos or memories somewhere safe

This way, if accounts need to go later, nothing meaningful is lost.

Talking With Kids Under 16     

The new rules mean children under 16 won’t be able to create or keep accounts on many platforms from December 10th 2025.

That’s going to feel big for some students, especially if social media helps them connect with friends.

Here’s how to make the conversations calm and supportive:

Keep it casual

Driving in the car, walking the dog, hanging out in the kitchen, these moments work better than a serious “We need to talk.”

Be honest about the “why”

“This is about keeping you safe because some parts of social media aren’t built for young people. We want you to have the best possible online experience.”

Use ‘not yet’ instead of ‘no’

“This isn’t forever. It’s just not for under 16. When you’re older, you’ll be able to choose.”

Ask questions, don’t just tell

• “Which apps matter most to you and why?”
• “If you had to pause one, which would be easiest?”
• “How do you feel after being online for a long time?”

Let them archive

Children feel better when they can save their memories, photos and creative work before closing an account.

Make a plan together

The eSafety Commissioner has “Get Ready Guide” for children and families:

https://www.esafety.gov.au/young-people/social-media-age-restrictions/get-ready-guide

It helps kids map what they’ll lose, what they can save, and how to stay connected with friends in other ways.

Why Start Now?

• Sudden bans cause conflict, panic or sneaky work-arounds
• Gradual change feels respectful and fair
• Children learn digital responsibility, not just compliance
• Their online world is emotionally important; we honour that by giving them time

Parent Tools: 30-Minute Webinars

The eSafety Commissioner offers free, short webinars for parents and carers.

They’re practical and judgement-free.

Some helpful ones include:

• Social media age restrictions: what parents need to know
• Using parental controls
• Managing tech and wellbeing in the teen years

You can find them here: https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents 

These are perfect if you want expert advice without reading a 50-page guide.

Family Tech Agreements

To help families get ahead of the upcoming changes, the eSafety Commissioner provides easy, ready-to-use templates for Family Tech Agreements. These aren’t long, complicated contracts, they are simple guides that help you and your child set clear boundaries around screen time, online behaviour, devices in bedrooms, and what to do when something goes wrong. There are versions tailored for all ages, and you can start as young as five. Beginning early builds healthy digital habits before social media even enters the picture. You can find the templates and guides on the eSafety website under the Parents section.

Ms Leigh Finter, Director of Student Engagement

Remembrance Day is a time for our College community to come together and reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who served to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. For children, it’s more than a history lesson—it’s an opportunity to learn about respect, gratitude, and the importance of peace. These values help shape the way they see the world and understand their role in building a caring and inclusive community.

Our College ceremony is a meaningful way to bring these lessons to life. When students gather to observe a minute’s silence, listen to stories, and take part in traditions, they connect with something bigger than themselves. It’s a chance for families to know that these important conversations happen at the College, and that together we are helping the next generation appreciate the sacrifices of the past while looking forward to a peaceful future.

Listening and Understanding Perspectives

Recently, at a Junior assembly the ancient story of the six blind men and the elephant was shared. It reminds us that truth is often multifaceted and shaped by perspective. Each man touches a different part of the elephant and forms a conclusion based on limited experience, leading to disagreement. It is only when all stories are shared that awareness is built and commonality established.

Similarly, in human conflict, individuals often hold partial truths shaped by their own context and emotions. Peaceful conflict resolution begins by acknowledging that no single viewpoint captures the whole picture. This humility opens space for dialogue rather than division, allowing us to seek a shared understanding rather than insisting on absolute certainty. 

Restorative practice builds on this principle by creating structured opportunities for people to listen deeply and speak honestly. Instead of focusing on blame or punishment, restorative approaches prioritize repairing harm and restoring relationships. When we invite all voices into the circle, we honor the complexity of the “elephant”—the situation—and recognize that each person’s experience matters. Through questions like “What happened?” and “What needs to be done to make things right?” we move from fragmented perspectives toward collective responsibility and healing.

