Compass No. 816

From the youngest to the oldest members of our community, we have the capacity to breathe kindness, compassion and respect into our families, friendship groups, places of learning, work places and community groups. We do this by respecting and valuing difference and understanding how that brings a richness and colour into our life experiences. Being able to value, welcome and understand that different opinions and different ways of seeing, broadens our thinking, opens up new possibilities and provides new and better ways of thinking. Learning to engage respectfully in conversations where different views are held recognising the values that sit behind each stance creates a safe and empowering space for ideas to be explored and thinking extended. Being curious, learning to listen with compassionate, thoughtful hearts opens the door to collective action. Whether face to face or online our communication shapes who we are, who we become and how we influence. 

God encourages us to respect the human dignity of all people and place high value on all of creation. We are encouraged to walk gently being empowered by a loving and gracious God who walks with us. Through every conversation we can ripple out kindness, compassion and respect. No matter our age or circumstance we can impact for good purpose one conversation at a time.

We shared a special moment this week in a chapel service that involved our musicians and composer Mrs Sharny Russell. The music team have worked with Mrs Russell to create an arrangement for the Blessing Song that can be played by an orchestra. The Blessing Song holds a very special place in our community where we pray for God to bless each other as we conclude our chapels and celebratory services. This song written by Queenslander and Aunt of Mr Mark Hauser has rippled across Australia and internationally as a beautiful way for people to share God’s blessings. It was a delight to welcome Sharny as we launched an arrangement that will bring an extra richness to our chapels and services for many years to come. We thank Ms Krist-elle Hill, Mrs Helen Williams and our musicians for creating and performing a beautiful arrangement of the Blessing Song. 

Congratulations to our Pacific students on their success at the 2026 Future Problem Solving Australia National Finals in Melbourne last weekend. Evie, Year 9, was crowned National Champion in the Middle Division Storytelling Competition for the second consecutive year, earning another invitation to represent Australia internationally. Charlize, Year 6, secured third place in the Junior Division Storytelling Competition, while our Year 7 Community Problem Solving team, Crescendo Quintet (Sophie, Emma, Jewel, Malvi and Lexi), also achieved third place nationally for their inspiring music education project. These outstanding results reflect the creativity, dedication, and capability of our students. Congratulations to all involved, including our dedicated teachers and coaches, Mrs Jo Belchamber, Mrs Linda Sydes and Mr Rob Belchamber.

We congratulate our QAMT teams who performed well at the recent Sunshine Coast Queensland Association of Maths Teachers Competition with the Pacific A Team placed 3rd and the Pacific B Team placed 5th. The competition that involved five rounds enabled students to enjoy the opportunity to test their skills of estimation, speed, problem solving and general knowledge. We thank Mr Andrew Block for his leadership of these teams. 

We look forward to welcoming back our Year 9s and staff who have been on their outdoor education experience over the past fortnight. Despite the wet weather requiring adjustments to the program, students have grown through the opportunity to build relationships, grow in their confidence, independence, personal skills and connection to nature. The experience is a life changing component of our Rite Journey.  We congratulate all students on their growth and thank our staff who have had to work hard to ensure the richness and safety of the program has been maintained under more challenging conditions. We particularly thank Mr Paul Brace for his leadership of the program and Director of Staff Mrs Kim Bonello who has provided extensive support from the College. We also thank staff Mrs Lisa Muir, Mr Cam West-McInnes, Mr Liam Jacka, Miss Rebekah Horsey, Mrs Kim McFadden, Mrs Sharon Middleton, Mr Kya Brace, Miss Taylor Edwards, Mrs Emma Lendrum, Mr Chris Bartlett, Mr Duncan McNee, Mr Josh Cummins, Miss Kiana Muir, Mr Joel Valentine and Miss Katie Graves who generously gave of their time to attend the camp. 

We pray for and wish our Year 12’s calm and focused minds as they prepare for and engage in the upcoming external exams.

