Wimmera Lutheran College Update

Staffing Appointments

Over the last couple of weeks, Wimmera Lutheran College has made some exciting announcements regarding its Executive Leadership team.

Mr Craig Young has been appointed as the Director of Business Operations and officially started in his role on Monday 4 August. A brief summary of Craig’s work history includes:

Craig is an accomplished executive and Chartered Accountant with extensive senior leadership experience across local government, aged care, disability services, and not-for-profit organisations. He has held CEO, Director, and Company Secretary roles, and brings deep expertise in finance, HR, governance, compliance, enterprise risk, and ICT. Craig has overseen enterprise bargaining agreements, managed the full employee lifecycle, and worked closely with Boards to support strategic planning and regulatory compliance. Craig has worked with Rotary, and is familiar with Child Safe Standards from his government work.

WLC is fortunate to have somebody of Craig’s expertise and experience leading WLC and I am pleased to report that he has made a strong start to his role.

Mrs Christina Jacobsen has been appointed as the Head of Primary School and will officially start in her role next year. A brief summary of Christina’s qualifications, teaching experience and leadership experience is as follows:

Qualifications:

• Graduate Certificate of Business – Leadership Enterprises (Leadership Development Program – Qualification required to lead in Lutheran Schools in Australia)
• Masters of Education – Primary
• Bachelor in Elementary Education
• Diploma in Bible/Cross Cultural Education

Teaching Experience (Combined 14 Years in Lutheran Schools):

• Year 4 Teacher: Good Shepherd Lutheran Primary School, Croydon Hills, Victoria
• Year 1 and 4 Teacher: Peace Lutheran College, Kamerunga (Cairns), Queensland
• Year 2 and 3 Teacher: Goroka International School, PNG

Leadership Experience:

• Leader of Learning: Peace Lutheran College, Kamerunga (Cairns), Queensland
• Assistant Deputy Principal Primary: Peace Lutheran College, Kamerunga (Cairns), Queensland

Mr Jason Przibilla, Executive Principal

This term at WLC we have been talking about the 10 Commandments in chapels and have started discussing each of the commandments that God first gave to Moses on stone tablets all those many years ago. In our chapels, the different speakers presenting the messages each week both in the Primary and Secondary schools, have been stressing some important points that give context to these 10 rules for living that despite being given so long ago continue to be relevant to us now.

As we have discussed each particular commandment, we have given equal weight to discussing why God gave the commandments, what they show us about God and what they mean for us today. We have emphasised that these commandments aren’t just onerous rules that a strict, judgmental God laid out and now sits waiting to chastise people who break them. The commandments were given to us by a kind, loving God who gave the commandments to help things go well with us. The commandments were intended to be helpful, lifegiving and freeing. They reflect the nature of God who isn’t hyperfocused on people strictly trying to do the right thing all the time, rather he points out some things that would ruin our lives and/or those of others. Even the first few commandments that focus on not having false gods, not making idols and not using God’s name in vain, as they remind us to give God the honor he is due, are helpful to our lives. They steer us from putting our hope and trust in things that do not love us, have our best interests at heart and can not help us the way the mighty God of the bible can.

As with every part of the Bible, we understand specific scriptures through the lens of what we know to be true about God through Jesus. In Jesus’ time on Earth we saw that he was much more concerned with people having their hearts humbly inclined toward a relationship with him than he was with people who rigidly followed rules outwardly. And we know that when he talked about God’s rules he said that they could be summed up in two simple commandments: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind’ and the second, similar command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ (Matthew 22:37-39). These are wise, kind words from the God who loves us. He gives us his commandments and the teachings of the bible as an act of love, not to be a harsh, rule-orientated judgmental overseer. Let us choose to obey out of love and gratitude and in the knowledge that the commandments help us make good decisions.