Often, young people need support and guidance to engage in this process and this opens opportunities for our teaching staff to assist. But more and more, I am witness to our students independently having constructive conversation with each other when things aren’t going well, a sign that they understand the need for perspective giving and taking. 

Lutheran theology grounds reconciliation in grace. Just as God forgives us through Christ, we are called to extend that same grace to others. Conflict becomes an opportunity to live out the Gospel—confessing, forgiving, and restoring relationships. In doing so, peaceful resolution reflects our shared unity in Christ’s love, which heals division and brings wholeness.

Christmas Cards and Sweets

With the Christmas season upon us, it is often accompanied by students wishing to bring cards and candy canes in to wish classmates the best for the season. It is a lovely gesture; however, it can present challenges around increased waste in the College and parents being unaware of students' food intake. Often, these candy canes have a high sugar content and colours and flavours that react differently to individual students. This year, we ask that you consider these factors before sending in these items and possibly explore other ways for your child to wish their classmates the best of the season. As a College, we thank you for your support in this initiative moving forward.

Take care and God Bless.

Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Student Engagement P-5 

Year 12 Early University Offers – IMPORTANT UPDATE

Many of our Year 12 students who have applied for early entry into university degrees but have not yet received an offer will likely be hearing some exciting news on Friday, 21st November.

Please remember to keep a close eye on your Tertiary Application Portal for any updates or additional tasks that need to be completed to ensure your application can be fully assessed.

If you have any questions or need support with your applications, don’t hesitate to connect with the Careers Team. We’re here to help you through every step of the process. Book in here for an appointment.

SCHOLARSHIPS

AMSI High School Scholarships for Female Year 10 Students Intending to Study Specialist Maths

Organisation: Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute

Location: Australia

Value: AU$3,000 per year

Open Date: August 15th, 2025

Close Date: November 14th, 2025

Find out more

Aspiring Teacher Grant for High-achieving School Graduates in Queensland

Organisation: QLD Department of Education

Location: Queensland

Value: Up to AUD$5,000

Open Date: October 27th, 2025

Close Date: December 15th, 2025

Find out more

nixit Scholarship for Future and Current Undergraduate Students

Organisation: nixit

Location: All

Value: US$1,000

Close Date: September 30th, 2026

Find out more

Earn University credit for working at MacDonalds

McDonalds Australia have just announced that employees can earn credit towards a university degree in Business, Commerce, Management, HR, Technology, and IT, just by turning up to work and completing their training. 

If you're a MacDonalds employee, then all you need to do is earn up to 8 microcredentials, each of which counts for up to one university subject. You can even stack the microcredentials together and score direct entry into an MBA program (Masters of Business Administration), potentially saving you up to $20,000 in fees. 

MacDonalds have partnered with the following universities at this stage (Nov 2025):

• University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
• Torrens University Australia
• Adelaide University
• James Cook University
• Curtin University
• Charles Darwin University
• University of Tasmania
• University of Canberra
• University of New England
• Swinburne University, and 
• William Angliss Institute

We are hopeful that this will be expanded to include more partnerships between early-career employers and universities, particularly in South East Queensland. 

Discover the Path to Becoming Cabin Crew: Free Online Information Session

Organisation: Aviation Australia

Location: Online 

Date: December 17th, 2025

Are you curious about what it takes to work as cabin crew or flight attendant? Our 45-minute online information session (plus 15 minutes Q&A) will give you insider insight into the world of cabin crew, the training process, and how our course at Aviation Australia can set you up for success.

By the end of this session, you will:

• Understand the full structure of the Aviation Australia Cabin Crew Essential Course, and how it differs from other training options
• Learn the skills and certifications you will gain (e.g. first aid, customer service, emergency procedures)
• See real classroom and simulation facilities, and hear from instructors with industry experience
• Explore potential career pathways with major airlines
• Get your questions answered live during our Q&A

Who should attend?

