Volume 35 | Number 1 | Winter 2018
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY
E VE RY FAC E H A S A P L AC E
TH E R E D E E M E R B U S H A S A R R IVE D !
REDEEMER LAUNCHES A NEW BUS SERVICE
I NTRO D U C I N G M A RT Y TH E M A S COT
R E D E E M E R ’ S N E W B LU E TO N G U E LIZ A R D
Your college is changing & growing Print Post Approved 100003942
2018 AND BEYOND MASTER PLAN LIFT-OUT INSIDE
FROM THE PRINCIPAL | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
“ Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” Philippians 2:1-2
Redeemer Lutheran College | Our Hope is in Christ 745 Rochedale Road Rochedale Queensland 4123 PO Box 6090 Upper Mount Gravatt Queensland 4122 Telephone 07 3340 8888 | Facsimile 07 3340 8800 record@redeemer.com.au | www.redeemer.com.au www.facebook.com/RedeemerLutheranCollege www.twitter.com/RedeemerCollege www.instagram.com/RedeemerCollege A school of the Lutheran Church of Australia Queensland District ARBN 051 602 996 | ABN 40 618 603 690 Enrolments: Mrs Nikki McKenzie, Enrolments Registrar Telephone 07 3340 8807 | enrolments@redeemer.com.au Redeemer Record is a publication of Redeemer Lutheran College © 2018 | Print Post Approved 100003942 Editor: Mr Julian Schubert, Director of Marketing and Communiations Contributions: record@redeemer.com.au Design and Print: Openbook Howden, Adelaide On the cover: Mikaela Logan & Ellie Knijnenburg (Year 12) Photography by: Mrs Kate Wilkinson
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REDEEMER RECORD | FROM THE PRINCIPAL
From the
P R I N C I PA L
Community
Every Face has a Place Children learn best when parents and teachers work together to encourage and support them. Schools alone cannot address all of a child’s developmental needs. The positive involvement of parents and extended family is essential – this all appears to be common sense, however, society has become more complex and demanding and, therefore, greater emphasis has to be placed on building good relationships based on honesty and trust. Clear, open communication is paramount. Sharing and upholding the same values is crucial if children are to be expected to uphold the same standards at home and at school. Children do not stop learning about values and relationship when they enter a classroom, nor do they stop learning academics and attitudes about learning when they are at home. Certainly, at Redeemer Lutheran College, we aim never to create a distinction between the roles that parents and teachers should play in a child’s development. At our College we aim to reach out to our families, always trying to make them feel welcome as full partners in the educational process. In return, our families make a commitment of time and energy to support their children both at home and at school. As well as attending parent, student and teacher conferences, supporting weekly assemblies and chapels, attending information evenings, concerts, sporting matches and other College events, parents of our College now have the opportunity to attend project showcase events where their children actively demonstrate their learning on topics from healthy eating, STEM projects, robotics, hospitality and art events to name a few. Also over the holidays staff will be running the first ICT Robotics workshop for parents only to assist them in keeping up with what their children are learning at school. Throughout the semester, parents have been actively involved in the Parents and Friends Committee, sport and music supporter groups, classroom carers, classroom reading programs and community bakers. Many of our parents gave up considerable time and resources to support the annual Redeemer Fair, a wonderful community event which serves not just our Redeemer families but also the extended community all around us.
Our annual Grandparents’ Day is also a great joy with almost 700 grandparents and special friends spending the day with their grandchildren to talk about learning and share in their school experience. It is not lost on me that many of these grandparents were heavily involved in the establishment of the College almost 40 years ago, contributing significantly in fundraising and other activities to see the College grow. We are very grateful to all those who supported the College over these many years and with the launch of our new master plan, we encourage our community to continue to invest in our future. In future months you will hear further from our College Foundation committee as they work with you all to assist in the reinvigoration projects planned in the coming years. The College has also sought to assist parents in their very important relationship with their children by providing a series of information evenings covering topics such as study skills for upper high school and parenting tips for young children and teenagers. Redeemer is also proud to launch a new resource for parents called SchoolTV. This exciting new resource is endorsed by top child expert, Dr Michael Carr-Gregg. Here, you will find a range of topics published monthly with comprehensive videos from leading specialists and organisations. You will also find fact sheets, suggested books, apps, websites and much more. SchoolTV works with great organisations such as Beyond Blue, ReachOut, HeadSpace and others to provide high quality information. This resource is available to all of our parents via the MyRedeemer portal and Redeemer App. We are very proud of our parental partnership in improving children’s achievement. Responses from our recent Quality Schools Survey confirm that our parents were extremely positive and supportive of the school. Shining very clearly through community feedback is that they value Redeemer as a community of Christian faith. “Community” is a compound word; ‘com’ means with and ‘unity’ means what the word says…unity or being unified or having a common union. God wants believers to dwell in union and in community having the same mind that is in Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:111). Thank you for being such active members of this Christian community. God Bless,
MRS TANYA CROOKS Principal
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FROM THE COLLEGE PASTOR | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
The Redeemers
W E LCO M E I have served, I received a nametag upon my installation. I now belonged to the Redeemer community. The word ‘community’ has its origin in the Latin word communis, ‘common.’ Hence, when we belong to a community, we search for the things we have in common, because what we have in common, creates community. And in turn, community gives us as sense of belonging. But belonging at its worst, becomes tribalism. This has been the sad story of humanity since our earliest forefathers and mothers. My community set against your community.
I have a small collection of nametags that I’ve collected over the years from the various places that I have served as pastor. Nametags are important. They convey a lot of things, but most importantly, I think, they convey that we belong. We belong to a certain community and we are happy to be associated with that community. I was installed at Redeemer as the College Pastor in March. And like other places that
Introducing our new
To feel that we belong, is one of the great joys of human existence. It’s one of the great joys, because we know how it feels not to belong. As philosopher and poet David Whyte says, ‘It’s interesting to think that our sense of woundedness around not belonging, is actually one of our core competencies — we are the one part of creation that knows what it’s like to live in exile, and that the ability to turn your face towards home, is one of the great human endeavours and the great human stories.’ This raises the question: When you turn your face towards home, where is that? Where is home? Where do you belong? Where do you get a sense of belonging that comes with being home? I’ve had to think about this a lot, as I immigrated to Australia
from Finland as a child. When I visit Finland, people ask me: ‘Where are you from,’ as they detect an accent. And at times here in Australia, I get asked, ‘Where are you from.’ When I answer ‘Melbourne,’ this doesn’t seem to satisfy. I’m not a Finn and I’m not Australian. I am an Australian-Finn. My native tongue is ‘Finn-glish.’ Yet, that’s not the entire story. It’s not even half the story. Because primarily, my identity as a person, comes from being a Christian. As Christians, we receive our identity in and through Christ. We are Christ people. Hence, we belong to Christ. Our identity, our belonging, comes only from Christ. The same goes for a Christian community such as Redeemer. Redeemer’s identity does not primarily come from its quality of education, or its pastoral care, or the plethora of other things that happen in a vibrant community such as Redeemer. Our College receives its identity and its belonging from Christ. And since Christ welcomes and embraces and loves all people, all people are received with Christ’s welcome at Redeemer. Hence, the Redeemer welcome, is actually the Redeemer’s welcome!
PASTOR MARK VAINIKKA College Pastor
CO L L E G E PA S TO R
Pastor Mark Vainikka On Friday 23 March, the Redeemer Lutheran College community of students, staff, parents and invited guests came together in Redeemer Chapel for the installation of Pastor Mark Vainikka, Redeemer’s new College Pastor! Pastor Mark was installed by the Rev Paul Smith, Bishop of the Lutheran Church of Australia Queensland District. Pastor Mark Vainikka comes to Redeemer Lutheran College from St Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Brisbane City. Pastor Mark was born in Helsinki, Finland, but grew up in Melbourne as an active member of the Finnish speaking Mikael Agricola Lutheran Parish.
