Every learner reaching their God-given potential Edition One - 2026
We were excited to welcome all our students at the start of Term 1. We marked our Year 12 students last first day of school and we look forward to the memories and milestones they will create this year.
In their first art lesson for the year, Lower Primary A and B, listened to a story titled “Country” by Aunty Fay Muir and Sue Lawson. The students discussed many of the different habitats in Australia, what Country is and what it means to the Aboriginal people of Australia and considered how we get to enjoy, experience and care for God’s amazing creation around us.
Using the book and its illustrations for inspiration, the students then created their own dot paintings around a template of a native Australian animal such as a platypus, lizard, kangaroo or turtle. When the animal outline is removed, a black space in the shape of their animal will be revealed, surrounded by lines of coloured dots and patterns. The students were all very focussed on their artwork and produced great results.
Atthe start of Term 1 our Year 9 Micah 6:8 students took part in ‘Helping Hands’, a three-day training program that encompassed barista and customer service skills, First Aid, safe food handling and goal setting.
Launched at the start of 2021 our Year 9 Micah 6:8 program runs alongside the core curriculum and is designed to build resilience and life skills. The program encompasses subjects such as Careers and Health & Physical Education (HPE), as well as tying in with the requirements for The Duke of Edinburgh Award - Bronze level. During the program students focus on areas such as resilience, mental health, life skills, voluntary service, and physical recreation skills.
The program runs one day each week and involves the Year 9 students working in groups to run Cafe 6:8, mentor Primary students, work in the College Garden, and participate in outside work. Within the program students also have the opportunity to attend three exciting camp opportunities.
Over the first two days of Term 1 our staff have took part in professional development and first aid training.
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” Psalm 133:1 NIV
Atthe start of February our College Captains, Alex and Sarah represented BalCC at a commemorative service for the 22nd anniversary of the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial. The 130-metre-long granite wall memorial is located at Lake Wendouree and honours more than 35,000 Australians who were held prisoner during the Boer War, World War I, World War II and the Korean War and is a place of national honour, remembrance and healing for all Australians.
The service is held each year to acknowledge the Prisoners of War, and this year was attended by The Honourable
General David Hurley, AC CVO DSC (Retd) Patron POW Memorial Ballarat; Hon Catherine King MP, Federal Member for Ballarat; Juliana Addison MP, Member for Wendouree; Michaela Settle MP, Member for Eureka and Mr Tokuro Furuya, Consul-General of Japan. Along with representatives from local schools who laid wreaths and books, and hundreds of guests who all gathered to honour the 8,600 Prisoners of War who died in captivity and now rest far from their homes, families, and country.
Lest we forget.
This year we welcome Joanne Knight to the role of Head of Primary at BalCC. Joanne began teaching in 2006 at a local Ballarat primary school after growing up in Ballarat and attending local primary and secondary schools and university. After four years of teaching in Ballarat, Joanne moved to Darwin to teach in NT Christian Schools for ‘just one year’. This one year turned into 15 years of teaching and leading in schools in Darwin and around the Territory, with ten years as Head of Primary and Education Support. During this time, she completed a Masters in Christian Education and worked with teachers to embed quality Christian formational learning through all areas of curriculum and pedagogy.
As wonderful as Darwin is, the pull of family was very strong. As the number of her nephews and nieces grew in Victoria, the distance became harder. In 2024, Joanne returned to Victoria and commenced teaching at Ballarat Christian College in the Upper Primary in 2025, taking on the Head of Primary position in 2026.
While she began her teaching in public schools, Joanne has developed a passion in embedding authentic Christian education in Christian schools, growing, nurturing and discipling students to be Christ like in all areas of their lives. Serving in a Christian school gives her the opportunity to coach and support teachers to authentically weave opportunities for students to grow in their God-given skills and talents.
Congratulations to Emma O’Neill from the Class of 2023 on the recent completion of her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. Emma has been employed at Ballarat Veterinary Practice for the past two years, where she is highly regarded for bringing a calm and caring presence to every shift.
Pictured here with Jaffa the Devon Rex, who was in for a stage 1 dental procedure, Emma was caring for him in recovery and making sure he was comfortable and well looked after as he woke up.
