Wimmera Lutheran College Update

Combined Professional Learning Day

The beginning of Term 3 commenced with a combined Professional Learning (PD) day which was hosted by the Nhill Campus. Teaching staff from the Horsham, Dimboola and Nhill Campuses gathered together to engage in a variety of activities. The day commenced with an official welcome from Nhill Principal - Mr Damon Prenzler. Damon gave a brief history of the Nhill School, spoke about the heritage and early days of the school through to the development of the new building and amalgamation. A welcome prayer followed by some interactive activities had the staff settled and ready to launch into the first session of the day, a continuation of the work we have been doing on the Teaching and Learning Philosophy. This session enabled staff to connect with key documents from LEVNT including Growing Deep and Free to Flourish, and ended with the staff reviewing how current teaching practices align with our Teaching and Learning Philosophy.

After a morning tea break which was catered for by the Nhill Parents and Friends Association, the staff engaged in an introduction to Project Based Learning (PBL) workshop, led by Derek Bartels. A brief bio on Derek includes:

Derek is currently an Independent consultant and the co-founder of EduShift Collective, supporting schools across Australia in contemporary schooling transformation. Derek is the Former regional Director for Innovation and Learning with Lutheran Education where he held positions over the last 30 years. Has 40 years experience in Gov, Catholic and Lutheran Education and leadership, with a strong focus on project-based learning, student agency, and future-focused schooling and has led numerous professional learning tours for educators both within Australia and internationally to showcase best practice in contemporary schooling over the last 15 years.

After what can only be described as an amazing lunch (again catered by the Nhill P&F), I provided the staff with a WLC Update before concluding the day with a combined worship service.

This was another fantastic opportunity to come together as Wimmera Lutheran College. I would like to thank Damon and the Nhill Campus for hosting, the Executive Leadership team for planning the day, Mr Derek Bartels for visiting us and leading the PBL session, the Nhill P&F for a wonderful effort in catering for the day and the worship band consisting of Mrs Hahn, Mr Prouse and Ms Drisch.

Strategic Planning Workshop #2

On Wednesday 30 July, the second Strategic Planning Workshop day took place. This day was led by Phil McCredden from Ecclesia Leadership and involved the newly appointed Steering Committee (Executive Leadership Team). This was another highly engaging day, full of deep and rich discussion and planning for the future. A lot of groundwork was laid for future plans to be implemented. A snapshot of what was discussed and planned over the course of the day includes:

• The identification of 3 key signposts which will be used to drive strategic planning
• Further elaboration of these key signposts to articulate their meaning
• The identification of key pillars which will help strategic planning
• The establishment of the steering committee and how it will report to the Board and key stakeholders
• The identification of key stakeholder groups and ways in which these groups can be interacted with, including; parent advisory groups, surveys, interviews and focus groups
• A plan to develop Vision, Mission and Values statements
• A plan to continue to develop the Profile of a WLC Learner
• A plan to engage with a marketing consultant to produce logo, branding and style guides
• A priority to establish uniform and uniform policy
• A timeline to complete these important tasks and milestones

As decisions are made, and further action is taken, I will continue to update you on this important progress. I also encourage you to get in touch with myself or one of the Campus Heads if you would like further information or details.

Recruitment

In the last few weeks there have been some important developments regarding the recruitment of two key WLC Executive Leadership positions, the Director of Business Operations and Head of Primary School - Horsham Campus. A strong shortlist of candidates for both positions sat through an intensive interview process, sometimes involving multiple interviews. A diverse panel for both positions deliberated and have made decisions on both of these positions. I anticipate that announcements for both positions will be made to the broader WLC community next week. I am excited to officially welcome the successful candidates to Wimmera Lutheran College, and am equally excited by what they will bring to our college with their vast and extensive experience and skillset.

