“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!
Nicole Gregory | Principal
“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!
For thousands of years, Christians have celebrated the resurrection of Jesus, affirming it as the central truth of their faith. In doing so, they have formed a countercultural movement, seeking to live in the way of Christ. This way of life has not always been welcomed by the ruling powers of the day. History tells us that the Roman Empire went to great lengths to stamp out the Jesus movement, using brutal games and unspeakable violence. Yet, the church’s response was not one of retaliation, political maneuvering, or rebellion. Instead, they held fast to a simple but profound confession: “Christ is risen.”
The church looked beyond earthly struggles, fixing its hope on a future when the resurrected Jesus would return to bring them into life with Him. It was - and remains - a daring, even apocalyptic vision. (Apocalypse, in its truest sense, means an unveiling of ultimate reality.)
This defiant hope has been tested throughout history. Between 1927 and 1940, Stalin’s anti-religious campaign in the Soviet Union saw the number of Orthodox churches in the Russian Republic plummet from 29,584 to fewer than 500. It was a systematic effort to erase the story of Jesus and replace it with a utopian vision of humanity’s self-made destiny. Yet, the church endured. In secret, believers gathered for prayer, shared what little they had with those in need and met quietly to partake in the Lord’s Supper. At Easter, the priest would declare, “Christ is risen,” and those gathered, at great personal risk, would answer:
"Он воскрес, он воистину воскрес"
"On voskres, on voistinu voskres"
("He is risen, He is risen indeed.")
Many years ago, when I was in pastoral ministry, I often found myself at the bedside of those nearing the end of their earthly lives. Prayers were spoken, hands were held, tears were shed and comfort was given. Yet, no matter how many times I stood in that sacred space, something within me always whispered: This is not the end.
I remember one particular moment. A beloved member of our congregation, once a farmer, a wife, a mother, a mentor and a friend to many, was in her final days. Her family shared that she had been married at Easter and together we quietly acknowledged that she would likely hold on until Good Friday. And she did. As she took her last breaths, I leaned in and spoke softly, believing she could hear me:
“You can go home now. He is risen.”
The confession that Jesus rose from the dead is not just religious tradition, it is confronting, transformative and deeply personal. It was first uttered by angels at an empty tomb, and it has echoed through history in whispered prayers, in defiant declarations and in the quiet hope of the dying.
At Easter, Christians around the world proclaim it once more - not as a relic of the past, but as the very hope that shapes their future.
Christ is risen.
“He is risen, He is risen indeed."
In Chinese
他复活了,他确实复活了
Tā fùhuóle, tā quèshí fùhuóle
In Hindi
वह जी उठा है, वह सचमुच जी उठा है
vah jee utha hai, vah sachamuch jee utha hai
In Spanish
Ha resucitado, ha resucitado verdaderamente
In Japanese
彼は復活した、本当に復活した
Kare wa fukkatsu shita, hontōni fukkatsu shita
Amen
Tim McMenamin | Director of Mission
Testing season can be a stressful time for students of all ages. While some level of nervousness is normal, test anxiety can overwhelm children, affecting their confidence and performance. As the College Counsellor, I want to share some practical ways you can support your child in managing test anxiety and approaching exams with a positive mindset.
1. Recognise the Signs of Test Anxiety
Test anxiety can manifest in different ways, including:
If your child exhibits these signs, they may need extra support to build confidence and coping skills.
2. Encourage Healthy Study Habits
Create a study plan. Help your child break study material into manageable sections and review a little each day instead of cramming the night before. Prioritise appropriately (eg., think about what item of work is due first rather than starting broadly).
Use practice tests and study aids. Flashcards, review guides, and online resources can make studying more interactive and engaging. Checklists can be useful in incorporating what materials are needed for different assignments or tasks.
Find a distraction-free study space: A quiet, organised environment can help your child stay focused. Sometimes, the bedroom can be distracting as it is usually associated with sleep or leisure time. Instead, utilise an outdoor area or shared study room in the house. If home is too busy and loud, the local library is a great place to get into the zone and study.
