Wimmera Lutheran College Update

Strategic Plan Update

Work continues on the development of the Wimmera Lutheran College Strategic Plan. A steering committee has been formed, which consists of all members of the Executive Leadership Team, including: Jason Przibilla, Kate Carter, Damon Prenzler, Millie Dent and Jacqui North. This group is meeting weekly to work on various aspects of the plan. The group continues to be guided by Phil McCredden from Ecclesia Leadership. Phil is conducting face to face workshops as well as virtual meetings with the group and selected sub-committee members. The next face to face workshop day will be held on Wednesday 4 September. Some of the priorities the group has identified includes:

• Unity and Diversity Philosophy
• Identification of key stakeholder groups including; Board, LEVNT, Executive Team, Teachers, Parents and Students
• Gathering of Lutheran School amalgamation stories
• Shared Future Survey (focus for next workshop)
• Focus Groups including; Board, Staff, Parent Advisory Groups and Students
• Key Signposts which will be used to guide strategic direction of the college
• Key areas to focus on including; capital works, finance and budgeting, marketing, innovation and wellbeing
• Logo identification and Brand development

Branding Proposal

Earlier this week, myself, Kate Carter and Georgia Thomas met with Maree from Mad Mouse Graphic Design who has been entrusted with producing the new WLC Logo and Branding. Maree brings a strong understanding of Lutheran education and school identity having worked with Lutheran Schools for over 14 years. Her experience will ensure alignment with the values and visual expression of Lutheran Education. The process Maree follows involves:

• A brand questionnaire to be completed by key WLC Stakeholders (Steering Committee)
• Research and development of three initial logo concepts
• Two rounds of revisions, allowing for adjustment of colours and tweaking of elements based on feedback from stakeholders
• Delivery of logo in multiple formats and comprehensive style guide
• Additional asset design including letterheads, business cards, slides and signage

The questionnaire will be completed next week and will then be submitted to Maree so that work on the logo can commence. This is an exciting development for WLC and will be a major step forwards in defining the identity of Wimmera Lutheran College. Development of a WLC logo and colours will also allow for important work to commence on the new uniform of the college.

Work at Wimmera Lutheran College

Planning continues for 2026 with a number of employment opportunities available. WLC currently has the following positions being advertised:

• Dimboola Campus: Administration Officer
• Horsham Campus: Primary School Classroom Teacher
• Horsham Campus: Secondary Woodwork Teacher
• Horsham Campus: Secondary School Generalist Teacher

Please visit https://www.htlc.vic.edu.au/ab... for more information, or contact recruitment@wlc.vic.edu.au 

Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Mr Jason Przibilla, Executive Principal

Engaging with the Bible: A Journey of Faith

“And the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,’ and he was called God’s friend.” (James 2:23)

I remember during a brief-lived spurt of spiritual vigour in my teens choosing to read the Bible regularly. I began by starting at the start of Genesis and reading it like I would any other book. I got bogged down and soon abandoned reading it all after I got to the books of the law and found reading about all of the old testament laws, such as rules about not wearing clothes made out of mixed fabrics, being forbidden to eat animals that don’t chew the cud, and commands about agricultural practices, too hard going and not especially relevant to my spiritual life at the time. I have since learnt there are many other ways to read the bible that makes the truth and wisdom more accessible and more enriching in my friendship with God.

Christian Studies with Year 11

Wellbeing Officer Greg McKinnon and I have been leading Christian studies classes with Year 11 this year. This term, one of the key things we have explored with the students is how to engage with the Bible in a meaningful, helpful way that promotes their relationship with God. We have stressed that the Bible, though written so long ago to people of different cultures and countries, is still relevant. We’ve spent classes exploring different ways of engaging with the Bible, for example seeking out stories of people who went through specific issues, finding biblical role models, finding scriptures that speak to specific circumstances or needs and using daily devotional resources.

Resources for Bible Engagement

There are a plethora of Bible reading resources available today, both on and offline. Jacob’s Well for example has a range of age appropriate resources. Alternatively, the Lutheran Church of Australia has a rich range of online resources including daily bible reading plans, daily devotionals, seasonal prayers and resources. Please consider exploring the site and trial some of their resources.

The following is an extract from their website’s Devotionals page which explains why reading the Bible helps our friendship with God:

The starting point for a healthy spiritual life is having daily time alone with God. We need times of solitude, silence, contemplation, reflection, prayer and meditation with him. For a relationship to grow, you need to spend time together. There are good reasons why spending time alone with God each day is important:

• We were created to have fellowship with God.
• Jesus died to make a relationship with God possible.
• Time alone with God was Jesus’ source of strength (Mark 1:35, 6:46 and Luke 5:16, 6:12, 22:39).
• We need it to be healthy, growing Christians.