• Aspiring cabin crew candidates aged 18+
• Recent school leavers looking for a unique career path
• Individuals wanting to pivot into aviation or customer service roles
• Anyone who wants a realistic view of what it takes to become cabin crew
• Anyone who wants to learn about our graduate outcomes

Whether you’re just exploring or ready to commit, this session is your opportunity to see if cabin crew training is for you.

Find out more

Maleny Farm Fest

Organisation: Maleny Agricultural Show Society

Location: Maleny Showground

Date: November 22nd, 2025

The Maleny Agricultural Show Society is thrilled to launch a bold new initiative: the Maleny Farm Fest – a one-day celebration of innovation, resilience, and opportunity in farming.

We're bringing the energy, the ideas, and the future of farming to the Sunshine Coast hinterland — and you are invited!

Check out the Trailblazers Youth Zone – created by young people, for young people – featuring:

• Agriculture career talks
• The Maleny Agriculture Quiz
• Local produce raffle
• Interactive displays
• Real pathways into farming, sustainability, and regional careers

Whether you're curious about agriculture, already living the rural life, or just keen for a fun day out with good food, music, and community vibes, Maleny Farm Fest is your scene.This is your chance to learn, connect, and shape the future of farming and regional living.

Find out more

Jobs that didn’t exist 10 years ago (and what they pay)

The job market is changing faster than ever before, and some of the roles that are hiring right now simply didn't exist a decade ago. Technology advances, social changes, and new industries have created career paths that weren't even on the radar when today's university students were in Junior College.

If you're thinking about your future career, it's worth knowing that you're not limited to traditional paths. Many of the most interesting opportunities are emerging right now, and understanding what these roles involve and what they pay can help you spot possibilities you might not have considered.

Here are some jobs that have emerged in Australia over the past decade, along with what you can expect to earn and where to learn more about each field.

Music Therapist

Music therapy sits inside the health, care and medical emerging space, using music as a therapeutic tool to help people with physical, emotional, cognitive, or social needs. Most therapists earn between $800 and $2,000 a week (roughly $41,600 to $104,000 a year), with a smaller group earning above that range.

Recent job advertisements show full-time roles in the $90,000 to $95,000 range, and Jobs and Skills Australia has identified it as an emerging role. If you're interested in both music and helping people, this relatively new profession combines both in meaningful ways. Where to learn more: Australian Music Therapy Association

Climate Change Analyst

As organisations and governments work to understand and respond to climate change, the need for people who can analyse data, model scenarios, and develop strategies has exploded. This is one of the clearest examples of the sustainability and net-zero career stream that's emerged recently. Australian roles advertised for climate or decarbonisation analysts in government and large organisations commonly sit around $145,000 to $155,000 plus superannuation. For example, NSW EPA's Principal Climate Change Analyst role starts at $148,230 plus super. Wider salary datasets put the typical range from about $102,000 to $181,000, making this one of the better-paid emerging fields.

Where to learn more: Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

Bioinformatician

As health, medical research, and genomics push further into data analysis, bioinformaticians have emerged to bridge biology and computing. These professionals analyse genetic and biological data to help understand diseases, develop treatments, and advance medical knowledge. Census data shows that 43% of bioinformaticians were already earning $2,000 or more per week ($104,000+ annually). Current Australian salary sources put bioinformaticians mostly between $95,000 and $120,000, with senior research or clinical bioinformatics roles in WA and VIC health services at around $105,000 to $110,000 plus superannuation.

Where to learn more: Australian Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Society

Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development

Every family has its own rhythm when it comes to communication. Some family members are quick to speak, while others prefer to pause and reflect before sharing their thoughts. These differences can sometimes cause frustration or misunderstandings—but they’re actually just different styles of processing information and expressing ourselves.

A useful way to think about this is through the idea of “talk-to-thinkers” and “think-to-talkers.”