3. Teach Relaxation Techniques
Simple strategies can help your child calm their nerves before and during a test or assignment due date:
4. Shift the Mindset from Stress to Confidence
Reframe negative thoughts. If your child says, “I’m going to fail,” encourage them to say, “I’ve studied, and I’ll do my best.”
Praise effort over outcome. Remind them that their worth is not defined by a test score and celebrate their hard work and progress.
Encourage self-compassion. Help your child understand that mistakes are part of learning, and no one gets everything right all the time.
5. Support Physical Wellbeing
A child’s body and mind are closely connected, so encourage:
6. Communicate with Teachers and School Staff
If your child’s anxiety is significantly impacting their performance, don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers or the College Wellbeing team. We can provide additional strategies, accommodations, or reassurance to help your child succeed.
Testing is just one part of your child’s educational journey. By fostering a supportive and balanced approach to exams, you can help your child develop resilience, confidence, and lifelong stress-management skills.
If you have concerns about your child’s anxiety or need further support, please feel free to reach out. We’re here to help!
April Carroll | College Counsellor
[email protected]
As we come to the end of Term 1, we want to highlight the importance of school attendance for your child's academic success and personal growth. As a parent/carer, making sure your child attends school every day is essential for their academic success and overall wellbeing. Aiming for 100% attendance is a key factor in student achievement and sets a strong foundation in shaping your child’s future.
Aiming for 100% Attendance
Setting goals provides direction and purpose, helping us strive for where we want to be. It is realistic to strive for something, even if you don’t always get there - the goal is the best possible end state. While setting the goal for 100% attendance may seem unrealistic or even impossible (sick days, funerals, and other interruptions are inevitable), setting that high goal and expectation will help achieve the best possible attendance rate.
Aiming for 100% attendance is a commitment to your child’s educational journey and personal growth. When students strive for 100% attendance, they unlock a level of consistency and discipline that sets the stage for lifelong success. This commitment fosters an environment where learning is prioritised, and the classroom becomes a place of continuous engagement and development. Each day in school presents a new opportunity for learning and interaction, contributing significantly to your child’s ability to grasp complex concepts, participate in enriching discussions, and collaborate effectively with peers.
Attending school every day goes beyond academic benefits; it instills in children a sense of responsibility and the importance of commitment. It teaches them the value of showing up, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally, ready to take on challenges and seize opportunities. In pursuing 100% attendance, students learn to navigate obstacles more resiliently, understanding that attendance is a critical step in achieving their goals, both academically and in their future careers.
Advantages of Daily School Attendance
The advantages of daily school attendance extend well beyond the classroom, embedding a set of skills and values that prepare students for both academic achievements and broader life experiences.
Daily school attendance creates an uninterrupted learning experience, where each day builds on the previous one, reinforcing knowledge and understanding in a consistent manner. This continuous engagement in the educational process enables students to maintain a steady pace with the curriculum, ensuring they grasp key concepts and stay aligned with their classmates’ learning trajectory.
Beyond academics, regular attendance nurtures essential life skills such as discipline, punctuality, and accountability. It sets a daily routine that instills in students the importance of commitment and responsibility, qualities that are invaluable throughout life. By attending school every day, children develop resilience, learning to face and overcome the daily challenges that accompany their educational journey.
Socially, daily attendance enhances students’ ability to forge and maintain meaningful relationships with both peers and educators. It provides a platform for constant social interaction, crucial for developing strong communication skills and emotional intelligence. These interactions contribute to a sense of belonging and community, vital for emotional and mental health.
Impact of Missing School
Being absent from school, even for a day, disrupts a child’s educational journey significantly. Each day missed is an opportunity lost in understanding new material, contributing to discussions, and engaging with educational content that cannot be replicated through homework alone. The gap created by missed days can make it challenging for a student to keep pace with the class, potentially leading to a cycle of catch-up that can be both stressful and disheartening.
Moreover, the ripple effect of not attending school impacts social development and mental wellbeing. Students who frequently miss school may find it harder to integrate into social groups or participate effectively in team activities, leading to feelings of isolation or exclusion. These feelings can exacerbate the reluctance to attend school, creating a feedback loop that further hinders academic and social engagement.
