As we engaged together as College Council, staff, students and parents at last Saturday’s Strategic Planning Day, we had the opportunity to grow as we reflected on the provocations provided by Luca Parry and Dr Anne Knock. Valuable insights were shared as College Council, staff, students and parents sat side by side in circles to shape responses to the stimulus provided by our facilitators. The thoughts shared to the whole group by our students from 8 years of age were inspiring and reflected their understanding and deep engagement with the heart of Pacific’s culture and approaches to learning. People of all ages and roles learned together from each other and with each other.
God brings us together as a community of different ages, roles, backgrounds and perspectives. Listening carefully to each other, opens doors to opportunity and connection. God sits and walks with us, guiding us to be people who keep people as our focus, learning as our purpose empowered by the love and grace that Jesus brings into our lives. As we shape our next strategic plan we sit together in circles, drawing on the strengths and expertise of people within and beyond our community with God at our centre.
Principal's Log
It was a pleasure to sit with over 60 people from our community at last week’s Strategic Planning Day. It was a delight that incoming Principal, Mr Nick Cheyne was able to join us for the day. I am constantly impressed by the capability of our young people. Comments from young people from 8 years of age to 18 were greatly valued and celebrated by all participants, including our presenters on the day. Louka described himself as having goosebumps as one of our Senior students spoke about how they valued the College’s focus on growing students' capacity to think. The day that forms part of our discovery phase enabled people to identify areas for growth and also provided a framework for leaders to engage in further exploration with College Council, staff, students and parents. Parents are encouraged to continue to provide feedback via the Annual Review and Strategic Hopes Survey emailed to families. As College Council and leaders, including Mr Nick Cheyne, we will continue to refine the 2027-2030 Strategic Plan over the coming months.
Throughout the remainder of the year, Mr Nick Cheyne will be visiting the College to contribute to planning for 2027 and build his understanding of Pacific as a learning community. We look forward to this partnership of transition and continuing the warmth of welcome provided to Mr Cheyne by our community and St Mark’s over the weekend.
We congratulate our Touch teams who performed well at the All Schools Touch competition over the weekend. We thank Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Mr Darren Hooper, Miss Tiffany Harman, Mr Joshua Danzey and Mr David Walsh for their leadership of these teams.
We congratulate all of our Pacific FC teams, managers and coaches on a strong season where skills, friendships and connections grew. We thank Mrs Rita Williams, Mrs Jenny Lee, and their executive for their leadership and the hours they have given to provide great opportunities for our students and families to connect and engage. We thank Head of Sport P-6, Mr Darren Hooper who has provided strong support to Pacific FC throughout the season. We thank all coaches, managers and parents for their time and support and wish all the best to those teams who now progress to the Semi-finals this weekend.
We look forward to the trivia night on Friday evening, where we laugh as we test our knowledge of the past 25 years. Thank you to our many sponsors and to our Friends of Pacific team for helping to shape a great night of fun and connection.
We thank God for the gifts that He gives us each day. We pray that He would guide and equip us as we sit together to shape our planning for the future.
Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal
From the College Chaplain
Supporting Children to Flourish
“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Luke 18:16
Politicians these days love photos with babies and children, perhaps hoping they will appear softer, and approachable, trustworthy. But this is not what happened with the disciples and Jesus.
People were bringing their babies and children to Jesus so that he could bless them and place His hands upon them. The disciples saw them as a distraction and an interruption to Jesus’ teaching. Jesus saw them different.
He called them to Himself. He made space for them. He welcomed them. He recognized their value and reminded those around Him that children have a special place in the Kingdom of God.
This passage not only challenges us in how we see children, but also in how we support and include them in our community, so that they can grow, develop and flourish.
A child does not grow on their own. They are shaped by their experiences and the environment around them. Parents and families play an important role, but they do not have to carry the burden alone. Children can benefit from a wider community of trusted adults and professionals who encourage them, listen to them, advocate for them and help them navigate the challenges of life.
Each of these people bring something different - from their sporting coaches, music teachers to doctors, mentors, PCG teachers and chaplains. They all have the ability to support and encourage our children.
