The Week Ahead - Term 4, Week 2
Monday 9 October - Friday 13 October 2023
From the Head of College
A warm welcome back to Concordia for Term 4 and a special welcome to our new families who have joined our community for the first time this term.
As I return to Concordia after taking some long service leave, I am looking forward to the excitement that Term 4 holds for our students and families across the College. We have many exciting events and celebrations over the coming 8 weeks that recognise the achievements and successes of our students, the first being the Year 12 Recognition and Graduation evening held at the Empire Theatre last night. I was honoured to be invited to share in this special event in Mr Prinsloo’s absence.
Of course congratulations goes to all Year 12 awards recipients, but a special mention must go to this class as a whole for the efforts and dedication they’ve had to their schooling over the last 13 years. We wish them well as they go into their final exams in a few weeks time and know that all the hard work that they have put in will stand them in good stead for the future.
Last weekend Concordia hosted two past student reunion groups and Pastor Thomas and I were lucky enough to be their tour guides as they wandered through our Stephen Street Campus. It was a trip down memory lane for all who attended as they shared stories from their schooling and how things had changed from then to now. It was wonderful to hear that Concordia still holds a special place in their hearts even after 40 and 50 years.
During this busy term, we have so much to be grateful for and I encourage everyone to take a moment to slow down and enjoy all that occurs over the next couple of months. I look forward to sharing this time with you.
Blessings for the week ahead.
Mrs Jackie Minnikin
Acting Head of College
From the College Pastor
From the College Pastor
Heads Up!
Welcome back to Term 4! It’s been great to see students and teachers returning refreshed and with various stories from the holidays.
I believe the new school captains had a wonderful experience at their leadership camp at Luther Heights and are inspired to step into their roles with energy and lots of ideas – embracing the possibilities that lie ahead!
The year 12s are heading rapidly towards the end of their schooling with the Recognition and Graduation service on Thursday, their final chapel next Friday and then it’s into final exams. We are wishing them well and praying for them during this stressful and exciting period.
The Year 9 cohort left for their 4 weeks at Googa and we wish them well also as they step out of their comfort zone and embrace new challenges and experiences, supported by the wonderful staff at the camp.
As always Term 4 has lots of different things happening and usually goes very fast! It’s good to be reminded that we step into the term also under the continued guidance and protection of the God who makes all things new (Isaiah 42:9) and leads us into new beginnings and opportunities.
I have included some pictures form the end of last term as we completed our Walk My Way, supporting children in refugee camps in Africa and Asia to attend school. The students engaged very well with this ALWS sponsored event and we raised over $2000 so far, making a difference in the lives of more than 77 children by enabling them to attend school for a year. It is still possible to make donations at:
We are also still finalising the money raised through the BBQ on that day.
Thank you to all of you for supporting your students in their efforts for this worthy cause, a practical way to show love to our neighbours.
As you step into this final term for the year, may our Lord bless and keep you safe and guide us all to finish the year in a positive and joyful spirit.
Pastor Thomas Böhmert
College Pastor
Community News
From the Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
Welcome to our final term of 2023. Oh, how the time flies! It feels like only the other that I was beginning my first week at Â鶹´«Ã½. Within that first week there was a lot to take in and to start feeling comfortable with new surroundings. Thankfully I have been warmly welcomed into the College community and have gained my sense of belonging as part of the Concordia family. This has caused the year to progress at an accelerated rate and by Term 4 we start to approach the finish line of 2023.
Our Year 12s will certainly feel the culmination of their schooling over the coming weeks as they participate in their final awards evening, ceremonies and exam block. In addition to this, we have our Year 6 students starting to prepare for the transition into high school as well as all other year levels eagerly awaiting to progress to the next year level in 2024.
Transitions can be tricky time for both students and families. Whether it is starting school for the first time, moving up to a higher grade or embarking on a journey through secondary school, there is no doubt that any school transition is a very exciting time for students and parents. It means your children are growing up!