Alumni are invited to share what they have been doing since leaving BalCC, by either sending in a write up and photos, or by completing our BalCC Alumni questionnaire, which is located on our website:
www.balcc.vic.edu.au/college-life#alumni
The easy-to-follow questionnaire only takes 5-10 minutes to complete. Completed questionnaires, write ups, photos and requests to update contact details can be emailed to: alumni@balcc.vic.edu.au
Atour of the BalCC campus with their Year 12 buddies was on the agenda for our new Preps on their first day of school. The students enjoyed a short walk around the campus before stopping to chat and get to know one another. Throughout the year, the Preps and Year 12 students will meet during Homeroom for buddy sessions, culminating in the Preps walking their Year 12 buddies into the Graduation Assembly in Term 4.
We are proud to introduce our 2026 College Captains and acknowledge the student leaders who will represent our College community in the year ahead. In their reflections, they share their passions, their aspirations, and what leadership means to them. Throughout the year, we look forward to celebrating the dedication, integrity, and enthusiasm they bring to their roles.
Sarah:
Why did you want to become a College Captain?
I wanted to be a College Captain because I hope to make a genuine difference in the lives of students who feel unheard, unseen, or devalued, just as I mentioned in my captaincy speech. I believe that God, the Almighty, has a purpose for each of us, and I believe I am called to guide, support, and encourage the students around me. My intention is to help create meaningful experiences for students while pointing them toward the truth, the way, and the life we find in Christ. I believe that even the smallest act of kindness or support can bring someone closer to that truth.
How does it feel to be taking up the role?
It feels like finally getting to eat your favourite pizza after being on a strict diet for ages, and the feeling is just absolutely over-the-top AMAZING! I’m grateful for the trust placed in me by the students, teachers and the management team of the College. I’m honoured to take up a role that allows me to spread the Word of God, share His love for us, and reflect the mercy He has shown us. This position is highly valued, as it is one where all students, from Prep to Year 12, look to the captains, and to me it outweighs any challenges I have faced and any challenges I am yet to face. It is a mixture of excitement, responsibility, and a strong sense of privilege.
I am well aware of the opportunity presented to me, and I will do my level best to make a meaningful difference for every student at Ballarat Christian College. My ultimate aim is to ensure that students feel valued, seen, and heard, helping them grow their inner confidence so they can contribute
their talents to the College community. As this is a relatively small school compared to others, I believe every student graduating here should experience the unity between friends and the unbreakable trust they build, and carry that sweet moment out into the world, so that when they leave, they can confidently say that they truly lived their high school years to the fullest, not only preaching the Word of God but also putting it into action and communicating with a foundation of love.
What do you want to do after you graduate from high school?
After I graduate from high school, I’m hoping to study a Bachelor of Science if that is the plan God has for me. Whatever door my Saviour opens for me, whether it is leadership, the health field, ministry, or any other area, I intend to follow His path, as I believe with all my heart that He will guide me and be with me for every single step ahead.
Alex:
Why did you want to become a College Captain?
To ensure our cafeteria menu finally includes ‘Taco Tuesday’ on a daily basis. Jokes aside, I wanted to be College Captain as I’m extroverted and love talking and working with others, and I want to be able to support and encourage younger people to be the best they can be, as well as gaining leadership experience for my future.
How does it feel to be taking up the role?
I’m a bit nervous, as it’s a big responsibility and I have big shoes to fill, especially as the Captains before me (Gibson and Freya) were pretty amazing. But overall, I’m really excited and looking forward to seeing what God has in store for me as College Captain.
What do you want to do after you graduate high school?
I want to study to become a veterinarian. So first I’m going to do a 1-year Vet Nursing Tafe course and then a Bachelor and Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine.
Our Lower Primary students had a mystery to solve in Term 1 when they arrived to find Pig the Pug and Percy the Parrot missing from their classrooms!
Determined to find their furry and feathered friends, the students set off across the campus following a trail of clues. At each stop they carefully read the next hint, using teamwork and problemsolving skills to track down where Pig and Percy had gone.
This exciting adventure also became part of their English learning. Students explored time connectives and prepositional phrases before writing their own journal entries, imagining the adventure from the perspective of Pig the Pug or Percy the Parrot.
