Rothwell GRACE GAZETTE October Edition 2020

EXO Day LIFE IS EXO-LLENT WITH JESUS

Heart to heart Will Marathon for Simon a mate Going Green IN THISIssue

3 GRACE ABOUNDS 4 HEAD OF CAMPUS ADDRESS

5 FOOD, FUN & FAITH | EXO DAY 2020 7 WILDMAN & WORMHOLES | BREAKTHROUGH JUNIOR CHALLENGE

9 GRACE GRADUATES | WILL SIMON GOING GREEN 12 FILM NIGHT 2020 15 END OF AN ERA | GOODBYE GOOGA

18 HEART TO HEART | MARATHON FOR A MATE 22 THIS MONTH AT GRACE 24 GRACE APPRECIATES 32 CONTACTS & SOCIAL LINKS Grace Abounds 3

Everybody matters to God whether God matters to them or not. This certainly wasn’t a common view in ancient times. Polytheistic cultures (worshipping multiple gods) of the ancient world didn’t believe the gods cared about Grace people. So, if the gods didn’t care about the people, ABOUNDS why should people care about people?! In fact, when Jesus entered the world, the whole idea that “everybody matters” just wasn’t the case at all! Slavery wasn’t merely practised in the ancient world, slavery was assumed. Everyone was just one invaded town, one poor financial decision, one bit of bad Give to him who asks you, and from luck or one bad day away from becoming somebody else’s property. Jesus entered a world where people him who wants to borrow from you were treated like property. Compassion and humility do not turn away. You have heard to anyone outside of your own family was considered a weakness. But Jesus was famous for how he treated that it was said, ‘You shall love your and loved people, and His message was so clear. neighbour and hate your enemy.’ Everybody matters to God, whether God matters to them or not. And maybe you are left to think: “Well, But I say to you, love your enemies, this isn’t new to us. This is a simple, and obvious rally bless those who curse you, do good cry to get around!”. But this was a brand-new idea that Jesus introduced into the world. In fact, this is to those who hate you, and pray for a uniquely Christ-like, a uniquely Christian message. those who spitefully use you and The challenge of doing good, being generous and loving others is a responsibility of a follower of Jesus. persecute you, that you may be sons And it is a responsibility to say to people around us, of your Father in heaven; for He and to say to the world, “you are valuable. You are valuable to God, and you’re valuable to me because makes His sun rise on the evil and on you’re valuable to God.” the good, and sends rain on the just In Matthew 5:42-45, Jesus tells you and I to evaluate and on the unjust. our perfection in terms of how we treat other people. To do good for people who cannot or will not do good for you. That’s way more challenging than following - Matthew 5:42-45 NIV a set of rules. That’s way may more challenging than telling someone that their beliefs are wrong. Jesus was famous in His day for how He treated and loved people. And then He says, “Follow me”. What would it look like to you to be inconveniently selfless today, and serve, be generous or love someone who might not pay you back? Everybody matters to God whether God matters to them or not. w

4 Head of Campus ADDRESS

Welcome to the second edition of the Grace Gazette. As we move quickly towards the end of the year, we know that very soon we will be entering that celebratory phase when we acknowledge and congratulate our students (not only the Year 12s who will be leaving us in less than three weeks) but those students in Years 7 to 11 who have also worked hard in challenging times throughout the year to achieve satisfying results and growth. We have been very grateful to have had a relatively normal Term 4, even though our plans for various events God is the one who began this good had to be modified. We are very confident, though, that the students will appreciate our efforts to give them the work in you, and I am certain that he best opportunities available under the circumstances and won’t stop before it is complete on finish strong. This was my message to students during our online Whole School Assembly during Week 1, that the day that Christ Jesus returns. finishing strong was a wonderful choice for them as they contemplate how to successfully navigate the final term - Phil 1:6 (CEV) of 2020. As you read this Gazette, you will see many ways that students have finished strong and continued to make the most of opportunities presented to them at Grace. Enjoy reading the pages ahead and know that we continue to be very grateful for your support. Blessings, Mrs Cheryl Budd 5

