Compass no. 786

We build stronger connections by walking graciously with kindness and generosity. We create safe places where people can flourish. Living graciously means that we create space for people to be authentic and to grow to be their best selves. When we reflect graciously, we can look honestly at where we have fallen short and open ourselves to growth. When we reflect graciously on our interactions and relationships, kindness and empathy are called into action, bridges are built and growth is encouraged. 

God invites us to live graciously and to turn to Him for forgiveness and strength. Through His love and forgiveness for us, we can live each moment renewed, empowered to grow. We are then invited to extend that same graciousness to others, creating space for growth and connection.

It was a delight to celebrate the achievements and growth of our 2025 Graduates at the Scholars’ Assembly this week. Graduates were recognised for being top of subject, achieving QCAA and industry excellence awards and for achieving ATAR scores above 90. We welcomed 2024 Dux and College Captain, Ayanna Nath back to the College who delivered a powerful speech about the importance of connection and being graciously authentic in how we see ourselves and in our relationships. Ayanna then presented our 2025 Dux, Rhianna Noble (99.35) and Proxime Accessit, Austin Lauritzen (97.95), with their trophies and awards. 

On assemblies this term, our Middle and Senior College learning team are sharing strategies that help to build students’ thinking. As part of our parent engagement strategy, parents are being invited to join in the enhancement of student capability through articles in the Compass. I would encourage all families to read Mrs Jo Belchamber’s Head of Learning Middle College article, which explores simple questions and strategies to connect new learning with existing knowledge and strengthen understanding. 

Year 10 students and parents valued the opportunity to connect with each other and learn about ways in which they can enhance learning and growth at the Year 10 Information evening this week. Information about planning for next steps in Career planning as a family, making the most of the learning opportunities at the College through connection with effective study strategies and opportunities provided through extending relationships, mentorship roles and co-curricular experiences were shared. We thank parents and students for their support and Head of Learning Senior College, Ms Anne-Marie Gerlach, Head of Student Engagement Senior College, Mr Nigel Farley, Head of Career Development Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Career Advisor Mrs Colleen Beattie, IT Manager, Mr Steve Rattey and Mrs Rhana Holt and our hospitality team for their leadership.

We look forward to the Friends of Pacific Annual General Meeting next Tuesday evening. The Friends of Pacific provide great opportunities for people to connect as well as contribute to the strengthening of opportunity within the College. All families are welcome and we look forward to another great year of connection and community building.

There was tremendous energy at last week’s Year 3-6 Swimming Carnival. We congratulate all students on their spirited engagement and Bula House for winning the Spirit Award and Buran House for being the carnival winners. We look forward to the Year 7-12 carnival tomorrow. Please see the notice below regarding the process we would follow in the case of inclement weather for the 7-12 Swimming Carnival tomorrow. A priority notice will be issued through NAV. We thank Mr Darren Hooper, Mrs Lisa Muir and Mr Cameron West McInnes for their organisation and leadership.

May God enable us to live graciously with strength and good purpose.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal 

You have probably all been told something like this many times. “The more you put in the more you will get out.” “The effort you put in will be the benefit you get back.” We tend to believe that what we give determines what we will get back in return. We know this principle as Karma. The idea that the good one does will equal the good one gets in return and the bad one does will equal the bad one gets in return. 

When I studied Anthropology the term ‘reciprocity’ was used to label the reciprocal sharing of goods and services within social and communal relationships. The idea was that all members of a community would give goods and services to others to build up credit as it were to get back from the community at another time of need. This appears to be a basic human principle within all social communities. “I’ll scratch your back if you’ll scratch mine”.

This fortnight we are investigating the thread of “Integrity” and our text for this week is Luke 6:32-36. This text challenges us to have a different attitude of loving and sharing with our community than that of ‘reciprocity’. This passage takes us to the very heart of what we might call Christian integrity. It links what we believe about God with how we treat others, especially when it costs us and we have no guarantee of getting any present return.

Firstly, Jesus says loving only those that love us back is nothing special, anyone can do that (v 32). Christian integrity is seen when love extends beyond convenience, reciprocity, or self-interest. This integrity ensures that our actions reflect the values we claim to live by, even when there is no payoff.