Mr Jason Przibilla
Executive Principal

In the lyrics of the song 'Obsession' by the English Christian band Delirious, singer Martin Smith says to God: "Sometimes you are further than the moon, sometimes you're closer than my skin." These words capture, I think, the experience many of us have shared: feeling close to or far from God at different times. There are times that God seems incredibly close and present. There are times we struggle to feel that he is close to us, even in spite of what we know in our heads from scriptures such as the promise Jesus made when he promised "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) and "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:4).

We know that in our relationship with God, based on faith, how we feel, our emotions and our circumstances do not determine what is true. Jesus is faithful to keep his promise to be close to us, an ever present source of help, whether we feel it or believe it. Never-the-less, it is always reassuring to hear from God, to know what he would say to us, especially during challenging times. The book of 1 Kings (19:11-13) gives an example of someone hearing God speak during a challenging time. The prophet Elijah shares the account of the prophet Elijah, seeking God's voice. The bible explains that Elijah waited to hear from God during a difficult time, sought to hear from God. The story tells of Elijah waiting on the top of a mountain where the wind shattered rocks. But he knew God was not in the wind. He next experienced an earthquake but he knew that God was not in the earthquake. Then came a fire but he knew that God was not in the fire. Finally, after all of these rowdy, sensational experiences, he heard a "gentle, quiet whisper". Elijah knew he was hearing God because he responded by positioning himself to hear more and continued to talk and listen to God. How incredible that experience must have been. Hearing what God wanted to say. There are a few pointers for us in this story about how to hear from God. One, Elijah heard God's still, quiet whisper, not in noise and busyness. He stilled himself and listened attentively. He positioned himself to hear from God. He asked God to speak to him, and he told God very honestly what he was going through and how he felt about his situation. And then he waited. I encourage you to take time to be still and listen for God's gentle, quiet whisper. Wait in anticipation that God, your heavenly Father, wants to talk with you; he both wants to hear what you have to say to him, and he wants to talk to you. May we all have more times of feeling that God is closer than our skin as he talks with us, rather than feel he is further than the moon, which he is not.

God bless

Mrs Kate Polack
College Chaplain

Welcome Back

To Parents, students, and staff,

Welcome back to Term 3! We hope the holiday break provided you with rest, renewal and meaningful time with loved ones. As we begin a new term, we look forward to the opportunities ahead for growth, learning, and community.

We are reminded of the words from Isaiah 40:31 “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

May this verse inspire us all to approach the term with resilience, faith, and a renewed sense of purpose. As a school community, we are committed to supporting each other and fostering an environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. We look forward to the exciting journey ahead in Term 3.

Chapel

Thank you to 1P who led us in worship today, where we were reminded of the first Commandment, Worship no gods except Me.

Foundation Fun Day

What a wonderful day we had on Tuesday at our Foundation Fun Day for WLC Horsham Foundation students and families in 2026. Children participated in a range of activities such as face painting, performing arts and completing an obstacle course! We welcome you into our College community and are looking forward to seeing you back onsite for your Library Time Sessions in Term 4.

Food for the School Day

Please ensure that your child has sufficient snacks, fruit and lunch to last throughout the school day. There are a number of students who are seeking additional items from the office. Whilst there are some supplies for emergencies, it is preferred that students bring their own.

Book Week/Grandparent’s Day

Next week our College will be celebrating Book Week! Monday is Book Week Dress Up with a short parade following an assembly briefing at 9.00am in the MPC. There will be competitions and activities throughout the week and students will have the opportunity to visit the Library to create their wishlists from the Scholastic Book Fair. The Book Fair will be open to purchase items on Thursday from 3 to 5pm and on Friday which is Grandparents Day, from 9.30am to 1.30pm. We invite Grandparents on Friday to join us for worship. You are then invited to participate in classroom activities until recess.