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Before seminary, he studied business, majoring in accounting and communications and journalism. He has served congregations in Melbourne, Warwick, Toowoomba and Brisbane and has been in para-church ministry and College ministry. He has served the church in various governance roles and on various councils and committees. Pastor Mark looks forward to serving the Redeemer community and getting to know our students, parents and staff in the coming months!
REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE NEWS
Redeemer Launches a new
BUS SERVICE
Redeemer Lutheran College is excited to have this year launched a new dedicated bus service! Our new bus service is just $1 per trip (in 2018) and covers parts of the following suburbs: Eight Mile Plains (St John’s Lutheran Kindergarten) > Sunnybank > Robertson > Macgregor > Upper Mt Gravatt > Mt Gravatt East (St Mark’s Lutheran Early Learning Centre) > Carindale > Belmont > Mansfield > Mackenzie > Rochedale (The Rochedale Estates, Arise at Rochedale). The brand new 60 seat belted coach which is used exclusively by Redeemer Lutheran College across the day for excursions, and managed by Mt Gravatt Coach and Travel. In a special competition held at the end of 2017, the Bus was named “Bluey” by Rhys Thurston (Year 8) and its final look was inspired with designs from Ricky Wang (Year 5), Katrina Lee (Year 8) and Zander Shepherd (Year 8). For further information about the bus, including routes and timetables, visit www.redeemer.com.au/ enrolments/transport/bus
MASTER PLAN
Launch 2018 and Beyond Over 200 people filled Redeemer Chapel on Tuesday 13 March for the formal launch of the “2018 and Beyond” Master Plan to the College community. When we looked to creating a master plan for Redeemer, we had both now and the future firmly in our minds. We intentionally looked far beyond when any of our children—even our little Preppies— would graduate. We looked 30 years into the future—and beyond— to see what kind of learning environment we need to start creating now in order to confidently meet the world in decades’ time. To do this, we consulted widely and deeply with parents, school community members, alumni, staff and students. With the help of futurist Stephen Brown, we dreamed big about what a true learning community could look like. We also considered what teaching practices we will take forward and develop as we head to the future. Our architect partners, Fulton Trotter, then took this feedback and developed a visual master plan: precincts of spaces throughout our campus that will grow and develop over the next 30 years. Read more about Redeemer’s 2018 and Beyond Master Plan in the centre lift-out of this issue of Redeemer Record, or visit: www.redeemer.com.au/about/master-plan
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
2017
TO P AC H I E V E R S
Redeemer placed in the top ten of high school outcomes across all sectors Congratulations to our class of 2017 on their outstanding academic achievements last year. • College Dux, Peter Kleinschmidt, together with Caleb Caswell and Nathan Lau were awarded an OP1. • On average, 3.6 percent of OP eligible students have received an OP1 in the last 10 years. • 34% of our students received an OP between 1 and 6 in 2017. 77.6% of students received an OP1-15. • While the majority of students proceed directly to university, alternative pathways are also supported through TAFE students and traineeships offered in the Senior Years. On Wednesday 21 February, the College received a phone call from Mr Andrew Laming, Federal MP for Bowman and Chair of the Standing Committee for Employment, Education and Training in Canberra. He wanted to congratulate the College on our students’ achievements in 2017 which placed Redeemer in the top ten of high school outcomes across all sectors (370 schools). It comprised two state schools, two GPS schools, two Anglican schools, one regional school, two Catholic schools, one Lutheran and one non-denominational schools. Of the non-GPS schools, only two were in the Brisbane area, ours being one. Others were in Rockhampton, Mackay, Cairns and the Sunshine Coast. The two top state high schools where in Charleville and Murgon. This is the deepest analysis of public data performed by the government to date. The method included assessing quantity (proportion of SEPs achieving an OP compared to ICSEA predicted), and quality (mean OP). So what did this measure mean for us? It meant that Redeemer has always had a philosophy of not limiting students and parents from selecting an OP, and in the future an ATAR, pathway regardless of their young person’s academic ability. Out of our 109 Year 12 cohort for 2017, 89 were OP eligible.
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Those students who were not OP eligible completed their Queensland Certificate of Education as well as achieving a range of certificate courses towards their career pathway. When compared with schools of a similar student and parent body the number of students in a cohort who were OP eligible, was well above the average. Added to this, Redeemer achieved an OP mean (average of an OP10), a very high average when we do not deter students from this pathway. In 2016, Redeemer was placed in the Top 20 schools in the state for the highest percentage average for OP 1-5. This year we are in the top ten in the state for our overall achievement as a cohort. What should we take from all this? Whilst it is wonderful to receive accolades, we should never lose sight of what true education is all about. Lutheran schools place an emphasis on developing a caring environment, embracing high standards of teaching and learning, promoting Christian growth and development, whilst partnering with parents and community. This is also true at Redeemer where our focus is on being Curious, Courageous and Christ-led all within the context of community. On 22 February, we welcomed back our 2017 graduates who achieved an OP 1-3. The enormous work and dedication these
students showed in their studies is very commendable and it was my pleasure to recognise them in front of the Senior School. • Caleb Caswell (OP 1) - Double degree – B Arts / B Law at UQ. • Peter Kleinschmidt (OP 1) Bachelor’s degree in Performance Music at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music (Griffith). Peter was also privileged enough to receive the Dean’s Sir Samuel Griffith Scholarship, worth $60,000 dollars, and was invited to be a part of the Griffith Honours College. • Nathan Lau (OP 1) - OP 1 Course, Optometry at QUT • Matthew Huang (OP 2) - Double degree B.Engineering (Honours) / B.Mathematics at University of Queensland. • Anna Stirling (OP 2) - Double degree in Law, Government and International Relations and has received a $24,000 scholarship. • Peter Blakely (OP 3) - Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Chemistry, at Griffith Nathan Campus. • Catherine Hung (OP 3) - Bachelor of Speech Pathology • David Kwong (OP 3) - Bachelor of Music (Piano) at Queensland conservatory Griffith University.
REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE NEWS
Introducing
M A RT Y T H E M A S COT
We are excited to be able to introduce you to Redeemer’s new Mascot, Marty the Blue Tongue Lizard! Marty was welcomed into the Redeemer family at the Senior School and the Junior School Assemblies on 17-18 May! Our Blue Tongue Lizard was designed by Anabelle (Year 9), Emily (Year 6) and Imogen Henderson (Year 3) in a design competition last year where the Blue Tongue Lizard was the winning entry voted on by Redeemer’s students. We also acknowledge the Graduating Class of 2014 who had the vision for a new Redeemer Mascot, and contributed towards the project.
Why a Blue Tongue Lizard? Blue tongue lizards are curious and friendly animals. These are qualities that we are as Redeemer students aim to have also. Our mascot would show care for the students by being good natured and friendly. Blue tongues are native to Australia and are unique. They are also present in the Rochedale area and their blue tongue is used to frighten off attackers. They are friendly creatures and although shy they are territorial and are fierce in defence. Blue is also a colour that symbolises loyalty, courage, faith and heaven. It is the colour theme that represents our school and our spirit. Blue tongue lizards have stripes that depict their type. This has another meaning of being yourself. Our mascot could spread positive messages to the students about showing their true stripes - that is being themselves as individuals. This relates to the school value of integrity - being true to your values. Written by Anabelle, Emily and Imogen Henderson
The meaning of “Marty” Marty is named after Martin Luther, and the original concept of Marty came to life last year in 2017 while we were celebrating the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
Redeemer Commemorates As a growing college tradition over recent years, an ANZAC Dawn service was held on the Chapel Green on Tuesday 24 April as Redeemer’s special tribute to the ANZACs. Special thanks to all staff and students for organising this event, together with the community breakfast which followed the service, now in its seventh year. Redeemer’s Junior School and Senior School students came together for a combined whole school ANZAC Ceremony in Redeemer Chapel at 8.45am. This special service included participation by Redeemer’s Senior Concert Band, in addition to the Australian Light Horse Association. We were blessed that Tpr Tom Dawson, and Redeemer past parent Tpr Philip Mostert from the Australian Light Horse Association,
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A N Z A C D AY
were able to bring along their vintage vehicles to our ANZAC commemorations. Our students loved the opportunity to check out the old vehicles following the service.