Next Jesus contrasts a transactional way of living (“I’ll love if I get love back”) with a gracious way of life (“I’ll love because God has loved me”). Integrity in the Christian life then, flows from the grace we have received and is not based on the advantage we hope to gain (v35).

The very climax of this passage is not a rule to live by, but a revelation of God’s nature (v36). Christian integrity is clearly the imitation of God’s mercy towards us. Therefore, by allowing God’s character of kindness to the ungrateful and compassion toward the undeserving to shape our own responses we will be willing to love without counting the cost and to show mercy to all. Loving enemies, giving without return, and showing mercy when one is wronged are stress tests that grow integrity. When kindness costs something, integrity is revealed.

Finally, Jesus speaks of a ‘reward’ not as something that we earn or deserve because of what we do, but rather as an identity of who we are (v35). Integrity then is not based on any moral superiority or human goodness, but it is all about our belonging; living in a way that visibly aligns with who God is and who we are.

Luke 6:32-36 teaches that Christian integrity is living mercifully, generously, and lovingly, not only to those who deserve it, but because God is merciful, generous and loving towards us. Integrity then is when mercy, generosity and love is not just preached but practiced and embodied within our daily lives. May we so recognize whose we are and know God’s mercy, generosity and love towards us, that we express this same mercy, generosity and love through all our service and giving to God’s glory. Amen.

Pastor Mark Winter

I would like to extend a sincere thank you to our Pacific students, staff and families for a smooth and positive start to the 2026 College year. The energy around the College has been fantastic and it has been wonderful to see students settling back into routines, reconnecting with peers and embracing the many opportunities on offer. There is certainly a lot happening across Middle College and our students are navigating this busy period very well.

Our Year 7 students have made an impressive start to their Middle College journey. Transitioning into a new environment can be both exciting and challenging, yet they have settled in wonderfully and are already beginning to find their rhythm. Classrooms are buzzing with engagement, new friendships are forming and students are demonstrating a strong willingness to participate and contribute. We are proud of how confidently they are embracing this next stage of their Pacific journey.

We welcome back our Year 8 cohort this week following their four-night camp at Emu Gully. The camp provided a great opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones, develop resilience and strengthen their connections with one another. Camp staff were impressed with how positively students engaged in the program and supported one another throughout this Outdoor Education experience. Experiences like this are incredibly beneficial for cohorts, helping to build a strong sense of belonging and shared identity. A huge thank you to Mr Paul Brace, Head of Outdoor Education and his dedicated team of staff for their exceptional organisation and commitment in delivering such a valuable experience.

Our Year 9 students have now begun their Rite Journey, an important milestone in their Middle College years. This program encourages reflection, responsibility and personal development as students continue to mature as young adults. We look forward to welcoming parents and caregivers in Week 5 for the Departure Ceremony, which marks the beginning of this significant journey. Further information will be shared shortly and we encourage families to engage with this meaningful occasion.

Finally, I would like to congratulate all our Year 6 students who applied for leadership positions. The quality of applications has been outstanding and reflects the leadership potential within our younger Middle College cohort. We look forward to announcing the successful candidates soon and are excited to see these students step into their leadership roles within the College community.

Thank you again to everyone for contributing to such a positive and productive start to the year. We are excited about what lies ahead and look forward to continuing to work closely together to support the growth, wellbeing and success of every Middle College student.

Mr Brett Kersnovske, Head of Student Engagement Middle College

At Pacific Lutheran College, we are excited to include Drama and Dance in the curriculum for students from Prep to Year 5. These creative arts are not just “fun extras” — they play a vital role in academic growth, social development, emotional wellbeing and whole-child learning. Here’s why these disciplines are essential in the early and primary years.

Building Confidence, Expression and Voice

Drama and dance give every child a voice — literally and figuratively. Through acting, movement and performance, children learn to express themselves confidently in front of others. Research shows that engaging in theatre, drama and dance activities helps young people build self-confidence, communication skills and a sense of presence when speaking and performing with others. 

These experiences are powerful: students learn to project their voice, convey emotion and articulate ideas — skills that support effective communication in all areas of school life.