Faith Food FunEXO & Day 2020 , Celebrating that life is EXO-llent with Jesus! The end of Term 3 saw the College cohort mark yet another massive milestone. Grace’s own EXO Day turned ten this year, with 2020 making a decade since the launch of the now eagerly-anticipated annual event. Despite the turmoil of 2020, students and staff celebrated the largest EXO Day seen on record - with concerts, food trucks and special performances spanning across the campus and beyond. For the Grace Ministry team, the success of EXO Day 2020 was quite an achievement and not without its struggles. “We started the year with exciting plans and ideas but when COVID broke out, all of these were thrown into disarray and for many months we didn’t know if EXO Day would even be possible,“ explained Mr Kris Forman (Senior Chaplain). “Thankfully, as COVID restrictions in QLD began to ease, we were granted permission to proceed with a modified EXO Day. This however, still posed a few challenges that gave birth to creative solutions.” Those challenges including taking many EXO Day traditions, and translating them into a new COVID-Safe space. The whole-school concert was replaced with three smaller concerts, while the MPC carpark was turned into an Eat Street-style avenue for food trucks. Special guest and 2020 Dakar Rally Racer Trevor Wilson kept crowds entertained with ‘wheelie’ cool stunts, as other students battled it out in Laser Skirmish and the Inflatable Gladiator Arena. 6

Of course some EXO Day staples stayed the same, with gaming rooms, the Minecraft LAN party and Grace Pool party popular as ever. For the Year 12s, neighbouring church (Hope Centre Moreton) became a special senior- only space featuring live music and café style refreshments – an exciting initiative for their final EXO Day at Grace. After many months of challenges, EXO Day came as a welcome reprieve for all to enjoy some fun, food and faith with their peers.

“EXO Day, was a great day to have fun with friends and enjoy lots of fun activities and food,” reflected Sophie Hopson (Year 9),“…but ultimately [the day] is to remember that life is excellent with Jesus.” “…I liked how the youth leaders talked with the students on the day,” said Jackson Baker (Year 9). While Grace Ministry were warmed by the success, the team is already looking to the 2021 EXO Day with abundant enthusiasm. Despite the amount of labour and planning ahead of them, Mrs Rosie Knijnenburg (Campus Chaplain) notes that the hard work is always worth it. “EXO Day is always a huge highlight for the Grace community and the Ministry Team love planning a fun filled day that has a message of hope for the students.” “We thought, due to COVID, that this year would be very stripped back and low key. Actually, it ended up being one of our best EXO Days ever! Trevor Wilson, Hope Cafe, beautiful weather, food trucks and great music all made it a wonderful day to celebrate at life with Jesus is truly is worth celebrating.” To learn more about EXO Day and the Grace Ministry team, please visit our website.

Wildman W ormholes& Allow me to educate you on the theory behind time travel and wormholes...

Noah Wildman (Year 12), speaks to his camera with a zealous and eager attitude. While such a complicated topic may seem baffling to some, Noah is on-board to change that. This senior has fused his fascination with Science and Media to compete in the internationally renowned Breakthrough Junior Challenge – creating a video explaining the theory of time travel. “Science and Maths have always been a curiosity to me, it is something I can spend hours doing,” explained Noah. “Whenever I’ve been in a Science or Maths class and a new topic is introduced, I can’t help but want to learn every aspect of it if it grabs my attention…” “Time travel has always been an interest of mine, in a sci- Time travel has always been an fi context, but I was curious to know how plausible of a phenomenon it could be in the real world. Wormholes interest of mine, in a sci-fi context, have the potential to turn time travel into that intriguing but I was curious to know how reality, so I dedicated myself to researching as much as I could about the subject.” plausible of a phenomenon it could Aimed at high-school students, entrants in the be in the real world. Wormholes have Breakthrough Junior Challenge are tasked with creating a the potential to turn time travel into video that explains a ‘big scientific idea’ of their choosing from the fields of physics, mathematics or life sciences. that intriguing reality, so I dedicated Within a 3 minute window, each must “communicate myself to researching as much as I complex scientific ideas in engaging, illuminating, and imaginative ways”. Every year, the winner will take home could about the subject. a $250,000 post secondary scholarship, along with a $50,000 prize for their teacher and a $100,000 science lab for their school. Their video will also be shown to some of the brightest scientific minds, including scholars, astronauts and entrepreneurs. 8