“Talk-to-thinkers” are people who process their thoughts out loud. They often start talking before they fully know what they want to say, using conversation as a way to clarify what they think or feel. For example, your child might blurt out, “I hate school!” after a tough day. To a parent, this can sound dramatic, but for a talk-to-thinker, it’s just part of sorting through emotions—they may later clarify, “I didn’t mean I hate school, I just felt embarrassed when I got something wrong.”

“Think-to-talkers”, on the other hand, prefer to think things through internally before speaking. They often need time and space to process information before responding. You might ask your teen, “How was your day?” and get a quiet “fine.” But later that night, when the house is calmer, they might open up with a thoughtful conversation.

Neither style is right or wrong—they’re just different. Challenges can arise when these communication styles mix. For instance, a talk-to-thinker parent might try to discuss an issue immediately, while their think-to-talk child feels pressured and retreats. Or, a think-to-talk parent might wait too long to bring up a problem, leaving their talk-to-think child feeling unheard or confused.

So, how can families bridge these differences?

Recognise the style: Notice whether each person tends to think first or talk first.

• Adjust expectations: Give think-to-talkers time to reflect before responding and let talk-to-thinkers speak freely without interrupting.
• Model respect: Show that both styles are valued by listening patiently and acknowledging each person’s way of processing.
• Create safe spaces for conversation: For some families, this might be a chat during car rides, before bedtime, or over dinner.

When we understand and respect each other’s communication styles, family conversations become less about frustration and more about connection. After all, being heard—and feeling understood—is at the heart of healthy relationships.

PLC Counselling Team - Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Counselling, Mrs Kelsie Munroe, Middle Years Counsellor and Mrs Sara Taverner, Learning Enrichment P -5 & Counsellor

LEAVE A LASTING LEGACY

Be part of our College history by sponsoring a seat in the new Pacific Lutheran College Gymnasium.

Your $500 seat sponsorship represents a meaningful investment in the enhancement of facilities

and opportunities for our students and the continued excellence of our academic, cultural, recreational and sporting programs.

All sponsors will be recognised on a Donor Recognition Wall prominently displayed within the gym- a lasting tribute to your generosity and family connection to the College community.

Your contribution will help enhance the gym, experience for Pacific students, staff, families and community members, as a place of connection, learning, celebration, competition and culture.

Kaboom Percussion Inspires New Ways of Music-Making

On Monday we welcomed Kaboom Percussion to Pacific, with performers Grace and Quinn delivering an energetic, creative and truly memorable experience for our Year 7, 9, 10, and 11 music students.

Through an engaging and highly interactive performance, students explored how music can be made in unconventional ways—using buckets, pots, boomwhackers, drums, whistles, and even squeaky dog toys. Grace and Quinn not only performed with exceptional skill but also inspired students to think outside the box and embrace the idea that music is all around us.

The session was a reminder that music isn’t limited to traditional instruments—it’s about imagination, experimentation and expression. A big thank you to Kaboom for expanding our minds (and filling the room with rhythm and fun!).

Our Pacific dancers took to the stage at St Teresa’s College for the Time to Shine Competition, representing Pacific with pride and continuing our tradition of excellence in representative dance.

It was wonderful to see our Year 7 students performing alongside the talented and experienced dancers from Years 8 and 9 in a true display of teamwork, creativity, and confidence.

A special mention goes to Mia for her outstanding leadership in choreography this year, beautifully supported by the team’s skill, passion, and collaboration.

Our Pacific results: 2nd – Jazz and Lyrical, 3rd – Contemporary

Congratulations to all our Pacific dancers on an incredible effort and outstanding performances.

Over the weekend, three Pacific teams travelled to Morayfield to participate in the First LEGO League (FFL) “Unearthed” Challenge - a competition that champions discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork, and fun - values that align closely with the design thinking process that is central to our College’s Technologies curriculum and TechQuest program.

