Volume 33 | Number 2 | Summer 2016-2017
Farewell Mr Radke
Redeemer’s Third Principal says Goodbye (p3)
Introducing Redeemer’s New Principal Introducing Mrs Tanya Crooks (p7)
2016 Annual Report (p17)
Print Post Approved 100003942
FROM THE PRINCIPAL | REDEEMER RECORD
From the Principal As I put pen to paper, so to speak, for my final article as the Principal of Redeemer Lutheran College, the events of the past eight years are more than enough to literally flood the memory banks. I am very mindful that I am not the only member of the Redeemer community moving on at year’s end and, as a consequence, my views represent only one reflection of the past eight years. An established, thriving school like Redeemer should stand confidently on its past history and the culture and values it has developed. It should be an active learning community that has changed and is changing, looking to future means by which it can remain relevant as an effective education provider to its families. Over the past eight years it has been my goal as community leader of Redeemer to build on past strengths and press toward the future, mindful of a changing world and the changing educational needs of Redeemer families. As with all change, sometimes this happens quickly and seamlessly, at other times change can be slow and challenging; the past eight years has seen all of these change conditions at Redeemer.
Mr David Radke Principal
Crossing over all of changes were the influences of globalisation and Internet technologies which educators came to describe as 21st Century Learning. The impact of Internet technologies continues to challenge traditional teaching and learning practices. Redeemer responded to this situation by creating a Vision for Learning statement, derived from the Lutheran Education Australia Learning Framework. Redeemer’s Vision for Learning maintains a focus on student teaching and learning that remains true to the College’s Mission Statement and Values; it highlights the need for valuing past practice and excellence, while also embracing change. The past eight years has reinforced for me that schools are about much more than buildings and programs, they are really about people and relationships, for it is through relationships that we engage in deep learning and understanding about knowledge and life in general. Healthy relationships motivate us to keep learning and growing. Redeemer has always been mindful of this fact and, as incoming Principal in 2009, the strength of community, the passion for service and genuine care shown by Redeemer community members toward each other was most humbling and continues to be to this day. Over the past eight years, I have heard from students, staff and parents, who in their own words have reflected on their time in the Redeemer community by stating that Redeemer tries its best to be true to its mission and values in what it does; this makes it a special place. As I now think about leaving the Redeemer fold, I am indeed very grateful for having served a talented and caring student body which values good education both within and outside the classroom, dedicated parents who want to partner with Redeemer staff as a learning community, and staff who give their best to their students and have passionately and professionally engaged with the challenges of educating students for a changing and challenging world.
“ I came to Redeemer hopeful of finding a good school community which was seriously wanting to be the best that it could be. I found a great school,
a Christ-centered school acknowledging the greatest educator, the constant in strife and change and the ultimate champion of all that is good; for our hope is indeed in Christ ”. Mr David Radke Principal
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 A school of the Lutheran Church of Australia Queensland District ARBN 051 602 996 | ABN 40 618 603 690 Enrolment enquiries: Mrs Nikki McKenzie, Enrolments Registrar | Telephone 07 3340 8807 | enrolments@redeemer.com.au Redeemer Record is a publication of Redeemer Lutheran College © 2016 | Print Post Approved 100003942 Editor: Mr Julian Schubert, Director of Community Relations | Contributions: record@redeemer.com.au | Design and Print: Open Book Howden, Adelaide
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On the cover: Farewell to the Principal, Mr David Radke, 2009-2016 Photograph by: Studio Kirby
REDEEMER RECORD | FAREWELL MR RADKE
Farewell Mr Radke Mr David Radke commenced as Principal at Redeemer Lutheran College in January 2009, coming from St Peters Lutheran College, Indooroopilly as Head of Campus and Director of Boarding. Following eight years of service as the Principal of Redeemer Lutheran College, Mr David Radke has accepted the role of Principal of Grace Lutheran College in Rothwell, commencing in January 2017. Redeemer Lutheran College is grateful for Mr Radke’s strong leadership and years of service as only the third Principal in Redeemer’s 36-year history. He has made an outstanding contribution to the College’s strong foundations, established firstly by Mr L. Robin Kleinschmidt (1980-2001), and then Dr Richard Hauser (2002-2008). Mr Radke’s most notable achievements over the past eight years have included the construction program of permanent facilities in Redeemer’s Junior School, the Multi-Purpose Centre, and redevelopment projects across the College embracing 21st Century Learning, in addition to the changes to Redeemer’s sub-school structure. His educational leadership has included the introduction of the compulsory Prep year at Redeemer, Year 7 into High School (Flying Start), implementation of Australian Curriculum, and the Digital Revolution. Most significantly, the introduction of Redeemer’s Learning Management System (LMS), now known as MyRedeemer, as well as Redeemer’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program has been a turning point for 21st Century Learning at Redeemer. The College thanks Mr Radke for his tireless efforts in advancing Redeemer Lutheran College. We wish him all the best for his new chapter at Grace Lutheran College, and pray God’s many blessings for the future. May it always be that our Hope is in Christ.
