03 87967373

school.office@lighthouse.vic.edu.au

03 87967373

school.office@lighthouse.vic.edu.au

LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

NEWSLETTER


31 July 2025


Value of the Month - Authenticity

Don't copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect - Romans 12:2


IMPORTANT DATES

Date
Event
Thursday 31 July

4pm Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences - Face to Face

Friday 1 August

9am Parent/Student/Teacher Conference - Online

Monday 4 August

5pm AMEB Soloist Soiree

Tuesday 5 August

Day of Prayer

Friday 8 August 

Grandparents' day (Prep - 3)

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

This week, our College community celebrated NAIDOC Week together. This is a time to recognise and honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is not only a national celebration, but it is also an important opportunity for our school to reflect on how we can continue to grow in understanding and respect for the diverse cultural heritage that enriches our nation.

We believe that every person is made in the image of God and has inherent value. This belief guides us as we intentionally seek to celebrate cultural diversity, promote reconciliation and create a culturally safe environment for all students.

We are especially blessed this year to introduce and partner with Robert Young, a proud Aboriginal artist and Christian leader. Robert is known nationally for his vibrant and deeply symbolic works that connect traditional Aboriginal storytelling with his strong faith in Jesus. His art speaks of unity, family, identity and the hope we have in Christ. Robert has generously created a stunning original painting (see below) for the College, which was unveiled this week as part of our celebrations. This artwork will serve as a lasting symbol of our commitment to cultural understanding, inclusion and unity in Christ.

Looking ahead, we are also thrilled that Robert will be partnering with our College in an ongoing capacity. He will work with students and staff to explore Aboriginal perspectives through a biblical lens; helping us better understand how we are all part of the same family in Christ, regardless of our cultural background. Through this partnership, we aim to build stronger foundations for reconciliation and equip our students to be thoughtful, respectful and culturally aware citizens.

As we celebrate NAIDOC Week, we invite you to join us in praying for continued growth in our school community as we seek to honour God through unity in diversity.

Galatians 3:28

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Yours in His service,

David Holloway

(Deputy Principal Operations)

WELLBEING

Dear Students and Staff,


As we begin Term 3, we’re reminded that this is not just another term—it’s a significant chapter, especially for us Year 12s, as it marks our final full term of school. Whether you're finishing strong or finding your feet, we want to encourage you with this simple truth:


"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus." – Hebrews 12:1–2


This term is a fresh start. If Semester 1 wasn’t your best, don’t lose heart. What truly matters is how you approach what comes next. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about growing, learning, and choosing to move forward with purpose.


Let’s not rush toward the end goal and miss what God is doing in the journey. Every moment—every subject, challenge, and conversation—shapes who we’re becoming.


As we study, serve, and support one another, let’s encourage those around us, stay grounded in faith, and remember that God is with us in the small steps as much as the big ones.


You’ve got this—and we’re cheering you on.


Blessings,

Nathan & Diana

(School Captains)

SPORT

CSEN CROSS COUNTRY

At the end of last term, a select group of students across

Primary and Secondary were chosen to represent our College in the CSEN Cross

Country Championships. We had great results across the broad and couldn’t be prouder

of our students!!


Primary Medallists:

Hope F: 3rd Place

Isabelle W: 2nd Place

Jabari Chiuri: 3rd Place

Gatkuoth Rut: 2nd Place

Aaron Jenson: 1st Place


Secondary Medallists:

Anchoretta Tang: 1st Place

Annie Gerente: 3rd Place

Sarah Hastings: 1st Place

Outdoor Education

This week the Year 10 Outdoor Education class began their first canoeing class, learning skills on teamwork, communication and specialised skills. Students will be participating in this program over the term to develop in these key areas as they grow an appreciation for the outdoors.

Mr Buck

(Outdoor Education Coordinator)

NEW CANTEEN AND AMPHITHEATRE

On Wednesday morning, we were blessed to officially open our new canteen, now named The Heart Café, and our new amphitheatre, The Ark. Staff gathered as we prayed over these spaces, dedicating them to the Lord. We look forward to seeing them used for nourishment, fellowship, and creativity in the years to come.

WITHDRAWAL POLICY

Please be reminded of the Term Notice Withdrawal Policy at Lighthouse Christian College. If you are planning to withdraw your child or children from the College, a full term’s written notice is required. The Withdrawal Form can be accessed via SEQTA or collected from the school office.