May God bless each of us and others through us as we engage with kindness, compassion and respect.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal 

This week’s text (Luke 7:11-17) has Jesus encountering a funeral procession outside of Nain. A widow had lost her only son, leaving her facing deep grief and an uncertain future within the community. When Jesus saw her, he was moved with compassion. He approached the funeral bier, told the young man to arise, and gave him back to his mother.

This story reveals Jesus’ compassion and concern for people who are suffering. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on the important roles young people can play in building caring, hopeful and life-giving communities. Through this story we are reminded that every young person has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of others.

The widow of Nain was experiencing one of the darkest moments of her life. The death of her only son represented not only personal grief but also the loss of companionship, family connection and security within daily community life. Her very survival was at risk, because by herself she would be dependent on community handouts. Jesus’ actions brought hope into a situation that appeared hopeless.

Young people can similarly bring hope to our communities. Through their enthusiasm, generosity, creativity and willingness to help, they can encourage people who feel isolated, discouraged or forgotten. They can bring hope into our community by showing kindness to those who are struggling, supporting classmates, neighbours and family members who are experiencing difficulties, visiting or assisting older people who may feel lonely, and encouraging others to believe that positive change is always possible. Our Pacific community becomes stronger when our young people recognize suffering around them and choose to respond with compassion and consider how they can bring hope to those in need.

By noticing the widow’s pain, approaching her and responding personally to her situation, Jesus demonstrated the importance of seeing people, valuing their dignity and recognizing their needs. Young people can follow this example by helping to build communities where everyone feels welcomed, respected and included.

They can be bridgebuilders between different generations, cultures and groups. They can challenge bullying, welcome newcomers, include those who are often left out and help restore disagreements peacefully. Within school, families, sports clubs, churches and neighbourhoods, young people can contribute to a culture in which people care about each other. Relationships are strengthened when listening carefully, speaking respectfully, forgiving generously and seeking to understand people whose experiences differ from their own. 

A healthy Pacific community is not simply a collection of individuals living alongside one another. It is a network of relationships in which people recognize that they belong to one another. Young people have the capacity to turn a group of people into a community of care, connection and mutual support.

In our community young people possess many gifts and abilities. Some are natural leaders, others are creative thinkers, good listeners, practical helpers, problem-solvers or gifted communicators. These gifts can be used for our common good. Young people at Pacific can contribute by volunteering in community organizations and charitable activities, helping to care for the natural environment, participating in fundraising and service projects, sharing knowledge and skills with others, developing innovative solutions to local problems, and supporting people who have fewer opportunities or resources.

A young person’s value is demonstrated through the good they bring into the lives of others. When young people use their abilities in the service of others, they help create a community in which everyone can flourish.

Jesus invites us to follow his example in relating to others. We cannot perform the miracles Jesus performed, but we can with his help embody the compassion, mercy and love that his actions revealed. Young people can reflect the character of Jesus through the way they treat others, especially those who are vulnerable or overlooked. Jesus’ love can be shown by standing beside someone who is grieving, offering forgiveness when relationships break down, defending those who are treated unfairly and serving without expecting a reward. These actions might seem small, but they can have lasting influence on individuals, families and the wider community.

Let us therefore encourage our Pacific young people to recognize that they matter, that their gifts have value and that their actions can make a genuine difference. When young people are supported to serve with compassion, guided by wisdom and inspired by the guidance and example of Jesus, they can help create communities in which people experience greater dignity, stronger relationships and renewed hope. May we all at Pacific, of all ages, be willing to act by seeing the needs of others, responding with compassion and helping to bring new life to our community.

Pastor Mark Winter, College Pastor 

The safety and wellbeing of every child is something we all share responsibility for. On Friday 30 October, Week 4, PLC will join schools and communities across Australia in recognising Day for Daniel, a day dedicated to promoting child safety education and empowering young people with the knowledge and confidence to seek help when they need it.