Important Dates

4 Aug - Book Week Dress Up Day
8 Aug - Grandparent’s Day (last day for Scholastic Book Fair)
12 Aug & 14 Aug - Student Led Conferences
20 - 22 Aug - Year 5 Camp
5 Sep - Father Day & Footy Day
Week 4 - ICAS English
Week 5 - ICAS Science
Week 6 - ICAS Maths

Awards

FL: Jett M, Toby S, Brianna H & Carissa P
FR: Jasper M, Banks Chapple & Luna A
1H: Nara F & Aditi P
1P: Holly C & Riley M
2H: Yarmiyah P, Maggie P & Readyn B
2S: Indi W, Henry M & Aston B
3D: Timothy S & Jack P
3J: Lincoln M & Ethan C
4M: Willow C & Isla G
4R: Finn O
5D: Ryder N
5J: Meg A & Imogen G
5K: Alfie J & Ryder E
6H: Indi F & Aksel F
6V: Devon B

Specialist awards
Chinese: 5J
Digital Technology: Ethan Co
Performing Arts: Elina H

Our Trinity Tiger (5-6) Award recipient was Liam R, Trinity Cub (3-4) Amelie P and Trinity Cub (F-2) Oscar F.

Mrs Jacqui North
Acting Head of Junior School

Learning Philosophy

At the recent Staff Professional Learning Day on 21 July, we were very excited to continue working on our Learning Philosophy with staff across the three campuses.

The priorities included:

• Understanding the foundations of the Philosophy and the values that underpin this from LEVNT’s Growing Deep framework
• Understanding how this Philosophy looks in our classrooms and across the College
• Providing an opportunity to create future pathways in Professional Development

Our staff were also introduced to PBL (project-based learning) teaching and delivery and we look forward to seeing how this transpires across different subject areas for our students.

ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments): Important Information

The ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments) parent registration window has now closed. Details on the specific time/date of each assessment will be provided to students over the coming week.

The ICAS assessments to be offered at WLC: Horsham campus this year are:

ICAS English: Week 4 Term 3
ICAS Science: Week 5 Term 3
ICAS Maths: Week 6 Term 3

If you have any questions regarding this testing please contact me directly.

Richest blessings,

Mrs Jacqui North
Assistant Head of Primary School(s): Curriculum and Pedagogy

Welcome back

Welcome back to all our families after the Term 2 holidays. I hope you had a restful break and are feeling refreshed for the term ahead; a term filled with opportunities for learning, growth, and connection.

Secondary Musical

We are very excited that our Secondary School Musical, The Addams Family, is taking place next week—on Thursday 7th, Friday 8th, and Saturday 9th. A dedicated team of staff has been working tirelessly to make this opportunity a reality for our students. I extend my thanks to them for their hard work and commitment, and wish the entire cast and crew a big “chookas” for the week ahead.

If you haven’t got your tickets yet, there are still some available through the Horsham Town Hall box office.

Deakin University Presentation

Senior School students had a visit from Deakin University on Thursday. This was a valuable opportunity to learn more about the courses and opportunities Deakin has to offer.

With the visit coinciding with the start of the VTAC application period, it was especially timely for our Year 12 students as they begin considering their post-school options and preparing their applications.

Senior School Evening – Supporting Student Future Planning

The Supporting Student Future Planning event will be held on Monday 4 August in the Senior Centre.

Parents of Senior School students are invited to attend an evening of information sessions designed to support students in planning for life after school:

6:30–7:00pm – VTAC Information Session (Year 12 students and parents)
Learn about the VTAC application process, key dates, SEAS, scholarships, and get practical tips to support your child’s tertiary application journey.

7:00–8:00pm – Youth Allowance Seminar (Year 10–12 parents)
Presented by Gavin Simmons (Simmons Advisory), this session outlines Centrelink payments available to support students during tertiary study, including relocation expenses, rent assistance and more.

📩 Please RSVP via the following link: https://form.jotform.com/25186...

Important Dates

• College Musical – The Addams Family: 7–9 August
• Supporting Student Future Planning: 4 August
• Year 12 Graduation Service and Dinner: Thursday 21 November (Term 4)
  

Mrs Kate Carter
Deputy Principal - Head of Secondary

School Sport Victoria Cross Country Results

Congratulations to Jack S on his participation in 11 year boys State Cross Country in Melbourne last week. Jack finished 32nd fastest in the State over 3km with a time of 12 minutes and 12 seconds. A great achievement Jack, well done.