Springwood Tri-Services RSL ANZAC Day March For the first time in many years, a contingent of over 40 Redeemer students from Prep to Year 12 marched alongside a number of staff in the local Springwood Tri-Services RSL Anzac Day parade and laid a wreath at the service that followed. A big thank you to the many students, parents and staff who supported this important occasion. We look forward to this growing this tradition in the coming years as we honour the Anzacs. Lest we forget.
REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE NEWS
Grandparents
D AY
What a spectacular day for Grandparents Day at Redeemer on Friday 4 May! Around 700 grandparents and special friends spent their day at Redeemer for a Senior School program in the morning for Years 7-12, and a Junior School program in the afternoon for Prep to Year 6. The highlight of the day was the Redeemer music showcase where 226 students performed across two amazing concerts!
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
A Fantastic
FA I R
A big thank you to everyone from across our local community who came along to support Redeemer Fair on Saturday 19 May. What a sensational day for one of our favourite events of the year! We particularly thank the Redeemer Parents & Friends Committee who coordinated a team of 260 volunteers to make the day possible! Well done everyone on such a successful Fair!
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REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE NEWS
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JUNIOR SCHOOL | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
From the Head of
JUNIOR SCHOOL Community – ‘Every Face Has A Place’ One of the defining qualities of a community is the strength of the connections that exist within it. The introduction of the fourth ‘C’Community this year has allowed the Junior School team the opportunity to really focus on what community looks and feels like for our students and parents.
MS LISA ROBINSON Head of Junior School
Building connections and ensuring that everyone feels they have a ‘place’ within our Junior School community is of paramount importance to us. This semester we have introduced a number of new initiatives to engage our parents and caregivers in a more authentic way. It is our desire to ensure that our parents feel connected and a part of the Redeemer community as much as our students do. Redeemer Class Carers – Is an initiative where volunteer parents from each class take on a pastoral role as carers for their child’s class. This role was created to help develop a sense of community within each class. Our class carers are as the name suggests volunteers who show care for their child’s class community, assisting families to build relationships with each other whilst also offering support if and when it may be needed. After all, we can never have too much care, and being a part of community means that we can all benefit from that sense of belonging and care for one another. Redeemer Bakers – Is a volunteer group of parents in the Junior School who assist in using their gifts and talents in the kitchen to help our community in a very hands on way. Our bakers have provided baked goods for teachers during Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences, assisted with catering for Junior School events and provided meals for families in need.
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Redeemer Readers – Is a group of parents and friends of the Junior School who give their time to read with students on a regular basis. This is an opportunity for our volunteers to make a difference in the lives of our students by spending one-on-one time reading and chatting about literature. This initiative has been an overwhelming success for our students, who welcome the opportunity to engage with members of our community in such a special way. This time is so much more than just an opportunity to read for our students. To engage in conversation and have an adult genuinely seek you out to spend time with you is a really special thing for our students. They feel special and important. Every Face Has a Place – This year as a staff we have engaged in a different way of praying for the students in the Junior School. If you come into the Junior School reception area you will find a poster with the title, ‘Every Face Has a Place’ and lots of photos of students on it. Each of the photos is of a student in the school that a staff member has prayed for. Each week when we meet as a staff, every member of the team takes a student’s name and prays for that student throughout the week. When that week is over, their photo will go up on the wall. It is important for us as a staff, for our students to know that each one of them is a gift from God and has a place not only in our hearts but in our school. It is a joy to work with a team of professionals who are passionate about providing an environment where students and families feel, understand the importance of and see the 4 C’s in action – Curiosity, Christ-Led, Courageous and Community.
REDEEMER RECORD | JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS
Junior School
NEWS Sumo Robot Tournament Redeemer’s Year 6 students filled the Kleinschmidt Centre with loud cheers and anticipation on 13 June for their Year 6 Sumo Robot Tournament! Students and a number of parents were sitting on the edge of their seats in a hard fought battle right to the very end! The winner of the 2018 Redeemer Lutheran College Sumo Robot Tournament was “Rhino”. Second place was “Hack3r”, and in Third place was “Bulldozer”. Congratulations to each of our teams for their magnificent machines that they built in Year 6 Robotics with Mr Vassallo this term!
Year 1 Restaurant Throughout Term 2, Year 1 students embarked on an exciting new learning journey with a focus around designing and implementing a restaurant in their classroom. This learning experience was in collaboration with their English unit on ‘Procedural Writing’, their Science unit on ‘Materials’, their Health unit on ‘Being Healthy and covered Mathematics concepts such as fractions, money, data, capacity, measurement and number.
During the course of the Learning Journey the students participated in a variety of experiences such as:
The aim of this learning experience was to be as authentic and real world as possible. Classroom layouts changed to create more open spaces and different learning stations for the students to access. Students worked within all three Year 1 classroom spaces and with all teachers. This provided the opportunity for students to have small group instruction along with focused learning experiences that catered for a variety of learning styles and abilities. This inquiry unit offered students many hands-on, creative and intellectually stimulating learning experiences.
• RedeemerChef judges from the Senior School to judge dips
• Designing and creating a Chinese restaurant • Hosting a Mother’s Day High Tea • An excursion to the Rochedale Markets fruit shop • Cooking experiences – Anzac biscuits, mini pizzas, dumplings, fruit salad, iced biscuits, dips
• Chinese dumpling cooking experience with a special guest chef • Visit from the College Nurse to discuss health and hygiene • Culminating and designing all aspects of the restaurant including, floor plans, invites, tickets, shopping lists, collecting the groceries from the Woolworths delivery truck, table settings, menus, preparation of food and roles for the day.
MRS CHRISTINA BIANCHI, MRS JESSICA WATSON, MRS NICOLA PENNISI Year 1 Teachers
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SENIOR SCHOOL | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
From the Head of
SENIOR SCHOOL Our Global Community Celebrating 18 years of deep human connection with our Japanese friends. The new education must be less concerned with sophistication than compassion. It must recognise the hazards of tribalism. It must teach man the most difficult lesson of all—to look at someone anywhere in the world and be able to see the image of himself. The old emphasis upon superficial differences that separate peoples must give way to education for citizenship in the human community. -- Norman Cousins
MRS ANASTASIA STRONG Head of Senior School
Norman cousins would have been proud of the human connection and understanding shared on Shibakashi Day, 2018. The Redeemer community welcomed 300 Japanese students and staff for this annual event, celebrating community, culture, friendship and an 18 year strong association with our Japanese friends. The day began with an opening ceremony where students from Shibikashi sang their school anthem and Redeemer students shared the Redeemer school song. Mrs. Tanya Crooks, Principal, warmly welcomed the Shibikashi staff and students and Mr. Nomura, Principal from the Shibikashi school, shared his gratitude for our long standing friendship and urged students to work together on a global scale to make a difference. Students from Year 5 and 6 joined us for the ceremony and Year 5 students performed a
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traditional Soranbushi dance. This proved to be a wonderful moment of unity, as Shibakashi students encouraged our students by singing along to the chorus. Our student visitors also shared a Japanese – English quiz which gave us a better understanding of the Japanese language and humorous cultural idiosyncrasies. Students shared a variety of cultural experiences during home group time and connected with each other on a more personal level during activity time. The sporting prowess of both schools was on show as they competed in friendly games of ultimate disc, volleyball, basketball, soccer and dodgeball. The Hospitality students and staff cooked an all Australian lunch of steak burgers and Tim Tams devoured by our guests. In the afternoon concert, Shibakashi students performed an energetic hip-hop dance routine and the Redeemer Stage Band and Senior Singers showcased our musical talent. It was then time to farewell our dear friends. It was sad to say goodbye, as our time together was short, but so sweet! Redeemer is proud to continue this annual day of cultural immersion which gives the students an opportunity to learn about our cultural similarities, differences and most importantly, to “look at someone anywhere in the world and be able to see the image of themselves”.