For children, these relationships can be significant. A student may not remember the lesson they were taught, but they may remember the teacher who encouraged them, the counsellor who listened without judgement, the coach who believed in them or the support person who patiently helped them when they believed they couldn’t.
These relationships communicate something profoundly important:
You are seen. You are valued. You belong. You are worth investing in.
Jesus’ invitation to ‘let the children come’ reminds us of the importance of making room for children and ensuring they have people around them who will listen, encourage, support and believe in them.
Let us be a community that makes room for children, welcomes them, and surrounds them with people who will help them flourish.
Mrs Larissa Whincop, College Chaplain & Wellbeing Officer
From the Director of Student Engagement
Strengthening Student Voice - Caring for our Spaces
This week, the Middle and Senior College is introducing a new reporting system designed to provide students with an additional avenue to raise concerns and help care for the spaces they use every day.
This initiative supports the College's strategic intent of strengthening student safety, wellbeing and reporting processes by empowering students to take an active role in maintaining a safe, welcoming and well-cared-for environment. The reporting system provides a simple way for students to communicate concerns relating to College facilities, shared spaces and other matters that impact the experience of our community.
By creating another pathway for students to share information, the College is reinforcing the importance of student voice and encouraging a shared sense of responsibility for our environment. Students are often the first to notice issues within our grounds and facilities, and this system provides an effective means for these observations to be communicated and addressed.
The introduction of the reporting system also coincides with the National No Way! Anti- Bullying Week, during which strong messages around safety, wellbeing and connection have been shared across Middle, Senior and Junior College assemblies. Circle Time activities have provided opportunities for students to reflect on their relationships, actions and responsibilities within the College community, considering both personal and collective ways they can strengthen belonging, respect and care for others.
Together, these initiatives reinforce our commitment to fostering a culture where students feel empowered to contribute positively to College life. Whether through caring for our physical environment, supporting one another or demonstrating responsible citizenship, every student's actions play a part in creating a community where all members feel safe, connected and valued.
Ms Leigh Finter, Director of Student Engagement
From the Acting Head of Student Engagement P-5
Small Acts, Big Impact
This week, our Junior College joined with schools across Australia in Bullying, No Way Week, with this year’s theme: Small Acts, Big Impact.
It is a wonderful reminder that creating a safe and welcoming community does not always require grand gestures. Sometimes it is as simple as noticing someone who is sitting alone, inviting someone into a game, offering encouragement, checking in with a friend, speaking up when something is not right, or pausing before we send a message or speak online. These small choices can make a very big difference to someone else’s day.
For our students, this is an important part of learning what it means to live out our Pacific Way - ME, WE, SEE. We notice what is happening around us, we consider how others might be feeling, and we recognise that our choices contribute to the kind of community we create together.
There is also an authentic connection to our Christian faith. Scripture reminds us that we have been given unique gifts and abilities. In 1 Peter 4:10 we are encouraged to “use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” Our gifts are not simply for our own benefit; they can be used to encourage, contribute, include and bring joy to others.
This week, we are seeing that idea come to life in another exciting way as our Year 12 Cultural Captains have held auditions for our talent show. It has been wonderful to see students sharing their talents and having the courage to put themselves out there. Whether they are selected for the Talent Show or simply find the confidence to stand up and have a go, these are valuable moments of growth.
We never quite know where our emerging stars will come from, and sometimes the greatest achievement is not being the person on stage, but being the person who has the courage to step onto it!
As we continue through the term, I encourage our students and families to look for the small things we can do each day to make a difference. A kind word. An invitation. A moment of encouragement. A willingness to speak up. A chance to share our gifts.
Small acts really can have a big impact. What a wonderful community we help to create when we each choose to make a positive difference.
Mrs Ali Wedding, Acting Head of Student Engagement P-5
From the Head of Career Development
Career News
Careers | Year 12: Taking the Next Step
As Term 3 unfolds, our Year 12 students are entering an important period of transition. For some, the pathway beyond school is beginning to take shape; for others, there may still be more questions than answers. Both are perfectly valid places to be.
What matters now is not having every detail of the future mapped out, but having the confidence and courage to take the next step.