Junior Hoop Time Results

Our Year 3 & 4 students participated in the Hoop time Basketball competition at the end of Term 2. Our All Stars Boys and All Stars Girls teams made it to the Semi Final stages of competition. The Future Stars team qualified for the Grand Final against Horsham PS.

Well done to all participating students on displaying excellent teamwork and sportsmanship over the course of the day.

Senior Hoop Time Competition

Senior Hoop time teams are currently participating in Wednesday lunch time training in readiness for their competition on Wednesday 6th August. We wish them well at next week's competition.

Little Desert Division ‘Lightning Spike’ Volleyball

Selected students from Year 5 & 6 will participate in the Little Desert Division ‘Lightning Spike’ friendly competition on Tuesday 12th August. This is a fast modified version of volleyball where games are played over a 12 minute period on badminton size courts. We have three teams competing against two other schools in the WLC Senior Stadium from 11.00am - 1.00pm.

Little Desert Division Volleyball

Due to other schools not entering this Volleyball competition, our WLC boys and girls volleyball teams have progressed straight to the Greater Western Region Volleyball finals to be held in Horsham on the 29th October.

Year 2 Sports Skills Program

Starting next week, this semester students in Year 2 will participate in a 30 minute Sports Skills Program on top of their weekly PE lesson. The program is aimed to help students develop fundamental motor and game sense skills in readiness for the Year 3 sports program they will be involved in next year.

Term 3 Sports Events

Year 5 & 6 Hooptime - Wednesday 6th August

Year 5 & 6 Volleyball ‘Lightning Spike’ - Tuesday 12th August

Melbourne Renegades Cricket Roadshow (Year 3 & 4) - Friday 29th August

Fathers Day / Footy Day - Friday 5th September

Little Desert Division Athletics - Wednesday 10th September

Term 4 Sports Events

Greater Western Region Athletics - Friday 10th October

Little Desert Division Cricket Blast - Wednesday 22nd October

Greater Western Region Volleyball - Wednesday 29th October

Mr Gary Davidson
Head of Sport (F-6)

Sometimes, parenting can feel like pushing a boulder uphill especially when it comes to getting kids to do the things we know are good for them: going outside, joining family time, getting off screens, trying something new.

You invite them to the beach, they resist. You suggest a walk, they complain. You plan a family dinner, they moan about being tired or busy. You tell them it’s time to visit relatives. They collapse in a heap and sob.

But here’s the truth: kids don’t always know what’s good for them—and it’s our job, as parents, to gently guide them anyway.

Why Resistance Is Normal (But Worth Pushing Through)

Whether it’s a teenager refusing to leave their room or a child groaning about a camping trip, the resistance is often strong. But time and again, after they’ve pushed through their initial reluctance, kids come out the other side glowing.

Like me, you’ve likely seen it with:

A daughter who didn’t want to swim, but later said, “I’m so glad I came.”

Teenage girls on camp who dreaded going “off grid,” then bonded, laughed, and grew in confidence.

Children who complain about outdoor time, then don’t want to leave once they’re there.

In every case, the discomfort up front is the price of something meaningful on the other side—connection, resilience, and joy.

But Sometimes, Resistance Is Telling Us Something

Still, it’s important to pause and recognise that sometimes, when kids say “no,” there may be a deeper reason. They might not have the words—or feel safe enough—to explain. A daughter might be on her period and feeling vulnerable. There could be a person, even a relative, who makes them feel uncomfortable—or worse. As parents, we won’t always get it right. But at the very least, we need to listen. Ask gentle questions. Be open to what might be going on beneath the surface. Our job is to guide, yes—but also to protect, to hear, and to respond with compassion when something’s not right.

So What Can Parents Do?

Here are five practical, real-world strategies to help parents lead their children into those growth opportunities—without yelling, forcing, or giving up.

