Eumundi Voice Issue 121, 10 July 2025

YOUTH

Beautiful music and beautiful children

“The fact that children can make beautiful music is less significant than the fact that music can make beautiful children.”

The words of Cheryl Lavender – one of the World’s most sought-after clinicians in music education – were recently evident when 48 instrumental music students from North Arm, Yandina and Nambour State Schools formed a mega concert band.

Yr5 and 6 students rehearsed 3 pieces, playing together in North Arm’s Hall and socialising during their breaks throughout the day. North Arm music teacher, Bec Summers said, "We had an exceptional turn-out and the students learned so much from each other. It's great for musicians to meet their counterparts before they reach secondary school, so they're motivated to continue.”

Music teacher Christine Walton from Yandina and Nambour, joined Bec in what has become an exciting, educational and fun day that has been run for several years. Special guest Matthew Seaman from Just Brass in Nambour, provided a quality touch, enjoyed by the students.

Bec said in term 4, Yandina’s new multi-purpose hall will resonate with the sounds of a combined Yr4 instrumental day. Music education and student enjoyment have come a long way from the recorder and triangle class of the past.

Care Week

Care Week at Good Shepherd Lutheran College is a cherished annual tradition that highlights the power of compassion, connection and community spirit. This year, the college came together to celebrate the importance of caring for one another and giving back through a week of heartwarming activities and purposeful fundraising.

The theme for this year’s Care Week was Growing GEMS, which stands for gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness. These qualities, along with emotional literacy, connection and physical health, help cultivate a positive mindset and build resilience in young people.

Counsellor and Care Week Coordinator Marg Hall emphasised that Care Week is about fostering a culture of kindness. “We want students to understand that small, everyday acts of care, listening, helping, and showing gratitude can have a big impact. Our goal is to nurture hearts as well as minds,” she said.

One of the highlights of the week was the college’s participation in the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea, which raised over $2,000. It was a moment of togetherness, with staff and families sharing stories, homemade treats and time with each other.

Throughout the week students engaged in activities that encouraged them to think beyond themselves. From buying cupcakes and spider drinks for charity to offering a kind word or helping hand, students were inspired to notice and respond to the needs around them.

With almost $3,500 raised for charity and countless moments of compassion shared, this year’s Care Week reminded everyone of the incredible power of caring for one another and how empathy and love can create a stronger, more connected community for all.