However, transitioning is an ongoing process. It can continue long after students have entered their new environment and may encounter difficulties at a number of different stages. These stressors may appear as anxiety and frustration and result in negative or disruptive behaviours. Such behaviours can become problematic making the transitioning process even more difficult for children and parents.
As schools busily prepare for the transition into 2024, parents can also assist their children to ensure that the journey is as smooth as possible. SchoolTV offers a range of practical resources to assist families during the transition process and reduce stress and anxiety.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact one of the members of our Pastoral Care Team.
Take care!
Mr Tony Manteufel
Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
From the Director of Marketing and Enrolments
Welcome to Term 4. It seems unbelievable as the year is racing past.
We hope you're all doing well and enjoying the beautiful spring weather. We wanted to take a moment to fill you in on some exciting upcoming events and news at Â鶹´«Ã½.
Firstly, a huge congratulations to our Year 12 students on their graduation and awards last night. It was another awesome evening to remember.
Oktoberfest coming up this Saturday at our Stephen Street Campus, and we couldn't be more pumped! Starting at 4pm, it's going to be an absolute blast for the whole family. Picture this: mouthwatering German food stalls serving up all your favourites, live music filling the air, and tons of activities to keep the kids entertained. Trust us, you don't want to miss this opportunity to come together as a community and have a fantastic time. We can't wait to see all your smiling faces there!
Now, let's talk about something equally important – Orientation Day on October 16th. We know that for our new students and their families, starting at a new school can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. That's why we've dedicated a whole day to make the transition as smooth as possible. Our Orientation Day is all about helping our fresh faces become familiar with Concordia and meet their new classmates and teachers. So to our new Concordia parents, we strongly encourage you to register your child and be a part of this special day. It's a fantastic opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have and ensure your child feels comfortable and confident as they embark on their Concordia journey. If you have any doubts or need more information to register, our Registrar Jolene Healy is just a call away on 4688 2700.
Now, onto some seriously exciting news. Our talented Concordia students have been given a remarkable opportunity to perform at the prestigious Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce Business Awards this year. This is a huge achievement as the entertainment is normally set aside for professional artists. Well done!
Get ready to mark your calendars for October 27th because we've got a treat for you. Our annual Art Exhibition is right around the corner. It includes beautiful artworks created by our talented P-12 students from all three campuses. Paintings, sculptures, and everything in between! This is a chance for our young artists to showcase their creativity and passion while bringing the Concordia community together. Make sure you don't miss out – we'd love to see you there supporting our amazing students!
Finally, a shoutout to our Year 9 students who are currently having the time of their lives at the Googa camp. This month-long adventure is all about pushing boundaries, building resilience, and creating unforgettable memories. We hope our Year 9s are having an absolute blast and making the most of this incredible experience! Year 9 parents don’t forget to write letters to your children, they will be eagerly waiting for deliveries.
As always, thank you for your continuous support and dedication to our Concordia community. We truly appreciate you. Have a fantastic day, and we'll hopefully see you at Oktoberfest tomorrow!
Ms Belinda Sanders
Director of Marketing & Enrolments
CLC Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest 2023
Tomorrow is THE Day!
Make sure to get your tickets as this promises to be a fantastic event for the whole family. Scan the QR Code on the document to purchase your tickets or click on the link below.
Summer Camps
What are you doing during your summer holidays?
Lutheran Youth Queensland are offering some amazing camps in December and January, for both Yr 7-12 and Yr 3-6 students.
Grab some friends and go camping!
Please go to their website to register:
State Level Music Representation
Concordia had several students represent the College admirably in the Queensland Conservatoriums State Honours Ensemble Program, Queensland in the final weekend of the September holidays. The students a fabulous four days representing Concordia, which culminated in the concert at the Conservatorium. This program is an educational program for music students that helps extend and encourage their pursuit of musical excellence. Students need to be nominated from their school to apply before they are then selected from a list of criteria.
Congratulations to the following students who should be very proud of their commitment, achievements and attitude throughout the program: Lily Pietsch (Trombone), Zoe Pietsch (Trumpet) and Samuel Lawrence (Flute and Piccolo).
