Newsletter (6 February, 2026 - Holy Trinity Lutheran College

Wimmera Lutheran College - Executive Principal’s Welcome

As we begin a new school year, I warmly welcome all students, families, and staff to our college community across each of our three campuses. I trust that the holiday period provided plenty of time for rest, relaxation, travel and family connection.

The start of a school year is always filled with a sense of renewal, new classrooms, new friendships, new learning, and new opportunities to grow together in faith and knowledge. The beginning of a school year is also a time to set goals. We encourage all students to approach their learning with adventure, compassion, purpose and a willingness to try new things and build meaningful relationships. Growth often comes from stepping outside our comfort zones, and we look forward to celebrating the achievements, large and small, that will come in the months ahead.

It has been wonderful to see our campuses come alive again with the energy and enthusiasm of students. The first days of the year are always about reconnecting, settling into routines, and setting the tone for the year ahead. Our staff has worked diligently to prepare engaging learning environments, and we thank everyone for the care and dedication they bring to their work each day.

A special welcome is extended to all students and families who are joining our college community for the first time. We hope you quickly feel at home. Being a multi-campus college gives us a unique strength. While each campus has its own character and traditions, we are united by a shared mission, shared values, and a shared commitment to nurturing every young person entrusted to our care.

The partnership between school and home is vital to the success and wellbeing of our students. We thank families for the support, encouragement, and trust you show in working alongside us. Strong communication and a shared commitment to the wellbeing of every child help to build a community where students can flourish.

As we look ahead, there will be many opportunities for families to be involved in the life of the college through events, celebrations, sports, music, worship, and community gatherings. I encourage families to engage with these events as these moments strengthen the relationships that make our college such a caring and connected community.

As we begin this year together, I am reminded of the words from Isaiah 43:19:

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?”

A new school year is indeed a new thing, a fresh beginning, filled with promise. May we all embrace it with gratitude, courage, and faith.
May God bless our students, families, and staff as we journey together in the year ahead.

Community events

As the year begins, I am very much looking forward to visiting the three campuses in person. On Thursday night, the Horsham Campus Welcome and Information Evening provided a great opportunity to introduce the focus for the year ahead, meet new staff and build pastoral relationships between teachers and families. A big thank you to the PTFA who provided drinks and nibbles for staff and families to enjoy to finish the night. The Nhill family barbecue will be on Friday, 6 February and the Dimboola family barbecue on Friday, 13 February, which will be great opportunities to connect with the communities of these campuses.

Communication

As the new year begins, it is important that families reconnect with the various communication forums the campuses use. If anybody is having difficulty receiving important information or messages, I encourage you to reach out to the support services of each campus to ensure you are set up to receive and send communication.

Blessings for the week ahead,

Mr Jason Przibilla, Executive Principal

But rejoice insofar as you are sharing Christ’s sufferings, so that you may also be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed (1 Peter 4:13).

Reading the world news can be overwhelming, can’t it? We see a world that is hurting. War, invasions, persecution and racism invade our news feeds continuously.

1 Peter is a great way to answer where God is in these moments. It was written to Christians living across Asia Minor who were experiencing the same things we are seeing in the world today – persecution, rejection and suffering because of their faith. These believers were a small minority in a wider Roman culture that did not understand or accept their way of life. They faced social exclusion, public criticism and, in some cases, legal trouble.

In verses 12–16, Peter tells believers not to be surprised when they face hardships because of their faith. ‘But rejoice insofar as you are sharing Christ’s sufferings, so that you may also be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed’ (verse 13). This persecution should be met with joy because we are suffering with Christ. Peter’s message is clear: keep going. Stay faithful because God is faithful to us.

God is at work in faithfulness. God’s faithfulness to us.

This is the promise that runs through all of Scripture. In Deuteronomy, Moses tells Israel: ‘He will not fail you or forsake you.’ In Joshua, God repeats it: ‘I will not fail you or forsake you.’ Isaiah declares: ‘Do not fear, for I am with you.’ Jesus echoes it: ‘I am with you always, to the end of the age.’ And Hebrews reminds the Early Church: ‘I will never leave you or forsake you.’

Peter’s readers were suffering. They were isolated. They may have even wondered if God had forgotten them. Maybe you can relate. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed, forgotten or alone. If that is the case, then remember God is faithful and at work in that. This faithfulness means God’s promises are kept. It means God does not abandon people. It means that when we have nothing left, God is there, still holding us and always present.

God is faithful, God is at work, and God loves you.

Dear God, thank you for your faithfulness; help us to trust that you are with us, especially when we feel alone. Amen.

2026 welcome

Welcome back to the 2026 school year! Our students are looking well rested and excited to be reunited with friends for another year of learning. One of the most special parts of this time of year is seeing our littlest learners in Foundation paired with their grown-up Year 6 Big Buddies. I love watching how supportive and gentle our oldest students are with our youngest, and how willingly they invest their time to help Foundation students have a positive and confident start to their first year of official learning. It is truly magical to see this bond develop.