Enhancing Cognitive and Academic Skills

Drama and dance are deeply linked with thinking skills that support academic learning:

• Memory and focus: Learning choreography or lines improves recall and attention — skills that are transferable to literacy, numeracy and everyday classroom tasks. 
• Creative problem-solving: When students improvise a scene or explore movement, they’re navigating challenges, making decisions and thinking on their feet. 
• Pattern, sequence and spatial awareness: Dance involves memory of steps and sequences, helping young learners build cognitive skills that underpin mathematical and scientific thinking. 

In this way, drama and dance don’t sit apart from academic learning — they enrich it.

Social and Emotional Growth

Drama and dance are inherently collaborative. Working in groups to create scenes, choreography or performances teaches children how to:

• Cooperate respectfully with peers
• Listen and respond to others’ ideas
• Understand different perspectives

Taking on roles in drama or collaborating in a dance routine helps students develop empathy and social awareness — seeing the world through someone else’s eyes and expressing emotions in healthy, constructive ways. These activities also build emotional regulation. Movement and expressive performance provide safe ways for children to explore feelings, manage anxiety and build resilience. 

Physical Wellbeing and Coordination

Dance supports children’s physical development. Regular movement improves:

• Balance and coordination
• Muscle strength and flexibility
• Spatial awareness and motor skills

Through dance, children learn to control their bodies, respond to rhythm and enjoy physical activity — supporting a lifelong positive relationship with movement. 

Creativity, Imagination & Cultural Engagement

Children are natural storytellers and movers. Drama and dance simply honour and develop these instincts. By exploring character, story, music and movement, students grow their imagination, creative thinking and cultural appreciation. These creative experiences also broaden students’ horizons. Exposure to drama and dance nurtures curiosity, invites risk-taking in a supportive environment, and encourages students to bring their whole selves — ideas, emotions and creativity — into learning.

Preparing Students for the Future

People who can think creatively, communicate effectively, collaborate confidently and adapt with resilience are well equipped to flourish in a rapidly changing world. Drama and dance cultivate these strengths in ways that go far beyond a traditional academic focus. They build confident learners, compassionate communicators and creative thinkers — exactly the kinds of young people we want to develop at Pacific Lutheran College.

Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Teaching and Learning K - 5

In last week’s Compass, planning was introduced as the first phase of metacognition — the ability for learners to think about and manage their own thinking. When students are explicitly taught metacognitive and self-regulation strategies, they become more aware of how they learn, which can lead to improved learning outcomes. Research shows that intervention strategies to teach students how to plan, monitor, and evaluate their learning can make up to seven months’ additional progress per academic year. 

One effective planning strategy used by successful learners is making connections to prior learning. When students pause to ask themselves, “When have I learned something like this before?”, they are more likely to activate existing knowledge. Rather than learning each new concept in isolation, students can reduce cognitive load by building on what they already know. Reflecting on which strategies worked (or didn’t) in the past also supports goal setting and helps students monitor their progress.

In next week’s assembly, Middle and Senior College students will be introduced to the study strategy of concept mapping. Concept maps are a type of graphic organiser that help students organise and make sense of new material by showing how ideas connect. They provide a clear “big picture” view of a topic and present information in a concise, visual way. The process of transforming information into a concept map also helps students to remember it, supporting deeper understanding and recall. In this way, concept mapping acts as a powerful planning tool, helping students activate prior knowledge, clarify what they already understand, and plan how new learning fits with existing knowledge.

Parents can support this at home by talking with their child about how you plan your thinking — whether that’s mapping ideas on paper or visually connecting information through icons on lists. Modelling your own thinking in this way helps students see planning as a practical, everyday strategy they can use across subjects.

The Pacific Metacognition Toolkit can be found on pages 29–33 of the Student Handbook and on the Learning and Assessment tile on Nav.

Mrs Jo Belchamber, Head of Learning Middle College

This week’s career development focus is closely connected to our College thread of integrity, encouraging young people to act on their convictions and stand firm in their beliefs. In Luke 6:32–36, we are reminded to “be merciful,” calling us to reflect thoughtfully on how our values shape the choices we make. As students begin to explore future pathways, developing a clear understanding of their values, beliefs and interests is a vital part of self development and informed decision making. When students know what matters to them, they are better equipped to plan confidently for their future, approach career choices with integrity, and take their next steps with purpose.

Year 10 Students 

Thank you to the students and parents/carers who were able to attend the Year 10 Information Evening. The Pacific Careers Team will open the ‘Year 10 Senior Education Training Plan Consultations’ for Term 2 between Week 4-8. Year 10 students will need to complete their Career Cluster Quiz and pre-interview questionnaire before booking an individual career interview. 