REDEEMER RECORD | SENIOR SCHOOL
Redeemer’s Greatest Shave Raises over $7,000! Redeemer Senior School held the annual World’s Greatest Shave event in the SL Block courtyard on Tuesday 22 May. This year we had 20 of our Senior boys sign up, most to have both their legs waxed and head shaved, in order to raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation. Together as a community we raised just over $7,000. This money will make an incredible difference to the lives of Australians diagnosed with leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma. It helps to fund continued research into blood cancers and how to best diagnose, monitor and treat these conditions. Congratulations to everyone who took part: Eddie Blazevic, William Boon, Harrison Brown, Alex Cambell, Marcus Chan, Alex Cuthbert, Steven Fritz, Lachie Garbutt, Zac Healey, Josh Hur, Matthew Kenny, Alex Killin, Connor Maynard, Carl Meyer, Joseph Ryland, Brent Simmonds, Ethan Slade, James Teale, Mack Tobin and John Wong. We are extremely proud of you all. A special mention to Eddie who raised over $1,200, Marcus, Brent, Mack and Alex Cuthbert who raised more than $500 each. But well done to every single person who sponsored, encouraged, got their hair sprayed or bought a can of drink on the day.
The Sketchbook Project Year 10 & 11 Visual Art Redeemer Art Department is participating in this year’s Sketchbook Project to give students an opportunity to be part of a global art community, to have their work included in the world’s largest collection of sketchbooks in Brooklyn Art Library, and to offer students a creative, “real-life” challenge and deadline. So if you ever visit New York, you can look them up! Or simply log onto the website and check where the books are and see if they have gone off in the mobile library van to other states!
Pavement Art 2018 Theme: “What a Card” Redeemer’s Senior School Interhouse Pavement Art competition for 2018 was held on Friday 25 May. Students had to devise a design that involved subjects related to playing cards or an individual card design. It was very entertaining to observe the buzz of activity as the four Houses, each with four teams, worked diligently supported by the keen crowd of onlookers. Out from the cloud of chalk dust emerged the most amazing, bold and colourful compositions, some communicating particularly strong messages and conceptual thinking! It was a most challenging job for the guest judge, Mrs Gregory.
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
JA PA N
Tour
On Monday 2 April, 25 Redeemer Japanese students and three staff members departed for the 2018 Japan Tour. It was a wonderful ten days for all involved and I consider myself very privileged to have been given the opportunity to travel with Mrs Elliot and Mr Nicholls and to show Japan to twentyfive fantastic students who were perfect ambassadors of Redeemer Lutheran College.
MS BROOKE ANDERSON Japanese Teacher “The tour was an amazing opportunity to experience Japan’s unique culture, history and attractions. My highlights were our day at Disneyland, the tours of temples and shrines including the spectacular Golden Pavilion, and our visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island. It was a busy ten days, and we were lucky to be able to see and do so much across Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima. It was also great having the chance to get to know the tour group and make friends in other grades.”
OLIVIA WORMWEL Year 12
Colour
RUN
170 Redeemer Senior School students participated in The Colour Run on Scurr Oval and Glover Fields at the end of the Senior School Interhouse Athletics Carnival on the last day of Term 2. The Colour Run, also known as the Happiest 5k on the Planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness, and individuality. Now the largest running series in the world, The Colour Run has been experienced by over 6 million runners worldwide in 35+ countries. All funds raised have been donated to support Beyond Blue.
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Over the April holidays, I, along with 24 other students, went to Japan for ten days. Although it was only ten days, it’s an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Each day of the tour was packed with action and attractions. We visited three cities; Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima. In Tokyo, we spent our first day of the tour in Disneyland, which was
magical. In Kyoto, we were taken on a tour bus to the temples and castles. My favourite days were in Hiroshima, where we met with a survivor of the atomic bombs, who shared with us her story. I’ll never forget the tour; the food, the flowers and the fun. Probably the best ten days of my life.
IRINI SKOURMALLAS Year 12
REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE NEWS
Introducing your 2018
STUDENT LEADERS
As College Captains of 2018, we are so excited and honoured to represent Redeemer and serve the school community.
Mansfield House Captains: Joshua Hur, Sabrina Henry
This year, we really want to focus on the theme of being Curious, Courageous, and Christ-Led, as these qualities are at the heart of the Student Leaders within our school. We endeavour to encourage our fellow students in any way we can to apply these understandings and promote a Christian approach to daily interactions and relationships, applying integrity to everyday life.
Wilson House Captains: Florina Adzanela, Irini Skourmallas
As senior role models in the community, we strive to fulfil these duties to the best of our ability with God’s strength and guidance. In doing this, we aim to establish a supportive and prospering environment at Redeemer, building on the school’s values within each sub-school. As Captains, we are all excited to see what we can develop in 2018, and how we can make Redeemer an even more inclusive and fun than it already is.
Faith and Service Captains: Alicia Johnson, Lily Oxford
We hope to further the involvement of the other captains, and are all eager to fulfil our responsibilities as the collective Captains team of 2018.
Ramsay House Captains: Marcus Chan, Adunni Ekundayo Academic Captains: Sarah Owens, Olivia Wormwell Community Service Captain: Emma Marlow Cultural and Traditions Captain: Ella Morse Earth Care Captains: Rhiannon Power, Gabrielle Rochet
Junior School Student Leaders Junior School Captains: Andy Lee, Caleb Godfrey, Sam Dewan, Sarah Simpson Junior School Service Leaders: Dean Thurstun, Rhys Wood, Emily Henderson, Anokhee Sundaram Junior School Music Captains: Sunah Chi, Jared Chng Junior School Sports Captains: Ethan Leadbetter, Ella White Lavarack House Captains: Dean Thurstun, Bowie Czerner
Year 12 Student Leaders
Ramsay House Captains: Eli Hadwen, Ellie Koppens
Boys’ College Captain: Brent Simmonds
Mansfield House Captains: Samuel Law, Kiara White
Girls’ College Captain: Mikaela Logan
Wilson House Captains: Lilly Wu, Bailey Darnell
Girls’ Vice Captain: Helen Craze
BRENT SIMMONDS & MIKAELA LOGAN
Boys’ Vice Captain: Alex Campbell
College Captains
Sports Captains: Eddie Blazevic, Chloe Dart
HELEN CRAZE & ALEX CAMPBELL
Music Captains: Harrison Brown, Bronte Kelly
Vice Captains
Lavarack House Captains: Alex Killin, Jasmine Buckley
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MUSIC NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
Music
NEWS 2018 Performance Music … so far Some statistics – WOW! 2018 has already been monumental for Performance Music at Redeemer. Some staggering statistics:
MR DAVID LAW Head of Performance Music
•
Over one-quarter of the College sing in a choir by choice and for fun.
•
Over one-quarter of the College play a band or orchestral instrument – many students play multiple instruments and sing in a choir!
