On Saturday 3 June, in rather warm conditions, 30 students, three staff and seven parents hit the hills of D’Aguilar National Park for the 5^th annual 48km Brisbane Kokoda Challenge. The nine teams have been training hard since October 2022, starting with after school walks around North Lakes and progressing to weekend hikes on the Sunshine Coast in late February 2023.

Battling hills, dust, heat, illness, injury and exhaustion, the teams never gave up. When the going got tough everyone dug deep and found another level of strength and determination that they didn’t realise they had, to continue the journey they had started. Unfortunately for some though, illness and injury took its toll and some hikers had to make the extremely brave decision to retire from the Challenge.

Throughout the morning and early afternoon, the teams passed through the Support Crew check point (CP3) at 23km where we were cared for by our supportive team of parents and carers led by Ann-Maree and Chad Patrick and Erin Rosolen. Here we were treated to warm face cloths, home cooked spaghetti, and a very generous amount of love and hugs before being sent on our way for the rest of the day. From this point we were on our own, having to carry all the food and equipment we would need for the rest of the day, as we wouldn’t see the Support Crew again until the finish line 28km away.

As the day wore on, the teams gradually made their way through the hardest section of the track, aiming to reach CP5 at the top of Blacksoil Mountain in the daylight. Six teams accomplished this feat with the final teams deciding to tackle the never-ending hill together by the light of their headlamps. By now TLC Fighters were rapidly approaching the finish line where they crossed as the overall 4^th school team after walking for 9h 43m. Congratulations to Addison J, Chris M, Jake B and Krishi K who were led by Mr André Britz. As the evening wore on TLC teams emerged out of the darkness to celebrate their awesome achievements, crossing the finish line to the cheers of our Support Crew and waiting parents and carers. But the most amazing sight of the night was the remaining members of our most valiant teams crossing the finish line at 1:45am after being on their feet for over 18 hours. TLC Squadron – Amber P and Isabelle C led by Mrs Charmaine Clydesdale and TLC Rangers – Grace E and Fin A led by Mr David Peake.

While the Kokoda Challenge gives our students a chance to build strength, resilience and determination through the magic of outdoor activity, it is also the major fundraiser for the Kokoda Youth Foundation. This year TLCKT have raised $7682 so far, with one family alone raising a massive $1400!! But there is still one Challenge to go with two teams tackling the ultimate Challenge in July, the Gold Coast 96Km Kokoda Challenge. These teams are still fundraising until the end of June - if you would like to donate please click here and search for 'The Lakes College Pinnacle' team. Here’s hoping we can reach the impressive total of $8500.

A huge THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts needs to be given to our Team Leaders and Support Crew who volunteered their time to be part of TLCKT and without them, we could not run this Challenge. But the biggest of THANK YOUs must go to the Support Crew members Ann-Maree and Chad Patrick and Victoria Andrews who arrived at 6am and did not leave until the last teams crossed the finish line at 1:45am, ensuring that the final teams were greeted with as much enthusiasm as every other team on the day. ❤

I’d also like to acknowledge and thank our Kokoda sponsors as their generous donations clothed, fed and watered the members of TLCKT during training and on Challenge Day:

• Major Sponsors: UM Sports, Aqua Properties, Kallangur Chiropractic, Oporto Rothwell & North Lakes
• Gold Sponsors: North Lakes & Surrounds Electrical, Sensus Building Group, Corporate Protection

Although there is still one final Challenge left to tackle in 2023, thoughts have turned to 2024 with staff, students, parents and carers already lining up to nominate to be part of one of the best sporting teams at TLC!!

Happy Hiking!

Karen Ball | Kokoda Challenge Coordinator

During the week 26 May – 2 June 2023 we celebrated Reconciliation Week. This is a significant event in The Lakes College calendar. The national theme for 2023 was “Be A Voice for Generations”. This week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

Please click on the link for further details of the theme: National Reconciliation Week 2023: Be A Voice for Generations.

Whilst there is a majority support among the Australian population for reconciliation, only about one quarter of Australians know what they can do in practice to advance reconciliation. This highlights for us the important role we play in giving young Australians (our children) the skills and insight to make a direct and informed contribution to the reconciliation process. At the same time, this has encouraged us to critically reflect and engage in our own ongoing learning, 'un-learning' and 're-learning' about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures.

We believe that all Australians should have the opportunity to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. Throughout the week we actively learnt and participated in a variety of activities across the College to show our commitment to our Reconciliation Action Plan. There were some wonderful things happening throughout the College such as prayers of reconciliation, a Yarning morning tea with our First Nations families, classroom activities, library displays and resources. A big thank you to all who supported and participated in the College activities. May we seek connectedness as all Australians in the journey to true reconciliation.