Consistent absence can also impede the development of critical life skills such as time management, responsibility, and the ability to navigate and overcome challenges. These skills, honed through the structure and demands of regular school attendance, are foundational for success both within and outside the educational environment.
Additionally, missed school days can have a profound impact on a student’s confidence in their academic abilities. When students fall behind, the challenge of catching up can affect their self-esteem and motivation, potentially deterring them from fully engaging in future learning opportunities. This loss of confidence can have long-lasting effects on their educational aspirations and overall self-perception.
Strategies to Achieve 100% Attendance
Understanding and Addressing Attendance Barriers
It's crucial to understand the barriers that may prevent your child from attending school regularly. These can include health issues, family responsibilities, transportation challenges, and socio-economic factors. By identifying these barriers, we can work together to find solutions.
The Role of Parents and Carers in Supporting Regular Attendance
Fostering an environment that values education begins at home. As parents, your approach and attitude toward school and learning significantly influence your child’s perspective on attendance. Here are some ways that parents can support regular attendance:
Seeking Support When Attendance Issues Arise
Navigating challenges related to your child's school attendance can be daunting, but it's essential to remember that a variety of resources and support systems are available to you and your child. Establishing open lines of communication with the school is a crucial first step.
It's important to remind you that you have chosen a school that is deeply invested in the wellbeing of your child. We are committed to mitigating any issues that may prevent your child from accessing their education. Sometimes, additional supports or a modified transition program might be necessary to help your child get back into the classroom. Every child has a right to a full education, and it is a government requirement that children engage in full-time learning (before age 16) or full-time earning. We understand that this can be harder for some families, and we are here to support you in meeting this requirement.
If your child is struggling with the transition back to school for any reason, we want to know. Please do not wait until things become unmanageable. The sooner we know about your concerns, the sooner we can offer the necessary supports or direct you to organisations that can help. Our primary objective is the full and complete education of your child.
Together, let's make this school year a successful and fulfilling one for your child. Thank you for your continued support in ensuring they attend school regularly.
Anna Doré | Deputy Principal - People & Culture
TLC marked Harmony Day with our most spectacular Multicultural Expo yet! Our community came together in a vibrant celebration of diversity, culture and unity, taking students on an unforgettable journey around the world. Thanks to the incredible efforts of our TLC families, students had the opportunity to explore and experience the rich cultural heritage of our global community through delicious food, exciting games, beautiful art, captivating stories and traditional performances.
This annual event, which continues to grow each year, was a resounding success – and it wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and generosity of our amazing parents and carers who gave up their time to host stalls and share their cultures. A huge thank you to everyone for helping make the day so enriching, entertaining and inspiring!
This year’s Expo featured a record number of countries, each offering a unique window into their culture:
The celebration didn’t stop at the stalls – students and parents also delivered incredible performances, including Colombian Dance, Bhangra Dance and traditional Chinese Dance. Guests enjoyed the Let's Bollywood Dance Workshop, Tai Chi and cultural performances, thrilling Chinese Lion Dancing by the International Wushu Academy and a jaw-dropping Taekwondo demonstration by PK Taekwondo.
The Multicultural Expo is a powerful reminder of the beauty and strength found in diversity. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this day one to remember. We are already looking forward to next year’s Expo, which promises to be even bigger and better!
Happy Harmony Day TLC! Let’s continue to celebrate, learn and grow together. 🌏
What an astonishing display of imagination and skill from our Upper Primary students in this year’s Year 4 – 6 Writing Competition, held on Friday, 21 February. Each year, all students in Years 4, 5, and 6 take on the challenge to write a captivating narrative based on a provided stimulus as part of this competition. This year, our students truly rose to the occasion, exploring endless possibilities for their tasks—thrilling treasure hunts, mysterious secret tunnels, exotic hidden islands, and so much more. The creativity on display was nothing short of awe-inspiring!
In just 40 minutes, students were tasked with planning, writing, and editing their stories. They were challenged to think about key elements of storytelling—developing captivating characters, creating vivid settings, and crafting a gripping series of events. And they didn’t just stop there! They focused on writing with well-structured sentences, perfecting their spelling and punctuation, and using paragraphs and vibrant vocabulary to bring their stories to life.