BEHIND THE SCENES OF FINDING NEMO

Hi, I’m Tanika, a Learning Support Assistant with a passion for drama and storytelling! I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work closely with the Drama Department on this year’s magical production of Finding Nemo, and what an unforgettable journey it's been. With two years of teaching experience in China, I’ve brought my love for theatre into every rehearsal and it’s been amazing watching our students grow in confidence, creativity, and collaboration.

The transformation in each performer has been incredible. From shy beginnings to bold stage presence, the rehearsals have been full of laughter, learning, and pure joy—for the students and for me! It’s been a privilege to be part of their journey. The show will run over two exciting nights: Cast A will perform on the 3rd of September and Cast B on the 4th of September. Your child will have a sticker in their diary with full performance details, so be sure to check!

Tickets go on sale on the 8th of August, and a direct message with the ticket link will be sent out by Mrs. Samuel, who has been passionately working to bring this vibrant production to life, and we can’t wait for you to experience the magic.

“I was really nervous for the production but with all the hard work we have done, it has made me more confident.”- Elijah Ananth, 6S (Marlin)

“It has been a really enthusiastic journey, meeting new people and learning what they are really good at and how they can improve, which encourages me every day to do my best!” -Chevonnne Izuchukwu, 5C (Dory)

“I think the production has been an amazing opportunity, from learning new drama skills to working with other cast members. This has been a fantastic experience, and I can’t wait for the performance!” – Eliza Dela Cruz, 6L (Nemo)

“This has been a great experience and opportunity working with the team, I’m really grateful for getting a main role and I had a lot of fun on the way!” - Jade Henson, 6L (Dory)

“The production journey has been very interesting. At first, I found the acting and speaking very hard but now it’s very easy. I also enjoy figuring out how to work with people I usually don’t work with.” - Rohan Lokesh, 6R (Marlin)

Let’s make a splash, see you under the sea! 

PRIMARY - ELC - YEAR 2

This week, Primary students celebrated NAIDOC Week. We welcomed Mr Robert Young, a Gunnai and Warandjurie man and contemporary Aboriginal artist. Mr young shared about his experiences growing and spoke about identity, culture and storytelling through art. He also presented a beautiful artwork he created especially for our school, inspired by our College vision and mission.

In class. we also had the opportunity to make and enjoy damper with local fruit jam, deepening our appreciation for traditional native foods.

As we celebrated NAIDOC Week, we are remined of God's heart for love and unity among all people.

Danielle Ng

(Primary Teacher)


PRIMARY - YEARS 3 - 6

PHILIP ISLAND TOUR

In the final week of Term 2, our Year 5s set off to Phillip Island for three unforgettable days of fun and faith. From the very first stop at Maru Koala & Animal Park to the final moments of reflection and worship, camp was packed with joy and discovery. Students got up close with Aussie wildlife, tested their putting skills at mini golf, and jumped into games of ten pin bowling, laser tag, and table tennis.


Even more powerful than the adventures was watching our students grow in courage and care. Many stepped outside their comfort zones, conquering the giant swing, braving the flying fox, scaling the rock wall, and trying archery for the first time. Whether they were puzzling their way through A Maze'N Things or spotting a lone penguin in wild weather, students cheered one another on and reflected God’s love in action. We’re so thankful for the moments shared — and for the reminder that “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17).

Sarah Cheung

(Primary Teacher)

SECONDARY

NAIDOC WEEK IN SECONDARY

This week at Lighthouse, our hearts were stirred as we came together to honour NAIDOC Week - a time to recognise the history, culture, and contributions of First Nations peoples. Our celebration began with an inspiring visit from Robert Young. With deep honesty and warmth, Robert shared his personal journey through education, sport, and service. His testimony was not only powerful but a reminder of how God can use our stories to bring light and hope to others.

As a lasting gift to our school, Robert painted a vibrant and deeply symbolic artwork, capturing his heart for our community. We are honoured to display this meaningful piece within our school as a daily reminder of the power of story, art, and reconciliation. 

Our Year 9 mission students also shared heartfelt stories from their recent mission trip to Palm Island. They spoke of genuine connections, meaningful conversations, and the beauty of being present in community. From playing with children to listening with compassion, their time on the island was filled with unforgettable moments of love and learning.