This was an important theme emerging from our Strategic Planning Day over the weekend. As we reflected on our vision for the future, we considered the relationship between systems, vision, strategy and tactics — and, importantly, how these ideas translate into agency.
Agency is our capacity to act, contribute and make a difference. It is the point at which ideas become action and where a vision begins to take shape through the choices we make.
For our Year 12 students, this means moving beyond simply thinking about what comes next and beginning to actively shape it. Career development is not simply about choosing a course or deciding what job you would like to have. It is an ongoing process of understanding yourself, exploring possibilities, seeking advice, making informed decisions and taking action.
When we consider the systems around us, we begin to recognise the people, pathways, opportunities and resources available to us. From there, we can develop a vision for the future by considering what matters to us, what interests us and what kind of contribution we might want to make. Strategy helps us identify the pathways that could move us towards that vision, while tactics bring the plan into the present by identifying the practical steps we can take now.
A vision without action remains an idea, and a plan without action remains a plan. Agency is what turns possibility into progress.
Year 12 | Turning Plans into Action
For our Year 12 students, the next few weeks provide an important opportunity to turn ideas and plans into practical action.
1. Register for the ATAR Portal
Make sure you register to receive your ATAR score when it is released on 18th December.
Students applying interstate should apply through the relevant Tertiary Admissions Centre for their chosen university to avoid unnecessary application fees.
If applicable, make sure you complete your EAS application. EAS can support your tertiary admission and may provide adjustment factors that are applied to your base rank.
Careers Support | Your Next Step Starts with a Conversation
Thank you to all of our Year 12 students who have shared their plans and next steps with the Careers Team over the past few weeks.
For students who have not yet had the opportunity to connect with us, now is the time to make an appointment. Whether you are considering tertiary applications, Defence pathways, preparing a resumé for the world of work, planning a gap year or simply working out what comes next, we are here to help.
We are also offering drop-in sessions from 8:25am–8:55am, Tuesday to Friday, in the study space at the back of the library. Students are welcome to drop in for a conversation about their plans.
Please ensure you book a Careers Appointment before the end of August to discuss your individual plans..
As a courtesy, students must check with their teacher before missing all or part of a lesson to attend a Careers appointment.
Celebrating Excellence: Our Headstart Students
This idea of agency in action is beautifully demonstrated by the students who have participated in the UniSC Headstart programover the past semester.
Headstart provides students with the opportunity to experience university-level study while still at school. It requires students to step beyond the familiar, manage competing commitments and take greater responsibility for their own learning. It is an opportunity to test themselves, develop independence and gain a genuine insight into what university study can look like.
This semester, 11 Pacific students successfully completed Headstart subjects, demonstrating initiative, commitment and a willingness to challenge themselves academically. Even more impressively, 7 of these 11 students achieved a Distinction or High Distinction.
This is an outstanding achievement and reflects not only academic ability, but also the organisation, persistence, independence and self-regulation required to succeed in a university learning environment.
We warmly congratulate all 11 students on successfully completing their Headstart studies, with a special congratulations to our seven Distinction and High Distinction recipients. Their achievement is an excellent example of what can happen when students recognise an opportunity, step beyond the familiar and take ownership of their learning.
We look forward to formally recognising our Headstart students at the Assembly next week, where their achievements will be celebrated and their certificates presented.
A Useful Lens: Ikigai
One concept that can provide an interesting lens for career reflection is the Japanese idea of Ikigai (生きがい), often described as a sense of purpose, meaning or a reason for being.
While Ikigai is sometimes presented as a simple career model, the broader concept encourages us to consider what gives our lives meaning and where our interests, strengths and contribution might intersect.
For young people considering their future, this might mean thinking about what they genuinely care about, the skills and strengths they are developing, the needs they see in their community or wider world, and the opportunities that could provide a meaningful pathway.
It is not about expecting a teenager to identify one lifelong purpose. Careers rarely develop in such a linear way. Instead, it is about remaining curious and recognising that our direction can emerge through experience.
A conversation with an industry professional, a work experience opportunity, a university subject, a practical class, a part-time job or even discovering that something is not for us can all provide valuable information.
Sometimes we discover our direction by taking the next step.
Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development
Food for Thought
The Importance of Recovery: Why Rest is Not a Reward
As we move through the middle of the Term, many students are juggling assessments, sporting commitments, rehearsals, performances, homework and social demands. Parents may also be feeling the pressure of busy schedules and competing priorities. During these times, it is natural to focus on helping children "push through". However, research consistently shows that recovery is just as important as effort.
When we think about growth, whether in learning, sport or emotional development, we often focus on what children need to do more of. Yet, the brain and body actually develop during periods of rest and recovery. Just as muscles need time to recover after exercise, children's brains need opportunities to slow down, process information and recharge.
Without adequate recovery, children may become more irritable, emotional, forgetful or unmotivated. What appears to be laziness or disengagement is sometimes a sign that a young person is simply running low on physical, mental or emotional energy.
Importantly, recovery is not just about sleep. Recovery includes any activity that allows children to feel calm, connected and free from pressure. For a Prep student, this might be building with LEGO on the floor. For a Year 6 student, it could be riding a bike with friends. For a teenager, it may be shooting hoops in the driveway, listening to music, drawing, cooking or chatting with family.
How Parents Can Support Recovery at Home
Protect some unscheduled time.
Many children move from school to sport, music lessons, homework and back again. Consider whether there is room in the week for some "nothing time".
For example:
• Instead of rushing to fill a free Saturday afternoon, allow your child a few hours to choose their own activity.
• Resist the urge to solve boredom immediately. Boredom often leads to creativity, problem-solving and self-directed play.
Create small recovery moments each day.
Recovery does not need to be a whole weekend away.
Simple examples include:
• Taking the dog for a 15-minute walk together.
• Sitting outside and sharing an afternoon snack.
• Reading together before bed.
• Playing a quick card game after dinner.
These small moments can help reset a child's stress levels.
Watch the language around rest.
Children often hear messages such as "You've earned a break" or "You can rest once everything is finished." While well-intentioned, these messages can teach children that rest is a reward rather than a need.
Instead, try saying:
• "You've had a big day. What would help you recharge?"
• "Let's make sure there is time this week for both effort and recovery."
Model healthy recovery yourself.
Children notice more than we realise.
When parents take a walk, read a book, spend time with friends or put their phone away during family time, they demonstrate that wellbeing matters. This sends a powerful message that rest is not a sign of weakness. It is a healthy part of functioning well.
As we continue through a busy term, it can be helpful to remember that resilience is not simply about pushing harder. True resilience comes from balancing effort with recovery. By creating opportunities for rest, connection and calm, we help our children build the energy, emotional capacity and wellbeing they need to thrive both at school and beyond.
Sometimes being kind to ourselves is the greatest gift of all.
Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Counselling and Mrs Amanda Kratzmann, College Counsellor
This year, the PLC Blake Photography Prize invited students from Prep to Year 12 to capture God’s creation through the lens of a camera, smartphone or iPad. The 2026 theme, Connection, was inspired by Colossians 1:17: “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”
Students responded to the theme through creative and thoughtful photography, exploring connections between people, places, nature and faith. Many students also experimented with digital techniques, including filters, layering and editing, to enhance their ideas and create original interpretations of the theme.
Thank you again to all who participated and to Pastor Mark Winter for judging. All entries are now on display in the Pacific Gallery and certificates will be awarded on assembly soon.
Congratulations to Bula as the winning House for 2026!
Ms Marnie Whittaker, Acting Head of Department – Visual Arts and Teacher - Design
You're Invited to the Launch of Pacific Tiny Homes
Please join us as we launch Pacific Tiny Homes—an exciting new Senior College program commencing in 2027 that will see students design and build a fully functional tiny home from concept to completion.
This innovative project connects classroom learning with real industry experience, equipping students with practical skills, creativity and confidence while working alongside professionals from the building and construction industry.
We're inviting local builders, tradespeople, suppliers, designers and industry professionals to learn more about the program and explore how you can be part of the journey.
Date: Friday 28th August 2026
Time: 3.00pm - 5.00pm
Venue: Moffat Beach Brewing Co, Production House
Cost: FREE EVENT
Stick around for $29 Burger & Beer Deal after the launch!