Anna Doré | Deputy Principal - People & Culture

The famous children’s author Dr Seuss once wrote "Children want the same things we want. To laugh, to be challenged, to be entertained, and delighted." And delighted they were on Friday 19 May as students from Prep to Year 2 celebrated the wonders of childhood during our annual Under 8’s Day. Learners and their families enjoyed a tremendous range of experiences provided by some of our Year 8, Year 11 and Year 12 students, TLCCA, Community Groups and Services, teachers and staff. Sounds of laughter filled the Primary Green and many happy memories were made.

Under 8's Week began over 60 years ago as an annual event organised by Early Childhood Australia, dedicated to celebrating the learning and development of children under the age of 8. The event emphasises the importance of play-based learning and the role it plays in early childhood education. This year our Year 8 students demonstrated their connection with their Early Years’ peers by coordinating and supervising a variety of activities. Year 8 for Under 8s provided our Secondary students with an opportunity to develop their character in service to the College.

Here at the College play-based learning is our pedagogical approach across the Early Years. This approach recognises the inherent curiosity and natural inclination of young children to explore and learn through play. It provides a hands-on and interactive experience that stimulates cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. By engaging in play, children develop problem-solving skills, creativity, imagination, communication, knowledge, and collaboration, all of which are essential for their holistic growth.

The event has evolved over the years, reflecting the changing understanding and research around early childhood development. This year we again welcomed new Prep families who will join us in 2024, and many of our Year 2 students reflected on their enjoyment last year. A few of our over 8s even advocating for a day to celebrate being under 12!

On behalf of the College we would like to extend our thanks to all those involved in the success of this event. The support of our families, staff, students, new 2024 Preppies and the wider community beyond the College grounds is tremendously valued. Thank you for joining us to celebrate the joy of childhood.

Mark Pearce | Deputy Head of Primary

To explore Curiosity, a group of Year 7-9 students participated in a Science Day of Excellence. Throughout the day, students explored the world of the skin.

The day began with making models of the skin and discussing the reliability and accuracy of the models. Students looked at the importance of handwashing as an approach to minimise the spread of disease and began to play the game Pandemic. Following this, we discussed how tattooing works on the skin and worked on designs to Henna onto the skin. To conclude, the students used their chemistry skills to distil rosemary water and make soap. It was an excellent day, and the students gave all activities their best efforts. A big thank you to Mrs Ball and Mrs Corbin for organising this opportunity for the students. Below are some comments from our young Scientists.

Gerri Budd | Secondary Teacher

The Day of Excellence in Science was an interesting day, full of new learning experiences and included many chances to explore activities I would have never done. Learning about the human skin helped me gain a quick understanding of my own skin and what I have been doing wrong the entire time. I learned many new facts from the day and was honoured to be invited. My favourite activity was the board game that we played called ‘Pandemic’ which focuses on working together with others to cure diseases around the world. I found this a very fun activity to do, especially the process of figuring out how to set up the game – Cynthia S, Yr 9

Today we had the Science Excellence Day and participated in many different activities. First, we did a short quiz to see how much we knew about skin. Then, we made a model of skin using a sponge and some other materials, including pipe cleaners and toothpicks. We also watched a few videos and played a (very complicated) board game called Pandemic. We had Faiza and Ohanna come in and do henna, and we finished off the day by splitting into two groups and making rosemary water and soap. My favourite activity was making a model of skin out of sponge, as it was a fun and creative way to learn about the layers of skin – Ehkem D, Yr 8

Today we learnt about our body’s biggest organ, the skin. We learnt about the different layers of skin, and we made a model of the epidermis (what we see as our skin), and the dermis (where our nerves, blood vessels, sweat glands etc. are). We also learnt about tattoos and what makes them permanent, and then we got to have henna tattoos done by Fizzy and Ohanna in Year 12. After lunch, we learnt how to make soap and natural rosemary facewash. My favourite part of the day was the henna tattooing, the soap making, and making a model of the skin. I would love to attend this day again if I could, it was so much fun! 😊 – Jasmine B, Yr 7

The day was excellent as we were able to learn many things whilst having fun. I learnt about epidermis, dermis, acne, hair follicle etc. My favourite activity was creating a model of skin with sponges and other materials. It was very creative and inventive, and I would highly recommend this for the future – Yasin Y, Yr 7

Today I learnt not to pop pimples as bacteria from hands can get inside and sebum is the stuff inside of pimples. I really enjoyed making the model of skin as it was fun to poke the toothpicks inside of the sponge to represent hair follicles and making an ingrown hair – Summer A, Yr 8

Today, we explored scientific topics relating to skin. We did multiple activities including playing Pandemic, doing henna, and making models. It was very fun, and I enjoyed it a lot. My favourite activity was by far Pandemic, as even though it took a while to set up, it was really fun to play with my group – Finley A, Yr 7

I had such a fun day. My favourite activity was when we made the models. The skin models showed how science can solve questions. The activities were really fun and interactive – Abhijot S, Yr 7