At Pacific, child safety is not confined to a single day on the calendar. It is embedded in our culture, our pastoral care, personal development curriculum, assembly and worship threads and our commitment to ensuring that every student is known, valued and supported. 

Throughout Term 4, students have been engaging in age-appropriate discussions and learning experiences focused on personal safety, respectful relationships, help-seeking behaviours and the importance of trusted adults. In Prep to Year 5, these themes have been explored through assemblies and classroom learning, helping students understand how to recognise unsafe situations, advocate for themselves and access support when needed. In Years 6-12, Pastoral Care Group (PCG) discussions have provided opportunities for students to reflect on personal and online safety, respectful interactions and their role in looking out for one another within our community. The important messaging of safety was recently strengthened by guest presenter, Susan McLean who raised awareness to our Yr 5-12 students about the importance of online safety. 

As a College community, Day for Daniel provides an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to student safety and to continue fostering a culture where every child feels known, safe and connected. 

On Friday, 30th October, Week 4 , students are invited to add a touch of red to their uniform as we stand together in support of this important message and the ongoing work of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.  This will not be classified as a casual clothes day, with students wearing their normal College uniform and adding a red item such as red socks, a red hair ribbon, hairband, or another appropriate accessory. We look forward to students embracing a touch of red with their uniform and showing their confidence in knowing that, at Pacific, they are safe, they are known, they are connected. 

Pastoral Care Group- Growing Reflective Practice and Connection in our Students 

In Week 4, students in Years 7-12 will participate in Academic Reflection and Academic Care Conversations during their Pastoral Care Group (PCG) sessions, facilitated by their PCG teachers.

As we move through what is traditionally a busy Term 4, these conversations provide an important opportunity for students to pause, reflect and refocus on their learning goals for the remainder of the year. Students will engage in guided reflections on their academic progress, celebrate achievements, identify learning strategies that have supported their success, and consider areas where they may need additional support.

The conversations are designed to encourage students to take ownership of their learning, develop greater self-awareness, and proactively seek assistance when faced with challenges. They also provide a valuable opportunity for students to discuss their engagement in the broader life of the College, including co-curricular activities and their contribution to the Pacific community.

By creating dedicated space for reflection and meaningful dialogue, we aim to help students maintain momentum, strengthen their learning habits, and finish the academic year with purpose and confidence. These conversations reinforce the importance of setting goals, acknowledging growth, and taking positive steps towards success, ensuring every student is supported to finish strong in the weeks ahead.

Ms Leigh Finter, Director of Student Engagement

Reinforcing the messaging from last week’s communications around cybersecurity and the presentations from Susan McLean on today's connected world, helping young people navigate relationships extends beyond the classroom and playground. As parents and educators, we also support students to be responsible, respectful and safe online. This is where restorative practices and being eSmart work hand in hand.

At Pacific, we use restorative practices to help students understand the impact of their actions, take responsibility when mistakes occur, and repair harm. Similarly, being eSmart means making thoughtful choices online, treating others with respect, and recognising that our digital actions can have real-world consequences.

How do we respond?

Imagine a student sends an unkind message in a group chat or posts a comment that negatively affects a peer. While there may be consequences for the behaviour, restorative practice also encourages reflection through questions such as:

• What happened?
• What were you thinking at the time?
• Who has been affected?
• How might they be feeling?
• What can you do to make things right?

These conversations help students recognise that online interactions require the same empathy, respect and accountability as face-to-face interactions.

Supporting eSmart Behaviours at Home

Families can reinforce these skills by encouraging open conversations about online experiences. If a child makes a poor choice online or is exposed to others’ poor choices, parents might ask:

• "How do you think your message made the other person feel?"
• “How has this message you have received made you feel?”
• “How are we going to respond?”
• "What could you do now to repair the situation?"
• "What might you do differently next time?"

These questions move the focus from blame to learning, helping young people develop the judgment and self-awareness needed to be responsible digital citizens.

