Most of us would quickly identify that connections to friends, family and community are important to us for our safety, sense of identity and belonging and wellbeing. Brene Brown observes that “connection is the energy that exists between people that feel seen, heard and valued”. Having strong connections within our community, families, friendships groups and learning groups fosters psychological safety, builds trust, enables people to be vulnerable and authentic, enabling risk taking and mistake making, critical for learning, creativity and innovation to occur. By engaging wholeheartedly, we connect fully and authentically as our whole selves. We have the courage to own our strengths and weaknesses, and grow through imperfection, ambiguity and uncertainty. This is the gift we are invited to give each other through courageous, encouraging and purposeful connection that enables flourishing.
As we connect at Pacific, we each extend our hand of welcome whether new or long standing to say you are safe, welcome and valued here, we are here to learn and grow together. In doing so we come together in humility, acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses, empowered by God’s grace and love for us as uniquely created and gifted parts of his creation, equipped to be curious, creative, hope filled people who use our strengths to improve the life of people and the planet.
Principal’s Log
Welcome to the start of the 2026 school year and a particular welcome to our new staff, students and families. It has been a delight to connect with people as the year has commenced. As we have prepared together, staff, students and parents have enjoyed the opportunity to connect over the past fortnight. Staff valued the opportunity to connect as they collaborated to plan for improved learning and opportunities. Prep – Year 7 students and new students and parents enjoyed the opportunity to connect last week with each other and their teachers. Our Year 1-5 families gained further insights into the year ahead through a newly formatted Year 1-5 Information and Connection Afternoon last Friday. Many Middle and Senior College students and their families valued the opportunity to come in and connect devices to our network prior to the start of the school year. There was tremendous energy and a sense of readiness as all students began their first day on Tuesday with stories of holidays shared and a strong sense of anticipation for the year ahead. Within all of these activities there is the intent to foster and strengthen connections that promote a sense of belonging, safety and welcome. Thank you to staff, students and parents for the part you have played in extending the hand of welcome and connection.
We welcome new and returning staff. We welcome Mrs Janene Boonzaaier to the new role as Head of Daily Operations, Dr Jennifer Levitt as Head of Learning Enrichment 6-12, Mr Adam Starr as Drama teacher and Acting Head of Dance and Drama, Miss Rachel Hamilton as Middle and Senior College Mathematics and Science teacher, Mrs Trish Ray as P-12 Dance and Drama teacher, Miss Nina Abbott as Prep-9 Dance and Drama teacher, Miss Shannon White as Year 6 teacher, Mrs Rebecca Walters as Christian Studies and Humanities teacher, Mr Sam Irwin as Acting Head of Middle College Industrial Technology and Design, Mrs Larissa Whincop as Chaplaincy and Wellbeing Officer, Mrs Lydia Macpherson as P-5 receptionist, Mrs Anna Spilsbury as a Visual Art teacher, and Mrs Tania White, Middle College Learning Enrichment teacher. We welcome back Mrs Sarah Atkinson (Year 4 Teacher), Miss Taylor Edwards, (Middle and Senior College Science Teacher) and Mrs Rowena Marshall (Teacher Aide Visual Art) from leave. We look forward to these highly capable staff members joining us and continuing the tradition of high-quality learning, connection, co-creation and care.
We also welcome Mrs Amanda Kratzman, who joins us as a Counsellor while Mrs Kelsie Munroe is on maternity leave from the end of this week. We wish Kelsie and her family every blessing as they welcome a new member into their family. We also farewell, Head of Drama and Dance, Mrs Kristy Astwick who resigned over the Christmas break. We thank Mrs Astwick for her capable leadership of the Dance and Drama department and her talented and creative leadership of high quality productions and dance performances that enabled the talents of many students to grow and shine.
The Middle and Senior College Commencement service provided a powerful point of community connection as we came together, recognising the centrality of God’s love and grace as we reflected on this year’s theme of Connection, Capability and Co-creation. A special part of the ceremony was the official launch of the Connection to Community and Country art piece created by artist Zartisha Davis. The art piece was commissioned by the College to celebrate our 25-year history, connecting the rich heritage of the Kabi Kabi people with the College’s past present and future. The piece is now on display in the Main Administration foyer, and a detailed Artist statement can be found later in the newsletter. We look forward to unpacking the layers of rich connection within the piece.
The induction of new staff and our Middle and Senior College leaders and rededication of continuing staff was also a highlight of the Commencement Service as each committed to serve this community with God’s help. We congratulate our student leaders and their families and pray that God would encourage, guide and strengthen them. We thank students and staff for their support of our Commencement Service and Director of Student Engagement, Ms Leigh Finter and her team for their organisation, Pastor Mark Winter for his message and our musicians for their talented performances.
We wish our Year 11 Geography students all the best as they engage in their field trip this week and our Year 8 students all the best as they connect with each other and the environment next week as part of their five day outdoor education experience. These are unique and important learning opportunities, and we thank Ms Anne-Marie Gerlach and Mr Paul Brace and their teams for their leadership.
We look forward to connecting with our Middle College parents next Monday evening as part of the Middle College Information evening.
May God give us the courage to be people who extend the hand of welcome, hospitality and safety so that as individuals, as groups and as community we connect to grow and use our capabilities to co-create to make a difference for good purpose.
Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal
From the College Pastor
Welcome Back!
Welcome one and all to this new 2026 College year at Pacific. For those of you who are beginning your first year with us at Pacific, we trust and pray that you will feel welcomed, make good and faithful friends, and quickly feel a part of the Pacific Community.
This year we welcome back to the Pacific Community, Mrs Larissa Whincop as our new College Chaplaincy and Wellbeing Officer. Many of you may remember Mrs Larissa Whincop and her family from 2009 to 2021 when she was here as a Prep Teacher’s Aid. Some may also remember her children, Caitlyn, Lachlan and Paige as alumni and Charlie attending Pacific this year.