The competition is aimed at generating excitement in I felt it was an excellent way to scientific fields – both to encourage students to choose STEM careers, and to inspire the public to explore the challenge myself and flex my fundamental concepts of science. knowledge… Like many others, Noah jumped on the opportunity to share his scientific passion with the world. His video (Wormholes: It feels great to know I put effort into a Tears in Spacetime) took just under a month to create – an impressive feat, especially considering his previously project which I was passionate about limited experience with filming and animation. and to see the final product. “I felt it was an excellent way to challenge myself and flex my knowledge… it feels great to know I put effort into a project which I was passionate about and to see the final product.” When the announcement came that out of the 5600 international entries (from 202 countries), Noah’s was in ranked in the top thirty, it was quite the shock to the student. When it was then selected as the regional champion for Australia and New Zealand, it was even more of a surprise. To Noah’s teachers however, his success was hardly unexpected. Nor was his announcement that he intends to further his studies in the field, aiming to start a Bachelor of Science in 2021. “Noah’s interest in future possibilities shows just how interested he is in STEM and where it can lead not only him, but the world,” explained Mr Peter Jaunis (Head of Mathematics). Noah certainly agrees, with this soon-to-be graduate reflecting on the ways to ignite interest in STEM studies. “I think introducing the practical applications of STEM to people is a good start, teach people about how STEM is present in our everyday lives.” For the rest of Grace, we now wait to see what Noah will accomplish next. Noah’s interest in future possibilities “We look forward to seeing how Noah uses his interest in shows just how interested he is in STEM to shape his future,” stated Mr Jaunis. STEM and where it can lead not only The partner competition to the junior challenge is the Breakthrough Prize, renowned as the ‘Oscar of Science’. him, but the world... We look forward This award celebrates the world’s top minds across the to seeing how Noah uses his interest fields of fundamental science. One can only imagine where Noah might set his sights next.. in STEM to shape his future. To learn more about Grace’s STEM programs, please visit our website. Readers can also visit the Breakthrough Webpage for more information about the Breakthrough Junior Challenge. 9 Will Simon Going Green

Fresh-faced alumni Will Simon may not look like your regular politician, but this new graduate is as eager as any to make a change in his community.

Will was only 18 years old when he was nominated as his local Greens candidate, making him the youngest representative running in the recent election. With youth increasingly encouraged to take part in politics, Will is determined to show that his voice can have just as big an impact as others. “I felt as though I had no political ‘home’, per se, in either of the major parties for the issues I cared about,” noted Will. “Those including inequality, injustice, the environment and countless more.” Grace gave me many opportunities “With the threat of a Greens candidate pushing on issues such to play a role in the community and as the environment, overdevelopment and the increasing power of corporations over our politics, [I believe] it can in that was one of the best things of turn move our elected politicians in the right direction on being a student there. There are these policies (if we do not win in our own right).” constantly opportunities to raise your During his time at Grace, this recent graduate was an unsurprising avid contributor in community activities hand to join in a community project, and fundraising. When asked if this played a part in his help out fundraising and supporting political drive, Will had this to say: your peers. ...I definitely applaud the “Grace gave me many opportunities to play a role in the community and that was one of the best things of being College for teaching their students a student there. There are constantly opportunities to – including myself – that we can be raise your hand to join in a community project, help out fundraising and supporting your peers. I definitely applaud agents for change in our communities. the College for teaching their students – including myself – that we can be agents for change in our communities.” 10

“One of my more favourite memories was the Seabrae Volunteer Art Project, it was quite the learning experience and I have appreciated those moments ever since I have left high-school. But in other ways too, I was the Debating Captain for a year, participated in the Mooting competitions and Model United Nations, all of these contributed to who I am now.” For his classmates, especially as recent graduates and new voters themselves, Will’s move onto the political stage has been met with mixed responses. “Some were shocked,” Will explained, “some others weren’t For those that knew me best, I would surprised whatsoever. I think, even while at school, I was even sometimes joke about running for very political. For those that knew me best, I would even Parliament, something that I was joking sometimes joke about running for Parliament, something about myself – but here we are.” that I was joking about myself – but here we are.” ...I’ve appreciated all of the kind words “The response from my friends and people I know from sent my way, I can only hope that they school has been very positive, many of them have have all registered to vote already! messaged me and reached out to see if they can help in the campaign. I’ve appreciated all of the kind words sent my way, I can only hope that they have all registered to vote already!” Like many of his peers, Will also spent his first year post- Grace making the transition into tertiary learning. In balancing his studies, political and social life, this new University student has taken the task head on. “I am currently studying at the University of Queensland, and I am doing a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Political Science and International Relations and a Bachelor of Communications.” “It’s been particularly difficult to manage both studying full-time and running for Queensland State Parliament, but I believe if I can organise myself well enough I can get through it (hopefully!).” For Will (and many other politically inclined young people), this is one of the few times their youth can seemingly create a challenge. “In this regard, there is an inherent disadvantage against young people running for public positions because unlike other candidates who may already be an MP, or who have retired, or who have the financial backing to pause their life to run, we don’t really have that luxury,” explained Will. “I try my best to balance the two, but when a deadline is coming up for an assignment that always beats out the opportunity to go letterboxing!” 11