Orientation Day
HSC OSHC Sausage Sizzle and Bake Sale - 14 October
HSC Parent Connect Mango Fundraiser
The Hume Street Campus Parent Connect is running the annual Mango Fundraiser. Please see below for more information and
Project Based Learning at Concordia
Junior College
From the Junior College Director of Campuses
As we bid farewell to the cooler weather, and welcome the signs of spring and warmer weather, we find ourselves also welcoming a new term – Term 4. The start of a new term is a time of fresh beginnings, renewed focus, and the promise of more growth in our learning.
At Concordia, we say ‘Learning is at the Heart of everything we do’ and we are looking forward to sharing this learning with you throughout the term. Term 4 presents an opportunity for our students to continue their academic journey with renewed determination. Teachers and students alike will be working hard to achieve new milestones and exceed their own expectations.
Term 4 promises to be filled with exciting events and activities. From Swimming Carnivals to our Twilight Showcase, Art Show, Musical, and Carols by Candlelight, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Keep an eye on our College Newsletter The Week Ahead, published each Friday for updates on these events and make sure to mark them in your calendars so you don’t miss out on the fun.
Term 4 is an excellent time for parents, teachers and students to come together and strengthen our bonds. We encourage parents to get involved in school activities and engage with teachers to support your child’s education.
There will be many opportunities to celebrate the achievements of our students and staff in Term 4. From academic accomplishments to artistic endeavours and athletic triumphs, there will be many reasons to applaud our school community. Stay tuned for updates on our achievements and accolades throughout the term.
Our weekly newsletter will continue to be your source of information throughout Term 4. We will keep you updated on school news, important dates, and other pertinent information. To get all of the news, please read through the Community News, Junior College and Campus specific to your child/ren. Please read the newsletter regularly and reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support and here’s to a successful and fulfilling Term 4!
to view HSC's Events for Term 4, Week 2.
to view WSC's Events for Term 4, Week 2.
Mrs Juanetta Priest
Director of Campuses | Hume Street & Warwick Street
2023 Toowoomba District Primary Spring Swiss Rapid Chess Tournament
JC Prep - Year 2 Aquatic Fun Day - Tuesday 17 October
Parents of P-2 students, we are excited to invite you to join us for a delightful afternoon of aquatic fun at our P-2 Aquatic Fun Afternoon. As part of our commitment to providing a well-rounded education, we believe that swimming is an essential skill and an excellent way for children to stay active while having a blast.
Date: 17 October 2023
Time: 11.30am to 2.30pm
Location: Concordia Aquatic Centre, SSC
Program: There will be three sets of rotations with all activities carefully monitored by pool staff, college staff or volunteer parents.
- Pool activities
- Gym activities – activities will be similar to our Perceptual Motor Program
- Field activities
Students will need
- Swimwear (same as for swimming lessons)
- Towel
- Goggles (optional)
Safety is our top priority and there will be trained lifeguards and instructors on-site and in the water to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
We look forward to seeing you at our Fun Afternoon. It promises to an afternoon filled with laughter, learning and water adventures. If you are available to help supervise a small group of students please submit your availability via the form below.
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to reach out.
³¢±ð³Ù’s make a splash together!
JC Christmas for the Bush and Chapel Service
Care Outreach has been supporting Outback families for over 25 years. Many rural and remote families are in their 10th year of drought. These families need us more than ever this Christmas.
In Term 4, the Junior College will be again supporting Care Outreach with their Christmas for the Bush appeal. You can help by donating...
- Non-perishable food and Christmas treats
- Toys and family gifts
- Toiletries
- Pre-paid visa cards
Donation baskets will be placed in every classroom. 100% goes to our farmers! For other specific needs, please visit and click on the 'Christmas for the Bush' tab.
Christmas for the Bush will conclude with a Junior College Chapel Service lead by our Year 1 students in the SSC Chapel on Friday 27 October at 9.30am. Everyone is invited to come along.