Our last Secondary Musical at The Lakes College was Popstars! The 90’s Musical, which was in June 2018. Our current Year 12’s were in Year 7, so it’s been a long time between shows (thanks to Covid). However, in early May our Secondary students took to the stage to present the secondary musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

With auditions completed at the end of 2022, the cast and student musicians had their first rehearsals at the beginning of the school year. We faced a steep learning curve and challenging deadline: prepare a musical in 14 weeks. The cast rehearsed twice a week across dance, drama and singing with Miss Bek, Miss Aleckson and Mrs Johnston; the student musicians rehearsed once a week, initially under the guidance of Mr Whiting, and later with Mrs Johnston.

As the songs and dramatic action came together, so too did the production design under the guidance of Miss Aleckson and Mrs Thomas. The hall was transformed into a production workshop as the world of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory slowly came to life.

Production week arrived and there was still so much to do: dances to finalise, audio engineering and lighting to be programmed, and to rehearse with the live 24-piece orchestra for the first time. The adrenalin in production week kicked in and we were on the final countdown.

But come opening night, the tiredness and exhaustion was replaced with excitement as all the hard work of the last three months came to a head with the tremolo of the timpani heralds the opening of the overture. Two and half hours later and we have transported our audience on a magical journey, joining Charlie Bucket and Grandpa Jo as they win the ultimate prize!

As producer, it was my absolute honour to work with such a wonderful group of students in our cast, crew and orchestra. They brought their all, they never gave up, they took us on a journey. Being a part of a school musical is an experience that is not like anything else, and I hope that the students will bring memories of great joy and connection.

There were so many talented staff members who gave their time and skills across so many facets of this production, and I thank you all immensely. But someone who I need to thank by name is the indefatigable Miss Clara Aleckson – her imagination, her drive, her passion. This production would not have been what it was without Miss Aleckson, thank you so very much!

Wendy Johnston | Producer

At the end of April, the Year 7 cohort went on an excursion to the Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple to celebrate Buddha’s Birth Day. We travelled there via bus to Priestdale where the temple is located and once we arrived we got straight into experiencing all the day had to offer. Students participated in a wide range of activities and my group was lucky enough to try Calligraphy, Dragon Dancing, Lantern Building, and Diabolo! Personally, I enjoyed exploring the temple at lunch and trying lots of new foods! As I am new to the school and also to Chinese culture, it was a great and unique experience. I am sure all the students are all very grateful to have been gifted this adventure! I would like to take this opportunity to say thanks to Mr Collins, Miss Huang, and all the teachers who allowed us to take part in this fun event.

Fin A | Year 7 Student

Earlier in the term, our Year 8 English Horizons class had the opportunity to be involved in an author session with Reece Carter and Sarah Armstrong as part of the Brisbane Writers Festival. Reece and Sarah spent the hour-long session discussing how strong characters are the foundation to great stories and stepped the students through creating memorable, spooky characters. In preparation for their own speculative hybrid short stories, the class identified a few key takeaways that they thought could help everyone’s writing:

• Sometimes you just need to freestyle and have fun with writing. Get your ideas down and then work on refining later.
• Create your character and then base the story off them.
• You need to understand your character’s wants and flaws. This dictates their actions because their actions should reflect them trying to get what they want.
• Your protagonist needs to have a power or specific trait that makes them special.
• Every character needs to play a role and have a function. If not, cut them out.
• Balance description, action, and character.
• Create your setting based on somewhere you know. You can collect images of that place and then combine them to create somewhere new. Use sensory imagery to describe the place and work out how your character would interact in that environment.
• Teenagers need stories with happy endings. Hopeful endings are important for young people.

We can’t wait to see what the Horizons students produce in response to this fantastic session.

Teagan Dare | Head of Faculty - English

As our young people navigate their academic journey, one aspect that often brings immense joy and personal fulfillment is the opportunity to explore the arts. Through studying the arts, students are able to break free from the constraints of traditional thinking and explore innovative ideas. They are able to connect with each other, their surroundings and the community. These invaluable skills are highly transferrable, being used across other subjects and in real-life situations.

Senior arts subjects offer a unique avenue for self-expression, creativity, and personal growth which has been summarised in a reflection by our senior Arts students.

What have you liked most about studying a senior Arts subject?

“The creativity that I am able to release during the lessons, and really share my thoughts through painting.” -Alex C, Year 11

“An escape from stress and pressure. I like the ability to create freely and how it is a space where you are able to make mistakes and learn.” -Julia C, Year 11

“I love the practical side of it, like performing various styles of theatre and role playing different characters. It's a good change from more content heavy subjects.” -Parinaz M, Year 12

What skills have you learned in the Arts that you will be able to transfer into other aspects of your life? What has the Arts given you that other subjects can’t?