Between now and the end of term, families can play an important role in supporting their students’ career development by:

• Encouraging open and honest communication
• Helping students recognise their interests and strengths
• Supporting exploration of resources and exposure to different career clusters
• Respecting student choices and offering emotional support
• Reinforcing the value of life-long learning
• Remembering that decisions feel less overwhelming when students focus on the next step
• Allowing time and space for thoughtful decision-making
• Reassuring students that there are no “wrong turns” in career development and every experience contributes to growth and learning

How to book a Careers Appointment 

Senior College students are encouraged to take ownership of their career development by accessing the Careers Bookings Calendar to manage their own appointments. Students may invite parents/carers to attend meetings either in person or via Zoom. When booking during class time, students are asked to check with their teacher before missing all or part of a lesson.

Book appointments via the link: Pacific Lutheran Careers Support or the QR code.

Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development

We rely on the internet for almost everything in modern life — from learning and connecting with others to entertainment and creativity. Because of this, online safety remains an important part of our children’s wellbeing.

As online abuse and new risks continue to grow, it’s essential that we educate ourselves and those around us — at home, at school and in the wider community — about how to make online spaces safer, more inclusive and more positive for all.

Safer Internet Day was an opportunity to start those conversations and build healthy digital habits together as families.

Below are five principles families can focus on, along with trusted resources to help support each one.

• Be Kind. Encourage empathy, respect and kindness in every online interaction. Behind every screen is a real person, and our positive behaviour helps make the internet safer for everyone.
• Balance time online. Healthy technology use includes making space for offline connection, rest and reflection. Balancing screen time supports sleep, mood and family relationships.
• Speak up. If something online feels unsafe, harmful or upsetting, students should tell a trusted adult straight away. Serious online abuse or cyberbullying can also be reported directly to eSafety. For information on what you can report and how: https://www.esafety.gov.au/report
• Protect your space. Privacy settings, strong passwords and parental controls help reduce risk for your child. eSafety offers practical advice on how to set up and use parental controls effectively: https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-and-advice/parental-controls. You can also explore a range of parent and carer resources — including videos, activity sheets and conversation starters — here: https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/resources 
• Start the conversation. Open, calm discussions about online experiences are one of the strongest protective factors for young people. Talking regularly with your child about what they do online helps them feel supported and less isolated if things don’t feel right.

For general online safety basics and conversation tips:https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-and-advice/online-safety-basics 

Additional Support

The eSafety website also includes resources for children and young people to learn about online safety at their level, from Junior through to Senior College. Explore age-appropriate tips here: https://www.esafety.gov.au/kids 

Working together, we can help our children become confident, responsible digital citizens. Remember, young people are far more likely to seek help when they believe adults will listen and support them rather than immediately remove access to technology. Connection first. Consequences second.

Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Counselling and Mrs Amanda Kratzmann, College Counsellor

Pacific Year 12 Geography students recently undertook a three-day field trip to K’gari (Fraser Island), gaining valuable firsthand experience investigating coastal dune vegetation systems. The excursion focused on examining the impact of human activity on these fragile environments.

Throughout the trip, students collected primary data, conducted field investigations, and analysed real-world environmental challenges affecting dune ecosystems. They explored the key pressures facing these systems and evaluated strategies for future biodiversity management. The data and insights gathered during the fieldwork will directly inform students’ field reports.

At Pacific, scholarships power possibility, where curious minds connect and ideas take flight.

 Applications are now open for 2027 Academic, General Excellence, Music and Sport Scholarships for Year 6 to Year 11 students.

 Visit our website to learn more and apply today. Applications close Friday 6th March 2026.

The Visual Art Department is seeking Middle and Senior College students to participate in the 2026 LLL Synod Art Competition. Please see the following flyer and QR code for competition details. If you are interested, pop in Week 3 - Monday or Tuesday lunchtime, A1.1, to discuss the theme “Open Door to Spiritual Renewal: Reborn in Water, Renewed by the Spirit” and submit a 16 x 20-inch canvas design sketch. Limited canvases are available — selection will be based on your submitted sketch. All Middle and Senior students are welcome to submit. Lunchtime painting will occur across Week 3-10, Term 1.