JC Dress as a Farmer Day - 25 October
JC Weekly STEM Challenge
Week 2’s Stem Challenge is the Getting Hot Challenge: “Design something that you can use to protect yourself from the sun at school. Happy designing!â€
Outside School Hours Care
Hume Street Campus
HSC Weekly Events
Please to view HSC's Events for Term 4, Week 2.
HSC Tuckshop Orders
At HSC, Tuckshop is held on a Thursday. All orders are to be completed online at by 3pm each Wednesday. Please notify Reception by 9am on Thursday if your child is absent and we will cancel their order. Tuckshop will finish in Week 7.
HSC Tennis Coaching - Term 4 2023
Cans 4 Cash Collection - Yr 3 & 4 Sustainability Project
HSC Parent Connect Meeting
Our next Parent Connect meeting for 2023 will be held on Wednesday 11 October at 5.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.
HSC Year 3 to Year 6 Swimming Lessons starting Week 3 Term 4
Our students from Years 3 to 6 will commence their swimming lessons at the Concordia Aquatic Centre (CAQ) in Week 3 Term 4. They will participate in eight lessons which will occur in weekly. The students will then participate in a JC Inter-House Swimming Carnival on Thursday 16 November at the CAQ. Please for their swimming schedule.
Please ensure that students have the following:
- Dressing gown - this is great for the students to wear to and from the pool as we don't know what the weather is going to be like;
- Thongs
- Swimming togs - it would be great for our Prep students to wear their togs to school
- Goggles
- House swimming cap
- Towel
To avoid any lost items, please clearly label all of your child's items including their shoes, underwear and uniform.
HSC Prep to Year 2 Swimming Lessons Continuing Week 2 Term 4
Our students from Prep to Year 2 will commence their swimming lessons at the Concordia Aquatic Centre (CAQ). They will participate in eight lessons which will occur in Week 9, Term 3 and Week 2, Term 4. The students will then participate in a Prep to Year 2 Aquatic Fun Day on Tuesday 17 October at the CAQ. Please for their swimming schedule.
Please ensure that students have the following:
- Dressing gown - this is great for the students to wear to and from the pool as we don't know what the weather is going to be like;
- Thongs
- Swimming togs - it would be great for our Prep students to wear their togs to school
- Goggles
- House swimming cap
- Towel
To avoid any lost items, please clearly label all of your child's items including their shoes, underwear and uniform.
Warwick Street Campus
Grandparents’ Day Invitation - Friday 20 October
Grandparents’ Day Catering - Friday 20 October
We would love your help on Grandparents' Day to either provide a plate of food for morning tea and/or help set up and serve.
to register your interest.
Please find below the list of food suggestions for each year level to bring for children and grandparents to share for morning tea:
Prep – Sandwiches
Year 1 – Fruit Platter
Year 2 - Biscuits/Slices/Cakes
Year 3 – Sandwiches
Year 4 – Biscuits/Slices/Cakes
Year 5 – Savoury
Year 6 – Savoury
Please be aware of the ‘No Nut’ policy when baking or purchasing your food items. We ask if you could please use disposable plates and containers to make it easier with clean up. Could we please have all plates of food delivered by 8.30am on Friday 20 October? Plates can be taken directly to the Resource Centre unless it needs to be refrigerated in The Shed fridge or handed in at Reception.
WSC Weekly Events
Please to view WSC's Events for Term 4, Week 2.
WSC Tuckshop Orders
At WSC, Tuckshop is held on a Wednesday. All orders are to be completed online at by 3pm each Tuesday. Please notify Reception by 9am on Wednesday if your child is absent and we will cancel their order. Tuckshop will finish in Week 7.
WSC Prep to Year 6 Swimming Lessons - Term 4
On Monday 9 October, (Week 2 Term 4), Prep to Year 6 students will commence their swimming lessons at the Concordia Aquatic Centre. Each of these classes will participate in lessons leading up to the Swimming Carnivals.
Students in Prep to Year 2 will participate in one lesson a week over the course of five weeks. Our Junior students will also be involved in a Mini Carnival on Tuesday 17 October.