It was wonderful to see the students so engaged, as they read clues, explored the campus, and brought their creativity to life through writing. In the end, the mystery was solved and the missing friends were safely found!
During Term 1 our Secondary Chapel students were encouraged and inspired by BalCC alum, Nathan Carpenter (Class of 2023) as he shared a powerful message titled “Identity with Intention,” drawing from 1 Corinthians 1:27–29.
After graduating from BalCC, Nathan completed a one-year internship with Enjoy Church Ballarat. During this time, he served in the social media department, describing the year as one of significant personal and spiritual growth. His experience in media sparked a passion that led him to establish his own wedding videography business, Kairus Media.
Nathan continues to serve faithfully at Enjoy Church as a Youth Leader with Empire Youth. He has recently commenced work with Project Growth as a Disability Support Worker and remains committed to investing in the lives of others.
Over the past two years, Nathan has also participated in the annual Father and Son Camp led by Eric Agyeman, a Christian author, motivational speaker, and youth advocate, further reflecting his heart for mentorship and community impact.
We are grateful to Nathan for returning to share his journey with our students.
Alumni are invited to share what they have been doing since leaving BalCC, by either sending in a write up and photos, or by completing our BalCC Alumni questionnaire, which is located on our website: www.balcc.vic.edu.au/college-life#alumni
The easy-to-follow questionnaire only takes 5-10 minutes to complete. Completed questionnaires, write ups, photos and requests to update contact details can be emailed to: alumni@balcc.vic.edu.au
During Term 1 the Lower Primary students have been learning about habitats in the classroom and this is reflected in activities and experiences provided in their Art lessons. Fascinating facts about Toucan birds were investigated and discussed including their huge bills are actually very light weight due to them being hollow inside like a straw; they find homes in tree hollows rather than building nests; and the students favourite fun fact being that they act as gardeners of the rainforest, assisting with plant growth by ‘pooping’ out fruit seeds!
The students enjoyed creating a colourful collage of a toucan in their habitat of the Amazon Rainforest using fluorescent markers, black oil pastel, crepe paper streamers and scrapbooking paper. The results were a fabulous representation of this beautiful bird.
During Term 1 we were blessed with perfect weather for our annual BalCC Swimming Carnival at the Eureka Pool. The sunshine set the scene for a fantastic day filled with fun, laughter and incredible House spirit. From exciting novelty events to competitive races that showcased determination, resilience and outstanding sportsmanship, it was wonderful to see our students giving their all and cheering each other on.
Students were encouraged to incorporate this year’s “Happy” theme in with their House Colours and wear bright accessories and fun costumes. What a wonderful celebration of BalCC community, spirit and sunshine.
Each year, our Year 12 students bring the energy to the BalCC Swimming Carnival with their much-anticipated group dance.
This year, they had everyone smiling as they performed to the iconic theme song from “Friends”, delivering plenty of fun and enthusiasm. What a fantastic way to celebrate their final year!
Ahuge thank you to our incredible staff for the part each of you played in making the 2026 BalCC Swimming Carnival such a success.
From organisation and supervision to cheering on students poolside, your time, teamwork and dedication ensured a fantastic day for everyone involved. We truly appreciate all that you do!
In Term 1, at a Secondary Assembly, our Head of Secondary, Mr Scott McKenzie, formally badged all Year 12 students, along with our Secondary Senate representatives.
Every learner reaching their God-given potential
DuringTerm 1 our Year 7 students enjoyed a 3-day Orientation Camp in Halls Gap. The purpose of this camp was for students to have the opportunity to develop relationships with the new Year 7 cohort and experience activities together that were designed to allow students to get to know God, themselves, staff, the College ethos, and other students a little better.
The program included targeted team building, opportunities to lead, time to build together as a new cohort and more. This camp is an important part of our College curriculum, and our Year 7 students had a great adventure!
Thank you to everyone that came along to our 2026 Primary Meet and Greet in the mid-Term 1. The afternoon gave families the opportunity to meet their child’s class teacher, explore their child’s learning space for this year, learn a few games and activities that could be played at home, and engage with other families.