Participants of all ages are welcome to submit their entries by contacting the competition organisers directly.

Mrs Marnie Whittaker, Acting Head of Department - Visual Arts and Teacher - Design

You Never Know Where Music Will Take You

At the start of a new College year, it’s worth remembering that no one truly knows where their music journey will lead.

Some of our students are just beginning - holding an instrument for the first time, learning how sound is made, discovering what it feels like to be part of something bigger. Others are continuing a journey they started years ago, building confidence, skill and identity through music. Both paths are equally important, and both are full of possibility.

Recently, a short clip has been circulating of Jonathan Bailey (Actor in Wicked, Bridgerton, Jurassic World Rebirth) returning to his roots as a clarinettist, performing in the orchestra for Jurassic Park (a very exciting moment for me!). It’s a powerful reminder that music doesn’t always lead where we expect - but it always gives us something along the way: connection, capability, creativity, and a sense of belonging.

Music may take students to a stage, a studio, a classroom, a community - or simply remain a lifelong companion. Wherever it leads, the skills, relationships and experiences gained through music stay with them.

As we begin 2026, we look forward to a year of discovery, growth and shared music-making - excited for the journeys already underway, and the ones yet to unfold.

Gather your young musicians and watch this interview segment as a family- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL266sAFOBE 

Supporting Music at Home: Three Gentle Reminders for Families

1. Consistency over duration: Short, regular practice is more powerful than long, infrequent sessions. When music becomes part of the weekly rhythm, it feels achievable, familiar and sustainable.
2. Be curious about the process: Ask your child to play something they’re working on, or to explain a composition idea. Curiosity shows that the process matters just as much as the outcome.
3. Listen together: Listening to music supports brain development, emotional regulation and motivation. Neuroscience reveals that listening to music can increase dopamine levels, supporting focus, pleasure, and learning. Sharing music at home helps build positive emotional connections to learning.

We look forward to partnering with families as students connect, grow their capabilities and co-create through Pacific music in 2026.

Ms Krist-elle Hill, Head of Department - Music

Car Park Raffle

Congratulations to Samantha, the winner of our Term 1 Car Park Raffle!

Thank you to everyone who participated—your support is greatly appreciated. All raffle proceeds go back into supporting our College.

Volunteers

Thank you to our amazing volunteers who helped at both our Junior and Senior Swimming Carnivals.

Volunteer call out now for our Senior Swimming Carnival – there is no BBQ, we are handing out morning tea, lunches and cold drinks to our amazing teachers. Senior Swimming Carnival (Year 7-12) – Friday 13th February at the Nambour Aquatic Centre. https://volunteersignup.org/X9T7W 

Need to do your volunteer training? – click on the link following, it will only take 30 minutes and then you are ready for the year. https://www.pacificlutheran.qld.edu.au/college-community/friends-of-pacific 

Join us at our Annual General Meeting (AGM) and General Meeting - Tuesday 17th February at 6:30pm in the College Library. 

Thank you to the people who have RSVP’d – we love to see families involved. If you want to hear about how you can be involved in your child’s time a Pacific, please RSVP then we will forward you an agenda and add you to our catering numbers.

All are welcome and ALL positions are open.

Friends of Pacific is powered by volunteers who help make our Pacific College community thrive — If you’ve ever helped at a Pacific 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 community together and support projects that benefit our students and community and we thank you.

All executive committee positions are open for nominations at the AGM. 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. There is no pressure to nominate for roles as you can join as 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 parent groups.

Being involved in Friends of Pacific, whether as an executive or general member or as a volunteer, is a great opportunity to connect with other parents, and help shape the year ahead celebrating an exciting 25 Years of Pacific.

Come along, say hello and see how you can be part of our Pacific College community.

Following are brief descriptions of roles available for nomination.

Ms Jan Watman, Chairperson

Competitive Sport News

SCISSA sport resumed yesterday with a fantastic start to the season. Our Senior volleyball team took to the court, while our Intermediate and Junior soccer teams showed great enthusiasm and teamwork on the field. It was wonderful to see such positive energy and commitment across all teams. We’re looking forward to watching their skills develop and seeing how they progress throughout the term.