• There are over 100 students learning the piano at Redeemer, and we now have five itinerate piano teachers. • We have students taking lessons on all of these instruments: Piccolo, Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Percussion, Drum Kit, Guitar, Bass Guitar, Voice, Piano, Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass. Some performances – WOW! Senior Singers performed with Australian icon Katie Noonan as part of a Lutheran schools music collaboration and celebration at St Andrew’s, Tallebudgera, entitled “Festival of Song”. The evening was terrific and the oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to sing and perform with Ms Noonan was greatly appreciated by all in attendance. Well done, in particular, to the four members of Chamber Strings who accompanied Ms Noonan as a string quartet – Harrison Brown (violin), Teresa Poon (violin), Jasmine Buckley (viola) and Kosta Vouloukos (cello) – and gave their absolute best. Chamber Strings, Redeemer Chorale and Senior Singers delivered an outstanding performance as part of their concert collaboration with the Queensland Youth Orchestra Wind Ensemble at Brisbane’s Old Museum Building. It is such an honour for Redeemer to have formed a longstanding relationship with one of Queensland’s most significant cultural organisations. Our Year 5 Band Bootcamp was a huge success and, as a result, our Year 5 Band and Junior Concert Band are performing well-above
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expectations this year – they are sounding incredible! All students in Year 5 are to be congratulated on their diligence and teamwork. Well done to all students, in all ensembles, on a superb start to 2018. Some awards – WOW! Congratulations to Senior Concert Band, Intermediate Concert Band, Chamber Strings, Junior Choir and College Choristers who all received GOLD awards at the Queensland Youth Music Awards, which was held at a number of venues across Brisbane in May and June. Special mention to College Choristers to made it to the final and received an additional GOLD award, and also to Senior Concert Band who won their section and were awarded the E.G. Lefever Sacbut Shield. This is the fourth time in six years that Senior Concert Band have won this award, and this is yet another astonishing effort from, truly, one of the very best secondary school concert bands in the country. A podium – WOW! Thank you to the Healy family for the generous donation of a custom-built podium for the Music department. Zac, Year 12, completed this project as part of his assessment for Technology Studies. It has been measured and constructed to professional standards, has lockable wheels, and a removable bar to allow for ease-oftransport. It is absolutely extraordinary and has already assisted us to make music at the highest possible level (pun intended!) Things to come – WOW! Over this current winter break, 56 students, and 6 staff members, will travel to Hobart to perform in Tasmania’s Festival of Voices! Redeemer’s Biennial Piano/Vocal Competition will take place on 13-14 August. We are hoping that this event will be bigger and better than ever! The Redlands Eisteddfod, Gold Coast Eisteddfod and MusicFest are just around the corner – all Performance Music ensembles are working hard to deliver the finest possible performances in Semester 2. We hope you can join us at our next performance. Come along and celebrate the wonderful sense of community that is at the very core of our Performance Music program at Redeemer.
REDEEMER RECORD | MUSIC NEWS
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SPORT NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
Sport
NEWS
Spotlight on Sport In 2018 we have made a conscious effort to improve the awareness of Redeemer Sport through increased communication and promotion. This includes increased communication via email, MyRedeemer and Social Media. Spotlight on Sport is another way in which we aim to raise the profile of Sport in both the Junior School and Senior School. Spotlight on Sport includes articles, reviews and photos highlighting what goes on in the Sport department during each term. We deliver two issues each term (mid-term and end of term). If you haven’t yet seen Spotlight on Sport you can do so on MyRedeemer in Co-curricular > Sport > Spotlight on Sport, or via Newsletters on the Redeemer App. Please feel free to email Mr Michael Conlon ( mconlon@redeemer. com.au) if you have any interesting stories, photos or news articles you wish to share with the wider community.
Start, Strive, Select Our Start, Strive, Select, programs have continued in 2018. What is Start, Strive, Select? Start sports are introductory programs, many of which happen in Years P–3. These programs are designed to encourage students to try a variety of new sports and eventually to begin to foster a passion and a love for sport, which will flow into their teenage years and adulthood. Strive are the sports we offer in competition format, for example JTAS and GBC. The emphasis on Strive is that we as players, teams and coaches aim to perform to our best potential. We should promote the Redeemer values, Integrity, Excellence, Service, Care and Self-Discipline in our training, lifestyle choices and performance. We must always remember that we do not encourage winning at the expense of our core values and that friendships, curiosity and courage are vital in our enjoyment and long-term continued participation.
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Select is the introduction of high performing year round training programs, which aim to improve the technical and tactical performances of our advanced athletes. Our programs are Tennis Select and Volleyball Select, both of which are seeing significant success in regards to player development and thus an advanced performance level in GBC competition. Select sports have been chosen due to the long-term success, support and performance level of Redeemer students who regularly participate in these sports. Students who participate in select sports are provided with opportunities to represent Redeemer at external high level sporting competitions. Moving forward, we will continue to develop these programs and review additional select program opportunities with a long-term vision in mind.
Junior Sport What an amazing first half of 2018 for Junior School sport. We had an increase of students qualify for Logan District Teams and Met East Teams. Early in the year we had success at JTAS and SLAPS swimming carnivals and more recently at the Cross Country carnivals. We have almost hit the magic ‘100’ mark for participation numbers in JTAS each term with Term 3 sign-on indicating this trend will continue which we think is absolutely amazing! Our after school programs for Prep-3 have been extremely popular and we have already locked-in our Term 3 programs for Prep-3 which include Ginger Soccer and Bounce Basketball. Whether you’re a student, staff member, parent or supporter, your continued support and enthusiasm is what makes Redeemer Sport so successful. We are extremely excited for the remainder of 2018 and the many exciting opportunities to come. ‘THANK YOU’ to our Junior School sport community.
MR MICHAEL CONLON Coordinator of Sport (P-12)
REDEEMER RECORD | SPORTS NEWS
Sport
NEWS
Senior Sport
TRI M ESTER 1
In 2018, Redeemer has continued to excel in the sporting arena at Logan District Carnivals and GBC. Throughout this time, students and teams have continued to make us proud to wear blue. Exhibiting outstanding sportsmanship and teamwork whilst being disciplined and applying their skills with excellence, we have walked away with some outstanding results. Congratulations to all students and staff who have represented Redeemer with distinction In GBC, Logan District, Hockey matches, Volleyball Schools Cup, club teams and more.
Swimming For Logan District Swimming, Redeemer again walked away with some outstanding results; Overall Aggregate
First
Per Capita Shield
First
Senior Girls 16-19 Years
First
Senior Boys 16-19 Years
Second
Junior Girls 13-15 Years
Second
Junior Boys 13-15 Years
Second
Redeemer placed third for girls in GBC Swimming. Logan District Cross Country
TRI M ESTER 2
Girls Tennis Senior Seconds Intermediate
Boys Tennis Second Third
Boys Volleyball Senior Firsts Senior Seconds Intermediate Firsts Junior Seconds Overall
Second Premiers Second Third Third Third Second
Girls Netball Premiers Second Premiers Second Premiers
Girls Basketball Senior Firsts Senior Seconds
Senior Firsts Senior Seconds Intermediate Firsts Intermediate Seconds Junior Firsts Junior Seconds Overall Senior Firsts Senior Seconds Intermediate Firsts Overall
Third Third Second Third
Girls Football (Soccer) Third Second
Senior Intermediate Overall
Second Third Second
Boys Cricket Senior Junior Overall
Third Premiers Third
Overall for GBC Champion School Redeemer placed:
Overall Aggregate
Third
Per Capita Shield
First
Third
Second
MR MITCHELL THOMAS Head of HPE and Sport
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COLLEGE COUNCIL NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
College Council
MR ROSS WARBROOKE Outgoing Chair, College Council
NEWS Master Plan Launch
Strategic Plan
Following months of planning and consultation with the Redeemer community throughout 2017, it was with great excitement that College Council launched Redeemer’s ‘2018 and Beyond’ Master Plan to our community earlier this year on Tuesday 13 March. At the heart of the Redeemer Master Plan is a desire to equip Redeemer learners for the changes forecast for their futures—including jobs that are yet to be created, and a world that will need people who are curious, courageous and Christ-led.
As we approach the half way point of the College’s 2017-2019 Strategic Plan, College Council continues to monitor the implementation of each component of the plan by the Management Team of the College. As we continue to see many of the new initiatives introduced, Council will commence preliminary work for the next Strategic Plan due for release at the end of next year.
The Redeemer community—students, parents, staff, alumni and members of the Our Saviour community—are invited to continue to give feedback as the Master Plan unfolds.