After a highly competitive event, we are thrilled to congratulate the winners from each year level. Each year level had one student awarded first, second, and third place, along with one Creativity and Effort Award for a student who wrote an engaging and well-thought-out story but may have contained errors in areas such as punctuation and spelling. Here are the winners of the Year 4-6 Writing Competition:
Year 4 Winners:
Year 5 Winners:
Year 6 Winners:
These students not only impressed us with their storytelling abilities but also contributed valuable points to their house’s tally. Kittabilla earned 65 points, Kumbarchu earned 60 points, Nyani earned 15 points, and Tabbil earned 10 points. In addition to the points, all participants received Dymocks vouchers to continue fostering their imagination by purchasing books that will inspire their future stories. Reading is a vital way to nurture creativity, and we hope these vouchers will help them explore new worlds and ideas.
A huge congratulations to all our winners! Your creativity, effort, and passion for writing have shone through in every story you’ve shared. A special mention goes to Josie C, the overall winner, whose name will be engraved on the perpetual trophy, proudly displayed in the Main Admin trophy cabinet for all to admire.
Thank you to all our participants, teachers, and staff who supported the students through this exciting journey. We can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you next!
Taryn Hirst | Deputy Head of Primary - Learning Transformation
Today, our Prep students took to the Hall with excitement and creativity as they proudly modelled their handcrafted Easter Hats. Over the past few weeks, they have been hard at work planning, designing and decorating their hats, following a very special design brief set by none other than the Easter Bunny himself!
The challenge? Each hat had to incorporate elements that engaged all five senses, making for a truly immersive Easter experience. From fluffy textures to jingling bells, from sweet scents to vibrant colours, our young designers and scientists brought their imaginations to life in spectacular fashion.
A wonderful crowd of families joined us in the Hall to cheer on the students, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere. Adding to the excitement, the Year 6 buddies were there to support and celebrate their Prep friends, offering plenty of encouragement and applause.
A huge thank you to our dedicated Prep Team for guiding our youngest Lakes Learners through this creative journey. Their enthusiasm and hard work ensured a fantastic experience for everyone involved!
Well done Preps – and Happy Easter to all!
Katerina Tilley | Head of Primary
Our students delivered an exceptional performance at the Sunshine Coast Open Taekwondo 2025, bringing home an impressive collection of medals. Their hard work, dedication and sportsmanship were on full display throughout the competition.
Daham W (Yr 7)
Silver – Sparring (Black Belt Male 12-14 yrs)
Gold – Individual Traditional Poomsae (Black Belt 1st/2nd Dan Male 12-14 yrs)
Amal W (Yr 6)
Gold – Sparring (Black Belt Male 10-11 yrs)
Gold – Sparring (Black Belt Male 10-11 yrs)
Silver – Individual Traditional Poomsae (Black Belt 1st/2nd Dan Male 10-11 yrs)
Ethan L (Yr 6)
Silver – Sparring (Black Belt Male 10-11 yrs)
Bronze – Individual Traditional Poomsae (Black Belt 1st/2nd Dan Male 10-11 yrs)
Juwon H (Yr 5)
Gold – Sparring (Black Belt Male 10-11 yrs)
Silver – Sparring (Black Belt Male 10-11 yrs)
Silver – Sparring (Match Play 11)
Gold – Individual Traditional Poomsae (Black Belt 1st/2nd Dan Male 10-11 yrs)
Bryson S (Yr 2)
Bronze – Sparring (Yellow Belt Male 8-9 yrs)
Congratulations to all our competitors on their outstanding achievements. Their commitment and perseverance continue to make our school proud.
TLC Music Studio provides high-quality Private and Group instrumental and vocal music education that is accessible to all students at The Lakes College from Prep to Year 12. Music Studio lessons are timetabled during school hours, with limited spots for before and after school subject to our Tutors’ availability.
We have an exciting new program starting in Term 2 – the Talented Student Athlete (TSA) Program!
If you’re passionate about football or netball and want to learn from some of the best coaches in the game, this program is for you! The TSA program at The Lakes College is all about supporting talented student athletes like you by providing top-notch coaching and a positive, growth-focused environment.