Whether you're able to contribute your expertise, resources or industry connections, we'd love to have you join us as we build something extraordinary together.
At the Launch, you'll:
Discover the vision for Pacific Tiny Homes.
Learn how students will engage in authentic industry-based learning.
Explore partnership opportunities through sponsorship, materials, mentorship or industry expertise.
Connect with others who are passionate about developing the next generation of skilled professionals.
Ms Samantha Barrass, Community Liaison and Communications Coordinator
Pacific Dance Showcase: 8th September 2026
Pacific Dance invites you to pack your bags and prepare for take-off!
Join our two adventurous sisters as they embark on an unforgettable journey around the world, discovering the sights, sounds and rhythms of different cultures. From the moment they board their first flight, each destination comes alive through spectacular dance performances inspired by the music and traditions of countries across the globe.
Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a passport-free adventure filled with energy, colour and unforgettable performances. Every stop is a new destination, every dance tells a story and the world is waiting to be explored! One show-stopping performance at a time.
Tickets are on sale NOW!! Please CLICK HERE to purchase tickets via The Events Centre.
Mrs Alysha Borak, Performing Arts Administrator
Pacific Learning Hub Welcomes Cyber Safety Expert Susan McLean
The Pacific Learning Hub is excited to welcome Susan McLean, one of Australia’s foremost experts in cyber safety, to Pacific Lutheran College.
Widely known as Australia’s ‘Cyber Cop’, Susan brings extensive experience in policing, online safety and the protection of young people. During her 27 years with Victoria Police, she became the first Victoria Police officer appointed to a role specifically involving cyber safety and young people.
In 2007, Susan established Cyber Safety Solutions, which has grown to become one of Australia’s most respected cyber safety consultancies. Today, she works with schools, businesses and sporting organisations across Australia and internationally, providing practical, evidence-based education and advice to help children, young people and families navigate the online world safely.
With more than 28 years of experience in the digital space, Susan brings a wealth of knowledge around the challenges facing young people online and, importantly, the practical steps parents and carers can take to support them.
We warmly invite Pacific parents and carers to join us for this valuable Pacific Learning Hub session and hear directly from one of Australia’s leading voices in cyber safety.
Date: Thursday 8th October 2026
Time: 5.30pm - Drinks and Nibbles | 6.00pm-7.30pm – Presentation
Venue: Pacific Lutheran College, Health and Fitness Precinct
Ms Samantha Barrass, Community Liaison and Communications Coordinator
To celebrate Science Week and the theme Seeds of Science this week, students had the chance to make seed art pictures at lunchtime.
Book Week activities
Next week is Book Week and there are lots of activities planned around the theme of A Symphony of Stories. Monday is our costume parade and students can pop into the library at lunchtime to get their photo taken. On Tuesday we have karaoke where students can show off their singing skills. Wednesday and Thursday we have craft activities where students can make musical instruments and bell bracelets, while we finish off the week with a Kahoot quiz to test the students’ musical knowledge.
The PRC Race is Almost Over!
The Premier's Reading Challenge is finishing up on Friday 28th August, so please encourage your child to hand in their reading log as soon as possible. It was wonderful to see 2E and Prep H achieve 100% participation during this challenge.
Check out the race progress of the other classes along the track. Great work students and keep up this reading for fun!
Author Visit for Kindy -Year 2
Author and illustrator, Jonathan Bentley, visited the school last Wednesday to speak with our K-2 students. Jonathan showed his most recent book, What Jack Brought Back, talked about being an author and illustrator, and led students through some drawing exercises.
Ms Nell Keen & Ms Keiran Chandler-Pennisi, Teacher Librarian
Uniform Shop
Winter Uniform Reminder
All students in Years 6–12 are required to wear the College winter uniform.
For students in Years 6–9, boys are expected to wear the College tie as part of their formal uniform. In Years 10–12, boys should be in full winter uniform, including the College tie, trousers and blazer. Girls in Years 10–12 are also required to wear the College blazer.
Both zipper and traditional ties are available for purchase via Flexischools or in-store, along with trousers and blazers. Trouser socks, suitable for both male and female students, are also available from the Uniform Shop for wear under trousers.