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18 

We are so proud of our students - of their courage to step out, their willingness to serve, and the love they carried with them. We are reminded again that Lighthouse is not just a place of learning, but a place where hearts grow, spirits are stirred, and lives are shaped to reflect God’s love. This is what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Mrs. Gosai-Jesudhason 

YEAR 7 SRC

Term 3 has been a vibrant and productive time for Year 7, with students engaging in a wide range of learning activities, leadership opportunities, and community initiatives. In the classroom, Teresa has helped make learning more enjoyable and engaging by encouraging group projects, review games, and outdoor activities.

These creative approaches have helped students stay focused and connected while also having fun. Highlights this term have included hands-on tasks, learning sessions in the sunshine, and a strong sense of teamwork across classes. Academic progress has been steady, especially in literacy and numeracy, with students continuing to support one another and build their confidence.

Beyond the classroom, Year 7 students have been actively involved in extracurricular activities such as sport, the school musical, and leadership roles. Antonio Maatman, one of the Year 7 SRC representatives, has contributed to a number of initiatives including the revision of canteen pricing to support healthier food choices and the creation of posters that promote awareness around bullying prevention, mental health, and environmental sustainability.

Sneha Jacob, another SRC leader from 7C, has supported efforts to make homerooms more interactive through group activities, devotions, and games that bring classmates together. She has also encouraged students to take pride in their school environment by keeping the grounds clean and litter-free. Term 3 has highlighted the enthusiasm, creativity, and teamwork of the Year 7 cohort. As we move into the final part of the year, students are encouraged to continue working together and finish the year strong.


Sneha, Antonio and Teresa

(Year 7 SRCs)

YEAR 9 PALM ISLAND OUTREACH (YOUTH ADVENTURES)

From the 22nd of June to the 5th of July this year, 12 of our Year 9 students embarked on a journey to participate in outreach to Palm Island, a small Indigenous community in Queensland, in partnership with YWAM (Youth With A Mission). This outreach was the school’s 16th with YWAM and was a truly inspirational experience for the team. YWAM’s organisational motto is ‘To Know God and to Make Him Known’, which was reflected in the structure of the program of the trip.

The team spent their first week at the YWAM base in Townsville, where they spent time deepening their faith through input sessions, worship and personal devotion time. It is our belief that in order to serve and to be ambassadors for Christ on missions, that the team must have a firm understanding of Christ and their identity in Him first. As such, the team delved into learning more about the nature of God, the Holy Spirit and understanding their salvation through Him.

The second week of the trip was the outreach phase in Palm Island, where the team had opportunity to connect with the Palm Island community and serve them as needed. Much of the time we spent in Palm Island was connecting with the children at the PCYC (Police Community Youth Centre) through their holiday programs. The team served selflessly cooking lunch for the children in Palm Island, helping run activities like a colour run, and spending time connecting with them through games. It was a blessing to have so many God-given opportunities to evangelise to the children and to teach them about Christ. The team were outstanding in finding creative opportunities to share about Christ and jumped into every opportunity without hesitation.

I would like to sincerely thank Mr Michael Anandan and Miss Melanie Sinadinos for assisting with staffing this trip and for their godly input and influence throughout with the students. We look forward to many more opportunities to partner with YWAM and continue to provide students with this life changing experience of serving a community in need.

The team will be sharing their testimonies from the trip on Wednesday the 6th of August at 6pm in the Chapel. For anyone who is keen to support them and hear their stories, please register via the QR code in the invitation below.

Blessings,

Amber Weinman

(Secondary Chaplain)

GRAVITATE

As part of their Social Action Campaign project, the Gravitate students recently took their advocacy work beyond the classroom and out into the community, to Southland Shopping Centre. There, they had the chance to speak with members of the public and raise awareness about a range of ethical issues they’ve been exploring over the term.

Among them were topics like mental health, anxiety, and addictions, highlighting not just the variety of student interests, but also their growing understanding of real-world challenges. Students set up in different parts of the centre and shared their work through posters and visual displays. A number of shoppers stopped to listen, ask questions, and offer encouraging feedback.

The day wasn’t just about sharing information, it gave students the chance to step out of their comfort zones, grow in confidence, and put their learning into action in a real-world setting. It was great to see nerves turn into genuine conversations, as students spoke clearly and confidently about their causes — all while keeping a Christian perspective and looking for opportunities to reflect Jesus in the way they spoke and engaged with others.

Christopher Surendra

(Head of Christian Studies)

PARENT WORKSHOP: CHILD SAFETY


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