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FARWELL MR RADKE | REDEEMER RECORD
Redeemer Community Says Farewell On Wednesday 9 November, the Redeemer community of approximately 1,250 students, staff, parents and invited guests packed Redeemer Chapel, to say farewell to our Principal, Mr David Radke who has led the Redeemer community for the past eight years. The farewell service commenced with worship which was led by our Senior Worship Band, Senior Singers and a message from our Senior Chaplain, Pastor Damien Martin. Redeemer's College Captains, (Josh Green and Rucha Kashikar) together with representatives from the Junior School and Middle Years, presented Mr Radke with a number of gifts from the students of Redeemer, which followed a message to Mr Radke from our College Council Chair, Mr Ross Warbrooke. The Chapel erupted with rousing applause of appreciation and thanks following Mr Radke’s farewell speech to our community. Listen to the farewell service at: www.redeemer.com.au/blog/farewell-mr-radke
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REDEEMER RECORD | FARWELL MR RADKE
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD
Three Wise Men
In the week’s leading up to Mr Radke’s departure, I have been on a sentimental journey, reflecting on the three leaders that have blessed Redeemer with their service over its 36 year history. These three wise men, bearing gifts and talents, have each had a distinct influence on the development of Redeemer Lutheran College and our community. I started teaching at Redeemer in 1994, under the leadership of Headmaster, Mr Robin Kleinschmidt. Robin’s reputation as an educational leader was well established in professional circles and I felt very fortunate to be offered a teaching role in such a great school. As a young teacher, Robin influenced me in many ways. He was a leader with high standards and principles and passionate about students excelling in education. Robin was very charismatic, had a good memory and knew every student by name. I enjoyed listening to Robin speak in the public realm and was inspired by his well-crafted speeches (many of them off the cuff). Whilst Robin was a great orator, the staff and students found his closing speeches a little lengthy. I fondly recall a cheeky staff member, now a Principal of a Lutheran school, who would entertain staff by challenging them to take guesstimates on the length of Robin’s speech each year. After 20 years of service to Redeemer, Robin retired. He was recently awarded a Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division for service to education, and to the Lutheran Church of Australia. Mr Richard Hauser was appointed as Head of College, in 2002. Richard, a gifted writer, found a way to influence the Redeemer community through his weekly newsletter articles, visiting many varied topics in a creative and engaging manner. His musings were original, interesting and thought provoking. Richard had a warm, personable, relaxed demeanour and established strong relationships with students and staff. Richard
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would walk through the staff rooms on a regular basis, enjoyed talking to students during yard duty and also taught Christian Studies and History in his time at Redeemer. Mr David Radke was appointed as Principal in 2009. He was instrumental in my learning journey as a leader at Redeemer, guiding me to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a leader in Lutheran schools. David is a passionate storyteller. He uses narrative to explain concepts, relate to others and to illustrate a concept. David’s stories are personal, often revealing lessons learned and his own humanness. David wears his heart on his sleeve and shows genuine compassion for others. Earlier this year, David taught my son in Year 7 Christian Studies. My son looked shell-shocked when I told him that Mr Radke was going to be his teacher. His fears quickly diminished and after a few lessons, he came home proclaiming that “Mr Radke was the best teacher ever” …” oh, after you of course, Mum!”. As servant leaders, Robin, Richard and David have shared many of their God-given gifts and talents with the Redeemer community. Their Christian witness, commitment to Lutheran schooling and hope in Christ has influenced many staff and students over the years. I feel blessed that I have had the opportunity to work with these three men. Our actions and words leave lasting memories on others. As I reflect on the impact of each of these individuals, I am filled with gratitude for their influence on my personal and professional journey and for the way that they have served Redeemer. Farewell Mr David Radke, may God bless you in your new role as Principal at Grace Lutheran College. Mrs Anastasia Strong Head of Senior School
REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE NEWS
New Principal for Redeemer Lutheran College