Yet despite the challenges, this young leader has a lot he wants to accomplish. “Some of [my policies] include free childcare and TAFE (I would say university too, but that isn’t a State Government issue), ending the overdevelopment of suburbs in Redcliffe, including Woody Point. Also, investment in renewable energy that can bring manufacturing back to Queensland and move our state towards reaching our goal of being 100% powered by renewable energy by 2030.” “One issue that I am especially passionate about is the influence of dirty money in politics, specifically corporate money. I believe that big corporations, the banks and the mining billionaires have too much influence over our Parliament and they should be banned from contributing the election campaigns of any candidate or party. On some more local issues, I also want to see the parking fees at the new Redcliffe hospital carpark scrapped and for the Queensland Government to finally build the barge on the Peninsula, as private industry has refused to invest in it.” With Australia’s political climate clouded with many key issues, youth are increasingly encouraged to make their voices heard. As a role model for many others, Will has Get involved, is a short answer. a few pointers for students and new graduates looking to Politics as we know it now is only that get started in politics. way it is because we are not involved “Get involved, is a short answer. Politics as we know it now is only the way it is because we are not involved in it as in it as young people. The more of us young people. The more of us who get turned away from who get turned away from politics is politics is not to the advantage of us, instead it is to the advantage of everything we hate in politics right now!” not to the advantage of us, instead it “I find the best way to start is to get engaged with local is to the advantage of everything we groups that campaign on issues that matter to you. Use every opportunity to directly pressure your elected hate in politics right now! representatives.” ... the best way to start is to get “They won’t bother listening to us either if they can bank on the voters who they know will turn up on election day – engaged with local groups that disproportionately older people, and they will always vote.” campaign on issues that matter to Will’s next steps will now be determined by both the you. Use every opportunity to directly outcome of the current elections and his continued growth in the Greens party. However, there is likely still a lot more pressure your elected representatives. to be seen from this emerging leader – and those who follow in his footsteps. To follow Will’s campaign, visit the Queensland Greens website. 12 Film Night 2020 Grace film fans take the time-warp back to the 1980s to celebrate student work on the silver screen.

October 16 saw the return of Grace’s annual Film Night. At Event Cinemas Chermside, student filmmakers were joined by family, friends and fans to see their very own flicks on the big screen. Though the event is always an eagerly-anticipated one, this year’s Film Night had an additional air of success. After a particularly challenging year, students and their supporters alike were as eager as ever to ‘call a wrap’ on 2020, and celebrate their cohort for their hard-earned achievements. For Mrs Gail Crossley (Head of Creative Industries), it is this aura of inclusivity that has always played a key role in the student’s (and the Film Night’s) success. “Film Night is always such a wonderful opportunity for our students to showcase their work on the big screen. Their talent always blows me away but even more so the way Their talent always blows me away in which they are so supportive of each other throughout the entirety of their projects, working as cast and crew for but even more so the way in which each other, right the way through to the cheers they give they are so supportive of each other each other’s work when it is screened at Film Night.” throughout the entirety of their Undoubtedly, this support played a key role in the unfaltering determination shown by the film students projects...right the way through to the throughout 2020. Once their scenes hit the big screen, it cheers they give each other’s work was clear the consistent theme was ‘to challenge’ - both their own technical skills and their audience’s expectations. when it is screened at Film Night. 13

“My film, “Leak”, aimed to represent the danger of being Overall, I really enjoyed directing this trapped in your own mind,” explained Hayley Smith (Year 12). “The film was split into two sections. The first was edited film as I got to experiment with the as a video game and separated into “levels” – the higher film gear, cinematography, editing the “level”, the deeper the audience went into the mind. The second was a series [of references to] emotions or moments and really push myself in terms of the of my life that have resonated with me, paired with songs creative direction I wanted the film to that I enjoy and felt encapsulate the mood of the film.” take… I’m really proud of it. “My two films at Film Night were, ‘The Mistakes We Invent’, a trip through the history of the Neolithic container and how its invention led to almost all the problems our societies face today, and ‘Surreal Films’, a surreal cinematic experience based around the complexity (and stupidity) of the human world,” said Xavier Homick (Year 12). “My film ‘Subconscious Daydream’ is a surreal film that aims to represent my artistic and actual identity. I wanted to visually explore what my answer would be to the question, ‘if my subconscious could daydream, what would it look like?’“ explained Teagan Smith (Year 12). “Overall, I really enjoyed directing this film as I got to experiment with the film gear, cinematography, editing and really push myself in terms of the creative direction I wanted the film to take… I’m really proud of it.” 14