“Resilience. Being able to move on from mistakes and problem solve.” -Julia C

“Curiosity. I like being able to explore the subject in ways that you can’t in other areas.” -Chloe W

“It's made me see stories through different perspectives that I never would have initially thought of, and has also given an opportunities to express myself and come up with creative ideas.” -Parinaz M

“A better mental health. This class is fun and we do problem solving in here that you don’t get in other classes.” -Stephanie T

What career options are you currently looking at for next year?

“Interior Architecture bachelor degree at QUT.” -Millie W

“Possibly architecture and urban design.” -Parinaz M

“Potentially architecture.” -Cassie W

“Performance experience for a while and then I want to study to teach Drama.” -Julia C

“I want to explore graphic design.” -Oliver H

What do you think is important to share with the community about the Arts at TLC? What does being an Arts student mean to you?

“It’s awesome. You feel so confident being able to paint your thoughts and feelings without being judged.” -Alex C

“It has a big sense of family and community. In every Arts class, it is always really welcoming. There is a sense of belonging.” -Julia C

“It gives you the ability to utilise your creativity as best you can.” -Millie W

Tonia Thomas | Head of Faculty - The Arts

Our Year 11 and 12 Modern History students have been investigating the extent of the Australian Frontier Wars. As part of Reconciliation Week, they presented a Truth Telling educational session to students and teachers who wanted to learn more about Australia’s untold History. In class, students revisited the history of Australia that they were familiar with: the arrival of Captain Cook in 1770 and the proclamation of the eastern portion of Australia for the British Crown. What they investigated following this was quite new history for them:

Inquiry questions for the unit included:

• Why was Australia deemed ‘Terra Nullius’ when Aboriginal people already had a civilisation in existence?
• What was the extent of the Australian Frontier Wars during this period; and why is this new history for so many people in Australia?
• Who are the historians uncovering this history, and what are their methodologies for finding answers about the past?
• Why does there continue to be so much controversy around the date 26 January / Australia Day?
• Why has it taken until 2023 for there to be a referendum on an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voice in the Constitution?

The students engaged in an independent source investigation of their choice, examining a range of primary and secondary source perspectives, culminating in a tentative hypothesis. Areas of research and key learnings from this can be found below:

The Australian Frontier Wars Source Investigation:

Our Modern History students have worked hard to uncover some of the truth in our nation’s history. They are pleased that our Government is starting to take action to make changes for a better future, and several students will be old enough to vote in the referendum later this year. Many of our students visited the Australian War Memorial when they were in Year 6, and are happy to now hear of the War Memorial’s promise to expand its recognition of the frontier wars and the atrocities and massacres against Indigenous Australians during colonisation. Learning more about ‘Makarrata’ and the hope for a treaty to be formed in Australia has been a positive way to conclude our studies.

Katerina Tilley | Dean of Studies (7-9)

The below images are part of Carys and Tamika's presentation during Reconciliation Week.

Alex C (Yr 7) represented Australia in the Discovery Bay Ice Hockey Tournament held in Hong Kong, with the team making a remarkable impact with their impressive performance. Throughout the tournament, Australia demonstrated their exceptional team abilities with impressive passing and goal-scoring abilities. Alex scored four goals throughout the tournament. Australia's efforts paid off as they secured an outstanding result, finishing on equal terms with Canada and China, tied for the top spot. Unfortunately, they narrowly missed out on the opportunity to compete for the gold medal, falling short by a single goal in the goal differentiation calculation. Despite the disappointment, Australia emerged victorious in the battle for the bronze medal, triumphing over their opponents Singapore, with an impressive 10-2 scoreline.

Congratulations to Year 3 students, Evan L and Juwon H who participated in the Gold Coast Open Taekwondo Championships recently. Evan received a Bronze medal in Sparring - Blue Belts 8-9yrs. Juwon received a Bronze medal in Individual traditional Poomsae - Red Belt 8-9yrs.

Our Debating Teams continue to dominate at the QDU Debates, with four from four wins for our Year 8, 9 and 10 Debating teams! This means that several of our teams are now through to the Finals next term.

Carlotta C (Yr 3) recently participated in the EVOLUTION Dance competition in Ipswich. Carlotta competed in the Classical ballet section and it was her first competition as a solo dancer and received a “Special Mention”, 4th place out of 10 other ballerinas. Carlotta has been working on her choreography over six months and this result is due to all her hard work and dedication. Congratulations Carlotta!

Congratulations to Adam B (Yr 11) who attended the QLD State Championships for Karate and was awarded a Bronze medal for the Junior Male Kata Black Belt event! What a fantastic achievement for Adam! Below is a photo of Adam with his Sensei - Tina.

Do you have something to share?

We love to hear from our families - if you would like to share any news please email our Marketing Department with a short description and some photos: marketing@thelakes.qld.edu.au.