On Monday 29 August, College Council Chair Mr Ross Warbrooke announced the appointment of Mrs Tanya Crooks as the fourth Principal of Redeemer Lutheran College, following a rigorous search. “The field of applicants included a number of remarkable and highly qualified candidates, however the selection panel was deeply impressed by Mrs Crooks, and was unanimous in its decision to recommend her for the role,” Mr Warbrooke said. Mrs Crooks, who will commence in the role, effective 1 January 2017, is currently Director of Staff at Pacific Lutheran College, Caloundra (a K-12 co-educational school of approximately 950 students), a role where she is second to the Principal. “Prior to her appointment at Pacific Lutheran College, Mrs Crooks held a number of key leadership roles, including Head of Senior School, Dean of Middle School, and Coordinator of the College’s outdoor education program at Grace Lutheran College,” he said.
“She is passionate about schooling that helps students to recognise their God-given gifts, and aims to develop these gifts with an emphasis on excellence for the individual,” he said. Tanya is driven by her faith-based passion for holistic youth education and peer development alike, embodied by her professionalism and mantra of model, inspire, challenge, enable and encourage. “She is actively involved in her community and also currently serves as a school council member for St Paul’s Lutheran Primary School, and Chair of the St Paul’s Kindergarten sub-committee,” he said. “Please join me in congratulating Mrs Crooks on her appointment as Principal of Redeemer Lutheran College. We very much look forward to welcoming her and her family into our Redeemer community next year,” Mr Warbrooke said.
“Mrs Crooks is a highly qualified educator, and her background, experience and talents position her very well to lead Redeemer into our next phase,” Mr Warbrooke said.
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD
Introducing Mrs Tanya Crooks We’ve been enjoying the opportunity to get to know our new Principal, Mrs Tanya Crooks, over recent weeks as she has been visiting Redeemer, and attending both the Senior School and Junior School Celebration Ceremonies. Over this time, we’ve been able to interview Mrs Crooks to find out a little more of our new Principal! Why did you apply for this role, and what brought you to Redeemer? Education has been a vocation for me. Through my work in Lutheran schools God has allowed me to grow and develop as a leader. I felt called to the Redeemer community and instantly felt at home. The strong sense of community, the opportunities to build on traditions of the past whilst embracing the future, all grounded firmly on Christian faith, are all fine values that I share. What are you looking forward to the most about being Principal of Redeemer? I am most excited about getting to know and understand the Redeemer community and through this process, identifying opportunities to develop education for young people which both supports and enhances their preparation for our rapidly changing world. What schools have you previously worked at? My teaching career started many years ago in the state school system at Pine Rivers State High. During this time I was senior teacher in charge of Drama and was heavily involved in the performing arts life of the school. After a seven and a half year period living in London and working in business, I returned to teaching and took up a position at Grace Lutheran College (7-12), Rothwell. During my 12 years at Grace I held a variety positions, including Year 12 Pastoral Care leader, Assistant Dean of Students, Dean of Middle School – Pastoral Care, Head of Senior School and Acting Head of Campus – Caboolture and Rothwell. For the last two years I have been Director of Staff at Pacific Lutheran College (P-12), Caloundra. What three traits define you? Courage, kindness and determination. What is your personal philosophy? Be true to myself, be kind to others and look to God for guidance. Who is your role model, and why? I have been blessed to work with a number of amazing Lutheran leaders during my time as an educator. I would like to acknowledge and thank my wonderful role models, Mr Fred Stolz, Principal of Grace Lutheran College (1980-2009); Mrs Kris Stevens (1980-2009) and Mrs Gail Simmons (2007-2010), both Dean of Students, Grace Lutheran College; Mrs Ruth Butler, Principal of Grace Lutheran College (2010-2016) and finally Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal of Pacific Lutheran College (2001- ). All of these wonderful educators have been generous mentors and wise educators. What does true leadership mean to you? True leadership is modelled on the life of Jesus. As servant leaders we primarily focus on the growth and well-being of the people and the communities to which we belong. The servant-leader shares power, puts the needs of others first and helps people develop and perform as highly as possible. In Mark 10:42-45, Jesus called [the disciples] together and said, “You know that those