Mrs Kylie Duyzer (Head of Senior School) notes that in addition to their talent, it is the support of students’ families and teachers that play a key role in their success. “Creative Industries staff work hard behind the scenes making the evening happen, with hours of work involved in not only putting on the evening, but also supporting, mentoring and guiding the students through the filming and editing process.” “To be able to see their work on the ‘big screen’ is amazing in itself for the students, while receiving awards for their creations was the pinnacle reward for their work. Families and friends, who often featured in student work, were obviously proud of the films produced for this event.” Creative Industries staff work hard For the young filmmakers however, the opportunity to simply behind the scenes making the evening celebrate their cohort’s success was the ultimate reward. happen... supporting, mentoring “I am so glad film night could go ahead, even during the tough times that 2020 is still dishing out. Film night was and guiding the students through the an amazing experience… even if I ended up accidentally filming and editing process. breaking one of my awards... woops,” laughed Xavier Homick (Year 12). To be able to see their work on the “Film has been one of my favourite subjects this year ‘big screen’ is amazing in itself for and I am so proud to have my work shown to the other amazingly talented students of my cohort,” said Hayley the students, while receiving awards Smith (Year 12). for their creations was the pinnacle As always however, the best endorsement of the evening came from just one of their many fans. reward for their work. Families and “From horror to comedy, music videos to crime, Film Night friends, who often featured in student had all the entertainment required for a great night out,” work, were obviously proud of the enthused Mrs Duyzer (Head of Senior School). films produced for this event. “Great work to all students and staff involved in this night….another incredibly successful Film Night in 2020. Can’t wait to see what awaits in 2021!”. To view the full list of the 2020 Film Night of awardees, visit our Facebook page. Readers can also learn more about the College’s film program via the website. 15 End of an Era Goodbye Googa

The Googa Outdoor Education Program has been in operation for over 30 years. Brad Teakle has been part of this wonderful initiative for the last 15 of those years as the Centre’s much-loved Director and acting Director. After overseeing some incredible developments during his tenure, Brad’s journey with Googa is sadly coming to an end in 2020. Brad’s departure leaves behind a host of Grace students and families, past and present, who will sorely miss his leadership, which for many was a significant and formative rite of passage. What started as a working camp with rudimentary facilities, has transformed into a centre capable of accommodating nearly 50 students, including those with special needs requirements. Today, the four-week program for Year 10 students arms each with skills to help them grow academically and personally. Their journey is one of honing self-reliance and teamwork skills, while growing to understand their spiritual path. Brad has been a massive part of shaping that journey into the extraordinary experience it is today. Grace’s CED Department sat down with Brad to talk about his time at Googa. In your time at the Centre, what’s been some of the major changes and developments you’ve seen take place? We’ve seen the construction of 2 extra dorms, the purchase of 120 hectares of land, the development of a bush chapel and ongoing native scrub regeneration and meditative walking track areas, the establishment 16

of a new dairy, cattle yards and pasture paddocks, the development of a second campus beginning with the My best memories... Seeing and relocation of 8 buildings including a church built in 1888, hearing so many ‘light bulb’ moments as well as the expansion of the program to include other schools and special interest groups. of students (and staff) ‘getting’ what What have been some of your best memories? Googa is about. From having a win Seeing and hearing so many ‘light bulb’ moments of (completing the hike, high ropes, students (and staff) ‘getting’ what Googa is about. This is the full spectrum, from having a win (completing the solo endeavours and attempts, hike, high ropes, solo endeavours and attempts, cooking cooking a hearty meal, having a fresh a hearty meal, having a fresh appreciation for the environment), through to difficult challenges i.e. resolving appreciation for the environment), conflict and/or dealing with sadness/homesickness. through to difficult challenges... Sometimes just having the privilege of listening to a student, praying with or for a student, or tormenting them Sometimes just having the privilege with really lame jokes!! of listening to a student, praying with Correspondingly, what have been some of or for a student, or tormenting them the major challenges you and the team have overcome to get Googa to where it is today? with really lame jokes!! I am tempted to say the changing the risk tolerance of society, or increasingly anxious parents, or pressure to ensure all regulatory T’s and I’s are crossed and dotted, but honestly I think it is the ongoing reality of living in 17

community that presents the greatest challenge, but also the greatest rewards and outcomes. The challenge for us as staff is to practise what we preach and to value what is here as a gift from God, not just a job. Real Grace. What growth do you hope for the centre in the coming years? The prospect of a second campus is exciting, the scope and potential represents a great opportunity, not just for students but for a wider spectrum of groups. I would also love to see a time where students get to come back, say in Year 12 for a refresh and reset.