Well-done to all our teams who played in their first competitive SCISSA sport fixtures this week. Please note that fixtures for the SCISSA Volleyball and Soccer season will be entered into Clipboard each week so please check carefully. Information regarding venues and bus departures and arrivals will be found in this fixture information. 

Competitive AFL

After lots of interest for the 9 aside Boys AFL competition, I am happy to confirm that we will have a Year 7/8 and Year 9/10 team to compete in the Monday afternoon fixtures starting on the 2nd March.

We will be holding a meeting for all students who have signed up at lunchtime on Monday 16th February at the Health and Fitness Precinct. Once we have met with the players, a letter will be sent home to families.

Basketball Academy

We are looking forward to the start of the Pacific Basketball Academy starting next week. Invited athletes will have received an email this week. The Academy provides the opportunity for athletes to advance their overall athletic potential through sessions designed to improve strength and conditioning, fundamental skill application and game play.

Athletes will be required to commit to attending two training sessions per week as well as completing extra sessions in their own time. These extra sessions will be based upon each athlete’s individual needs. Trainings for Semester 1 are as follows:

• Mondays (Term 1 Only) 3.30pm-4.30pm Health and Fitness Precinct - Shooting
• Thursdays 3.30pm-4.30pm Health and Fitness Precinct - Fundamentals

The first session will be held on Thursday 17th February which will include fitness testing.

Attendance at all sessions is compulsory. Students with injuries that can be rehabilitated are expected to still attend and complete a modified session.

The academy will run throughout Semester 1 while Semester 2 will focus on team preparations for the Sunshine Coast Schools Basketball and Champion Basketball School of Queensland Tournaments.

Student Acknowledgement

Congratulations to the following Pacific students who competed at the SunCoast Regional Little Athletics Championships last weekend and qualified for the QLD Little Athletics State Championships in the following events.

• U10G Juliet Year 4 - Discus (1st), 1100m race walk (1st), 800m (4th)
• U13G Emma Year 7 - Discus (1st)
• U13G Sophie Year 8 - Discus (3rd)

Congratulations to the following students who were selected in Representative Teams:

A special mention also goes to Reo (13-15yrs Boys Football) and Kai (16-19yrs Boys Football) for their selection as shadow players for Independent District Team.

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

The Pacific Kayaking Program will commence in Week 6. Students will be notified soon on how to express interest in joining the program. 

Pacific won both the School Marathon and Sprint Championships last year. I am looking forward to further improving the program and using the new boats and paddles. 

Students who competed at the school championships in 2025 will be selected first, and then additional students will be added to the program based on availability and a come-and-try session.

Training occurs on Monday and Thursday afternoons from 3:30-5pm at Lake Kawana. Normally, the Year 4-7 students train on Thursday and the Year 8-12 students on Monday. In Term 2, an additional training session will be offered on Wednesday mornings for the more advanced K1 paddlers.

The training and equipment are provided for free, but students will need to buy the Pacific kayaking uniform (shirt and cap) and participate in the school championships. The School Marathon Championships are on Tuesday, 16th June, and the School Sprint Championships are on Tuesday, the 8th of September. Both competitions are held at Lake Coomera on the Gold Coast. In previous years, parents have transported their children to and from the venue.

Pacific kayaking is a unique school program that caters for beginners in TK1 boats through to advanced students in racing K1 craft. All students involved in the program participate in both singles and doubles races. Often, students move to more advanced boats and paddles as skill level improves.

Parents will be sent a more detailed information letter once students express an interest in joining the program.

Please contact me at the College if you would like more information about the kayaking program.

Mr Gary Graves, TIC PLC Kayaking  ggraves@pacluth.qld.edu.au 

Year 3–6 Swimming Carnival

The Pacific Year 3–6 Swimming Carnival was held last week at the Beerwah Aquatic Centre, with students bringing outstanding energy and enthusiasm to make the day both fun and successful.

Bula House proudly claimed the Spirit Award, while Buran House was crowned Overall Pool Champions. Congratulations to all Age Champions listed below and well done to every student who participated and gave their best throughout the carnival.

A big thank you to Mr Darren Hooper, Mr Cameron West-McInnes and Mrs Lisa Muir for their organisation and leadership, as well as to the staff and parents whose valued support helped make the day a success. We now look forward to the Year 7–12 Swimming Carnival on Friday.

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.