As Chaplaincy and Wellbeing Officer, Mrs Larissa Whincop will primarily focus on growing opportunities for students to enhance their wellbeing and engage deeply in the spiritual life of the College, while assisting in maintaining the youth group outside of school hours. She will form significant mentor-type relationships with students, with the expectation of developing and nurturing their faith and growing their capacity to act as mentors.
As we begin 2026 at Pacific, we all come with our various, and distinct unique gifts, skills and abilities. Some may appear to have plenty to give and to contribute, while others may feel that their contributions are limited, insignificant and very small. In our text for this week’s thread, Luke 21:1-4, Jesus highlights how a poor woman’s gift of just two small copper coins, be it ever so little, was greatly valued, because that was an expression of thanks to God for all that she had received through God’s love. All our skills, talents, and abilities are given to us from God himself, whether we recognize that or not. These have been given to us to be used for the benefit of the whole community. As we exercise and share out talents, skills and abilities we are contributing towards the co-creation of what God in Jesus is producing through and among us at Pacific. No matter how great and small our contributions, they are all of great value to us in Jesus’ eyes.
As we recognize and use the talents, skills and abilities that God has given us through his love, we will be empowered to live and work harmoniously together in the power of that love. This will enable us to rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. It will enable us to practice hospitality and bless one another through everything we do. As we are devoted to one another in love, we will be joyful in hope, patient in struggles, and faithful in prayer.
May God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit bless us and all that we do throughout this year to God’s glory and our good.
Pastor Mark Winter, College Pastor
From the Director of Student Engagement
Uniform, E-Scooters and E-Bikes, Devices and Daily Routines – Important Reminders
As we begin the 2026 College year, we warmly welcome all families to our Pacific community, especially those who are joining us for the first time. The start of a new year is a time of renewed energy, fresh beginnings and shared commitment and purpose.
The 2026 College theme Connection, Capability and Co-creation reflect our commitment to building strong relationships, growing student capability and working in partnership as students, staff and families to create a learning environment where every Pacific student can flourish.
As students settle into the routines and rhythms of the start of the College year, we appreciate your support with the following reminders that help maintain a safe, focused and respectful learning environment.
Hats and Sun Safety
Hats are a required part of the College uniform. When students are outdoors, they must be wearing a hat that matches their uniform. In Middle and Senior College, the formal hat is required to be worn to and from the College when in formal uniform.
E-bikes and E-scooters
Students who travel to and from school using e-bikes or e-scooters must comply with QLD Department of Transport and Main Roads. This includes:
E-scooter riders must be 16 years of age or older
E-bikes must be pedal-assisted
Maximum speed must not exceed 25 km/h
Helmets must be worn at all times, and road rules must be followed
At Pacific, please note that the College does not provide charging stations or undercover storage for e-bikes or e-scooters. Students who bring and store these at their own risk and are expected to move safely and respectfully around pedestrians and College grounds.
Mobile Phones and Ear Buds
Mobile phones and earphones (including ear buds) are not to be seen or used by students during the school day, from 8:00am until the end of the school day.
For Middle and Senior College students, devices should be switched off and kept secure in lockers or bags, at the owner’s own risk.
To support student focus and minimise disruption, communication between students and parents during the school day should occur through the relevant College offices.
Tuckshop Payments
Middle and Senior College students are required to use pre-paid Flexischools, a student identification card or student identification number, or a debit card when purchasing from the tuckshop.
Thank you for your continued support in reinforcing these expectations with your child. Working together, we help create a learning environment that prioritises wellbeing, responsibility and positive routines for all students.
Ms Leigh Finter, Director of Student Engagement
From the Head of Learning K-5
Nurturing a Love of Reading
For children today, reading books for pleasure has a lot of competition from many other pursuits, ones that seem to require less engagement for an instant excitement return. Television doesn’t require them to visualise scenarios or use their imagination as much, and a video game has all the bells and whistles to be immediately absorbing. But books continue to form the cornerstone of childhood education and development, reports Julie Wells, president of the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA), and there is a large body of research to back this up. “Nothing can fire up a child’s vivid imagination more than reading a book, or having one read to them, because it is their imagination that is creating the images from the words they’re reading,” she says. “The academic and social benefits that come with enjoying reading have also been well documented. But for children it is the absolute joy they can find in reading that is so important.”
Quantity or quality?
Educators, authors and government types have all enjoyed putting a figure on how many books children should be reading, or how many parents should be reading with their younger child each day. In Australia figures have been bandied around that parents should read five books a day to their little children, or at least for 10 minutes a day.
Well-known children’s author Mem Fox wrote in her book, Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud To Our Children Will Change Their Lives Forever (Mariner Books), that children need to hear 1000 stories read aloud before they learn to read themselves. “That sounds daunting. But when we do the sums, it isn’t as bad as we might think,” she writes. “Three stories a day will deliver us a thousand stories in one year alone, let alone in the four or five years prior to school. Reading aloud and talking about what we’re reading sharpens children’s brains. It helps develop their ability to concentrate at length, to solve problems logically, and to express themselves more easily and clearly.”
The benefits of reading have been shown over and over again in research. A German review of 146 international studies and 10,000 students found that children who read a lot end up higher on the social ladder. An analysis of the research found that avid readers score higher not only on language and reading skills but also on success at school and intelligence.
Great ideas for parents
Set aside a regular reading time to do comfortably at home. “This is a great habit to get into,” Wells says. “Turn off the screens and encourage your kids to read – or read to them. Kids will soon love the chance to escape into their favourite books.”
Join your local library and visit as regularly as possible. This way children and their parents can peruse and devour a vast number of books, without the financial demand, while also having the chance to sample different genres and authors.
Get an idea of the great books available from school librarians and staff at the local bookshop. Wells says these people are fonts of knowledge about what children are enjoying and thriving on.