Any departing words for the students of Grace (past and present)? Not only students but Grace staff and parents as well. Chris and I are incredibly blessed to have had the privilege of being a part of so many people’s life journeys. The great thing about Googa is I don’t feel inclined to offer any parting words, because this place delivers greater insights that stay with people than I could ever articulate. I thank God for that. To learn more about the Googa Campus and student program, please visit our website. The great thing about Googa ...this place delivers greater insights that stay with people than I could ever articulate. I thank God for that. 18

Heart to heart Marathon for ` a mate

As dawn broke on the morning of October 24, a lazy sleep- in was the last thing on these seniors’ minds. The team of Year 12 students had a challenge before them – to tackle a 42km marathon before the sun set on the same day. Many would see such a feat as both a sacrifice and monumental challenge. For this group of students however, it was a matter of mateship – supporting a cause (quite literally) close to their hearts. Every year, the Heart Foundation’s MyMarathon Challenge sees participants from across Australia run, jog or walk a whopping 42.2 kilometres during October to raise awareness for Heart Disease research. With almost 50,000 entrants annually, the event provides vital funds for life-saving research projects and support services for those living with the condition. At only 18 years old, Grace student Nicholas Catalano is certainly not a common candidate for open heart surgery – nor one most would expect to have a heart condition at all. My life has been perfectly normal up “I was born with Pulmonary Valve Stenosis and at 6 months until July this year when I went for a old I had a balloon catheter procedure done to make the valve bigger. My life has been perfectly normal up check-up at Prince Charles Hospital until July this year when I went for a check-up at Prince and was told I needed to have open Charles Hospital and was told I needed to have open heart surgery to replace my pulmonary valve as my valve heart surgery... has started to leak severely.” Where many may see a setback, Nick saw an opportunity for awareness. 19

“[My mates and I] were firstly going to be a competitor in When the thought of the MyMarathon this year’s cancelled 2020 Kokoda Track…but when the came into place, I knew this was the thought of the MyMarathon came into place, I knew this was the perfect charity as it has a massive resemblance perfect charity as it has a massive for my own heart condition and many of my personal resemblance for my own heart family too.” Nick was joined by his mates Ethan Carlson, Riley condition and many of my personal O’Keeffe, Cameron Williams and Travis Sage to form family too. their own MyMarathon team. Their goal was to complete their marathon in a single day and raise $2000 in the process. For senior students in an already tumultuous year, this was no easy feat. “Ethan, Travis and I occasionally did some night-time runs to keep us fit,” explained Nick. “I started going to the Goodlife Gym with Cameron and Riley, mainly focusing on working on our cardio. Some of the boys such as Travis, Ethan and Riley compete in their major sports, in which kept them up to date with their fitness levels. Cameron and I worked a lot with our jobs, on top of that with the gym to keep us fit.” As the day dawned, the crew battled through storms, struggles and exhaustion to reach their goal. “One of our major challenges of the track would mainly be battling through the massive storm that came across where we entered Clontarf…however all the boys (including I) still didn’t want to give up and the fact that no one cared if we finished dark at night was showing true great spirit.” “The rain did not stop till we got to the end and walking through the Hornibrook bridge in the rain would have been the hardest challenge of the walk. All the boys had The rain did not stop till we got to great resilience and pushing themselves to the hardest that they possibly could and I couldn’t be any prouder of the end and walking through the them and myself.” Hornibrook bridge in the rain would The final fundraising total toppled their goal by almost have been the hardest challenge a grand – with a large portion of the Grace Community getting behind the boys’ efforts. of the walk. All the boys had great “We firstly posted our donation page on our social medias, resilience and pushing themselves to in which has gotten over hundreds of views. With our the hardest that they possibly could team posting our pages on our social medias, it made a community in which we had all sorts of people sharing and I couldn’t be any prouder of our page - that got us more donations.” them and myself. “We were also very honoured of our teacher (Tommy Peak) to spread out our fundraiser to all the teachers at Grace 20

Lutheran College and also the school’s Facebook site. I took part to show my support for After that, our page went off with thousands of dollars of donations and having it spread all around the school was Nick and people who have heart such an awesome feeling for all of our team.” conditions ... [I hoped] to show that Of course, the most enthusiasm came from home and even if you are at a disadvantage you from the team’s network of dedicated supporters. In addition to raising donations, the crew got behind the can still push through with the support boys to fuel and support them throughout the challenge. of others and to raise awareness for “All of our families are so proud of us… especially my heart conditions. Mum as she can’t stop talking about it to everyone she talks too,” continued Nick. “We are so thankful that we have such an amazing family that care so much for us and want us to succeed on our journey and I just want to say thank you for all of your support.” “I also want to shout out our amazing support crew (Jordyn Riethmuller and Kaitlyn Weymouth) for being so awesome on our day and looking after us. You girls did such an amazing job on taking good care for us when we needed band aids for our blisters and kept feeding us with good healthy food. I also want to shout out Rosie Knijnenburg, Deb Medhurst and Mayne Johnson for participating with walking with us on the day, it made us feel special that you thought of us and took out your time to walk with us lot.” When asked about their motivations, these supporters (and Nick’s teammates) were eager to point out that in addition to mateship, there was a lot more to it. “I took part to show my support for Nick and people who have heart conditions and I hoped it would have an impact in our community to show that even if you are at a disadvantage you can still push through with the support of others and to raise awareness for heart conditions,” said Kaitlyn Weymouth (Year 12). “I took part in this walk to support my best mate Nick with his heart condition, and for anyone else who have to deal By doing this walk with the bois’ I with heart conditions on a day-to-day basis,” noted Travis hoped that we would raise more Sage. “By doing this walk with the bois’ I hoped that we would raise more awareness for heart conditions, and awareness for heart conditions, and I also hope that we helped Nick build his resilience and I also hope that we helped Nick build confidence for not just his surgery, but for what awaits for him in the future.” his resilience and confidence for not For Nick, he is determined to take hold of that future and just his surgery, but for what awaits for whatever may come his way. Steeled by the success of the him in the future. fundraiser and his team’s approaching graduation, he is eager to show that anything is possible with enough grit and resilience. 21