What to Expect:
High-quality coaching from Moreton City Excelsior Academy (football) and advanced Netball Australia-accredited coaches
Skill development in technical, tactical, physical, and psychological aspects of your sport
Future opportunities as we expand into basketball, cricket, volleyball, and even eSports!
Fantastic facilities, including fields, futsal courts, netball courts, and a gym
Training will be held in the mornings before school
Are You In?
This program is open to any committed player in Year 5 - 12 who wants to grow, improve and be part of a supportive team. If you’re keen to take your game to the next level, we’d love to have you on board!
Spots are limited, so if you're interested click the below link for more details.
Looking forward to seeing you on the court or field soon!
Coach Alex | Director of Sport and Activities
[email protected]
We want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our community for their ongoing support and assistance in organising and attending our Term 1 events! We can not do this without our volunteers and we thank you for your dedication and energy.
Second Hand Uniform Shop
Don't forget! Our Second Hand Uniform Shop will be open during the holidays on Friday 11 April, from 8am - 10am. It's the perfect time to stock up on any uniform items your child might need for Term 2.
Prep Playground Equipment Funding
At our March meeting, we approved funding to purchase new playground equipment for our Prep students, including loose play equipment, we greatly appreciate your ongoing support of TLC and our students.
Multicultural Expo & Cross Country
A big thank you to our volunteers who helped at the Multicultural Expo, where TLCCA prepared fairy bread and Vegemite sandwiches. The fairy bread was a definite favourite! A special thanks also goes to Megan W and Erin R for coordinating the refreshments stall at the Cross Country Carnivals – the zooper doopers sold out in no time!
Looking Ahead to Term 2
We are excited about being involved in Under 8s Day on Friday 23 May, which is fast approaching. Plans are well underway, and we need your help! If you are available to volunteer, please click on the volunteer registration link below to sign up. Your support helps make this event a success for our youngest learners. [Volunteer Registration Link - click here]
We also want to give a big thank you to Narelle W for once again organising the Mother's Day Stall. Narelle has been coordinating this special event for many years, and we truly appreciate her tireless efforts – especially when it comes to wrapping over 600 gifts for the Primary Mother's Day Stall on Wednesday, 7 May. Don’t forget to place your orders through Spriggy when they open up!
TLCCA Secondary Mother's Day Evening
TLC Community Association invites mothers and special friends of Secondary students to join them for an evening of canapes, drinks, and prizes at The Fugitive Ferret here in North Lakes, from 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Tickets cost $50 per person and bookings are essential. Please purchase your tickets HERE by 3:00pm Tuesday 6 May. All funds raised from the event will go towards the Cancer Council, as we will be hosting this as an Australia's Biggest Morning Tea function. We encourage you to wear a 'touch of pink' to celebrate the occasion, but this is not mandatory.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 30 April, at 6:30pm – all are welcome to join, either online or in person. We encourage all families, especially our new ones, to get more involved and learn about the many ways you can contribute to our school community.
A Final Thank You
The TLCCA Executive Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your continued support. We wish you all a wonderful and safe Easter holiday with your loved ones.
We look forward to seeing you at our Term 2 events!
Kristina Petho | TLCCA President
[email protected]
The Primary Art department is excited to be asked to contribute to the Primary School musical props this year. One of the things we will be doing is making lots of sea creatures that will hang off the ceiling, off netting, all around the hall and stage area.
We are in need of washed 1L plastic bottles that will be used for the bodies of jellyfish, fish, octopus and other creatures. Please drop these to the Primary Office.