Building Skills for Life

Whether resolving a disagreement at school, responding to conflict with a friend, or navigating interactions online, restorative practices help students develop important capabilities, including:

• Empathy
• Accountability
• Respectful communication
• Problem-solving
• Digital citizenship
• Positive relationship skills

As we continue to work together to promote both restorative practices and eSmart behaviours across our community, we help our young people understand that every action, online or otherwise, has a very real impact and that mistakes are a normal part of growing up. What matters most is how we respond to them. By learning to reflect, repair and move forward, students develop the skills to contribute positively to both their school community and the digital world in which they reside.

Mr Nigel Farley, Head of Student Engagement – Senior College

This term, our Prep-Year 5 assemblies focus on personal safety, leading to Day for Daniel on Friday, 30th October, when we’ll all wear a touch of red.

Every few weeks, the whole primary school comes together to learn one simple idea: we all have the right to feel safe. In between, our Prep to Year 2 and Year 3 to 5 students meet in their own year groups to go deeper, with activities and discussion that suit their age.

To keep the message consistent, students are learning the Safe Hand, five steps they can count on their fingers:

1. Notice what your body is telling you

2. Say NO

3. Move away

4. Tell a trusted adult

5. Keep telling until someone listens

Younger students practise spotting “uh-oh” feelings and saying no with a strong voice. Older students explore trusting their instincts, working through “what would you do?” scenarios, and understanding that staying safe can sometimes matter more than being polite.

Talk about it at home

• Who are the five trusted adults on your Safe Hand?
• What does your body feel when something isn’t right?
• What would you do if something felt unsafe?

Older students are also invited to make a family safety plan, including a family code word. If your child ever needs to talk to someone outside the family, Kids Helpline is free on 1800 55 1800

ISQ Mastering Parent Engagement Collective

This term, Pacific Lutheran College has concluded its third year of Mastering Parent Engagement, finishing with the final session of our Mastering Parent Engagement Collective alongside other Independent School across the state. This journey is a collaboration between Independent Schools Qld and the Qld Independent Schools Parent Network. Throughout the program we’ve been asking what genuine partnerships with families looks like in practice.

These have been the learnings we continue to grow in partnership with families.

• Deepening what we do. You’ve always been our partners in your child’s learning. And as your child’s first teacher, you often hold the key to unlocking your child’ potential. Our actions are shifting to be more intentional about how we do it, in conferences, events and everyday communication
• Your voice shapes what we do. We have listened to families regarding what they want to know before we plan, as we did for Prep orientation and Parent Connects Sessions at the beginning of the year. We use your survey feedback to guide decisions. Our new orientation day brought in around three and a half times as many families as the evening session.
• You’ll see learning as it happens. Ongoing feedback and Seesaw let you see your child’s work, read teacher comments and reply, so learning continues at home. Partnership means two-way communication, with easy ways for every family to share their feedback, whether or not they’re able to be on campus.
• Belonging matters most. When we asked families what they’d bottle, the answer was community and feeling welcome, so we’ll keep investing in events where families can connect with us and each other.

McCrindle’s Communicating with Today’s Parents (August 2026) reinforces the focus of this work. It found that parents value social and emotional updates as much as academic results. Belonging comes largely from teachers knowing their child well, and families want communication that is timely, personal and about the whole child. That is the standard we’re holding ourselves to as we carry this work forward. We thank the members of the ISQ MPE Collective for their dedication and thinking and look forward to continuing this work next year and into the future.

Take care and God Bless.

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

Year 11 Careers Information Session: Looking Ahead to Year 12

Thank you to all the families who attended The Year 12 2027 Information Session on Tuesday night. The next stage of our Year 11 into 12 students career development journey is about reflection, planning and action and how this plays into Year 12 success.

From “I Decide” to “I Apply”

Throughout Year 11, students have been exploring interests, strengths and subject pathways as part of the “I Decide”phase of career development. As students move into Year 12, the focus shifts to “I Apply”.