After working with the Queensland District of the Lutheran Church of Australia throughout 2017 to identify a suitable Pastor, College Council was delighted to welcome Pastor Mark Vainikka to Redeemer Lutheran College following the acceptance of his call. Pastor Mark was installed as College Pastor on Friday 23 March. We pray God’s richest blessings for Pastor Mark as he serves our College community into the future.
First Steps The first step in the development of the College’s Master Plan is for the development of a multi-use facility which will be built on the existing Glover Fields site at the rear of the College. This new facility which is proposed to commence later this year, will allow for the future smooth replacement of the existing facilities. A new car park with access from Priestdale Road will also be incorporated into the project, together with new Tennis Court facilities, which will take on the Glover name from the existing ‘Glover Fields’.
A new College Pastor
Community As our College celebrates the year of Community in 2018, we offer a special vote of thanks to the excellent work of the Parents and Friends Fair Committee for an outstanding Redeemer Fair held on Saturday 19 May. Following many hours of volunteer time and months of planning, we were delighted to see the sun shining upon Redeemer for such a special celebration of our community.
A New Chair
MS SARAH DIXON Incoming Chair 22
We are happy to announce that Ms Sarah Dixon was elected unopposed as our new Chair of College Council. Sarah has served on College Council since 2007 and most recently as Secretary. Sarah is a past student of Redeemer (graduating in 1997), and is currently a Group Manager at Rowland, one of Australia’s largest independent communication, digital and creative agencies. Sarah has more than 15 years’ experience as a corporate communication practitioner at the forefront of Australian public affairs. In her executive role, she acts as a trusted advisor to her clients, many of which are among the country’s largest companies.
You can read more about Sarah at: www.redeemer.com.au/about/ college-council • Chair: Ms Sarah Dixon • Vice Chair: Re-elected to the role of Vice Chair is Mr Andrew Spyropoulos. • Secretary: Mr Ross Warbrooke. • Members: Mr Michael Hoopmann, Ms Margit Hubbers, Mr Cameron Jaggers, Mrs Judy Powell, Mr James Tan. • Consultants: Mr Shaun McKenzie, Rev Robin Stelzer.
REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE COUNCIL NEWS
College Council Profile Margit Hubbers Role on College Council: As well as being on Council, I am a member of the Finance and Risk Management Committees. Qualifications: Dip T (Primary and Special Schools); B Ed, Grad Dip Special Education; Working with Children Suitability Blue Card. Occupation: Now retired (as of July 2015), but I was a Learning Support and Special Needs Teacher.
MARGIT HUBBERS College Council
Skillset/experience brought to Redeemer Lutheran College governance from your professional career: An understanding of the education process from different points of view - as an educator and as a parent. My Christian faith so that the College will always have its ‘Hope In Christ’. Association to the College: I am a Past Parent (2001 – 2007) of the College and also a Past Staff Member (2002 – 2009). Home church/congregation: Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Rochedale. Summary of service in congregation/ parish/wider church: I am currently a Deacon at Our Saviour. Also a past Chair
of the congregation and past member of the Governance Council. I am also currently Secretary of the District Church Council of the Lutheran Church of Australia Queensland District. I sing in the church choir, and am on the roster for reading during the service, prayer and morning tea. Summary of community service: Helping with the Tuesday morning Playgroup that meets in the MPC. Coffee after the Junior School Chapel Service each week. Where did you go to school?: I grew up in Kingaroy and attended the local Primary and Secondary schools. I did my teacher training at what was then called Mount Gravatt Teachers’ College, now Griffith University. What do you like most about Redeemer?: That the College is concerned about the whole child/student, not just their brains. The educational (learning), physical, social, emotional and spiritual development of each student is important so that they can become caring and compassionate global citizens of the future. The close partnership between the College and the Our Saviour congregation is also very important to me.
College Council Elections Following 8½ years of diligent and faithful leadership, Mr Ross Warbrooke has stepped down from the role of Chair of College Council at the AGM held on Thursday 21 June, 2018. Ross joined College Council as a member in May 2006, and was elected to the role of Vice-Chair early in 2004. Throughout these early years of his involvement, Ross recalls many College milestones, namely the seeing the Chapel built (2000); Kleinschmidt Centre (1998); Middle School opening (1999); and the introduction of the Junior School (2007). Ross was elected to the position of Chair early in 2010. The College community is extremely appreciative for his leadership in the governance of our College throughout his term as Chair, and for overseeing many initiatives throughout this time, including the construction of the Multi-Purpose Centre (2010); recognition of the Simpfendorfer family (Simpfendorfer Drive) and the Glover family (Glover Fields) in 2012; College Strategic Plans produced in his time as Chair; and the current Master Plan of the College (2018 and beyond). We are grateful that Ross will continue to serve on College Council in a different capacity and was elected to the role of Secretary.
College Council Sub-Committees Expressions of Interest Redeemer Lutheran College Council will soon be seeking expressions of interest for suitably qualified people (including parents, past parents, past students, or Redeemer supporters) who would be interested in serving the College through one of the following sub-committees: • Finance Committee •
Master Plan and BGT (Building, Grounds & Technology) Committee
• Risk and Compliance Committee If you have experience or qualifications in any of the areas related to the above committees and are interested in serving our College in a voluntary capacity, please email council@redeemer.com.au to register your interest. This will allow application details and terms of reference to be forwarded to you when expressions of interest open, in due course.
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD – JULY 2018
Staff Profile – Pastor
M A R K VA I N I K K A Where is the best place you’ve traveled to and why? The Priory of St Wigbert, Werningshausen, Germany. I spent some time at this Lutheran monastery during my long service leave in 2013. After all these years, just thinking about the place and recalling the early mornings singing Lauds with the brothers, still fills me with an inner peace. What is your favourite thing to do?
What are you looking forward to the most about being Redeemer’s College Pastor? I am most excited about becoming a student of the Redeemer community, learning about its history, its defining narratives and most importantly its people and finding out how God’s ‘grand-narrative’ is lived out at Redeemer. Schools are exciting places and Lutheran schools especially so. Schools are where the Church and society intersect. Hence schools are at the coalface of our Church’s contact with society. What congregations/schools have you previously been a Pastor at? I have served at Trinity Lutheran Church, Pasadena (SA, Vicar); St Paul’s Lutheran Church, East Toowoomba (Qld); Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Darling Heights (Qld); St Peter’s Lutheran Church, Warwick (Qld); Martin Luther Primary School, Centenary Heights (Qld); Concordia Lutheran College, Toowoomba (Qld) and The Lutheran Church of St Andrew the Apostle, Brisbane City. Where were you born? I was born in Helsinki, Finland, but immigrated to Melbourne when I was a child. Who is your role model, and why? I have many role models, most importantly of course our Redeemer, Jesus Christ – God among us. But
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there are many more. I am drawn to the motherly love of St Monica, the contemplation of St Benedict, the humility of St Therese of Lisieux, the optimism of Julian of Norwich, the clarity of Martin Luther, the fearlessness of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the ecumenism of Pope John 23rd, the activism of Thomas Merton and the courageous compassion of Oscar Romero. When you were a school student, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a pastor. I come from a long line of pastors and I remember being in Church in my early teens and being surprised by an overwhelming desire to be a pastor one day. What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? Follow your passion, but do it in the service of others. Fail quickly and productively (meaning, learn from your mistakes). You are not your thoughts, because thoughts come and go and you should allow them to do so with little attachment. Your identity is in and through Christ. What is your favourite Bible verse? Galatians 2: 19-20 ‘For through the law I died to the law, so that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.’