There were also two information sessions during the Meet and Greet. One by our ICT team to provide some helpful tips on raising tech-healthy children and how technology safety operates at BalCC. Our Lower Primary team presented a “How to read to your child at home” session, which unpacked how parents/carers can successfully support their children at home in the development of their reading and spelling.
A heartfelt thank you to the Year 9 Micah 6:8 students who faithfully prepared and served hot drinks and food during the event. Your commitment to serving others truly reflected the spirit of Micah 6:8 and helped create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our community.
Congratulations to Richard Gent on his recent appointment as Chair of the BalCC Board. We thank him for his willingness to serve and look forward to his leadership in the season ahead.
Professionally Richard is a real estate agent in Ballarat with a background in education, business consulting and small business. Richard has a master’s degree in business management and volunteers regularly in his community. He has two children who attend BalCC.
A Buninyong local, Richard can often be found risking injury with his young family at the local soccer pitch, football ground or basketball court. He is also part of the One2One Church of Christ community.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Randall Dreger for his service over the past nine years to BalCC as a Board Director and more recently as Board Chair from 2024-2025.
To read more about our BalCC Governance, please visit: https://www.balcc.vic.edu.au/about-us#collegeleadership-governance
Thisis the eighth year the BalCC Library was a recipient of the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial Book Tribute. BalCC is one of many schools in our region that has received this tribute. In lieu of wreath’s being placed, 1108 books have been distributed to Ballarat Schools since 2014. Books are donated to local schools following the annual Anniversary Service held in February.
It is important to note that the Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial have been a part of our city since 2004. It is a place of national significance, situated here by the shores of Lake Wendouree. May we graciously continue to remember and uphold all that mankind has endured to place us in the position we are today.
On28 March, as part of The Shaka Project’s Run for our Mates 2026, past students from the Classes of 2024 and 2025 - Gibson Paxman, Adam Letman, Sam Fulcher, Rylan Walter, Tom Boots, and Manus Austerberry – ran 100kms around Lake Wendouree to raise funds for men’s mental health. The group took on the challenge Backyard Ultra style completing a 6.7km lap every hour, on the hour for 15 hours.
Around 120 supporters dropped in throughout the day to cheer on and encourage the runners, who even received a message from fellow runner Phil Gore, the 2025 Backyard Ultra World Champion.
The group were running to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health, supporting those who are fighting battles that often go unseen. For the group, running is not just about distance or pace, but about friendship, shared experiences, and the mental benefits of being part of a supportive community.
At the beginning the group had a goal to raise $2,000 but have well surpassed that amount and have to date raised nearly $7,500! All money raised will go to The Shaka Project. Donations can be made via their fundraising page, which will be closing shortly.
the-shaka-project.grassrootz.com/run-for-ourmates-2026/txr3350?tab=donations
The groups’ journey is being documented on Instagram: www.instagram.com/txr3350
Group organiser, Gibson Paxman said “It was such an incredible day. Lots of us struggled at around 70km mark, but thanks to so much support and the reminder of Hebrews 12:1 “and let us run with perseverance, the race marked out for us”. We managed to smash it out and all finish together.”
What an amazing achievement – well done.
Our Primary students were treated to a Field Hockey Clinic run by Anna from Ballarat Hockey Association during Term 1, as part of the Victorian Hockey Roadshow. Hockey Ballarat offers various opportunities for ages 6+.
During Term 1 our Year 12 Biology students took part in a DNA Manipulation Techniques program at Ballarat Tech School. The Year 12s had a hands-on experience in modern molecular biology techniques and were able to work with a plasmid containing the insulin gene fused to the green fluorescent protein (GFP), under the control of the arabinose operon.
The program enabled students to investigate the process of bacterial transformation as they introduced the GFP containing plasmid into E. coli and selected for its presence using an antibiotic. They also investigated gene regulation in bacteria as they induced expression of GFP by way of the inclusion of arabinose in the growth medium and fluorescence by excitation under UV light.
The Year 12s also set up and ran a controlled scientific experiment that clearly demonstrated the relationship between independent and dependent variables.