This next stage encourages students to reflect on what they have learned about themselves, recognise their achievements and actively apply this knowledge as they make decisions about further study, training or employment opportunities.

Key Areas of Focus for Year 12

Self Development

Students are encouraged to:

• Reflect on their achievements across school, work and personal experiences.
• Consider how these experiences contribute to their strengths, skills and self-concept.
• Identify the personal qualities that will support their future success.
• Career Exploration

Career Exploration

Students should:

• Understand how their education and training choices influence future pathways.
• Research occupations, industries and labour market trends.
• Explore tertiary education, apprenticeships, traineeships and employment opportunities that align with their interests and goals.
• Career Management

Career Management

Students will continue developing their ability to:

Adapt to changing learning and work environments.

Apply problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Set realistic goals and create plans to achieve them.

What Should Students Be Doing Now?

1. Pause, Reflect and Celebrate

Take time to review your journey so far. Consider your achievements, challenges, interests, values and aspirations. Remember that career development is a process of learning and growth. Every experience provides valuable insight into your future direction.

2. Refine Your Post-School Options

As you begin to narrow your focus, consider:

• Pathways that align with your interests and strengths.
• Study and training opportunities available after school.
• Current labour market trends and future employment opportunities.
• Workplace learning or work experience opportunities that may provide valuable career insight.

3. Make Informed Decisions

Use the information gathered through research, reflection and conversations with trusted adults to identify the pathways that best suit your goals and aspirations.

4. Review and Reset Your Goals

Career planning should be an ongoing process. Revisit your goals regularly, particularly at key milestones throughout Year 12, to ensure your plans remain relevant and achievable.

Important Reminder for Year 11 Students

All Year 11 students are required to book a careers appointment before the end of Week 8 to review their career goals and plans for Year 12.

Appointments can be made through the Careers Booking App.

We encourage both students and parents to remain actively involved in this process. Career development is not a single decision but a journey of exploration, reflection and growth. With thoughtful planning and ongoing support, students can approach Year 12 with confidence and purpose.

If you were unable to attend the information session or have any questions, please contact the Careers Department. We are here to support every student as they navigate their future pathways.

Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development

October is Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing and reflect on the important role that connection plays in helping people thrive. This year's Australian theme, Together We Thrive, reminds us that strong relationships, supportive communities, and a sense of belonging can have a powerful impact on our mental health and wellbeing. 

As parents, it can be easy to feel pressure to have all the answers or to know exactly what to do when your child is struggling. The good news is that one of the most effective ways to support your child's mental health is often much simpler than we think: meaningful connection.

Research consistently shows that positive, supportive relationships are one of the strongest protective factors for children's mental health and wellbeing. Children and young people who feel connected to their family are more likely to develop resilience, cope with challenges, and seek support when they need it.

Connection does not require hours of uninterrupted time or grand gestures. Often, it is built through small, everyday moments that communicate a simple but powerful message:

"I see you, I care about you, and you matter."

Simple Ways to Strengthen Connection at Home:

• Make Time for Small Moments - Whether it is chatting in the car, walking the dog, helping with dinner, or sharing a meal together, regular moments of connection can have a significant impact. Children and teenagers often open up when conversation feels natural and unforced.
• Listen to Understand - When your child shares something about their day, try to listen before offering solutions. Simple responses such as, "Tell me more about that" or "That sounds really challenging" can help children feel heard and supported.
• Create Family Rituals - Family routines and traditions help children develop a sense of belonging. A weekly family activity, regular game night, or even a consistent bedtime check-in can provide connection and stability.
• Be Present - In our busy world, giving a child your full attention can be one of the greatest gifts. Even ten minutes of uninterrupted time can strengthen relationships and create opportunities for meaningful conversations.
• Look After the Basics - Healthy sleep habits, physical activity, balanced nutrition, opportunities for relaxation, and strong social connections all play an important role in supporting positive mental health.