Whilst in formal uniform, the College formal jumper may be worn if required. Please note that the College sports jacket is only to be worn with the sports uniform.
We appreciate your support in ensuring students present themselves with pride and in accordance with College expectations during the winter season.
Please refer to the Uniform Guide for images and guidelines for wearing the Winter Uniform.
Uniform Shop bookings can now be made via the online – CLICK HERE
Uniform Shop Operational hours:
Monday – Thursday 8.00am-10.30am
Tuesday afternoon 2.00pm-4.00pm
Mrs Peta King, Uniform Shop
Friends of Pacific
Connecting College and Community
Thanks for everyone who joined us at our General Meeting this week – our next meeting will have to be rescheduled due to the Pacific Dance Showcase.
25 Years of Pacific Trivia Night is on this Friday 21st August - the excitement is building and chatter around the school pick up and drop off regarding themes for tables. Some are keeping tight lipped as it is a surprise! We have some very competitive teams getting ready.
This is the biggest social and fundraising night for the year on the school calendar. We are ready for a night full of fun, great entertainment and laughs.
Don't have a full table of eight? No problem! Individual tickets are welcome, and we'll match you with other guests so you can enjoy a fantastic evening and put your trivia knowledge to test.
And just a reminder, if you don’t have a table booked at Trivia Night, but would still like to be part of the fun, why not buy some Raffle Tickets?
We will be at school drop off tomorrow morning or at Coral Café for last minute purchases.
Our Silver Scoop Raffle is absolutely loaded with goodies, and there’s something for just about everyone!
We’re talkin:
His & Hers packs
Dining out
Family theme park adventures
Family photography sessions
Theatre shows
Golf days
Massages & pampering
Fashion
Beauty treats
Education experiences
Sporting experiences & goodies
And MANY, MANY more!
Whether you fancy being pampered, getting dressed up, hitting the golf course, taking the kids on an adventure, enjoying a night out or simply treating yourself because you deserve it and we’ve got you covered!
Grab your Silver Scoop Raffle tickets and get in the draw!
And a HUGE THANK YOU to some absolutely fantastic local businesses who have generously supported our raffle and donated prizes.
Your generosity helps make this raffle possible, and we’re incredibly grateful for your support of our community.
We would like to thank our many amazing sponsors who have donated some amazing raffle prizes:
Moffat Beach Brewing Co, Homestead Prestige, Jarrod Bleijie MP, Lazerzone Sunshine Coast, CorePlus Kawana, Cozy Cravings, Number Words Works, Caloundra RSL, Bocca Italian, Playa Mexican, Caloundra Rollerdome, High Calibre Detailing, Nurse Jodie, Inspired Search, Bowe Carpentry & Construction, Cr Tim Burns Division 3, Poseidon Sea Pilot, 99 Bikes Kawana, 4 Ingredients, ALU Engineering, Artevo JuiJitsu, Aussie World, Auto Barn, Banjos Bakery, Bunnings Kawana, City Cave, Cutting Edge Hair, Dance Energy Studios, Emjays, Fairhill Nursery & Gardens, Hunter Property Group, Kiss Photography, Next Level, Noosa Springs Gold, Officeworks, Por Haus, Sideways Surf, Sonder Coffee, Suncoast Flowers, Tank, The Big Boing, The Events Centre Caloundra, The Ginger Factory, Zarraffas, Sunshine Coast Turf Club, Sunday Coffee, Yo Chi Kawana, The Athletes Foot, The Window Coffee Shop, Perrys Hire
FoP Father’s Day stall is now 4 weeks away, on Tuesday 1st September. If you are able to help behind the scenes before the event, with unpacking, organising and pricing, or can help out on the day, please reach out. We would be very grateful.
All Volunteers must have completed Volunteer Training and also check in and have their Blue Card sighted at Reception, due to new Child Safety requirements.
Another reminder that in September, we have Gala Day on the 17th, where FoP will be holding a BBQ/canteen. If you are able to assist, please watch out for our Volunteer Call Out and share the request on your child’s year-level Facebook page.