The purpose is not to learn about God but to spend time with him:

• To give devotion and glory to God (Psalm 29:2).
• To get direction from God – to consider your way (Psalm 25:4, Proverbs 3:6) and to commit your day (Psalm 37:5).
• To gain delight in God (Psalm 37:4).
• To grow daily like God (Acts 4:13).

Mrs Kate Polack, College Chaplain

Faith and Hope

As we move through the heart of the term, it’s natural to feel a little stretched. The pace is steady, the demands are real, and many of us: students, staff and families alike are feeling this burden. In the midst of the busyness, we’re reminded of the quiet strength that comes from showing up each day, doing our part and supporting one another to keep our community moving forward.

As a community shaped by faith and hope, we take comfort in the words of 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."

Thank you for continuing to show up with heart and purpose. There is still much to look forward to in the weeks ahead.

Father’s Day / Footy Day

We look forward to celebrating with family in the annual Father’s Day / Footy Day event on Friday 5 September. Students are encouraged to wear footy colours (gold coin donation for men’s health charities) and participate in a range of footy-themed activities throughout the day led by our Year 6 students. I also hear that Mr Przibilla will be reliving his glory days on the footy field in the Staff v Students footy game at lunchtime! The PTFA will be hosting their Father’s Day stall in the morning, and a special lunch can be purchased through the FlexiSchools app. Thank you to Mr Davidson who has coordinated this event.

Premier’s Reading Competition

The Premiers Reading Challenge has only 7 days to go. So far, 25 of the 65 students registered have completed the Challenge. Combined, they have read a total of 1,845 books. A wonderful effort from all students taking part in this event!

F-2 Bushdancing Performance

On Thursday 11 September, 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

• Week 7 - Science Week
• 5 Sep - Father’s Day/Footy Day
• 10 Sep - Little Desert Athletics Carnival (Stawell)
• 11 Sep - Bushdancing Evening (F-2)
• 13 Sep - RoboCup State Competition
• 19 Sep - Last day of term

Awards

FL: Oscar F, Esme C & Knox W
FR: Oscar M, Arman S & Wyatt W
1H: Lyla L, Joanna O & Phoebe B
1P: Brady S, Elizabeth K & Jude P
2H: Aster J
2S: Joshua M & Aston B
3D: Ethan P, Emmy M & Alfie A
3J: Mienke L & Milla E
4M: Edith B, Ted S & Lexi M
4R: Ava B & Peyton I
5D: Felix M & all of 5D
5J: All of 5J
5K: All of 5K, Daniel A & Kingston L
6H: William S & Phuri P
6V: Leni J & Sanhitha R.

Specialist awards:

• Chinese: Amelie P
• Technology: Edith B
• Performing Arts: Romy O, Oscar A, Ava B & Laura B
• PE: Jake M

Our Trinity Tiger (5-6) Award recipient was Harper F, Trinity Cub (3-4) Frankie E and Trinity Cub (F-2) Summer L.

Mrs Jacqui North, Acting Head of Junior School

AI in Classrooms

This week I will be joining LEVNT and other Lutheran Educators at the National Education Summit in Melbourne. Amongst other conference agendas, I look forward to learning more about AI (Artificial Intelligence) in the classroom.

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, it’s becoming increasingly important for school educators to understand the potential of AI and how this is integrated into strategic practice. The conference will explore how school leaders can approach AI thoughtfully and effectively, to support meaningful and informed decision-making, improve administrative efficiency and ultimately enhance educational outcomes for our students.

A key part of this experience will include being introduced to a range of practical AI tools and applications, and understanding our role in shaping a future where technology is used intentionally and ethically to support human-centred learning and strong school communities.

I look forward to sharing key insights and strategies with our team and wider community in the weeks ahead, as we continue to explore how innovation can serve our shared mission in education.

Richest blessings,

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

Science Week

Next week, we are excited to celebrate Science Week in the Secondary School. The week will begin with a Middle School STEM Challenge, giving students the chance to engage in hands-on problem solving and innovation. Throughout the week, we are fortunate to have a number of experts in the field of science visiting to share their experiences and insights into what a career in science can look like.