“For finding out that I needed open-heart surgery in the next six months, I could easily have given up with everything and put my head down and let the pain get into me. But instead I didn’t, I did something that people that have normal hearts wouldn’t do and that’s to push yourself to the hardest you can and prove people wrong that you can actually do it.” “I wanted to show that even you have a heart condition, you can still be normal and do everyday things. I wanted to show that it doesn’t make you any different that you may have any sort of condition… I wanted to show that you can do anything if you put your mind into it…I’ve started to put twice the effort into everything I do. Such as working out in the gym more, putting more effort into school, having a sustainable mindset or even putting in effort for relationships; Now that I know I can accomplish anything.” With his teammates beside him, Nick and boys are planning big things for 2021 and their time post-Grace. “The boys and I are still buzzing about the walk and are For finding out that I needed open- still craving for another marathon to start up. … I still want heart surgery in the next six months, to participate in Kokoda and start working on the 48km track and making my way up to the 96km track. With the I could easily have given up with mindset that our team as, we know we can accomplish everything and put my head down anything that our team can do. I’m so looking forward into the future in what I can achieve and seeing me, and and let the pain get into me. But the boys grow up to positive strong men.” instead I didn’t, I did something To donate or show your support for the team, visit the that people that have normal MyMarathon website. hearts wouldn’t do and that’s to push yourself to the hardest you can and prove people wrong that you can actually do it. at Grace

WORLD TEACHERS’ DAY | ALL YEARS INTERNET SAFE EDUCATION | YEAR 8 2021 LEADERS | MIDDLE SCHOOL

On October 30, students and staff across Year 8 students spent October 23 learning about Captainships for 2021 were finalised this the College celebrated World Teacher’s Day. safe online activity. In a special presentation from month, with the new leaders being recognised Brett Lee (of Internet Safe Education), the cohort on campus and in a special social media covered a range of topics including social media Teachers were treated to tea, coffee and custom announcement. cupcakes, along with a video message of and online gaming. The new House Captains and PALS will lead their appreciation from their students. Students were introduced to the concept of cohort through 2021, and provide guidance to ‘online trails’ and how to protect their activity on the rest of Middle School. the internet.

LAST DAYS | YEAR 12 SENIOR HOLY COMMUNION | YEAR 12 INNOVATION EXCURSION | YEAR 8

Soon-to-be Grace graduates spent their final On October 23, Year 12 students gathered Year 8 Innovation students ventured into the city this month, to visit QUT’s Science and week of regular classes wearing themed dress in the ANZAC Garden to commemorate their Engineering Department, The Cube and and celebrating with their peers. senior Holy Communion. SparkLab at the Queensland Museum. Students donned their previous primary school Each were encouraged to don a Hawaiian Students explored concepts of innovative and uniforms, Hawaiian shirts and Tradie gear, while shirt, and relax in the open air with the rest sustainable spaces, using lateral and creative also indulging in a range of fun activities on and of their cohort. thinking skills to complete a range of interactive tasks. off campus.

FIRST IN SUBJECT AWARDS | YEAR 12 CERTIFICATE ACHIEVEMENT | YEAR 12 FOOD AND NUTRITION EXPERIMENTS | YEAR 11

On October 20, students across Year 11 and 12 This month, Year 12s Anya Gladkov, Ella Fisher, The Year 11 Food and Nutrition classes spent gathered to celebrate their First in Subject awardees. Iyesha Nicholas and Jordyn Riethmuller each October 15 experimenting with Molecular celebrated the completion of their Certificate III Gastronomy - using chemical reactions to test In this special senior assembly, students and staff in Early Childhood Education and Care. out new food formulations. were able to acknowledge the hard work of the Year 12s throughout 2020 and their impressive They were the first seniors in the state to obtain Fruits of their labour included chocolate spaghetti, academic achievements across their subjects. their qualifications through our RTO, making it a balsamic vinegar pearls and yoghurt raviolis. massive achievement.