Meet Mrs Jacobsen

Many of you may have met me at our recent Parent Information Night. If so, you may have noticed that I have a slight accent when I speak. I’m often asked about it, though many find it difficult to pinpoint where it comes from.

I grew up in the United States and have travelled extensively with my German husband. Over the years, we have lived in several countries, including Germany, Papua New Guinea, and, for the past 15 years, Australia.

During that time, I have taught exclusively in Lutheran schools. I spent three years teaching Year 4 at Good Shepherd Lutheran College in Victoria before moving to Queensland, where I worked for the past 11 years, teaching and growing as a leader. My leadership experience includes roles in Curriculum, Pastoral Care and Behaviour, and Head of Primary.

After completing the Leadership Development Program with Lutheran Education Australia, I made the difficult decision to spread my wings and move on from Peace Lutheran College, trusting that I would be guided to where I was called. I now call Horsham home and am enjoying getting to know the students and their families in this wonderful community.

Thank you for being so welcoming and supportive as I step into this new role. Together, we look forward to a great year of learning and growing as a community.

General housekeeping

As at every start to a new school year there are a few reminders:

Please remember students are wearing their summer uniforms, including hats
Drop-off areas are supervised from 8.30am onwards
If there have been changes to your child’s bus routes, please let the office know as soon as possible

WLC Welcome and Information Evening

Thank you to those who attended our Welcome and Information Evening Thursday last week. Teachers met with families to discuss the routines and procedures of each class. Drinks and nibbles followed, which allowed the community time to mingle. It is going to be a great year!

Parent-Teacher Interviews

Parent-Teacher Interviews will be after school on Tuesday, 10 February, and Thursday, 12 February. Please make a booking using the link posted on The Hub.

These interviews provide an opportunity for families to share information with their child’s co-educators (teachers) and for teachers to discuss how your child has settled into the classroom.

It is recommended that all families connect with their child’s teacher early in the year. If a face-to-face meeting on the night is not possible, this may take place via a phone conversation later in the term. The purpose of this initial connection is for families and teachers to "touch base" and lay a strong foundation for a successful year of learning for your child.

Shrove Tuesday

Tuesday, 17 February, is Shrove Tuesday, the day in the church calendar that marks the beginning of Lent. Traditionally, families would empty their cupboards of "rich" foods such as butter, eggs, and sugar in preparation for a period of fasting. These ingredients were often used to make pancakes.

In recognition of this tradition, Primary students will receive a pancake on the day. Students participating in the Swimming Carnival will receive their pancake before departing for the pool in the morning, while the rest of the Primary school will enjoy theirs during recess.

Important dates

8 February - Staff Installation at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Horsham
10th and 12 February - Parent-Teacher Interviews
17 February - Shrove Tuesday
17 February - Primary Swimming Carnival (Years 4-6)
23 February - Western Hub Primary Leadership Workshop (Year 6) - full day

Awards

FL: Ella A and Oliver W FR: Larson V 1B: Piper H and Jasper M 1S: Arjun A and Archer H 2H: Quinn B and Riley M 2W: Ryan S and Nara F 3D: Maggie P 3P: Charlotte S and Harriet R 4M: Max D and Alfie A 4R: Prince N and Tas C 5J: Paula V and Stella B 5K: Riley E-F and Harry C 6H: Adelle R 6R: Tyren S 6M: Aayushmann B

Specialist awards
Chinese: Beau M Technology: Nina J Performing Arts: Tyla S

Trinity Tiger/Cub Awards

Congratulations to our very first Trinity Tiger and Cub Awards!

Baxter A - Wimmera
Eva H - Wimmera
Steele O - Mallee

Mrs Christina Jacobsen, Head of Primary

WLC: Horsham - Curriculum & Pedagogy

Welcome back to another school year.

Guided by the WLC Teaching and Learning Philosophy and Lutheran Education Australia's framework Free to Flourish, our College continues to strengthen a curriculum that is purposeful, contemporary and deeply aligned with our shared vision for learning. This foundation invites us to design learning experiences that empower every student to grow academically, personally and socially, equipping them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Across the campuses, curriculum development is focused on coherence and clarity. We are committed to ensuring strong alignment between curriculum, assessment and reporting so that learning expectations are meaningful and consistent. This alignment supports high-quality teaching practices and provides students and families with clear insight into learning progress and achievement.

As we look ahead to 2026, two key priorities will guide our work. First, we will continue to refine and strengthen the alignment of curriculum, assessment and reporting across all learning areas. This ongoing work ensures that what we teach, how we assess and how we communicate learning outcomes are firmly connected and grounded in evidence-based practice.

Second, we will adopt innovative learning programs that reflect contemporary educational research and the principles of Free to Flourish. These programs will promote deep learning, creativity, critical thinking, and student voice, while remaining responsive to the diverse needs of our learners. Innovation, in this context, is purposeful by enhancing engagement, fostering independence and supporting every student to flourish.

Through collaboration, reflection and a shared commitment to excellence, our College continues to build a curriculum that is aligned, future-focused and anchored in the values of Lutheran Education. Together, we are creating learning environments where students are truly free to flourish, now and into the future.