I’m a long distance runner and love running. I find it therapeutic and meditative and a wonderful way to calm a busy mind, while doing something physically useful. What is the one thing you cannot resist? Going for a run. Tell us something that might surprise us about you. I’m a ‘wannabe’ monk (obviously, my wife Minna laughs at me when I say this). While I understand that a monk’s life is clearly not for me, my desire reflects the impact that contemplative Christianity has had on me. Also, although professionally I have never worked with my hands, I enjoy restoring old cars in my spare time. What are some words of wisdom you would like to pass on to current students? As Mark Manson says, our most radical changes in perspective, often happen at the tail end of our worst moments. Pain is part of life. If we just chase after highs and cover up the pain, if we simply pretend that the pain isn’t there, or chase after distractions, or take something to numb the pain, we will not learn how to deal with pain, which will inevitably come. Don’t be surprised when the pain comes. God doesn’t take away our pain with a magic trick. He calls us into the thick of it; he runs with us into the fire. He reminds us that we will be able to get up again. And when life hits hard, we will see that we can take a lot more than we think right now. We can close our eyes and fall and still be okay. Because as we fall, we are caught and sustained and held by the eternal arms of God.
Our Saviour Lutheran Church News
F A M I LY Our Saviour Lutheran Church worships in Redeemer Chapel, 745 Rochedale Rd, Rochedale Every Sunday, 8.30am morning worship (including children’s ministries), 5.30pm evening worship For more information contact Our Saviour Lutheran Church office, “Doorways” 525 Underwood Rd, Rochedale Phone: 3219 0055 Email: office@oslc.org.au Website: www.oslc.org.au Pastoral Care Hotline: 0439 606 989
What is a family? If a questionnaire was to circulate in this community there would no doubt be a variety of different responses to the question, indicative of the diversity that exists amongst our families. Our culture, our heritage, our background and importantly our own experience of family shapes our ideas of what a family is and how we might express our own version of family as we have the opportunity. For some, the notion of large, extended family gatherings, for any reason (and sometimes for no reason), is the truest and most exciting element of family life. For others, even a small gathering on a rare occasion is more than they might bear. Some families have multiple generations living under one roof, whilst other families are spread around the world. Some families speak with each other daily whilst others may go weeks and months without contact. There are families who live in a loving and supportive environment and there are sadly families for whom everyday life is a constant challenge. This is the reality and diversity of ‘Family’. As you ponder on your own understanding of family, I wonder if you have considered your connection with the family of God? The Church. As a community of faith, we are brothers and sisters and all a part of God’s great family. And our expression of the family of God is as diverse as the descriptions given above. As a Church we are not perfect, we get things wrong and our relationships break
down. Our gatherings are not always joyful celebrations, sometimes they are experiences of pain and grief. And yet we continue to get together around the family table, to eat and to drink and to share the love that our heavenly Father offers to us. Recently Our Saviour Lutheran Church has been exploring what this “Love” is all about. What is this ‘greatest love on earth’, this ‘love without limits’? It’s a love that transcends all of the struggles that our daily life brings to us. It’s a love that walks beside us through the pain and the sorrow and a love that leaps with us in our joys and celebrations. Come home to the family. Come and join us around the table of our Lord. Everyone is welcome here! “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are” (1 John 3:1-2) At Our Saviour Lutheran Church we are inspired by the love of Jesus to share our family life and the joy that we have in the Father’s love.
MR CARL ECKERMANN Ministry Development Coordinator
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Our Saviour Lutheran Church News
EASTER LIVE
at Redeemer
Redeemer was alive throughout the April school holidays as over 1,000 people filled Redeemer Chapel across the Easter weekend, to experience the Easter story presented by Our Saviour Lutheran Church.
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Over 100 contributors (including many Redeemer students, past students, staff and parents) were involved in the series of services from Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday, presenting the Easter message with dance, drama, music and messages.
Our Saviour Lutheran Church News
Over $14,000 Raised at
CABERNET & CANAPÉS 2018
Getting Involved at
OUR S AV I O U R
• Helping Hands – Serving others within our community on Friday evenings • Prep Readers – Reading Bible stories to Prep students on Wednesdays • Play Group – Parents and Grandparents of babies and toddlers meet on Tuesday mornings • Kids for Christ – Children’s Ministry for 5-10 year olds on Sunday mornings • OSYouth Group – Youth Ministry for Years 7-12 on Friday evenings at Redeemer Chapel • Wednesday Morning Cuppa – For parents following Junior School Assembly on Wednesday mornings •
Cabernet & Canapés was held in Redeemer’s Senior Resource Centre on Saturday 12 May 2018. A great night of Fine Wine; Canapés; Guest speaker: International Wine writer, Tyson Stelzer; Holiday Auctions; Live Music and great company! Over $14,000 was raised on the night in support of the Redeemer Chapel Welcome Hub Appeal.
NEW SCHOOL APP NEW SCHOOL APP AVAILABLE NOW AVAILABLE NOW for iPhone, Android & iPad for iPhone, Android & iPad
Mid-Week Prayer Group – Wednesday mornings in the Prayer Chapel
Contact ‘Doorways’ for more information on how to get involved, or visit www.oslc.org.au
REDEEMER ALUMNI | REDEEMER RECORD
Redeemer remembers...
From The College Archives 10 years ago
2008
20 years ago
1998
30 years ago
1988
2008: Cambodia Team, Student Leaders, Springboard Fashion Parade | 1998: Student Council, ‘Lipsync’ Event, Class of ‘98 | 1988: Formal ‘88 , Computer Room H Block, Library C Block
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REDEEMER RECORD | REDEEMER ALUMNI
ALU M N I
News
Redeemer Congratulates Zac Alexander (06) on achieving Gold at the Games! Since turning pro Zac has amounted a considerable amount of PSA Titles; 26 to date. In that time he rose to a career high world ranking of 36 before being struck down by a hip injury which saw him out of the game for nearly a year.
Redeemer Lutheran College congratulates past student, Zac Alexander (2006) and David Palmer on their nail-biting, Gold medal winning match against England on the final day of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games on 15 April! Zac has enjoyed a successful junior career winning multiple Australian Junior Titles and leading the Australian Junior Team at the World Juniors in New Zealand in 2006, while in his final year at Redeemer. Upon graduating from Redeemer, Zac then turned to full time training as an AIS Athlete from 2007-2009 before embarking on his senior career being based in the United States alongside long-time coach Rodney Martin and fellow professionals Ryan Cuskelly and Kasey Brown.
In more recent seasons Zac has based himself back in Australia collecting PSA titles all around the country though his focus now turns to representing Australia at the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in April 2018 in the Men’s Doubles event. Zac has already tasted success in the event with a Silver Medal at the World Doubles in Darwin in 2016 along with a Gold Medal at the Malaysian Open Doubles Championships later the same year.
Redeemer Lutheran College is proud to be a part of a system of schools that contributed significantly to the medal tally, including our sister school, St Peters Lutheran College Indooroopilly who was delighted to be associated with the winners of 16 medals at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. “Thanks for the support all week to all the network at Redeemer! Greatly appreciated.” – Zac Alexander
Redeemer’s former Head of Senior School, and current Executive Director of Lutheran Education Queensland, Mr Dennis Mulherin recalls that “Zac was the only Year 12 HPE student between 1994-2002 to beat his teacher in squash! (Flogged his teacher if truth be known!)”. Zac was among a collection of at least 20 other past or present Lutheran school students from across Australia who participated in the recent Gold Coast Games.
Photo Credit: Jono Searle/Getty Images AsiaPac (www.zimbio.com)
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REDEEMER ALUMNI | REDEEMER RECORD
ALU M N I
News
Weddings Mark Owen (06) married Farron Sullivan on Saturday 19 May at the Mount Cotton Rainforest Gardens. A beautiful day with perfect weather!
High school sweethearts, Nicholas Hoopmann (11) and Kelsey (Britton 11) were married on 10 April 2017 in the Gold Coast Hinterland after six years together. Three other Class of 2011 past students stood beside them in the wedding party. Daniel Grant (11) was Nick’s best man, Chloe O’Connor (11) was Kelsey’s maid of honour and Bree Stewart (11) was master of ceremonies.