Mrs Kate Polack, College Chaplain

Welcome Back

As we approach the halfway mark of the term, it’s a wonderful time to pause and reflect on all that has already been achieved. It has certainly been a busy few weeks, filled with energy, learning, and a strong sense of community. From engaging classroom activities to vibrant community events, we are so proud of the way our students have been growing, sharing their learning, and embracing every opportunity with enthusiasm.

We are especially thankful for the continued partnership between home and school. Your support plays a vital role in helping our students thrive, and we value the way our school community works together so positively.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

Book Week/Grandparents Day

Last week was full of excitement as we celebrated all things Book Week! We started the week with Book Week Dress Up, purchased items at the Scholastic Book Fair and invited family members onsite for Grandparents Day. We are proud to showcase our College through events such as these and we hope special memories were made in the process.

German Poetry Competition

We were very blessed to host the annual German Poetry Competition last week. Frau Pfitzner worked with a variety of students over the last few months, teaching and coaching them to perform a German poem. These students were committed to this competition, with many hours of rehearsal outside of school. Competing against other schools in region, we are proud to announce the following results:

• Year 4 - Edith B (1st), Jonny N (2nd) and Romy O (3rd)
• Year 5 - Sienna M (1st), Emily R (2nd) and Isla S (3rd)
• Year 6 - Violet H (1st) and Will S (3rd)

Students in Years 5 & 6 are now eligible to compete at State Level.

Student Led Conferences

Thank you to families who attended our Student-Led Conferences this week. It was a joy to see students proudly sharing their learning, goals, and achievements with you. These conferences are such a valuable opportunity for children to reflect on their progress and take ownership of their learning journey.

Year 5 Camp

Thank you to our Year 5 teaching team for preparing an engaging and adventurous camp experience for our students next week. Departing on Wednesday 20 August, students will explore the Eureka Centre and Sovereign Hill whilst participating in a variety of activities to extend on their learning of the Gold Rush.

F-2 Bushdancing Performance

Thursday 11 September is an important date to add to your calendar. Mr Busbridge will be leading Foundation to Year 2 students in a Bushdancing evening! The PTFA will be running a BBQ from 5.00pm - 6.00pm with the bushdancing commencing 6.00pm - 7.30pm. Get ready for a fun and interactive night! If any families can assist with the donation of a few hay bales as props for the evening, please contact either jacqui.north@wlc.vic.edu.au, or mark.busbridge@wlc.vic.edu.au.

Important Dates

• 20 - 22 Aug - Year 5 Camp
• 5 Sep - Father Day & Footy Day
• Week 4 - ICAS English
• Week 5 - ICAS Science
• Week 6 - ICAS Maths
• Week 7 - Science Week
• 11 Sep - Bushdancing Evening (F-2)
• 13 Sep - RoboCup State Competition
• 19 Sep - Last day of term

Awards

FL: Bessie L, Gracie N, & Evelyn L, FR: Mickey M & Violet F, 1H: Baxter A & Ace E, 1P: Alife J & Brady S, 2H: Priya S & Jonty L, 2S: Mason S, Claire P & Lucy T, 3D: Charley U & Michael J, 3J: Holly S & Frankie E, 4M: Romy O, Leyton H, Oliver W & Riley EF, 4R: Sari D, Mason R & Oscar A, 5D: Azahlia B & Blake O, 5J: Ella P & Sage C, 5K: Boh A & Cooper S, 6H: Violet H & Tex E, 6V: Maddie H & Mackenzie F.

Specialist awards:
Chinese: Jonty P
Technology: Alex N
Performing Arts: Steve M
PE: Juno L & Sophia B
German: Edith B, Jonny N, Romy O, Isla S, Emily R, Sienna M, Violet H, Valeria SM & Will S.

Our Trinity Tiger (5-6) Award recipient was Isla S, Trinity Cub (3-4) Maggie K and Trinity Cub (F-2) Rory B.

Mrs Jacqui North
Acting Head of Junior School

ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments): Important Information

The ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments) test facilitation has commenced. Details on the specific time/date of each assessment is provided below and has also been communicated to students via Home Room teachers.