FoP have had a wonderful year so far, with many new volunteers signing up and volunteering at events. Don’t forget, to be a volunteer at Pacific you need to complete the online volunteer training. And if you would like to volunteer at one of the FoP BBQs, there is a super quick BBQ training that you will need to complete beforehand at school.
Our ongoing thanks and appreciation to everyone who helps FoP grow and foster our wonderful college community.
Ms Jan Watman and Mrs Jane Hill, Friends of Pacific Co-Chairpersons
Sports News
Year 7 - 12 Sport
Sunshine Coast All Schools’ Touch Competition
Well done to our 4 Pacific teams who competed in the Sunshine Coast All Schools' Touch Competition on Sunday.
It was a great day of competition for our teams and all of our players displayed plenty of skill and spirit in their games across the day.
A special mention goes to the 13 Boys team who made it all the way to the Grand Final, where they went down to a well versed Chancellor side. An awesome effort for their first tournament!
A big thank you to the parents and students for their support of our touch program this year and for the coaches, Mr Darren Hooper, Miss Tiffany Harman, Mr Joshua Danzey and Mr David Walsh who have been working with the teams since early Term 2.
Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport
Student Success
Lucas
Congratulations to Year 2 student Lucas, who has enjoyed an incredible weekend at the Australian National Jiu Jitsu Championships in Melbourne, returning home with two gold medals!
Following his success as a State Champion just a few weeks ago, Lucas continued to challenge himself by competing in an older age group against competitors up to nine years old.
His determination, courage and commitment has paid off, with Lucas being crowned Australian National Champion in both of his events — an outstanding achievement!
What an incredible result, Lucas! The College community is incredibly proud of your success and the dedication you continue to show to your sport. Congratulations on your double gold!
Student Success
Harry
Congratulations to Harry, who has recently been selected for the Rising Suns Netball Academy in Brisbane.
The academy provides a high-performance development pathway for emerging male netball athletes in Queensland and is led by Queensland Suns Head Coach, Craig Brown.
Harry attends the academy every Sunday in Brisbane, where he is developing his skills, building confidence and gaining valuable experience alongside other emerging athletes.
This is a fantastic achievement and a wonderful recognition of Harry’s dedication and passion for netball. We look forward to following his continued progress in the sport.
Club Sport
PLC Netball Club
There was plenty to celebrate at PLC Netball this weekend as we head towards the pointy end of the season.
Congratulations to our Rebels, Magic and Avengers on their wins this round. Our Rebels continue their outstanding season sitting at the top of the ladder, while the Magic produced one of their best performances of the year. We also had the unusual experience of two of our own PLC teams, the Avengers and Mavericks, taking each other on in a fantastic game played with great spirit and sportsmanship.
Across all of our teams, it continues to be wonderful to see the improvement in our players, particularly their confidence to step into different positions, support other teams when players are needed and put the skills they've developed at training into action.
Twilight Netball is Coming!
While our current season isn't quite finished yet, we're already starting to plan for Twilight Netball commencing in October. Pacific students will soon receive an email inviting expressions of interest, so please keep an eye on your inbox if your child would like to play. Teams will be formed across the relevant age groups, and we would love to see plenty of Pacific players back on court for a fun Twilight season. We will also be looking for coaches, with no weekly training required, making it a much lighter coaching commitment. More information will be included in the upcoming email
Congratulations Sasha!
We are also incredibly proud to congratulate Sasha, who has achieved her National C Badge Umpire accreditation.
This is a fantastic achievement and reflects the time, commitment and confidence required to continue developing as an umpire. We love seeing our Pacific students embracing opportunities within netball beyond playing and developing their skills in different areas of the sport. Congratulations, Sasha!
One Round to Go!
This Saturday is Round 14 and the final round of the regular season, before finals commence.
We are very excited to have a number of PLC teams finals-bound, with the finals series running across the following three weeks.
We would sincerely love to see our Pacific families and wider school community come along and support our teams throughout the finals series. We will share game times and details through our PLC Netball social media once they are confirmed, so keep an eye out and come down to cheer on our players!
A huge thank you to our coaches, managers, umpires, volunteers, families and supporters for everything you have contributed throughout the season. We are very proud of what our players and teams have achieved and can't wait to see what the next few weeks bring.