Births
In Memorium
Carleigh (Friend 06) and Elliott Fraser (05) are excited to share that their second son Max John Fraser entered the world on the 16 March 2018, loved by mum, dad and brother, Blake.
Glen Eric Simpfendorfer (87) 7 June 1970 - 23 May 2018 Redeemer Lutheran College is saddened to announce the passing of Glen Simpfendorfer (Redeemer Alumni, Class of 1987). Glen passed away peacefully after a hard-fought battle with Motor Neurone Disease, aged 47 years. Glen was the son of Redeemer’s founding Chaplain, the late Pastor Eric Simpfendorfer; dearly loved husband of Zdenka, and Papa to Jessica and Lilly, and Ella the dog. Much loved son of Eric (dec.) and Cynthia; and brother of Lisa (87), and Jane (89) & Pastor Paul Thiele. A Funeral Service to honour Glen was held in the Lakeview Chapel at Albany Creek Memorial Park on Wednesday 30 May 2018 Support for Glen’s young family would be appreciated and can be made at www.gofundme.com/23tqkek
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REDEEMER RECORD | REDEEMER ALUMNI
Ally West (2017, Sports Captain), recently participated in the National Indoor Netball Championships and was part of two Queensland sides (U19 Mixed 6’s and U19 Mixed 7’s) who took out the national titles. Ally was once again selected in the Australian U19 Mixed team to tour South Africa in October of this year. The Redeemer community congratulates Ally and wishes her all the best.
Dominic Harper (2010), (pictured second from right) has had success with his band, The Comfort. Having studied music and music extension under Mrs Jillian Hunt and also being a member of Chorale, Fellas and the Senior Singers, Dominic developed his musical ability throughout his schooling at Redeemer. With a recent signing to Greyscale Records and a debut album out in late 2018, the four piece rock band is due to increase their fanbase all throughout Australia, Europe and the USA.
William Kilah (2016), Tom Ryan (2015) and Sam Pennisi (2015) have just recently released a single with their band, ‘Blood Bank’. The song ‘Alone’ has been picked up by 4JJJ and playing on Australian radio. The song after being released by the boys on 17 May went straight into Spotify’s and Apple iTunes ‘Fresh New Emerging Hottest Charts’. It listed in the charts just 2 places behind Wolfmother, (The Joker and The Thief) which won a Grammy nomination). Check out the song at www.bloodbank.bandcamp.com
Past staff members Robyn Solomon, Narelle Bowden-Ford and Frank Ford were delighted to meet past student Karen Gaston (Rutherford 1996) at the Gallipoli Medical Foundation’s High Tea recently. Karen is a partner at Thynne + Macartney Lawyers who are Foundation sponsors and Karen was one of the speakers along with Quentin Bryce, former Governor General.
Reunions
Past students and teachers are invited to attend the reunion of their graduating class from Redeemer Lutheran College.
Class of 2008
Class of 1998
Class of 1988
10 Year Reunion
20 Year Reunion
30 Year Reunion
When: Saturday 1 September 2018
When: Saturday 1 September 2018
When: Saturday 6 October 2018
Time:
Time:
7.00pm – 11.00pm
7.00pm – 11.00pm
Time:
7.00pm – 11.00pm
Where: The Glen Hotel, Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains
Where: The Glen Hotel, Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains
Where: The Glen Hotel, Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains
RSVP:
RSVP:
RSVP:
with online payment by Monday 27 August 2018
with online payment by Monday 27 August 2018
with online payment by Monday 1 October 2018
Tickets: www.redeemer.com.au/events/reunions Cost: $25 per person Coordinators: If you would like to help organise the 10, 20 or 30 year reunions, please email alumni@redeemer.com.au Further information: www.redeemer.com.au/community/alumni | alumni@redeemer.com.au | 07 3340 8844
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Redeemer
EVENTS CALEN DAR
The full college calendar can be found online at:
redeemer.com.au/events/calendar
JULY
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
JANUARY
Monday Thursday
Term 3 Commences 2019 Year 8 & 9 Subject Selection Evening
24
Tuesday
Prep-Year 12 Parent/Teacher/Student Partnership Meetings
30 Monday
Parents and Friends Meeting, 7.00pm-9.00pm (Senior Resource Centre)
4 Tuesday 5 Wednesday 5 Wednesday 13 Monday 14 Tuesday Wednesday 15
Year 12 QCS Test Year 12 QCS Test Redeemer Music Concert Series #6, 6.00pm & 7.30pm (KCA) Biennial RLC Piano/Vocal Competition, 6.00pm-9.00pm (KCA) Biennial RLC Piano/Vocal Competition, 6.00pm-9.00pm (KCA) Exhibition Public Holiday
20
Monday
2019 Year 10 & 11 Subject Selection Evening
23
Thursday
‘Experience Redeemer’ college tour, 9.00am-11.00am
1 Saturday 1 Saturday 1 Saturday 3 Monday
Alumni Class of 2008 – 10 Year Reunion, 7.00pm (The Glen Hotel) Alumni Class of 1998 - 20 Year Reunion, 7.00pm (The Glen Hotel) Chamber by Candlelight, 7.30pm (KC) Parents and Friends Meeting, 7.00pm-9.00pm (Senior Resource Centre)
15 Saturday
GBC Finals Round
21
Term 3 Concludes
Friday
1 Monday 6 Saturday Tuesday 8 Thursday 11 12 Friday
Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday Alumni Class of 1988 - 30 Year Reunion, 7.00pm (The Glen Hotel) Term 4 Commences Redeemer Music Concert Series #7, 7.00pm (KC) Senior Formal, 5.00pm-11.20pm (Sirromet Winery)
22
Monday
Student Free Day
26
Friday
‘Experience Redeemer’ Showcase Open Day
Friday 2 5 Monday 7 Wednesday 9 Friday
Redeemer Concert Series #8 – Senior School Finale Concert, 7.00pm (KC) Parents and Friends Meeting, 7.00pm-9.00pm (Senior Resource Centre) Redeemer Sports Awards Evening, 7.00pm (Chapel) Redeemer Concert Series #9 – Junior and Middle Years Finale and BYO Evening Picnic, 6.00pm (MPC)
15
Valedictory Service, 7.00pm (Chapel)
Thursday
30 Friday
Senior School Celebration Ceremony, 8.45am (Chapel)
4 4 9
Junior School Celebration Ceremony, 8.45am (Chapel) Term 4 Concludes Carols on the Green, 5.00pm (Chapel Green)
Tuesday Tuesday Sunday
24 Monday
Christmas Eve Service at Redeemer Chapel, 7.00pm
25 Tuesday
Christmas Day Service at Redeemer Chapel, 8.30am
28
Australia Day Public Holiday
Monday
29 Tuesday
Term 1, 2019 Commences (Prep Orientation, Years 7, 8, 9 and 12)
30 Wednesday
Term 1, 2019 Commences (Prep-Years 6, 10 and 11)
Thursday 23 August, 9.00am - 11.00am Thursday 23 August, 9.00am -11.00am 96.5 FM live Friday 26 October, 9.00am - 6.00pm
from 6.00am
Join us for a College Tour and Experience Redeemer’s Join us for a College Tour andexcellent Experience Redeemer’s vibrant learning community, music and creative vibrant learning community, excellent music and creative arts programs, sports and service opportunities. arts programs, sports and service opportunities. RSVP RSVP www.redeemer.com.au/experience www.redeemer.com.au/experience 745Rochedale RochedaleRoad, Road,Rochedale Rochedale 745 Telephone 07 3340 8822 Telephone 07 3340 8822 enrolments@redeemer.com.au enrolments@redeemer.com.au
Curious Courageous
Experience the Redeemer Difference
OBH14330
AUGUST
16 19
Christ-Led
New Redeemer Bus! Rochedale, Mackenzie, Carindale, Wishart, Mt Gravatt, Sunnybank www.redeemer.com.au/bus