Talk about books with your children. “Many children know what they like reading and at a young age know what authors they enjoy,” Wells says. “Otherwise, talk to them about their interests and find books that match.”
Model good reading habits. Wells says research has shown that children who come from homes where reading material is easily accessible and whose parents read often are more likely to read for pleasure. “Maybe you’re just reading a paper or your favourite magazine, but let your children see you read.”
Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Teaching Learning K-5
From the Head of Career Development
Careers News
How to book a Careers Appointment
Senior College students are encouraged to access the Careers Bookings Calendar and manage their own careers appointment, including inviting parents to join a meeting, either in person or via zoom.
Simply select the type of career related appointment you would like and as courtesy ensure you check with your teacher before you miss all or part of lesson when you make a booking.
For parents of students with ADHD in Year 10, this webinar explores how to navigate the key decision points of the Senior College years, support effective planning for post-school options, and help your teen build confidence in their future direction.
We’ll unpack the unique challenges ADHD can bring to this stage, from planning and procrastination to emotional regulation and explore how to make study and career decisions that align with your child’s strengths, values, and readiness. Hosted by Claire Pech, CICA-Accredited Careers Practitioner, and Amanda Krulis, endorsed Organisational Psychologist. View the full series of webinars for the ADHD community on all things careers, schooling and the workforce. Find out more
START QUT Webinar for Year 11 Students
Organisation: Queensland University of Technology
Location: Online
Date: March 31st 2026
Are you a Year 11 student, or a parent of a student, who's interested in learning more about the START QUT program?
Find out about studying a university subject while still in high school, and hear from past START QUT students about their experiences in the program. The information provided in this webinar is for domestic students considering undergraduate study (i.e bachelor degree study). Find out more
QUT Year 12 Advice Night
Organisation: Queensland University of Technology
Location: Online
Date: March 10th 2026
Year 12 students and parents are invited to join us online to find out about applying and studying at QUT. With the right information and support, transitioning from school to university can be easier than you think. In this webinar we’ll provide advice on:
making course and career decisions
entry requirements and how to apply
study costs, scholarships and financial support
transition to university and support for students
resources for parents and students.
You’ll also hear from real students about their uni experience and have the chance to ask them questions about their course, why they chose QUT and uni life. Find out more
Jobs & Careers
7 exciting careers in the food industry
The food industry offers far more than the traditional roles that first come to mind. Whilst chefs, waiters and baristas play vital roles, there's a whole world of fascinating careers waiting to be discovered by people passionate about food. If you're considering a future in this dynamic sector but looking for something a bit more out there, these seven career paths might surprise you.
Craft Brewer
The craft brewing industry continues to grow strongly, creating opportunities for people who want to combine science, creativity and business savvy. Craft brewers develop unique beer recipes, manage the brewing process, and often work on brand development and marketing. Some focus on the technical aspects of fermentation and quality control, whilst others concentrate on sales and distribution strategies. Getting started in this field typically involves completing specialised training. The Institute of Brewing & Distilling offers professional qualifications, and several vocational institutions provide beginners courses like a Certificate III in Food Processing, or a Certificate IV in Artisan Fermented Products . You could gain hands-on experience with brewing equipment, learn about different beer styles, and understand the chemistry behind fermentation. Many craft brewers start by working in established breweries before launching their own operations, so you could look for work experience or part time work near you.
Food Lawyer
Food law is a specialised legal field that addresses everything from food safety regulations to intellectual property rights. As a food lawyer you could be advising restaurants, food manufacturers, and agricultural businesses on compliance matters. Work on labelling requirements, help clients navigate international trade regulations, or advocate for workers in the industry. This career requires a law degree and often benefits from additional qualifications in food science or public health. Food lawyers need to stay current with changing regulations and understand how legislation affects different parts of the food supply chain. It's detail-oriented work that plays a crucial role in protecting public health and ensuring fair business practices. If you'd like to know more about what a career as a food lawyer might look like, you can check out this article from National Geographic.
Food Stylist
Behind every appetising food photograph and advert is a skilled food stylist. These professionals arrange food to look its best for photography and video production. They work with chefs, restaurants, food brands, cookbook publishers and advertising agencies. Food stylists understand colour theory, composition and lighting. They know which ingredients photograph well and how to keep food looking fresh under studio lights, as well as lots of creative hacks to produce drool-worthy shots.
Building a career as a food stylist typically involves developing both culinary and photography skills. Many food stylists have backgrounds in cooking or fine arts. You'll need a strong portfolio demonstrating your ability to make food look appealing. Some food stylists work freelance, whilst others find in-house positions with magazines or marketing agencies. Photography schools and culinary institutes now offer courses specifically in food styling. If you're interested in a career like this, you could follow food photographers online, start practising by taking shots of your own cooking or meals at home or in restaurants, find courses, workshops and tutorials to attend either online or in-person. Start growing your skills and begin to put together a portfolio.
Molecular Gastronomist
Molecular gastronomy is a blend of food science and culinary art to create all kinds of weird and wonderful concoctions. Using scientific principles and lab tools to create innovative dishes with unexpected textures, flavours, and fantastical presentation. From transforming liquids into spheres, creating foams from vegetables, or using liquid nitrogen to make instant ice cream. This approach requires understanding of chemistry, physics and traditional cooking techniques. Many molecular gastronomists start with formal culinary training at institutions such as Le Cordon Bleu. Advanced programmes like the Hautes Études du Goût in Paris offer specialised education in taste, gastronomy and the art of fine dining. A strong foundation in classical cooking is essentials before experimenting with molecular techniques. This career path often leads to positions in high-end restaurants or research kitchens where innovation is valued.
Chocolatier
Chocolatiers craft handmade chocolates and confections. This career demands precision, patience and a thorough understanding of chocolate's temperamental properties. Working with chocolate requires controlling temperatures carefully, understanding how different ingredients interact, and developing a refined palate. Chocolatiers create everything from simple truffles to elaborate showpieces. The work is physically demanding and requires attention to detail, but it offers creative satisfaction and the chance to develop your own signature products.