To learn more about Ballarat Tech School, please visit ballarattechschool.vic.edu.au/
‘Discover today, Design tomorrow’
During Term 1 our Lower, Middle and Upper Primary Visual Arts students spent a few weeks enthusiastically preparing artworks for the 2026 Ballarat Begonia Festival. The first creation was an impressive large canvas featuring an Australian Copperhead snake for the Water and Native Animal Canvas Painting Competition. They also showcased their creativity by painting a snail sculpture that was affectionately named, “Vinnie”, after artist, Vincent Van Gogh.
Thank you to our Visual Arts teachers, Mrs Carol Clough and Mrs Paula Glynn, for the significant time, care, and energy they invested in organising and guiding our students, as they created the beautiful pieces for the Begonia Festival. Their guidance and commitment enabled our students to showcase their talents and contribute to this special community event.
Each year The Courier publishes its ‘Big Steps, Little Feet’ feature, celebrating Prep students from schools across Ballarat and the surrounding areas with special group photos.
Printed copies of the Big Steps, Little Feet feature are available from The Courier office at 2 Webster Street, Ballarat, local newsagencies, or can be accessed through a digital subscription.
Mid-Term 1 BalCC staff, parents, carers and students from Years 5-10 took part in information sessions facilitated by Courage to Care Victoria. Courage to Care is an incursion-based, behaviour change program that educates students and staff to stand up against discrimination and racism, while empowering them to create positive cultural change within their school community. During the parents/ carers session, participants heard the impactful message of Courage to Care and explored ways they can encourage their young person to be an upstander, not a bystander.
Thank you to our Student Wellbeing Team for coordinating the organisation of the sessions with Courage to Care. More information about this organisation can be found at: couragetocare.org.au/
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Karen Farquhar on kfarquhar@balcc.vic.edu. au or Haydn Croton on hcroton@balcc. vic.edu.au or through the College Administration Office on 5337 5900.
On their final catch-up for the term, our Prep and Year 12 buddies shared a special moment together with a fun-filled Easter egg hunt. It was wonderful to see the friendships they’ve built over the term shine through as they worked together, laughed, and celebrated. These buddy moments create such meaningful connections across year levels, leaving lasting memories for our youngest and oldest students alike. A lovely way to wrap up the term!
Our College Captains, Sarah and Alex recently travelled to Canberra for a week during Term 1 to attend the Christian Schools Australia Compass Student Leadership Conference. The conference was primarily for Year 12 student leaders from around Australia and through the biblical themes of creation, fall and redemption, students were encouraged to wrestle with how their faith, life, and leadership connect.
While in Canberra, our College Captains were able to spend some time with the Federal Member for Ballarat, the Hon. Catherine King MP in her offices. Our thanks to BalCC Head of Secondary, Mr Scott McKenzie, and Mrs Karen Farquhar for supporting our College Captains at the conference.
Here, our College Captains reflect on their conference experience:
“Earlier this term we had the opportunity to attend the Compass Student Leadership Conference in Canberra, and it was an incredibly valuable experience both spiritually and socially. Throughout the conference we were able to connect with other school leaders from different Christian schools, share ideas, and learn from passionate speakers who encouraged us to think deeply about servant leadership and faith in action.
One of the most impactful aspects of the conference was the strong focus on biblical leadership. The sessions challenged us to
reflect on how we lead not just through actions, but through our attitudes and the examples we set. This prompted us to think about our own College community, particularly the role Year 12 students can play in shaping the culture of Chapel. One key takeaway for us was considering how we might help influence the heart and engagement of younger students during worship, helping Chapel become something students participate in more intentionally rather than just attending.
Another highlight was the opportunity to collaborate with other student leaders. Working alongside students from different schools allowed us to hear fresh perspectives, exchange ideas, and recognise that many schools face similar challenges when it comes to leadership and faith culture. It reinforced how valuable teamwork is, not only within our own leadership group but also across wider school communities.
Overall, the Compass conference was a meaningful and encouraging experience. We are grateful for the opportunity to attend and are excited to apply what we learned, particularly around fostering a stronger sense of purpose and heart within our College’s worship and leadership culture.”
Our Middle and Upper Primary classes participated enthusiastically during Term 1 in Cricket Clinics run by Cricket Victoria as part of the Government’s Sporting Schools Initiative.