Tues 1 Apr
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P-12 Parent Teacher Interviews
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Thurs 3 Apr
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Term 1 Concludes
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Fri 11 Apr
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SHUS Open 8am-10am
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Fri 18 Apr
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Good Friday
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Sun 20 Apr
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Easter Sunday
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Mon 21 Apr
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Easter Monday
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Tues 22 Apr
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Term 2 Commences
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Wed 23 Apr
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Yr 10 IKEA Excursion
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Thurs 24 Apr
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ANZAC Remembrance Service
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Fri 25 Apr
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ANZAC Day
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Mon 28 Apr
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Yr 10 Social Media Security Setting workshop
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Primary School Camp Quality Incursion
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Yr 7 Incursion: Mummification
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Tues 29 Apr
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Yr 10 Geography Field Trip to the Gold Coast
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Yr 10 Transition & Subject Info Evening
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Yr 8 Camp Departs
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Wed 30 Apr
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TLCCA Meeting
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Yr 5 SparkLab & Museum Excursion
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Fri 2 May
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Buddha Birth Day Festival Yr 7 Excursion
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NISSA Cross Country Carnival
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Yr 11 Geography Field Trip
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Yr 1 Excursion - Caboolture Historical Museum
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Yr 8 Camp Returns
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Mon 5 May
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Labour Day
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Tues 6 May
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Yr 9 Camp Departs - NEW DATE
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Yr 10 Immunisations
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Yr 4 Positive Peer Relationships
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Wed 7 May
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District Cross Country 10-19yrs
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TLCCA Mothers' Day Stall
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QYMA - Vivaldi String Ensemble
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Thurs 8 May
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P-6 Mothers' Day Breakfast
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TLCCA Secondary Mothers' Day Evening
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Fri 9 May
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Yr 9 Camp Returns
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Yr 3 SEA LIFE Excursion
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QYMA - Paganini Strings Ensemble
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Sat 10 May
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Kokoda Challenge Sunshine Coast
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The Lakes College extends sincere thanks to our TLC Sponsors, whose steadfast support plays a vital role in fostering the overall development and wellbeing of our students. We acknowledge and value the dedication of the businesses listed below, whose investments directly enrich the educational journey of our students. Their contributions provide invaluable resources and open doors to opportunities that might not have been accessible otherwise. We are truly grateful for their commitment to enhancing the educational experiences at The Lakes College.
Luxury Lifestyle Homes exemplifies unparalleled excellence in the design and construction of dream homes in Brisbane. With meticulous attention to detail, they are dedicated to transforming visions into reality. What sets Luxury Lifestyle Homes apart is their fusion of precise workmanship and proven processes, ensuring clients receive a home that is not only tailored to their exact specifications but is also completed on time, within budget and without stress. The team at Luxury Lifestyle Homes takes pride in bringing dream homes to life, creating a delightful and stress-free experience for their clients throughout the entire process. https://luxlifehomes.com.au
Quality in-home nursing services that put you and your family first. We don’t just focus on quality nursing services. We’re committed to helping you lead a healthier, active, more fulfilling life. Our focus is YOU. Our focus is our partners and their FAMILY. We want the best outcome for you. https://www.familyfirstcare.co...
Since 2004, North Lakes & Surrounds Electrical have been the local electrician serving the North Lakes community. As a family-owned and locally operated electrical contracting business, they have successfully contributed to the growth and development of the Moreton Bay Region. When you choose their services, you are not just hiring an electrician; you are investing in a relationship built on trust and expertise. North Lakes Electrician | North Lakes & Surrounds Electrical (northlakeselectrical.com)
The Vinyl Loft stands as a prominent player in the Australian vinyl crafting sector, consistently advancing and establishing a renowned position for delivering high-quality branded vinyl with a commitment to exceptional customer service. As an authorised Australian supplier, The Vinyl Loft offers a comprehensive range of quality branded vinyl, DTF Transfers, blanks, tools, and accessories, catering to diverse crafting and business requirements. https://www.thevinylloft.com.a...
Since 2015, The Yiros Shop has believed in serving only the best to our community across Brisbane and now wider Queensland. Their meals are authentic and fresh, adding a modern twist to traditional Greek favourites by focusing on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. The Yiros Shop are proud to be a family owned and operated business carrying recipes down through generations and creating the best Greek food choice around. https://theyirosshop.com.au/
Jacqui & Warren from EasyAs Driver Training as proud TLC Parents and big supporters of our TLC Swim Club, coming on board this year as our inaugural TLC Swim Club Community Sponsor. If you're here to learn to drive then EasyAs Driver Training is the right place for you. We are long established and recognised for excellence. https://easyasdta.com.au/