Most chocolatiers begin their careers by completing baking or patisserie courses at vocational institutions. Some specialised chocolate schools like Ecole Chocolat offer advanced training in tempering techniques, flavour pairing, and business management. You could end up working in chocolate cafes, shops, hotels, or start your own business. The work can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail, but it if you love chocolate and being creative, this job could be very rewarding and see your own signature products on the shelves.
Cheesemaker
Cheesemaking combines traditional craft with modern food science. Cheesemakers oversee the entire production process, from selecting milk to ageing finished products. They monitor bacterial cultures, control humidity and temperature, and assess when cheese has reached peak flavour. Some cheesemakers work with large-scale operations, whilst others focus on small-batch artisanal production.
Starting in this field might involve taking short courses in cheesemaking basics, then gaining hands-on experience working in creameries. The Academy of Cheese offers professional qualifications that cover cheese science, production methods and sensory evaluation to become a Master of Cheese (seriously). Cheesemakers need physical stamina for the demanding work and patience for the long maturation periods. If the thought of creating, producing and selling cheese, or maybe even experimenting to create something new sounds fun, then this could be a career to explore.
Restaurant Designer
Restaurant designers create the spaces where people gather to eat. They consider flow patterns, furniture, colours, acoustics, lighting and atmosphere alongside practical concerns such as kitchen efficiency and compliance with building codes.
A well-designed restaurant supports staff workflow whilst creating an environment that attracts customers and enhances their dining experience. Restaurant designers work closely with owners, chefs and contractors to bring concepts to life. It's collaborative work that requires balancing multiple stakeholders' visions and practical constraints to successfully complete a project.
This career typically requires qualifications in interior design, architecture or related fields. Understanding both aesthetics and functionality is essential, so construction could even be a pathway in. You'll need to know about materials, building regulations and accessibility requirements. Restaurant designers often build portfolios by working on smaller projects before tackling larger venues. It's collaborative work that requires balancing multiple stakeholders' visions and practical constraints. You might also like to check out some restaurants with noteworthy interiors.
Explore food careers further
These seven careers represent just a small sample of possibilities within the food industry. Each offers unique challenges and rewards for people passionate about food. Whether you're drawn to the creative, technical or business aspects of food, there's likely a career path that matches your interests. If we have you thinking about a career in food, you can also check out our Job Spotlights to find out more about jobs and pathways to get you there.
Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development
Food for Thought
Welcome to the New School Year from the Counselling Team
As we begin a new school year, we would like to extend a warm welcome to all Pacific families. We hope the holiday break provided opportunities to rest, relax, and reconnect - time that is so important for wellbeing and for strengthening family relationships. As students return to the rhythms of school life, our Counselling Team looks forward to supporting them as they settle into the year ahead.
At Pacific, student wellbeing is central to learning and growth. Our College Counsellors work alongside families, teachers, and pastoral staff to support students’ social, emotional, and psychological development. Counsellors provide a safe, confidential space where students can talk through challenges, build coping strategies, and develop resilience. Support may focus on a wide range of concerns, including friendships, learning pressures, emotional regulation, family changes, or general wellbeing.
Accessing counselling support is designed to be clear and age-appropriate. For students in Prep to Year 6, referrals to the Counselling Team are made through classroom teachers. Teachers know students well in their day-to-day learning environment and are ideally placed to notice when additional support may be helpful. Families are encouraged to reach out to classroom teachers if they have concerns or would like to discuss whether a counselling referral may be beneficial.
For students in Year 7 to 12, referrals are coordinated through the Heads of House. The House system plays a key role in pastoral care, and Heads of House work closely with students to support their wellbeing throughout adolescence. Parents and carers are welcome to contact their child’s Head of House to discuss concerns or explore counselling support options. Students may also speak directly with their Head of House if they feel they would benefit from counselling.
We would also like to share an update regarding our Counselling Team in 2026. We are pleased to welcome Mrs Amanda Kratzmann, who will be joining the team while Mrs Kelsie Munroe enjoys 12 months of maternity leave. Amanda brings valuable experience and a student-centred approach that aligns closely with Pacific’s commitment to care and connection. We know she will be a wonderful addition and look forward to the positive contribution she will make to our community. We also wish Mrs Kelsie Munroe all the very best during this special time with her growing family.
As always, we value our partnership with parents and carers. When families, staff, and students work together, we create the strongest foundation for wellbeing and learning. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions about counselling services or would like guidance on how to access support for your child.
We look forward to a positive and connected year ahead and to supporting the wellbeing of every student at Pacific.
“Wellbeing is not a destination, but a daily practice of caring for ourselves and one another.”
Mr Brendan Macaulay,Head of Student Counselling and Mrs Amanda Kratzmann, College Counsellor
College News
Connection to Community and Country Art Piece
Artist Statement - Zartisha Davis
Connection to Community and Country
This artwork was commissioned by Pacific Lutheran College to celebrate the school’s 25 year history while intertwining it with the rich heritage of the Kabi Kabi people, as well as the College’s past, present and future. It embodies themes of community, faith, kindness, excellence, compassion, knowledge, collaboration, courage and the aspiration to be our best.
The depiction of the Mooloolah River at the centre symbolises my family’s deep and unbroken connection to Country and represents the four main river systems on Kabi Kabi land: the Mooloolah, Maroochy, Noosa and Mary Rivers. These waterways serve as a shared connection that unites us all as we live, work and play on Kabi Kabi Country. The water signifies renewal and the River of Life paying tribute to Kabi Kabi history and honouring the journey of students at Pacific Lutheran College.
Community symbols throughout the artwork reflect the College as a vibrant and supportive community - comprising students, teachers, parents and everyone who supports and guides with faith, kindness and wisdom. The three main community gathering circles or symbols represent the Past, Present and Future, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and the collective community of students, teachers, staff and parents.