Run club started up this Tuesday with a fantastic turnout of students from Year 3 through to Year 10. It was a hot, humid morning and students bought into the run and ran some strong times for their first Run Club session of the year. Consistent attendance at these sessions is recommended for students to maximise progress in their cardiovascular endurance.

Please email me at cwestmcinnes@pacluth.qld.edu.au if you are looking to attend any future Tuesday morning sessions.

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

Registrations – closing soon

Sign on is still open for the following divisions, however some teams are now waitlisted.

Available – Prep mixed - U6 x 2 spots, Prep/Year 1 - U7 girls x 2 spots, Year 2 - U8 mixed and Years 3/4 - U9/U10 girls x 3 spots 

U9 Wahoos – FULL, U10 Eagle Rays - FULL, U11 Angelfish - FULL, U11 Stingrays - 2 spots, U12 Swordfish - 2 spots, U13/14 Seahorses - FULL, U14/15 Sharks - FULL, U16/17 Barracudas born 2009/10 - 3 spots. 

Season commences March 7th.

Contact: The Registrar
Email: PacificFC@pacluth.qld.edu.au
Website: https://www.pacificsoccerfc.com/
Facebook: Pacific Soccer FC 

Mrs Rita Williams, Pacific FC President

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 of February. Registrations close on the 8th of February, and registration is through the Netball Connect app. Please contact Doug our president 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.

Your PLC Netball Club Committee

President – Doug McKinnon | netballpresident@pacluth.qld.edu.au 

Secretary – Amy Clark | netballsecretary@pacluth.qld.edu.au 

Registrar – Karen Costa | netballregister@pacluth.qld.edu.au 

Facebook: PLC Netball Club
Instagram: PLC Netball Club

Lent & Easter Worship Invitation — Including First Communion Preparation 

St Mark’s Lutheran Church 14 Bombala Terrace, Caloundra

This Lent and Easter season, you’re invited to join us for worship shaped by grace, forgiveness, and new life — a journey of reflection, hope, and renewal for individuals and families.

We gather each week for a relaxed, welcoming worship where all ages are included and encouraged.

Weekly Sunday Worship — 9:00am. Includes St Mark’s Makers — a creative, guided faith activity for children during the service.

Key Worship Services Coming Up

• Ash Wednesday — 18th February 9:30am Making Peace with the Truth. A reflective service with Holy Communion and the marking of ashes — an honest beginning to the Lent journey.
• Saturday Sunset Service — 28th February 5:30pm Beginning the Journey of Forgiveness. A quieter, reflective service followed by a shared meal and friendship time at 6:15pm. Especially suitable for families and those who prefer an earlier, more relaxed gathering.
• First Communion Preparation (Ages 8–10) During the church season of Lent, we are also offering First Communion preparation for children aged approximately 8–10 years and their families. These sessions will explain what Holy Communion is, why it matters, and how it connects with God’s grace and promises to us.

Families are invited to attend Sunday worship and speak with Pastor Ray or email lutherancaloundra@gmail.com  about upcoming preparation sessions and celebration dates. 

Pastor Mark Winter is also available to assist - mwinter@pacluth.qld.edu.au 

Across Lent and Easter, our theme is: From Grace, Through Forgiveness, Into New Life — exploring how God meets us with grace before performance and hope beyond the past.

Whether you attend regularly or are simply curious, you are very welcome. Come as you are — there is room for you.

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

Click here for the Calendar

February

13              Yr 7-12 Swim Carnival

15              Yr 5-9 Music Camp

17              Friends of Pacific AGM

18             10-12yrs District Swimming

19             13-19yrs District Swimming

20-22        Yr 7-12 Music Camp

23              Yr 9 RITE Journey Departure

23              Yr 6 Leaders GRIP Leadership Day

March

4-6             Yr 1 Outdoor Learning Days

5                Yr 4-6 SCISSA Trial Game vs Suncoast

5                Prep Vision Screening

6                International Women’s Day Breakfast

11-23         NAPLAN

14               Academic Scholarship Test

17               Friends of Pacific

21               Music Scholarship Test

24-26          P-5 Parent Conferences

25               Kids Lit Quiz

26-27          Yr 11 Retreat 

26               Yr 4-6 SCISSA Trial Game vs ILC & GCC

30-1Apr     Yr 5 Camp