Students in Years 3 to 6 will participate in two lessons a week over the course of five weeks, which will culminate in a Swimming Carnival on Thursday 16 November.
More details on these carnivals will follow.
Please ensure that students have the following items:
- Swimming togs
- Goggles
- House swimming cap
- Towel
To avoid any lost items, please clearly label all of your child's items including their shoes, underwear and uniform.
WSC Tennis Coaching - Term 4
WSC Parent Connect Meeting
Our next Parent Connect meeting for 2023 will be held on Wednesday 18 October at 5.30pm in The Resource Centre. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Stephen Street Campus
From the Director of Campus
I hope this message finds you well following the holiday break as we kick off what promises to be an exciting Term 4 at Concordia. As the warmer weather arrives, so does a flurry of activity on campus and beyond. Here are some important highlights for the term ahead:
Year 9 Adventure Camp at Googa
Our Year 9 students have departed for their exhilarating four-week adventure camp at Googa. This experience is a testament to our commitment to holistic education. We wish them all the best as they build valuable life skills, forge new friendships, and create lasting memories. This adventure will undoubtedly shape their personal growth in remarkable ways. We will provide some photos and updates over the coming weeks.
Year 12: Navigating the Final Mile
Our Year 12 students are now in the home stretch of their educational journey at Concordia. I wish to thank Ms Leah Bowes for her organisation of the Year 12 Arrivals and Valedictory dinner held on the final Friday of Term 3. It was a magical Hollywood themed evening, with our Year 12s well and truly making the most of this red-carpet event.
To honour their achievements, our Year 12 Recognition and Graduation Evening was held at the Empire Theatre Armitage Centre on Thursday evening. I wish to congratulate all award winners and the entire graduating group on their success and dedication to the Concordia educational program. Our final official farewell will be the Senior Closing Chapel on Friday 13 October at 8.45am. All Year 12 parents and carers are invited to attend, with students free to leave following this.
As they prepare for their External Exams in Week 4, we are immensely proud of our Year 12s and how well they are positioned as they head into this strenuous period. In Week 3, Year 12 students will tackle "SWOTVAC Week" as they study from home, dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to the final challenge that lies ahead.
CLC Presentation Night
Our Â鶹´«Ã½ awards Presentation Night will be held on Monday 20 November at Empire Theatre from 6-8pm. Please keep an eye out for future editions for more details.
Year 11: Beginning Unit 3 Studies
Year 11 students are stepping into a crucial term as they commence their Unit 3 studies. These units play a significant role in shaping their end-of-Year 12 results, and we have every confidence in their ability to excel. Some subjects will schedule the first piece of assessment (IA1) prior to the end of term. A schedule of these will be sent home in the coming weeks.
SSC Parent Connect Oktoberfest
We're excited to invite all members of the Concordia community to join us for the SSC Parent Connect Oktoberfest event tomorrow - Saturday 7 October from 4-7pm at the front of Redlands. This promises to be an evening of fun, food, and camaraderie. Keep an eye out for the Altus, Stedman, and Kessler themed hot dogs – a delicious addition to the festivities!
I look forward to a productive and prosperous term ahead.
Yours in faith,
Mr Jamie Pukallus
Director of Campus
Sport News
Sports News – Term 4, Week 1
Recent Results & Achievements
National School Futsal Championships
Congratulations to Lachlan Rashleigh, Chase Robertson, Ethan Gorham, Freddy Du Toit, Bruce Omanga, Zade Vonhoff, Adam Armstrong and Noah Bland, who all competed at the National School Futsal Championships in Brisbane over the holidays, representing South-West QLD.
From all reports the boys played fantastic, with Freddy and Zade being selected in the Australian All Stars team, which will compete in Taiwan next year. A well-deserved honor considering the team is picked by rival coaches from 16+ teams. Well done boys and keep up the hard work.
Andre Diem
Over the holidays Andre Diem was selected for the Lions Academy U14 Darling Downs/South Brisbane squad and played in the AFL Queensland Under 14 State Academy 3-day Carnival at Maroochydore. He competed against teams from Papua New Guinea, Nauru and across Queensland and had a very successful carnival. Well done Andre and keep up the hard work.