As we move towards the end of the school year, life can become increasingly busy for families. Remember that connection does not need to be perfect to be powerful. Small moments of care, conversation, and togetherness can make a lasting difference to a young person's wellbeing.

Need More Support?

If you have concerns about your child's wellbeing, remember that support is available and seeking help early can make a meaningful difference.

Support at Our College

Parents and carers are not expected to have all the answers, and you do not need to navigate concerns about your child's wellbeing alone.

If you have concerns about your child's emotional wellbeing, mental health, friendships, school engagement, behaviour, or coping, we encourage you to reach out to our College Pastoral Care and/or Counselling Team. Our team is available to work alongside students, families, and staff to provide support, guidance, and assistance in accessing additional services where appropriate.

To discuss your child's wellbeing or make a referral, please contact the College Pastoral Care and/or Counselling Team through the College Reception.

Trusted Parent Support – External to the College

Headspace Parents

Information and practical advice for parents and carers supporting young people.

Parentline Queensland

Free and confidential counselling and support for parents and carers.

Kids Helpline for Parents

Resources, advice and support to help parents support children and young people.

Information and practical advice for parents and carers supporting young people.

Free and confidential counselling and support for parents and carers.

Resources, advice and support to help parents support children and young people.

Together, we can help ensure that every student feels supported, connected, and able to thrive.

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

Students at Pacific continue to set high standards in Mathematics after teams competed last week in the Queensland Association of Mathematics Teachers annual inter-school quiz.

The students were tested over five rounds including Estimation, Speed, Problem Solving (individual and team) and General Knowledge. The aim of the quiz was to engage high achieving students in mathematics and encouraged teamwork and co-operation. The students competed with great spirit and showed great commitment to solving complex problems.

Two teams of Year 7 and 8’s travelled to Maroochydore SHS last Wednesday and competed against 20 other teams from across the Sunshine Coast. At the conclusion of the quiz, Pacific A was placed third overall and Pacific B was fifth overall. The final scores were incredibly close and both teams displayed great teamwork and resilience.

The Year 5/6 teams completed Round 2 at school and the scores were submitted but at this stage no final results were published. These teams worked well together and attacked each task with a sense of fun.

Year 8: Om, Ethan, Jing-Han and Celestin

Year 7: Jude and Vida

Year 6: Pippy, Hudson, Teddy, Will, Harvey and Ashton

Year 5: Isabelle and Dylan

Mr Andrew Block, Teacher – Science, Mathematics

Pacific Lutheran College students have returned from the 2026 Future Problem Solving Australia National Finals with an extraordinary result: every Pacific competitor representing both the College and Queensland came home with a trophy. It was a remarkable achievement and a testament to the creativity, commitment and perseverance of our students and coaches. The National Finals were held from 16-18 October at Caulfield Grammar School in Melbourne, bringing together more than 400 students from schools across Australia to compete in a range of future-focused challenges.

Among the standout performances was Evie, who was once again awarded National Champion in the Storytelling Competition (Middle Division). Her powerful and thought-provoking story explored the implications of surveillance in a future society and impressed judges with its originality, insight and performance quality. This is the second consecutive year that Evie has won her national division, having previously gone on to represent Australia at the Future Problem Solving International Finals in Indianna earlier this year. Following her outstanding success again this weekend, she has been invited to travel to the United States to represent Australia on the international stage once more.

In the Junior Division Storytelling Competition, Charlize achieved an outstanding third-place finish at her very first National Finals appearance. Competing against some of Australia's most accomplished young scenario writers and storytellers, she demonstrated remarkable confidence, creativity and composure.

Our Year 7 Community Problem Solving Team, Crescendo Quintet, also achieved national recognition, placing third overall in the Middle Division for their innovative community project centered on bringing music education to a wider audience. Throughout the year, Sophie, Emma, Jewel, Malvi and Lexi collaborated to develop and implement a project that used music as a vehicle for connection, engagement and positive community impact. Their third place trophy is a fitting reward for months of dedication and teamwork.