I incorporated my signature Shell Midden mark making to acknowledge the area's cultural significance. The inclusion of the Cross at the top signifies Pacific Lutheran College’s core values, unwavering faith and steadfast dedication to education - embodying respect, excellence and gratitude for those who have supported us along life’s journey. The Shell Midden elements pay homage to Sea Country and the beautiful environment we inhabit along the Coast. These ancient deposits of shell remnants serve as reminders of the abundant feasts enjoyed by our ancestors and the gatherings where wisdom and knowledge were passed down, paralleling the guidance offered by teachers today.
Middens symbolise caring for Country and caring for each other - embodying community, support, love and stewardship. Additionally, near the midden piles and circles at the bottom of the artwork, there are kangaroo markings and symbols, representing the area's totem animal and emphasising a sacred connection to local wildlife, while the dots on the background symbolise our footprints and journeys making the vibrations on the land. I’ve used the colours of the College’s logo and used colour to represent the cabbage tree palm which is significant in the area.
Overall, this artwork celebrates the values of respect, perseverance and gratitude, inspiring students to honour their personal journeys and the community that shapes them.
About the Artist
Zartisha Davis was born and raised in Nambour and comes from the Mooloolaba Chilly family, the Mooloolah and Meridan Plains people and the Red Belly Black Snake clan. Mooloolaba meaning place of the Red Belly Black Snake, her songlines also include belonging to the Cobble Cobble people of the Barangaam Nation also known as the caretakers of Bonyi (Bunya Mountains) and the Butchulla people from K’Gari on her fathers side. Zartisha most recently was a finalist in the 2024 National Contemporary Art Prize in Canberra, the Macquarie Group Emerging Art prize in Sydney and locally was finalist in the Local Contemporary Art Prize and the Sunshine Coast National Art Prize. Locally you can find Zartisha as the current Artist in Resident at Sub Tropics Studios with SCCA and dancing with the Gubbi Gubbi dance troupe.
Welcome to a New Year of Music at Pacific
Welcome to the start of another exciting year in the Music Department at Pacific!
In 2026, we are thrilled to continue building on the momentum of last year’s incredible growth. With over 30% of students participating in the elective music program, whether through instrumental ensembles or classroom-based learning, music remains a powerful part of the Pacific identity, connecting people, nurturing creativity, and building confidence in all who engage with it.
This year, we aim to continue the embedded approach of neuroscience-informed practices into our teaching, giving students the opportunity not only to learn music but to understand the incredible ways music impacts the brain and supports learning in all areas. Whether it’s improving focus, boosting memory, or supporting emotional regulation, music continues to show us how it’s much more than just notes and rhythms - it’s a whole-brain experience.
Across the College, students are already diving into their musical journeys:
Prep to Year 2 are exploring sound through movement, rhythm, and play.
Year 3 and 4 are connecting pitch and melody to their first experiences on string instruments.
Year 5 and 6 are beginning their Multi Instrumental Program—learning instruments in small groups, forming full ensembles, and composing music of their own.
Year 7 students are picking up rock instruments in the Musical Futures program.
And our Year 8–12 students are returning to Soundtrap, Logic, performance projects and more with fresh ideas and growing confidence.
As always, the support of families plays a pivotal role in building strong habits and confidence in young musicians. Whether it’s encouraging practice at home, attending performances, or simply asking what they’re working on in class, these small moments of connection create powerful momentum for students - especially at the start of the year.
If you would like more information about enrolling your child into co-curricular music, click here. If you have any questions regarding Music please contact plcmusic@pacluth.qld.edu.au .
We’re so excited to make 2026 our most musical year yet, and we thank you for being part of the journey.
Ms Krist-elle Hill, Head of Department - Music
Library News
Welcome to the Library
Our Pacific Library is open from 8:00am until 4:00pm each day. We are a busy, lively library with lots of students visiting every day. At lunchtime we have silent areas for study and reading, as well as more social areas for playing chess or board games, doing arts and crafts, building with Lego, exploring the STEM activities in our MakerSpace or experiencing virtual reality.
Our website contains our library catalogue, where you can search for books, check your loans and place reservations. You will also find links to research skills, our LibGuides page which supports student assignments, and our Clickview video library.
Drop into the library to borrow, ask for book recommendations, or for assistance with finding information
Book Club
Book Club order forms are delivered to K-6 classes twice a term. Students may purchase books online and have them delivered to the school. The first round of order forms went out to students this week. Please place your orders by next Friday, 6th February.
Ms Nell Keen, Teacher Librarian
Back to School Boost - Helping with School Costs in 2026
The Queensland Government has introduced the Back to School Boost, a new initiative providing a $100 support credit for every primary school student (Prep - Year 6) to help with school-related costs in 2026 and beyond. The Department of Education will make payments directly to the College and the $100 will be credited to your child’s tuition fees. Please note the following important details:
Eligibility: Funding is allocated based on 2026 State Census data. Your child must be in attendance for a minimum of 11 days during the census period, 27 January – 27 February 2026, to qualify for the credit.
Application of Credit: The credit of $100 will be applied to your account after census verification occurs.
This support is not a cash payment and can’t be used to reimburse purchases made outside of school charges. The Boost is applied once per eligible student per year.
Mr Ryan Lovell, Business Manager
Uniform Shop
Parents play an important role in supporting students to meet the College's uniform expectations which creates a sense of identity and belonging to community. To assist parents we have produced a Uniform Guide and we encourage parents to play their part in ensuring high standards of presentation are maintained. The Uniform Guide is also available in the online Parent Lounge and NAV.
Parents and families are also able to order uniform items through our online ordering system, FlexiSchools. Orders placed online will be delivered to your child’s class teacher (for primary students) or PCG teacher (for secondary students). To access our Flexischool Uniform Shop, click here.
The College operates a full returns policy, providing the garment has not been worn, labelled or washed and still has the original tag intact.