Lisa Richards
Over the holidays Lisa Richards competed at the Swimming Country National Championships in Darwin, as part of the Concordia Turbo Jets Swim Club. Lisa did tremendously well, coming away with 1st in the 100 Backstroke and 200 Breaststroke and 3rd in the 50 Freestyle. As a result, she also claimed the Age Champion medal for the U13 Girls. Congratulations to Lisa and thankyou to Troy and the team at Concordia Turbo Jets who work so hard with our Swimmers.
Upcoming Fixtures and Information
Futsal
- Training: Boys – Monday afternoons/ Girls – Tuesday afternoons, from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm in the SSC gym.
- Games: Boys – Wednesdays/Girls – Mondays
- Game Venues: Boys – UniSQ (off Baker St)/Girls – The Glennie School (off Vacy St)
- Please arrive to your game no later than 30 minutes prior to kick off.
Team | Time | Opponent | Court |
---|---|---|---|
7/8s Girls | 4.00PM | Fairholme | 2 |
Senior Girls | 7.00PM | Fairholme | 2 |
Boys | TBA | TBA | TBA |
Concordia Athlete Development Program – Term 4
- The CADP will kick off on Monday from 7am-8am in the Performance Centre.
- If you are yet to register and are interested in participating, please see Mr Biscoe ASAP.
Netball
- Training: Boys – Tuesday afternoons/ Girls – Thursday afternoons, from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm at the WSC outdoor courts.
- Game Venues: Boys – TAS/Concordia/Girls – Nell. E Robinson Netball Courts
- Draw:
Team | Time | Opponent | Court |
---|---|---|---|
Round 1 - Boys | 5.00PM | TAS | 1/2 |
Round 2 - Girls | 5.30PM | Shooting Stars | 15 |
Rugby 7's
- Training: Wednesday afternoons 3:30pm-4:30pm on the Rugby oval.
- Game Venue: Highfields Sport and Recreation Centre.
- Draw:
Team | Time | Opponent | Court |
---|---|---|---|
U13's | 4.20PM | St Mary's Blue | 2 |
U13's | 7.40PM | Mary mac | 2 |
Sport Quote & Joke of the Week
Joke: What is a goal keepers' favourite snack? Beans on Post.
Boarding
Boarding News
Hello to all our Boarder families.
We trust you all had a wonderful time with your children and managed to spend some leisure time relaxing and having a great catch up.
My, has this year rolled by. An 8-week Term is ahead of us and then it is all over for 2023. Year 12 students have 2 weeks to go then into exams.
All our Year 12’s Georgette, Mason, Keenan, and Rhys will be sadly missed and will be remembered fondly by all their peers. What a great group they have been.
With the hand over completed, our two new Boarder Captains Khan and Kerri will gracefully slip into their roles as Boarder Captains for 2024 this will take some pressure of George and Mason moving into exams.
The holidays had some significant sporting events happening with Evie Yeatman playing Netball at the International Netball Festival on the Gold Coast. Evie’s team came away with Under 13 Winners and Evie herself Most Valuable Player. Mason Watson and Keenan Burns travelling to New Zealand to play Rugby League. Both boys enjoyed the competition and enjoyed the cultural experience.
Ella Stephens caught a massive fish recently and has absolutely taken advantage of her bragging rights. She has had a massive smile on her face since.
I received the NRL photos from Martina Stephens, Ellas’s mum during the break. Much to my delight her youngest boy sporting The Wah’s attire and her boys and Ella in the Bronco’s Colours. Sad for all you Bronco supporters but a massive session. NRL plays a huge part in our weekends in boarding for those of us who are not so sporty, and Cricket and Tennis will be our entertainment over the next few weeks.
We have lots of activities happening this term for our boarders. Next week I will send out the activity program.
That’s all for this week, take care and look after each other.
Hope you enjoy the pics.
Mrs Maureen Taurima and Mr Andrew Bull
Boarding Houseparents