Cricket Victorian coaches attended and led the students in a variety of activities covering fielding, bowling and batting. If your child is interesting in Cricket - please refer to this web link for a selection of clubs and their contacts: https://www.ballaratcricketassociation.com/clubs
OurYear 9 Micah 6:8 students have been busy harvesting plums and corn, which they’ve used to create muffins, yoghurts, and tasting dishes, as well as preparing meals for their upcoming Term 2 camp.
Launched at the start of 2021 our Year 9 Micah 6:8 program runs alongside the core curriculum and is designed to build resilience and life skills. The program encompasses subjects such as Careers and Health & Physical Education (HPE), as well as tying in with the requirements for The Duke of Edinburgh Award - Bronze. During the program students focus on areas such as resilience, mental health, life skills, voluntary service, and physical recreation skills.
The program runs one day each week and involves the Year 9 students working in groups to run Cafe 6:8, mentor Primary students, work in the College Garden, and participate in outside work.
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8 NIV
Paigeand Lachlan met at BalCC, where what started as young love grew into a partnership spanning 13 years. Their journey came full circle as they celebrated their wedding recently surrounded by close family and friends, creating an intimate and heartfelt day.
Paige and Lachlan were married at Allurah Functions & Events in Magpie, set amongst beautiful gardens, followed by a relaxed cocktail-style reception. The celebration was made even more meaningful by the presence of fellow BalCC alumni, including Maid of Honour Jordyn Meyer. They were joined by family members who have also attended the College - Jade Meyer, Riley Mason, Flynn Mason, and Jack Mason, who is currently in Year 12, as well as other familiar faces from the BalCC community.
Paige has built a strong career as an insurance broker with Simplex Insurance, where she manages a diverse portfolio of clients across personal and commercial lines, including home, motor, professional indemnity, and contract works. She is also continuing her professional development, currently studying a Master of Business with RMIT and preparing to commence a Diploma of Insurance Broking.
Lachlan works within the community as both a NDIS disability support worker and a residential youth worker in Ballarat, demonstrating his commitment to supporting and empowering others.
Together, Paige and Lachlan have grown from high school sweethearts into a dedicated and accomplished couple, continuing to build a life grounded in care, connection, and shared history, and we wish them well as they make their life together.
Alumni are invited to share what they have been doing since leaving BalCC, by either sending in a write up and photos, or by completing our BalCC Alumni questionnaire, which is located on our website: www.balcc.vic.edu.au/college-life#alumni
The easy-to-follow questionnaire only takes 5-10 minutes to complete. Completed questionnaires, write ups, photos and requests to update contact details can be emailed to: alumni@balcc.vic.edu.au
Atthe end of Term 1 as part of their Integrated studies our Upper Primary students took part in a ‘Circuit and Swtiches’ incursion run by Bendigo Discovery Centre. In this electrifying workshop the students explored how energy flows and powers our world. They built simple circuits, tested conductors and insulators and experimented with switches and lights. This interactive session connected classroom theory with practical understanding, showing how electricity works in everyday life. Guided by facilitator, Tara, students learnt to predict, test and troubleshoot in a safe and engaging environment.
The incursion helped to develop practical understanding of energy, current and circuitry. Encouraged critical thinking, collaboration and hands on application of physical science concepts. To learn more about the Bendigo Discovery Centre, please visit: https://www.discovery.asn.au/
Atthe end of Term 1 the Year 9 French class attended the Alliance Française French Film Festival. Students were immersed in French culture and language through viewing the 2025 film, ‘The Musicians”. Accompanied by Madame Navarro and Madame Kenneth, students were immersed in French language and culture, gaining valuable exposure to authentic dialogue and storytelling. It was a fantastic opportunity to extend their learning beyond the classroom in an engaging and memorable way.
During Term 1 the Middle Primary students have been looking at the water cycle in Integrated Studies, focusing on how intentional and perfect God-designed systems are. To consolidate and celebrate their learning, the students and their teachers enjoyed a water cycle fun day, with a variety of activities including creating nature collages in place, designing gardens, and investigating bubbles with DIY pipe cleaner bubble wands and tri-string wands. Students all agreed that it was a great day!