Second-hand uniforms sold privately must be handled directly by the individuals selling them and not through College administrative offices.
Mrs Peta King, Uniform Convenor
Connecting College and Community
Welcome to our new and returning Pacific families!
The Friends of Pacific warmly welcomes all new families to the College community and our returning families.
Carpark Raffle
For our Junior College families and in particular our Prep – Year 2 families each year we run a raffle for the MOST VALUED CAR SPACE – Tickets are only $10 to possibly secure this valued spot for Term 1 – Your own car space!
The winner will be drawn on Tuesday 10th February. Purchase Tickets HERE
Join our community
The Friends of Pacific is powered by volunteers who help make our College community thrive — If you’ve ever helped at a BBQ, wrapped a stall gift, lent a hand at a carnival, or simply enjoyed one of our events, you’ve seen firsthand how volunteers help bring our Pacific community together and support projects that benefit our students and staff and we thank you.
We have our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) in February and invite you to attend where all executive committee positions are open for nominations. If you are unable to commit to an executive role but still want to be involved in some way, have ideas or a skill that may be able to improve our committee, we would love you to attend as there is no pressure to nominate for roles you can just be a general member.
We are also seeking members who may have experience or enthusiasm with grant writing, social media, event management, fund raising, or experience in other P&C's
Being involved in the Friends of Pacific, whether executive or general member or as a volunteer, is a great opportunity to connect with other parents, and help shape the year ahead, celebrating 25 Years of Pacific.
Join us at our AGM & general meeting on Tuesday 17th February at 6:30pm in the College Library.
All are welcome and ALL positions are open.
Come along, say hello, and see how you can be part of our Pacific community.
There is no pressure to nominate for any position, just come along to meet other families.
Following are brief descriptions of some of the roles available for nominations-
Our First Volunteer Call out is for Junior and Senior Swimming Carnivals – there is no BBQ, just handing out morning tea and lunches and COLD drinks to our amazing teachers.
Junior Swimming Carnival (Years 3 -6) Thursday 5th February at Beerwah
Need to do your Volunteer Training? – click on link here and it will only take 30 minutes and then you are ready for the year with all our great events.
A big welcome from the Pacific Sport Department to our 2026 school year and we hope to see many of our students enjoying all the sport opportunities on offer at Pacific Lutheran College this year.
Introduction Information
A lot of our initial sport information was sent out last week. This would have included an introduction letter with information regarding sport at Pacific, as well as some further correspondence about representative sport. In 2026, the Pacific Sports Department will use Parent Lounge via TASS (https://tass.pacluth.qld.edu.au/parentlounge) to collect consent for sport activities and complete sign-ups and disperse team information and scheduling for all sporting activities via Clipboard.
The weekly Compass newsletter will also be used to pass on information regarding upcoming sporting opportunities and events, as well as competitive sport results updates and celebrations of student sporting achievements. Please don’t hesitate to let us know if your student has achieved highly in an outside school sport event and we will endeavour to acknowledge them in the weekly Compass newsletter.
Competitive Sport
Students will have the opportunity to sign-up and participate in several competitive sport teams throughout the year. These teams play outside of school hours, generally on a weekday afternoon/early evening. We encourage all students to play in at least one competitive sport team per semester to maximise their engagement (and enjoyment) within the College community. All competitive sport sign-ups are done online via the Clipboard link which will be available to students on the My PLC Portal and the Year 7-12 Sport NAV page. Students will be told in advance about signing up and it is a very quick procedure to access a sign-up portal. If there are any issues with signing up, they should contact a member of the Sport Department.
Students in competitive teams will be provided with playing shirts/singlets/jerseys/ dresses throughout the year. It is important to note that these are on loan to students just for the duration of the season and need to be returned at the conclusion of the season, otherwise there will be a fee charged for any unreturned items.
Weekly Friday Sport
Each week students from Year 7-12 will participate in sporting activities on a Friday afternoon. These activities range from competitive sport training, sport development sessions for upcoming competitive sports, and sport for life options which provide students with a variety of physical activity and movement opportunities. Students only ever need to choose their competitive sports or development options in a term. Students who wish to participate in non-competitive sports on a Friday will be allocated to activities with their year level peers.
Friday Sport Schedule
Year 11-12 Sport: 12:15-1:15pm
Year 7-10 Sport: 1:45-3:15pm
Introducing the new Health and Fitness Precinct
The HPE and Sport team are extremely excited to welcome you and to share our outstanding new Health and Fitness Precinct with the Pacific community. This state-of-the-art facility will play an important role in supporting student learning, wellbeing, and physical development.
To ensure the precinct is preserved and enjoyed by all, we ask that the following guidelines are followed at all times:
No food or drink is permitted in the complex. Water bottles may be brought into the facility but must not be placed on the wooden floors.
No chewing gum is permitted in the complex.
Non-marking sports shoes must be worn for all physical activity, including lessons and at lunchtime. Traditional school shoes are acceptable for assemblies and chapel services.
Bags are to be left outside the facility.
We look forward to welcoming the community into this fantastic new space over the coming weeks.
Year 7-12 Swimming Carnival
Our first sporting event for the year will be our Year 7-12 Interhouse Swimming Carnival held on the 13th February at the Nambour Aquatic Centre. We are looking forward to an excellent day of competition and House spirit. More details about this carnival are below:
Inter-House Swimming Carnival
Date Friday 13th February
Bus times 8:30am departure- return to the College by 3:15pm
Location Nambour Aquatic Centre
Transport Bus transport to and from venue will be provided.
Uniform & requirements
Pacific sports uniform with house shirt, water bottle, packed lunch (no canteen facilities will be available to students).
All students must wear College swimming togs.
Those who are involved in competitive swim squads that use proper racing swimsuits, may be allowed to wear these for races if they are appropriate.
Students will be directed to apply sun lotion and stay in the shade in between races.