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

ICAS English: Week 4 Term 3

• Tuesday 12 August at 11.30am
• Back Up test, Thursday 14 August at 11.30am

ICAS Science: Week 5 Term 3

• Monday 18 August at 9.30am
• Back Up test, Thursday 21 August at 9.30am

ICAS Maths: Week 6 Term 3

• Tuesday 26 August at 11.30am
• Back Up test, Thursday 29 August at 9.30am

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

Secondary School Musical

I am constantly reminded of the special community we have here at Wimmera Lutheran College – Horsham Campus. The last two weeks were a testament to this, with our College Musical, The Addams Family. Not only was it an incredible show, filled with rich and impressive performances from our Secondary School students, but it also showed our community coming together to support one another.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Michelle Hahn and her amazing, generous team who worked tirelessly over the year to make the show a reality. I would also like to thank all of the parents and friends who gave their time to build sets, create costumes, or donate supplies – your contributions were invaluable.

Experiences like these are so enriching for our students. The learning goes beyond the classroom – developing teamwork, exploring character, and sharing their talents with others. We are incredibly proud of everyone involved and sincerely thank them for making this production such a memorable success.

Year 12 Reflection Camp

At the end of Week 2, our Year 12 students took part in their Reflection Day and Sleepover. The day began at the Church of Christ, where they participated in sessions designed to help them reflect on their year so far and consider the steps they need to take to reach the finish line. They were also reminded of the strong support network they have around them to lean on.

The day concluded with a fun-filled sleepover at school, featuring a hard-fought staff versus students sports match, a pizza dinner, and a lively trivia session. These moments are special, providing our students with the opportunity to draw on the strength of their community as they approach the end of their secondary school journey.

German Poetry Competition

On Tuesday, 5 August, Wimmera Lutheran College hosted the German Poetry Competition. Schools from across the district joined us, with students from Years 4 to 8 presenting a wonderful range of German poems. Guests were also treated to a delicious German lunch, prepared by Mrs van Buuren and her team of students. A big thank you to Frau Pfitzner for organising the event and for working with our students to learn and present their poems.

Important Dates

• Year 12 Graduation Service and Dinner: Thursday 21 November (Term 4)

Mrs Kate Carter
Deputy Principal – Head of Secondary School

Senior Hoop Time Results

Four WLC teams participated in the annual Senior Hoop Time Basketball Competition at the Horsham Basketball Stadium.

The Girls Future Stars team played against the All Stars teams as they were the only team entered in their competition. The girls improved in each of their games and competed well against more experienced players.

Our Future Stars boys team had one other team participate in their competition. The two teams played each other three times before meeting in a Grand Final. Unfortunately our boys were defeated by two points in the final.

The Girls All Star Team played strong competitive basketball winning one of their three matches. The girls from this team are to be congratulated for demonstrating great sportsmanship in their final match against our own Future Stars team. The girls agreed to swap some players to ensure a fun even game for everyone to enjoy.

Finally, our Boys All Star team won three of their four games to progress to the Grand Final. Whilst defeated in the Grand Final, our played a great game by pushing the eventual winners to a closely contested result. Thank you to Zack Pickering for training and coaching this team as part of his Year 7 ‘Passion Project’.

Little Desert Division ‘Lightning Spike’ Volleyball

On Wednesday, nineteen enthusiastic Year 4, 5 & 6 girls participated in the ‘Lightning Spike’ Volleyball competition against teams from Horsham Primary School and St Mary’s Donald. It was pleasing to see the girls develop their individual skills and team work over the course of their five matches.

Melbourne Renegades Cricket Clinic

Staff and players from Big Bash Cricket team the Melbourne Renegades will be conducting a clinic for our Year 3 & 4 students from 12.00 - 1.00pm on Friday 29 August. This is a great opportunity for our students to learn skills from professional players.