Richest blessings,

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

I wish all families, students and staff a very warm welcome to the 2026 school year. It has been wonderful to see everyone return and to feel the excitement and energy of being together again.

First day - Year 7 and Year 12

On Tuesday, 27 January, before the rest of the Secondary School returned, our Year 7 and Year 12 students participated in an orientation day. This provided both cohorts with the chance to get organised, hear key information, and ensure a smooth start to the year. The day concluded with a buddy session, where Year 12 students led small group activities to help everyone get to know one another. The highlight of the day was an Amazing Race challenge, which was a lot of fun and laughs. It was a fantastic way for these year levels to kick off the term.

Welcome to all

We welcomed the rest of the Secondary School on Wednesday, 28 January with our Opening Service. During this service, our 2026 College Captains and Middle School Captains were officially installed, and we congratulate them on their appointment. We wish them all the best as they represent the student body throughout the year.

We also formally acknowledged and congratulated our VCE Dux, Cadi Streeter (ATAR 92.35), and our VCE Proxime Accessit, Samuel Hahn (ATAR 91.95). Additionally, we recognised our VCE Vocational Major Dux, Alissa Trenery, for her commitment to balancing work placements and trade school alongside her studies.

Year 7 Activity Day

The Year 7 students took part in a fun-filled activity day designed to help them settle in and get to know their classmates. The day included a range of activities, finishing with a challenging cardboard boat task at the Horsham Aquatic Centre. Students also explored what it means to be a leader, and the process for appointing the 2026 Middle School Ambassadors commenced.

We understand that moving from Primary to Secondary School is a significant transition, and we are here to support students through this time. Please encourage students to speak with their teachers if they are unsure and to take one day at a time as they settle in.

Thank you to the Year 7 team and Mrs Engert for their hard work and the care they are showing our new Secondary School students.

Year 12 Retreat

In Week 2, the Year 12 students spent two days at Tandara Lutheran Camp in Halls Gap for their start-of-year retreat. It was a wonderful experience, giving students the opportunity to spend time together while discussing the year ahead and setting goals. We wish the class of 2026 all the best as they begin their final year of schooling.

VET programs

Our VET students commenced their first day of classes this week. We wish them well as they undertake their studies this year in the chosen pathway. If you have any questions or require any support please contact our Applied Learning Coordinator, Alicia Schneider (alicia.schneider@wlc.vic.edu.au).

Year Level Coordinators

Our 2026 Year Level Coordinators as are follows:

Year 7 – Samantha Engert samantha.engert@wlc.vic.edu.au
Year 8 – Amanda Przibilla amanda.przibilla@wlc.vic.edu.au
Year 9 – Alicia Schneider alicia.schneider@wlc.vic.edu.au
Year 10 – Ryan Metelmann ryan.metelmann@wlc.vic.edu.au
Year 11 - Meg Cashin meg.cashin@wlc.vic.edu.au
Year 12 – Kate Carter kate.carter@wlc.vic.edu.au

Please contact these staff should you have any questions regarding your child’s learning or pastoral needs.

Important dates

Secondary Swimming Carnival - Friday, 20 February
Parent-Teacher Interviews - Wednesday, 18 March
Secondary Athletics Carnival - Monday, 30 March

Mrs Kate Carter, Deputy Principal - Head of Secondary

Black Ranges intermediate and senior tennis

Yesterday, 21 students started off our representative sport year as we travelled to Stawell to compete in tennis. All five teams played well and showed great sportsmanship throughout the day.

Our senior boys were competitive in their two matches. Our intermediate boys and girls second teams both had great games across the warm day.

Our first intermediate girls team made the grand final, but unfortunately only just went down to Horsham College, well done girls. Our intermediate boys team also made the grand final and played off against Warracknabeal. In the heat of the late afternoon, the boys did exceptionally well and managed to win their way through to Greater Western Region. Congratulations to Frazer S, Yasassri S, Archie F and Soren F on this achievement.

Thank you to Ms Reid for driving the bus and supervising the students.

Secondary Sport nominations

Years 7-12 students all have received a form to complete to express their interest in which representative sports they would like to try out for in 2026. They have also received forms for swimming, cross-country and athletics. All of these will allow us to plan our carnivals and sporting events for the year.

If any students wish to change any responses, they can email me directly.

Black Ranges intermediate cricket

Wishing our intermediate boys cricket team all the best next Tuesday. All information will be sent out via Consent2Go.

Congratulations to our intermediate girls team, who has made it straight through to Greater Western Region.

WLC - Horsham Campus Secondary Swimming Carnival

The WLC - Horsham Campus Secondary Swimming Carnival will be on Friday, 20 February. Students will have the opportunity to dress up in their house colours, compete in swimming races or novelty events. Wimmera house is the reigning champion, can anyone finally knock them off?

Coming events

February

10 - Black Ranges intermediate cricket
20 - Secondary swimming carnival
26 - Black Ranges secondary swimming

March

4 - Greater Western Region intermediate tennis
16 - Black Ranges senior and intermediate volleyball
25 - Greater Western Region swimming
30 - WLC secondary athletics

Miss Jayde Ellis, Head of Sport (7-12)