ALL students must:
be at their allocated meeting places (TBC) by 8:25am
attend and are encouraged to swim (where possible)
wear correct house uniform and swimmers as outlined
return on buses in completely dry clothes
not be on mobile devices on buses or at the pool
swim in house coloured swim caps (provided on the day) for all events
students are permitted to dress up (zinc, costumes, etc) but must do this once they arrive at school
A full program with further details will be sent to parents prior to the carnival.
District Carnival
The fastest 4 freestyle students and fastest 3 students in backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly will be selected in the Pacific Swim Team to represent the College on Thursday 19th February at the Independent District Swimming Carnival held at Sunshine Coast Grammar pool. This is a school hours carnival, and it will be a school championship points event only (not a district team qualifier). Nominations for representative swimming will be direct to the region. More information about this will be sent in the interhouse swimming letter. Students who are in the 12 years age division will have their times integrated with the Junior college carnival results and selections will be made from this listing. The 9-12yrs Independent District Carnival will take place during school time on Wednesday 18th February.
COMPETITIVE SPORTS NEWS
Netball
We are excited to kick off our 2026 Netball Competitive Netball season. Our Pacific Lutheran College Netball Teams have been mostly finalised for our upcoming season, with the exception of the Year 7 and 8 who will trial on Thursday 29th to form teams.
Any students from Year 9-12 who are interested in playing and not in a team are encouraged to get in contact with our wonderful Netball Co-ordinator, Ms Michelle Dufty. We are fortunate to have a great cohort of experienced coaches taking out teams again, including Sunshine Coast Lightning player Ash Ervine, who will be coaching our Intermediate A team. Information regarding the upcoming season will be sent out next week. The first round will be Monday 9th February with the full draw to be emailed out soon. Students will be emailed over the next week to collect their playing dresses. Please email Michelle Dufty at mdufty@pacluth.qld.edu.au if you have questions regarding netball for your student this year.
SCISSA Sport Term 1
Students in Year 7-12 also have had the opportunity to pick a competitive sport for Term 1 and represent Pacific in either Year 11-12 Volleyball or Year 7-10 Soccer in the Sunshine Coast Independent School Sports Association. Interested students have signed up via the Clipboard link which was sent out through email and put on the 7-12 NAV page. Students who have signed up will trial at various advertised times throughout the first week. Information regarding the season will be sent out to parents and students by the end of Week 2. Games schedules will be able to be accessed through Clipboard and NAV calendar when the draw is released. Please contact Mr Cameron West-McInnes at cwestmcinnes@pacluth.qld.edu.au if you have any questions about volleyball or soccer for your students this year.
Other Term 1 Competitive Sport Opportunities
Alongside the regular weekly SCISSA sport opportunities, there are a number of shorter duration events on offer. AFL 9 aside and T20 Cricket are on offer for Middle College boys in Term 1 and interested students should follow the Clipboard link for more information, as well as to register interest. If students or parents have any questions about these competitions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Mr Cameron West-McInnes cwestmcinnes@pacluth.qld.edu.au.
District Trial Dates
Students who are playing sport at a high level may wish to participate in district sport trials throughout the year. Interested students need to contact Mrs Lisa Muir at lmuir@pacluth.qld.edu.au for further information. Direct to region trials will be promoted in notices and in Compass throughout the year. Please see the district trial dates listed below.
Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport
13-19 DISTRICT TRIAL SCHEDULE 2026
Junior Sport
Welcome back to the 2026 school year to all returning Pacific families and a warm welcome to any new families starting at Pacific this year. It is a busy start to the Pacific sporting calendar with swimming and various other sporting opportunities occurring over the next few weeks.
Year 3-6 Swimming
The Year 3-6 Inter-House Swimming Carnival will be held next Thursday 5th February at Beerwah Aquatic Centre. Students will need to arrive at their classrooms by 8:25am for rolls, with buses departing at 8:35am from Pacific.
The aim of the carnival is to maximise participation, develop friendly House spirit; have fun and select a College Swim Team to compete at the Independent District Swimming Carnival. All students will have the opportunity to swim at this carnival for House points.
Students will need to wear Pacific swimmers under their uniform to school on that day (House shirts to be worn) and enclosed shoes must be worn to and from the carnival with their sports hat.
Parents are welcome to attend the carnival but are asked to remain in the parent spectator’s area provided on the day.
4-6 SCISSA Sport
SCISSA sport will begin on Thursday 12th February for all students in Year 4-6. Class teachers have asked students to select two sports that they would like to try in Week 3 and 4 during SCISSA sport time. Students will then finalise their sport choice at the end of Thursday sport in Week 4. Please see the table below which contains the sport choices available to students for Terms 1 and 2.
Armidale Rugby Carnival
During the Easter holidays, Pacific will be attending the Armidale Rugby Carnival on Friday 17th – Sunday 19th April. The tour is open to boys in Year 5, 6 and 7 who are turning either 11 or 12yrs in 2026.
If you would like your son to be part of this tour, please email dhooper@pacluth.qld.edu.au to register your interest for further information. Training will start on Monday 9th February and occur each Monday afternoon during Term 1 from 3:15 – 4:45pm on the main oval.
Pacific Run Club
One of the many extracurricular opportunities available to students at Pacific is the opportunity to take part in the Pacific Run Club. Students in Year 3 and up meet on Tuesday mornings prior to school (7:00 – 7:45am). Run Club will start on Tuesday 10th February, Week 3 and run through Term 1 and Term 2. A sign-up sheet has been distributed to students in Year 3 – 6 this week, however if your child missed this sign up, please email Mrs Lisa Muir lmuir@pacluth.qld.edu.au to receive an information and consent letter.
Sunshine Coast Primary Schools Water Polo Competition (Year 3-6)
Pacific will once again enter teams into the Term 1 - Sunshine Coast Primary Schools Water Polo Competition. Last year, Pacific entered three teams into this competition and would like to continue to build our water polo culture at the College in the younger grades.