A highlight of the week will be our special community event, the Sky Tour with Dr Toby Potter, on Wednesday 3 September from 6:30–8:30pm. This interactive astronomy experience is designed to spark curiosity, inspire awe, and provide a unique opportunity for both learning and social connection. Using high-quality telescopes, participants will be able to view breathtaking sights of celestial objects—an event not to be missed!

ICAS Testing

ICAS testing has been taking place over the past few weeks, with students able to nominate to participate on an optional basis. Those who chose to take part have completed assessments in Science, Mathematics, and English.

Interim Reports

Interim Reports will be available for the Secondary School via The HUB at the end of this term. They will be online by Friday the 19th of September. To access your child’ report:

• Log in to The Hub by visiting thehub.htlc.vic.edu.au and using your email and password. Once you have logged in you will see the homepage with your children listed.
• Click on Academic Reports. Once uploaded, a PDF of your child's report will be located here.
• If you have any issues accessing The Hub please email ictsupport@htlc.vic.edu.au.

Important Dates

• Sky Tour: Wednesday 3 September
• Parent Teacher Interviews: Available in Week 1 of Term 4
• Year 12 Graduation Service and Dinner: Thursday 21 November (Term 4)

Mrs Kate Carter, Deputy Principal – Head of Secondary School

Black Ranges Year 7 & Year 8 Volleyball

Last week, 43 students from Year 7 and Year 8 competed in the Black Ranges Volleyball Finals at the Horsham Basketball Stadium. Wimmera Lutheran College teams made up one-third of the overall entries for this event, and it was a great day for our students, with every team getting at least one win.

The Year 8 Boys won their first match against STBC in two close sets, before their serving came in clutch again in the second match, beating Horsham College 2 in a nail-biting three-set match, 20-13, 17-20, 15-13. The boys went on to face Horsham College 1 in the Grand Final, losing 21-23, 17-20 in a very close contest.

Our two Year 8 Girls teams played five matches in total over the course of the day, and only lost two - both to the Horsham College 1 team. The 8 Girls 2 team had a slow start against Horsham College 1, but fought back to make the second set competitive. They won their second and final pool game against Horsham College 3 in convincing fashion, 20-10, 20-9. The Year 8 Girls 1 team had an early scare against Horsham College 2, losing the first set 14-20, before coming back and winning the next two sets 20-6 and 15-5 to take the win in their opening game. There were no slip-ups in their second pool game against Ararat, winning 20-9, 20-12. The girls progressed to the Grand Final against Horsham College 1, and despite winning the first set, they were unable to close out the match, losing in three sets.

The Year 7 Boys only had one team to play against, and the match went down to the wire against STBC. After winning the first set 20-16, the boys lost the second set 19-21. With the scores level at 13-13 in the deciding set, the boys were able to hold their nerve and come away with the win, 15-13, to progress to the Region finals.

The Year 7 Girls teams were both highly competitive, getting five wins in total from their six matches. The Year 7 Girls 1 team were in control all day, not dropping a set en route to a division title. The Year 7 Girls 2 team had to regroup after the daunting task of playing the 1 team in the first match, and they played hard to beat Horsham College in three sets in their second match, before defeating STBC 20-8, 20-13 in their final match of the day to earn second place overall.

The successful Year 7 Volleyball teams will begin their preparation for the Greater Western Region Finals, which will be held in Horsham on Tuesday, 9 September.

Thank you to Mrs Nichols, Mrs Both and Mr McKinnon for attending the event and assisting with coaching on the day!

WestVic Academy of Sport High Performance Day

On Monday, 15 students from the Secondary School travelled to Federation University in Ballarat to participate in the WestVic Academy of Sport High Performance Day.

Students started the day witnessing a blood lactate and VO2 Max test, learning about why testing is important and how athletes can use the test results in their training. This was followed up with a brief tour of the university, which gave the students the opportunity to see the sport science, exercise physiology, nursing, midwifery and paramedicine divisions of the campus, as well as some of the general purpose university facilities.

The students then completed a 45-minute strength and conditioning session in the university gym, led by one of the WVAS strength and conditioning coaches, before listening to a competition psychology seminar from the WestVic CEO. To finish the day, our students completed a 90-minute sport-specific training session, focused on their target sports of gymnastics, swimming, tennis and volleyball.

Thanks to Mr McKinnon and Ms Reid for their support on the day, including driving the bus, and thanks to Federation University and the WestVic Academy of Sport for making this fantastic opportunity available to our students.

COMING EVENTS

SEPTEMBER

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

Mr Matthew McLoughlin, Head of Sport 7-12

Password: happyhtlc

Written by Dr Justin Coulson

By Kristy Kelly, Medical Administration