EARLY ACHIEVERS | YEAR 12

Several Year 12 students received early university entry this month, with a number accepting offers for their preferred 2021 course.

The soon-to-be graduates are now lined up to complete degrees with ACU, CQU, USC and The Australian National University.

View Reminders Wellbeing Resources Careers & VET Visit our school calendar to explore the Connect with our Counselling team, and explore Learn more about our VET, careers and tertiary study upcoming events, excursions, programs and the resources available to students and families options. Explore upcoming information sessions, classroom activities at Grace. at Grace. With expert care and knowledge, browse school-based programs and vacancies, or our team can assist students to overcome any contact our team directly to discuss your desired challenge they may face. career path. 24

GraceAPPRECIATES

Shanee Conran is a Chemistry and Physics teacher at Grace Rothwell. She also serves as a GEL mentor for Year 9 Orion 2.

What is something we do not know about you? I have nearly 100 hair accessories, in almost every colour except for orange and brown.

Do you have a hobby? Cooking (and eating) good food. One of my favourite possessions is the set of chef knives that I bought in Japan when I moved out of home.

What were you doing before you joined Grace? Teaching down in Canberra. It is significantly warmer up here and I don’t need to have 7 layers on my bed in winter to survive. But I sometimes miss cosy slippers, scarves and coats.

Tell us about your favourite GRIT, GROWTH or GRACE moment. One of my Home Class completing the cross-country while in a moonboot and still doing very well.

will be open at 8AM-11:30AM November 25 - 28 to receive uniforms or books to sell.

If you would like to volunteer, please email to find out how 27

This is just a reminder to parents and students that great care and attention needs to be taken when driving and parking around Grace. By this time of the year, we have many new and learner drivers at the College, and along with the many parents or guardians dropping off and collecting students, there is potential for dangerous situations to arise. Please be reminded of the following points:

• The Bus Turnaround off Mewes Rd is not a thoroughfare for parents, particularly in the afternoons when 14 buses make their way through, students are in the area and staff could be leaving in their cars.

• The MPC Car Park is closed to parents until 3:35pm, after the Grace buses have all left.

• All drivers must follow the road rules – following directional signage, obeying the 40kph speed limit and not parking next to yellow “No Parking” lines

• Students should park in the designated student parking areas

Please consider the safety of our students as you make your way to and from the College. Feel free to stagger your arrival and departure, as many car parks are available from 3:30pm onwards.

Thank you for your cooperation. Mrs Cheryl Budd

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www.AllFreePrintable.com FOLLOW ROTHWELL CAMPUS 479-483 Anzac Avenue, Rothwell Qld 4022 PO Box 3181, Clontarf DC 4019 Telephone: 07 3203 0066 Email: [email protected] CABOOLTURE CAMPUS 129 Toohey Street, Caboolture QLD 4510 PO Box 1424, Caboolture Q 4510 Grace Telephone: 07 5495 2444 Email: [email protected] PRINCIPAL Mr David Radke HEAD OF CAMPUS, ROTHWELL Mrs Cheryl Budd HEAD OF CAMPUS, CABOOLTURE Mr Warren Irvine HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL Mrs Kylie Duyzer ASSISTANT TO PRINCIPAL ADMIN Ms Naree Wittwer HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL Mr Peter Miles DEPUTY HEAD OF CABOOLTURE CAMPUS Mr Jason Miles HEAD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING Ms Rita Hermus DEPUTY HEAD OF TEACHING & LEARNING Mrs Kate McKenzie HEAD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING, CABOOLTURE Mrs Monique Atwell MINISTRY TEAM COORDINATOR Mr Kris Forman DIRECTOR OF INNOVATION ENTERPRISE & TECHNOLOGY Mr Peter Kellett BUSINESS MANAGER Mrs Kylie Briais DIRECTOR OF SPORT Mr Tommy Peak ABSENTEE SMS NUMBER 0416 906 287 or STUDENT ABSENTEE LINE 07 3897 2183 (or use Parent Lounge) TUCKSHOP 07 3897 2133 GRACE SWIMMING 07 3204 2725 P & F CHAIRPERSON - ROTHWELL Mrs Kim Relph [email protected] P & F SECRETARY - ROTHWELL Mr Brad Suosaari [email protected] COLLEGE COUNCIL MEMBERS Chair: Mr John Gerlach Vice Chair: Mr Gary Fulton Secretary: Dr Roger Hunter OAM Chair of Finance: Mr Craig Klinge Other Members: Mrs Anne Maczkowiack, Mr David Spann, Pastor Mark Brinkmann, Mrs Katrina Valencia & Mrs Peta Heit Principal: Mr David Radke