Students from Year 3 who are competent swimmers through to Year 6 are welcome to play in this mixed gender competition. Details regarding the competition are as follows:
Monday 16th and Monday 23rd February, Monday 2nd, Monday 9th, and Monday 16th March (round games).
Semi Finals – Monday 23rd March
Grand Finals – Monday 30th March
Games are played from 4:00 – 7:00pm and are normally played at St Andrews College. Parents are responsible for transport to and from venues each week.
If you are interested in your child participating in this activity, please email Mr Darren Hooper for further information dhooper@pacluth.qld.edu.au
Nick Green Football Coaching Clinics
This year we are also working closely with Nick Green Football Coaching to further develop our Soccer programs within the College. Nick has played and coached across the world including coaching in the following systems:
LINCOLN CITY - U18-U23 COACH, HARTLEPOOL UNITED - U18-U23 COACH, BRISBANE ROAR - SENIOR MENS INTERIM COACH 2023
In Term 1 we will have two programs running for students from Prep – Year 6 with Nick Green. Details for these programs are as follows:
Prep – Year 3 Soccer Development Program
Starting on Monday afternoon in Week 5, Pacific will be offering Soccer Development Sessions here at the College through Nick Green Football Coaching. These sessions are funded through the Sporting Schools government initiative and will be limited to 40 participants due to funding and coaching limitations.
Sessions will run from 3:15 – 4:15pm on the following dates:
Monday 23rd February
Monday 2nd March
Monday 9th March
Monday 16th March
Monday 23rd March
The program will be split into two groups based on year levels with Mini Kickers (Prep and Year 1) and Super Kickers (Year 2 & 3) working on skills and game play during these sessions.
If you would like your child to be part of this program, please email Mrs Lisa Muir lmuir@pacluth.qld.edu.au to register your child. As the program has a limited number of 40 participants, places in the program will be given on a first come first served basis.
Year 4 -6 Nick Green Football Coaching Clinics
Students in Year 4, 5 and 6 will have the chance to work under Nick Green to further develop their skills in an eight-week program each Tuesday afternoon. The program will run from Tuesday Week 3 through to Tuesday Week 10 and the cost is $145 per student.
Please see details regarding the program including how to sign up below.
District and Regional Sporting Trials
Below is a list of sports and dates for District and Regional sport trials throughout the year. Trials are open to students in the 10 – 12 years age group. Students wishing to trial should be at a high level in their chosen sport and would need to be able to play competitively in an outside of school competition for this sport.
There are a number of sports that are trialling in the next few weeks, if your child is interested in attending these trials, please register prior to the cut-off date. No late registrations will be accepted.
If you would like to find out further information or register your child for one of these sports please email Mrs Lisa Muir (Pacific Sports Administrator) lmuir@pacluth.qld.edu.au to register your interest.
Mr Darren Hooper, Head of Sport (Prep – Year 6)
Club Sport
Club Sport
Pacific Lutheran College has several sports development programs outside of school hours. These programs encourage participation, giving students the opportunity to be part of a team, and learn basic skills of the game.
The parent-led Pacific FC Soccer and PLC Netball Clubs compete on Saturdays in community competitions throughout the Sunshine Coast.
PLC Netball Club
Our PLC Netball Club committee is busy preparing for the 2026 season! If you can help us to organise the club, there are open committee positions, for both general and office holders. The Treasurer position is currently vacant, please let me know if you can help to ensure our club is a great place for all our players!
Our registrations for the 2026 season are open, and our trial day is set for Sunday the 15th February. Registrations close on the 8th of February, and registration is through the Netball Connect app. Please contact myself or Karen, our registrar, with any questions or issues related to registration. Any players, coaches, or umpires who have uniforms from 2025 which need to be returned, please contact me, or if you plan to attend trials then you can return them on the day.
PLC Netball finished 2025 with a couple of noteworthy events, firstly our PLC players and students who represented Caloundra District Netball Association (CDNA) in the state representative competitions were recognised at CDNA's representative wrap up function. We're very proud of our club's representative players, and the large number of players from our mid-sized club who play at this level is a testament to their skill and dedication and that of our coaching team.
In the CDNA Spring Season, our U14 team finished as champions! The spring season is a shorter competition to allow players to keep their netball outside of the regular season, and all three teams PLC that entered had a great competition and fun times.
Don’t forget to follow us on social media – Facebook and Instagram.
Registrations Open - U6-U10 open - teams filling fast!
U11 + Competitive mixed divisions U11 Stingrays/Snappers mixed div - only 4 spots available
U11/12 Angelfish - Full - waitlist available U12 Swordfish mixed div - only 2 spots available
U13/14 Seahorses - FULL - waitlist available U14/15 Sharks mixed div - only 1 spot available U16/17 Barracudas mixed div **- only 3 spots available (born 2009 or 2010)
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 together 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 Lutheran Church – Worship & Community Invitation
St Mark’s Lutheran Church, Caloundra warmly invites members of the Pacific Lutheran College community to join us for worship and friendship.
Sunday Worship Sundays at 9.00am Our weekly service is welcoming and intergenerational, centred on God’s grace. Children are included through St Mark’s Makers, a creative, faith-focused space during worship, and all are invited to stay afterwards for morning tea and friendship.
St Mark’s Lutheran Church, Caloundra – 14 Bombala Tce
Sunset Service – Saturday 31 January 5.30pm – Relaxed worship 6.15pm – Shared meal
Our Sunset Service offers an informal and welcoming way to worship at the close of the day — especially suited for families, newcomers, and those looking for a relaxed setting.
Worship is followed by a shared meal, creating space to connect, talk, and enjoy being together.
No prior connection needed — all are welcome.
St Mark’s is a community shaped by grace, hospitality, and genuine care for one another. Whether you are exploring faith, seeking connection, or simply looking for a place to belong, we would love to see you.
Our focus for 2026 is “Growing Space for Faith and Community.”