1. Lead by Example

Kids learn more from what we do than what we say. If we want them off screens and into the sunshine, we need to show them we value that too. Go outside. Prioritise time together. Be present. They’re watching—and following—more than we realise.

2. Create Opportunities

Make it easy for your kids to say “yes” by creating inviting, low-pressure chances to connect. A movie night on the couch. A beach trip. A milkshake at the café. Keep it simple, and consistent.

3. Extend the Invitation… Repeatedly

Don’t be discouraged by a “no.” Keep inviting them. Again and again. These bids for connection tell your child: “You matter. I want you with me.” Sooner or later, they’ll accept.

4. Be Firm, Not Forceful

Sometimes kids need a little nudge. Not a shout. Not a bribe. Just firm, kind clarity:

“I know you don’t feel like it. But this is important. Let’s do it together.”

Parenting isn’t about giving in to resistance. It’s about helping kids through it—with empathy and strength.

5. Celebrate the Good Moments

When they do come along, savour it. Say, “Wasn’t that fun?” or “I’m so glad you came.” These affirmations reinforce the value of shared time—and help them remember it next time they feel reluctant. But DO NOT rub into them the fact that they complained. This often builds resistance and reminds them to dig their heels in harder next time.

BONUS TIP – have them invite friends along (where appropriate) to make it easier for them to get to “yes”.

Model the Life You Want Them to Live

If we want our kids to be active, resilient, connected, and emotionally aware, we have to model it. That means stepping away from our own screens. Saying yes when they invite us. Making the time.

Because the way we live—how we spend our time, how we talk, how we show up—teaches them more than anything else.

It’s not always easy. But the payoff is worth it: stronger relationships, healthier habits, and kids who trust that we’re in their corner—even when we push them outside their comfort zone.

So this week, make the invite. Get outside. Be the example. And don’t be afraid to lead—even when they grumble.

You just might see them glow when they come back inside.

Dr Justin Coulson is the co-host and parenting expert on Channel Nine’s “Parental Guidance” and the founder of happyfamilies.com.au. He holds a PhD in Psychology and is one of Australia’s most trusted parenting experts.

Written by Dr Justin Coulson

Key adjustments include:

• Medication such as Panadol can be administered on-site by administration staff providing there is written consent provided by parents/carers and also verbal consent on the day.
• Where possible, parents and carers should provide medical instructions on how to administer medication.
• When this is not possible, parents will be contacted by phone and asked to respond to standard questions before the medication is administered. The administering of medication will be documented by administration staff and records of this kept onsite.

The Administering Medication Policy can be found on The Hub.

If you have any questions please email us at; medical@wlc.vic.edu.au or call 5382 2529

Ms Kristy Kelly, Medical Administration

We’re looking forward to celebrating Book Week in Week 3 (Monday 4 – Friday 8 August) with a range of fun activities and events for our students and wider school community.

Monday 4 August – Book Week Dress-Up Day

Students are invited to come dressed as their favourite book character or in Free Dress for our Whole School Book Week Dress-Up Day.

No gold coin donation required

A short assembly and parade will take place for the Junior School in the MPC at 9.00am – families are welcome to attend

Scholastic Book Fair

The Book Fair will be set up in the Library throughout the week:

During Library lessons, students can browse and create wishlists.
Items will be available for purchase on Thursday 7 August, 3.00pm–5.00pm and Friday 8 August (Grandparents' Day), 9.30am–1.30pm

Book Week Activities & Competitions

Throughout the week, students will have the chance to participate in Book Week-themed competitions and activities. Details will be shared with classes.

Friday 8 August – Grandparents’ Day

We warmly invite grandparents and special family members to join us for a morning of celebration:

Chapel at 9.00am in the MPC

Followed by classroom activities in all Junior School classrooms until 11.00am

Guests are welcome to stay and enjoy morning tea at recess


We look forward to seeing the creativity and community spirit shine throughout Book Week.