This year’s event was bigger than ever, with strong competition both on the board and in the innovation projects. Our Pacific students showcased their strengths by applying the design thinking process to discover, define, develop and deliver solutions that impressed judges.

Highlights:

• All Pacific teams were recognised for their enthusiasm and fun approach to learning.
• Pacific 1 placed 1st in the Engineering Excellence category and secured a spot at the National Championships. Judges praised their inclusive and creative VR and Merge Cube prototype, detailed design thinking journey and impact statement and outstanding engineering notebook.
• Pacific 2 demonstrated strong research, testing and continuous improvement with a multipurpose solution that delivered a high impact.
• Pacific 3 earned a Breakthrough Award nomination and showcased an impressive working prototype.

These achievements reflect Pacific’s commitment to fostering a culture of thinking and empowering students to tackle real-world challenges. Together, we celebrate not just the wins, but the journey - where collaboration, curiosity, imagination and resilience, turn challenges into opportunities.

A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated robotics coaches Mrs Nicole Schirripa and Mrs Janine Stone for guiding students throughout the year, and to the additional staff who generously volunteered their time to support this event. Your expertise and encouragement make these moments possible

We congratulations Tristan Mahon, Year 12 student, who joins Kya Brace, Year 12 student, for officially completing his Duke if Edinburgh Gold Award. This is an impressive milestone that reflects consistent dedication across all areas of the program. 

Throughout Tristan’s journey he has worked on his personal fitness, completed defensive driving lessons and patrolled our stunning beaches to ensure the safety of our community. His Residential project was re- vegetating several areas of a National park and he hiked the Cooloola Great Walk from Rainbow beach towards Noosa.

Tristan will formally receive his Gold Award before the end of the year.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a globally recognised program that challenges young people to step outside their comfort zones, develop lifelong skills and make meaningful contributions to their communities. It is open to Pacific students from Years 9 to 12. Should you wish to learn more please contact Mr Paul Brace, Head of Outdoor Education via email pbrace@pacluth.qld.edu.au.

Mr Paul Brace, Head of Outdoor Education

Ever wondered what it takes to be an entrepreneur? Our Year 8 Enterprise students put their business skills to the test over the last 2 weeks with vibrant Monday lunchtime market days. Starting with just a $20 seed fund, each student designed and developed their own product or service over the term — aiming to recover their investment and donate any profits to charity.

The results were outstanding. From creative product ideas to clever marketing and teamwork, our young innovators demonstrated impressive entrepreneurial flair. We’re incredibly proud of their efforts and can’t wait to see how these future business leaders continue to grow their talents.

Final Book Club Orders

Please get your Book Club order in by this Sunday 16th November. This is the final Book club for the year. 

Chessmates Finishing Date

The last Chessmates class for the year will be on Tuesday 25th November. There will be no class in the final week of school.

Mrs Narelle Keen, Teacher Librarian

Details about the 2026 Student Device Lease program are now available. Families who wish to lease a device through the College should fill out the form on the Bring You Own Device page on our College website. The form is also available through the QR code or this link.

Mr Steve Rattey, ICT Manager

Start Planning Now for Back to School 2026

Get a head start on your 2026 school preparations by organising your child’s uniform early.

• Year 1 in 2026: Students will require a full Formal Uniform along with the current Prep/Sports Uniform.
• Year 6 in 2026: Ensure your child’s Formal Uniform, including a Formal Hat, is updated to the Middle College Uniform.
• Senior School (Year 10–12) in 2026: Boys will need to purchase a Blazer and Trousers as part of the Senior Uniform. Girls will require Blazer and Senior Tie.

If you're unsure of the uniform requirements for your child, please refer to the Uniform Guidelines or book a fitting appointment at the Uniform Shop by calling the main admin office- 54367300.

Avoid the rush and shop early!

A reminder that Year 9 students will need to ensure that they have a Blazer for the Rite Journey Homecoming event (27th November) and Trousers for the boys.