The achievements are particularly noteworthy given the calibre and scale of the National Finals event. Students from across the nation qualified through highly competitive preliminary rounds before earning the opportunity to compete at Nationals.

While our Year 9 Global Issues Problem Solving team of Isabella, Amelia, Imogen and Sophie also qualified for Nationals, the girls made the decision to participate in the Rite Journey outdoor education experience, valuing the opportunity to engage in this significant rite of passage alongside their peers. Their qualification alone reflects the high standard of problem-solving talent within the College.

Our Future Problem Solving coaches are immensely proud of what the students have achieved. In particular, Mrs Sydes and Mr Belchamber would like to acknowledge the mentorship and encouragement provided by Evie and Jessica, who generously coached their younger peers to success. Having former and current champions guide our Future Problem Solving participants has established a culture of enthusiasm and generosity that we are very proud of within the program.

We congratulate all our competitors and coaches on their outstanding performances. To have every Pacific Lutheran College student return from a national competition with a trophy is an exceptional accomplishment and a wonderful reflection of the curiosity, imagination and determination that define our learners.

Mrs Jo Belchamber, Mrs Linda Sydes and Mr Rob Belchamber

A Special Blessing: Celebrating Music, Creativity and Connection

Yesterday, Pacific Lutheran College had the wonderful privilege of welcoming composer Mrs Sharny Russell for a very special Chapel service celebrating The Blessing Song.

Led by Mr Mark Hauser, the service was a beautiful celebration of music, community and the special place this song holds within our College.

A highlight of the morning was the debut performance of a new arrangement of The Blessing Song, performed by our Senior Concert Band and Senior Strings, who joined forces to create a magnificent mass orchestra. Over the past six months, Sharny has worked collaboratively with our students to develop and refine this arrangement specifically for PLC, making this chapel performance even more meaningful.

Following the performance, students had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with Sharny, gaining a fascinating insight into the creative process behind The Blessing Song. From the initial inspiration through to the collaborative journey of arranging and refining the music, students heard firsthand how a musical idea can grow into something that connects an entire community.

It was a particularly special experience for our young musicians to perform alongside their peers and see their contributions to the creative process come to life.

A heartfelt thank you to Sharny Russell for her generosity, creativity and the time she has invested in our students, and to Mr Mark Hauser for leading such a meaningful Chapel service.

The Blessing Song continues to hold a special place in the heart of Pacific Lutheran College, and today's celebration was a wonderful reminder of music's ability to bring people together and create lasting memories.

Ms Krist-elle Hill, Head of Department - Music

Nominations for our 2027 Device Lease Program are now open.

Please Click Here to apply.

Mr Steve Rattey, ICT Manager

Please refer to the Uniform Guide for images and uniform expectations. 

Uniform Shop bookings can be made HERE

Uniform Shop Operational hours:

• Monday – Thursday 8.00am-10.30am
• Tuesday afternoon 2.00pm-4.00pm

Parents and families are also able to order uniform items through our online ordering system, FlexiSchools. Orders placed online through FlexiSchools 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.

If you have any queries, please contact me on 5436 7349 or pking@pacluth.qld.edu.au.

Mrs Peta King, Uniform Shop

We have a Volunteer Call Out for the Gala Day on Thursday, 12th November 2026 at Meridan Fields.

We really need some help fueling our students and their competitors with Sausages, drinks and lollies.

Volunteer Here 

Our ongoing thanks and appreciation goes out to all who volunteer their time to help FoP grow and foster our wonderful College community.

Contact us on fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Ms Jan Watman and Mrs Jane Hill, Friends of Pacific Co-Chairpersons

Ballinger Cup

Pacific was proudly represented at the Ballinger Cup last week, and despite the rain, we had a fantastic day!

Our team was made up of a wonderful group of students who showed great spirit, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the day. 