Term 3 Sports Events

• Melbourne Renegades Cricket Roadshow (Year 3 & 4) - Friday 29 August
• Fathers Day / Footy Day - Friday 5 September
• WLC Athletics Training - Friday 22 & 29 August
• Little Desert Division Athletics - Wednesday 10 September

Term 4 Sports Events

• Greater Western Region Athletics - Friday 10 October
• Little Desert Division Cricket Blast - Wednesday 22 October
• Greater Western Region Volleyball - Wednesday 29 October

Mr Gary Davidson
Head of Sport (F-6)

AHPVSS Round 4 - Tailem Bend 8-hour

At the start of August, students, staff and old scholars from WLC competed at Round 4 of the Australian HPV Super Series in Tailem Bend. Despite foggy conditions and a slow start to the race, the teams fought hard for the duration of the eight-hour event.

The Junior School boys came back from over two laps behind to be on the lead lap for the last hour of the race, missing out on first place in their category by just three minutes and twenty seconds (about half a lap). The Junior School girls had a couple of mechanical issues late in the race that slowed them down and they had to settle for fourth place in their category.

The Middle School girls team finished third in their category and the Middle School boys team finished 10th out of 52 trikes in their category, and 89th out of 197 teams overall.

This event marks the conclusion of the Australian HPV Super Series for the Junior School students. Over the course of the year, the students have earned points from the various events they competed in. These points were added up, and the highest point total is awarded the National Championship for 2025.

This year, both the Junior School Girls and the Junior School Boys finished as runner up in the National Championship. This is a fantastic achievement for our students and they should all be incredibly proud of themselves.

Congratulations to Boh A, Emily R, Isla S, Isobel D, Luella R, Maddie H, Matilda C, Matilda D, Maya S, Abel N, Jack S, Jaxon E, Lachlan E, Mackenzie F, Max L, Oliver M, Ryder E and Tristan vZ for their performance in 2025.

Attention for the Middle and Senior School students turns to the Season Finale in Murray Bridge, with the 24-hour event just five weeks away. Good luck to all students involved!

COMING EVENTS

AUGUST
20 - Black Ranges Year 7 & Year 8 Volleyball

SEPTEMBER
2 - Black Ranges Year 7 Basketball
3 - Black Ranges Year 8 Basketball
9 - Greater Western Region Year 7 & Year 8 Volleyball
11 - Black Ranges Athletics (Stawell)
20 - AHPVSS Round 6: Murray Bridge 24-hour

Mr Matthew McLoughlin, Head of Sport (7-12)

Written by Dr Justin Coulson

Written by Dr Justin Coulson

INFLUENZA

The flu can be serious, especially for children. We are currently seeing a number of staff and students affected by the different strains of Influenza.

Influenza is an acute respiratory illness that peaks in winter months however infections can occur at any time during the year.

Influenza is spread via respiratory droplets, surface and hand contamination. To reduce the risk of Influenza infection, everyone 6 months and older is recommended to get the annual flu vaccine. This protects you, your family and the community and can reduce the risk of severe illness and flu related complications.
Hand and Respiratory Hygiene is also crucial in minimising the spread of Influenza and we encourage students to wash their hands regularly and use hand sanitizer.

Staying away from school is also crucial in minimising outbreaks and reducing the impact on the community.
For more information please follow the link or contact medical@wlc.vic.edu.au 

See more information here.

Kristy Kelly
Medical Administration

The 2025 National Water Week poster competition is in full swing and open to all early learning/kindergarten and primary school students. With a number of prize categories offered, it’s a great opportunity with this year’s poster theme, ‘Water Heroes - Save Every Drop’.

Who can enter?

Entries are open from early learning/kindergarten through to Grade 6 primary students. Students can design, draw or paint a poster that demonstrates the importance of water and what it means to be a water hero.

Student prize

Prize pack valued over $150 for the winning student in each individual category.

Honourable mentions receive a GWMWater merchandise pack.

All entries receive a certificate of participation and a calendar.

How to enter

Entries are to be uploaded to the the National Water Week poster competition website, which also details the judging criteria.

We can’t wait to see all your entries.

Phil the Bucket and the GWMWater team