Mrs Peta King, Uniform Convenor

We are seeking Expressions of Interest for FoP Executive Positions for 2026 – if you would like to find out more about a position listed below, please email fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au .

• Chairperson
• Vice Chairperson
• Secretary
• Treasurer
• OCEANfest/Event Co-Ordinator 
• Junior College Executive
• Middle College Executive
• Senior College Executive
• Alumni Executive

Amazing Volunteers

We would like to thank all our volunteers that have helped throughout the year. Pacific is a fabulous community.

Ms Jan Watman, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

Basketball
Congratulations and best of luck to our Junior Boys Basketball 1sts, who have remained undefeated this season and will defend the College’s 2024 championship title this Friday against STCC.

The game tips off at 5.00pm at Caloundra Indoor Stadium and spectators are warmly invited to come along and show their support. 

This year has been outstanding one for Pacific basketball, with five teams reaching the semi-finals and two progressing through to the grand finals. We are hopeful our Junior Boys can join our Junior Girls as 2025 champions. 

Tennis

It was an incredible night of tennis last night, with both our Primary and C Division teams securing their places in the grand finals after impressive wins. 

The Primary Team defeated Good Shepherd in a hard-fought match. Their teamwork, strong serves and positive attitude shone through every rally, earning them a well-deserved victory. 

The Division C team also delivered a fantastic performance, overcoming Sunshine Coast Grammer with determination and skill. 

Both teams displayed outstanding sportsmanship and team spirit. Congratulations to all players and coaches.

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

Sunshine Coast Sports Awards - 2025 Team of the Year Finalists

U12 /13 Pacific Seahorses 

The 2025 Sunshine Coast Sports Awards Judging Panel has recently reviewed nominations from the community, and our very own Pacific FC - U12/13 Pacific Seahorses have been selected as finalists in the 2025 Team of the Year category.

The U12/13 Pacific FC Seahorses made history this year by winning the first all-female premiership and grand final in the Sunshine Coast Churches Soccer Association Competition, a remarkable achievement that highlighted their growth, teamwork, and determination. The team is a combination of girls from Year 5, 6 and 7 who have played together for a number of years.

The awards take place next Thursday 20th November at City Hall. MC for the evening is Ava Black from Sunshine Coast Lightning. 

A special mention to Greg Hill, Jane Hill and Katie Radford who have been long-term coaches and managers for this team. 

Lastly thanks to Pacific FC committee member Jenny Lee and Mrs Rita Williams who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to provide opportunities for these girls and countless other players who have been members of Pacific FC teams over the years. Without their dedication, achievements like this would not be possible. 

Good luck Seahorses! 

Year 4 -6 SCISSA Gala Day

Last Thursday, students from Year 4 -6 participated in their final Gala Day for 2025. Students had a range of sports they could choose from to represent PLC at various venues across the coast. 

Well done to the following teams who finished the day as overall champions of their division:

• Netball - Year 5/6 Division A Champions 
• Water Polo - Year 5/6 Division B Champions
• Boys Touch Football - Year 5/6 Division B Champions 
• Boys Touch Football - Year 4 Division C Champions 
• Girls Soccer - Year 5/6 Division A Champions 
• Girls Soccer - Year 5/6 Division B Champions 
• Boys Volleyball - Year 4 Division C Champions 

Students who were members of these winning teams were presented with their Gala Day pennants during Year 4-6 sport this week. 

Year 4-6 Sport Awards

Next Thursday, students in Year 4-6 will attend their end of year Sports Awards Presentation held in the College Gymnasium from 12:00 – 1:00pm. 

This year our guest presenter and speaker is Justin Otto who is the current Queensland and Australian Touch Football Captain, and one of the Australia’s most accomplished Touch Football players. Touch Football at PLC is growing rapidly in interest and this year we have had a number of teams finish as SCISSA Gala Day champions as well as a strong interest in The Kawana Touch Football Competition with four out of our five teams having top four finishes in this competition. 