Hayden and Sophie did a fantastic job as co-captains, providing great support and encouragement to their teammates.

We finished 5th overall in Division A, competing against seven other teams in our division, with 16 teams participating across the two divisions.

There was some fantastic hockey on display, and it was great to see our team’s play improve with every game. Just as importantly, it was wonderful to see the kids enjoying themselves off the field, socialising and mixing with players from other teams between games.

A great day of hockey, teamwork and friendship. Well done team!

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

Planning has commenced for the 2027 season. Current players will be contacted shortly regarding the 2027 season and Expressions of Interest are open to new players from U6-U16/17 and Seniors.

Upcoming Working Bee Pacific FC Working Bee 

Saturday, 15th November – Fill out form HERE

Expressions of Interest – open for new players who wish to play in 2027 

Pacific FC New U6-U16/17 + Seniors - Expression of Interest for 2027 – Fill out form HERE

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

Mrs Rita Williams, Pacific FC President

Celebrating Faith and Friendship at St Mark’s

Families of Pacific Lutheran College are invited to join the community of St Mark’s Lutheran Church, 14 Bombala Terrace, Caloundra, this Sunday, 25th October at 9.00am.

Set Free by Grace – Reformation Sunday

John 8:31–36

This Sunday we celebrate Reformation Sunday, a special occasion in the Lutheran Church that reminds us of the wonderful gift of God's grace.

Jesus tells us, “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” It's a beautiful reminder that God's love and forgiveness are not things we have to earn. Through Jesus Christ, we are loved, forgiven and set free to live with hope, kindness and love for others.

As we continue our 2026 theme, Growing Space for Faith and Community, we celebrate how God's grace continues to shape our lives and the friendships we share.

St Mark’s Makers – Celebrating God's Grace

Children are also invited to join St Mark’s Makers, exploring the message of God's love and forgiveness through a creative, hands-on activity.

Together they'll discover that God's grace is a gift for everyone, and that we can share his love through kindness, forgiveness and care for others.

October Birthdays – Morning Tea and Friendship

Following worship, everyone is invited to stay for morning tea and our October birthday celebrations, complete with birthday cake!

It's a lovely opportunity to celebrate the people in our community, catch up with friends, meet someone new and enjoy being together.

Whether you're part of our regular community, connected through Pacific Lutheran College, or simply curious about faith, there is always a warm welcome and a place for you at St Mark’s.

Sunday Worship: 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.

All are welcome at any of our services.

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

October

12-23 Yr 9 Camp

26-17 Nov Yr 12 External Assessment

29-1 Nov CBSQ Junior Basketball Yr 7-8

30      Pacific Pulse

November

26Oct-17 Yr 12 External Assessment

2 -3  Instrumental Tutors Concert

4      Yr 5&6 Instrumental Concert

5      Instrumental Tutors Concert 

5-6   Yr 3 Camp

10    Yr 3&4 Strings Concert

11     Prep Family Connect Evening

12     Yr 4-6 Gala Day

16-20 Yr 10 Exams

17     Friends of Pacific

18     Jnr Ensembles Concert

19     Yr 4-6 Sports Awards

19     Yr 7-12 Sports Awards

19      Yr 12 Graduation

20      Yr 12 Farewell Chapel

20      Yr 12 Formal

25      Yr 9 Leadership Day

25      Rite Journey Homecoming

26      Uniform Shop Close

26      Prep-2 Swimming Carnival

27      K-5 Carols

30      Prep-5 Closing Service

December

1      Yr 6-12 Closing Service

1      Term 4 Concludes

18    PLC Office Close

January 2027

4      PLC Office Opens

20-21 Prep Orientation

22     Yr 1-6 Meet your Teacher

22     All yr 7 & new 8-12 PCG Afternoon

27     Academic Year Commences

25    Yr 6-12 Commencement Service

27    New Student ID photos

28    Yr 3-6 swimming trials

29    P-5 Commencement Service