Good luck to all of our teams for the final round!
The final game of the regular season was always going to be a big one for the Pacific Angelfish. With unfinished business, the girls knew they had to give it everything they had. From the opening whistle, the Angelfish showed great teamwork, determination and hunger for the win, knowing that every moment would count.
Our captain, Mila, got on the scoresheet early with what looked like a fantastic finish, only for the goal to be ruled offside. It was a frustrating moment, but the girls didn’t let it affect them and continued to push forward.
The Angelfish worked hard to stay organised and support each other defensively.
There was also a scary moment when Evie R took a tumble and had to leave the field, but thankfully she was back out there shortly afterwards and ready to continue the fight with her teammates.
As the game entered its final stages, Mila scored our first official goal and then, in the final minutes, calmly stepped up to take a penalty and buried it, bringing the Angelfish level at 2–2.
While we would have loved the win, the girls can be incredibly proud of the way they fought right until the end. They showed heart, resilience, teamwork and belief. They have also tallied up 100 goals this season, which in itself is an incredible achievement.
Player of the Match went to Mila for her attacking pressure and two goals, including the penalty in the final minutes.
Coach’s Award goes to Evie R for exceptional marking, determination and overall resilience, especially after taking a tumble and returning to the field to continue battling for her team.
The regular season is now behind us, but there is still work to do as we head into the Semi-Finals.
U12 Swordfish – Manger Nicole
What a way to finish the regular season! We came away with a 3–2 win against Buderim, securing our spot in the semi-finals! It was a fantastic team effort, with our defenders putting in a heroic shift. Special shout-out to Lochie for an outstanding defensive performance, and to Patton, goalkeeper extraordinaire, for some excellent saves and a huge contribution to the win. Our attackers were dangerous and created plenty of opportunities, while the midfield worked tirelessly to link defence and attack, win possession to keep the team moving forward. A brilliant all-round performance from everyone on the field and a fantastic way to finish the regular season.
3–2 winners and SEMI-FINALISTS!
Coming up:
U6-U10 Carnivals – Saturday 22nd August (U6, U7 and U9/10 Girls at are Pacific)
U11+ Semi-Finals (top 4 teams) – Saturday 22nd August
Families of Pacific Lutheran College are invited to join the community of St Mark’s Lutheran Church, 14 Bombala Terrace, Caloundra, for worship, friendship and connection this weekend.
Saturday Sunset – 22 August, 5.30pm
Goodness in the Ordinary
Sometimes God’s presence is found not in the spectacular, but in a conversation, a kindness, a shared meal or an unexpected moment of hope.
Come and share a relaxed evening of food, friendship and faith as we notice together some of the goodness God places in our everyday lives.
Our Saturday Sunset gathering begins with a shared meal at 5.30pm, followed by a short time of conversation, reflection and prayer, finishing by approximately 6.30pm.
It’s an easy and welcoming space for individuals, families and children — simply a chance to slow down, connect and enjoy being together.
Sunday Worship – 23rd August 9.00am
Who Do You Say I Am? – Matthew 16:13–20
As part of our seasonal journey, Growing Space for Faith and Community, this Sunday we hear one of the most personal questions Jesus asks his disciples: “But who do you say that I am?”
Together we’ll explore what it means to know Jesus, trust him, and discover how that shapes the way we live, serve and grow together.
Children are very welcome to participate in St Mark’s Makers, creating Rock Crosses as they explore Jesus as the strong foundation for our lives and faith.
Last Sunday we had the joy of celebrating with Nick Cheyne and his family following Nick’s appointment as Principal of Pacific Lutheran College from 2027. Nick and his family have been part of the worshipping community at St Mark’s for some time, and we look forward to surrounding them with our prayers, encouragement and support as Nick prepares for this new role within the College community.
Following worship, everyone is invited to stay for morning tea and friendship — a relaxed time to catch up, meet someone new and enjoy being together.
Whether you join us on Saturday evening, Sunday morning, or both, we would love to welcome you.
Saturday Sunset: 22nd August, 5.30pm
Sunday Worship: 23rd August, 9.00am
St Mark’s Lutheran Church
14 Bombala Terrace, Caloundra
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.