Parents are welcome to attend the Sports Awards.

Student Acknowledgement 

Well done to Emma Year 6 and Sophie Year 7 who had the chance to compete as a team at the Little Athletics Regional Relays over the weekend. Both girls are very accomplished throwers having represented at state level for discus and combined to form a very formidable team.

Both girls achieved personal bests on the day, taking out first and second place and breaking the regional team record by an incredible 3 metres.

They now head to the State Championships in December. 

Good luck girls! 

Mr Darren Hooper, Head of Junior Sport P-6

Sharing a common mission and ministry with Pacific Lutheran College

“Growing in faith and sharing God’s love with others”

Weekly worship services are held at 14 Bombala Terrace Caloundra at 9.00am. We are thankful that we can meet each week for worship. 

Our worship services are intergenerational with a blend of traditional and contemporary.

You’re welcome to follow us on Facebook and visit our Church webpage.

All are welcome at any of our services.

St Mark’s Makers – Next Session

Date: Sunday, 16th November 2025

Time: During Worship, 9:00 am 

Where: St Mark’s Church & Outdoor Craft Space

Theme: Serving with Grace 

Scripture: Mark 10:42–45

Bring your creativity and curiosity to St Mark’s Makers! Children of all ages will explore how true greatness in God’s kingdom comes through serving others, just as Jesus did. Through worship, discussion, and hands-on craft, we’ll learn how even small acts of service make a big difference.

Craft Activity – Helping Hands Garden: Each child will create a “Helping Hands Garden” using decorated paper hand cutouts. On each hand, they’ll write or draw a way they can serve others. These hands are planted in a small pot to grow a colourful garden — a visual reminder that serving with grace nurtures God’s love in our hearts and community.

Why Come?

• Worship and craft designed just for all children.
• Learn how to live God’s grace by serving others.
• Build friendships and be part of St Mark’s vibrant community.

All children are welcome — come, make, play, and discover how serving with grace can grow God’s love in your life and the lives of others!

Help Create the Logo for St Mark’s Makers!

St Mark’s Makers is a new family and community ministry of St Mark’s Lutheran Church Caloundra. It’s a creative space where children, families, and people of all ages come together to explore faith through hands-on making, building, and creating. From craft to construction, painting to problem-solving — we discover God’s love in action as we create together!

We’re now inviting our Pacific Lutheran College community to join in the fun by helping us design a logo for St Mark’s Makers!

Your design could include: 

• Faith – a cross, light, or heart to remind us that we create through God’s love.
• Making – hands, tools, or patterns that show creativity and imagination. 
• Community – shapes or figures that show people working and growing together. 
• Joy and Colour – warm, bright colours that show the life and energy of this ministry.

You can draw, paint, collage or design digitally – any medium is welcome! Your ideas will help inspire the final logo used for our future St Mark’s Makers gatherings and community events.

How to share your design: Drop it off at St Mark’s Lutheran Church Caloundra, bring it to worship, or email a photo of your creation to lutherancaloundra@gmail.com  by 30th Nov 2025. Come be part of something new — where faith and creativity meet and everyone can be a maker!

Pastor Ray Morris, St Mark’s Lutheran Church (0429 856 532 or lutherancaloundra@gmail.com)

October

27Oct-18Nov                             Yr 12 External Assessment

November

27Oct-18Nov                             Yr 12 External Assessment

17 – 21                                        Yr 10 exams

19                                                Junior Ensembles Concert

20                                                Yr 4-6 Sports Awards

20                                                Yr 7-12 Sports Awards

20                                                Yr 12 Graduation

21                                                Yr 12 Farewell Chapel

21                                                Yr 12 Formal       

27                                                P-2 Swimming Carnival

27                                                Yr 9 Leadership Day Rite Journey Homecoming

28                                                K-5 Carols

December

1                                                   P-5 Closing Service

2                                                   Yr 6-12 Closing Service

2                                                   Term 4 Concludes