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who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” We can spend a life time as a servant leader striving for this and knowing that when we err, as humans do, that God’s grace will support us. As a leader, I strive to hear, listen, prayerfully consider and decide, knowing I am both responsible and accountable for the Redeemer family going forward. What are you most passionate about as an educator? I am most passionate as an educator about young people developing their God given gifts and then discovering how they can use these skills for the benefit of others. I am also passionate about students developing deep, critical and creative thinking as they travel on their journey to maturity. Many of our young people will be presented with the challenge of creating their own work opportunities in the future and I believe we need to equip them with the skills and attributes to be successful entrepreneurs and problem solvers. When you were a school student, what did you want to be when you grew up? Despite being an ardent performing arts student during school, singing in three choirs, playing in three orchestras, acting in a lead role in the school musical and completing my AMEB Speech and Drama and Music exams all in my senior year, I chose to study a Bachelor of Law. At some point during my law study I realised that I was called to teaching and went back to my first love of performing arts. As a result I am a qualified Drama and Legal Studies teacher – not your usual combination!
REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE NEWS
Chaplain’s Column Our Journey
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? It’s ok to be unique! Work hard but remember to enjoy what you are doing. You won’t always get it right the first time, you won’t always be top of the class, get picked for the sporting team or asked to be lead in the musical. It is both our successes and our failures which join together to develop our character. What’s the weirdest job you’ve ever had? Despite appearances that I was a very girly girl growing up, as a teenager I used to help my dad (a builder) on weekends moving pallets of bricks by hand from one job site to another! In direct contrast my university part–time job was quite glamourous working as front of house at QPAC for six years when it first opened and being able to indulge in seeing an endless stream of drama, musical, opera, ballet and orchestral performances. What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this? I worked for four years in the travel industry whilst living in London and have also had times when I thought about returning to law. However my secret dream was to be an opera singer. I don’t think anyone knows that! Where is your favorite place to be? Anywhere I am with my family. Where is the best place you’ve traveled to and why? I have had the blessing to travel all over the world. I have always enjoyed ancient history so the pyramids in Egypt, Machu Picchu in Peru and the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem would be highlights. However after spending a term travelling around Australia with my family I discovered that the natural beauty in our own country is the most spectacular of them all. What is your favorite thing to do? Go for an early morning walk along the beach with my husband and then have brunch with my family, What is the one thing you cannot resist? Chocolate!!! How do you define success? Success for me is defined by living true to your faith and having these core values so embedded that they are part of your authentic self. By its definition then, success for me is a lifelong pursuit travelling with its companions of failure and hope. What are your three most overused words/phrases?
Abraham was called by God to leave behind his life in Ur and to go into a land he knew nothing about. He had no idea what would befall him, had no way he could call on support from family and friends but he went on faith, believing that God would be faithful to him. When he died Abraham had not seen the fullness of God’s promises in his life, but he had welcomed their beginning. As far as we know, Abraham never had a desire to go back to Mesopotamia, but he could have gone if he wanted to. He could have turned his back on God’s promises, but he did not. Our journey this year is somewhat like Abraham’s, we have welcomed the beginning of the fulfillment of God’s promises, but there is more to come. As we round out this year with Christmas and the holidays we enter into a new year of God’s promises. God is calling us to turn from the past that we know (a past with Mr Radke) to an unknown, yet exciting future (with Mrs Crooks). God is calling us to a task, that although it is familiar we do not know exactly what lies ahead. We may make plans, dream dreams, and set goals – and everything may turn out as expected. But it may not. God is calling our community into that uncertain future and saying, “I want you to get up and go. I will be with you. If you will be obedient to my commands and trust me to lead you into the uncharted future, your life will be rewarding and fruitful.” It is easy for us to stay in the past, to stay with what we know. Mr Radke has served our community faithfully for the last eight years and it is the end of an era as he moves into his new position. However, it is not only Mr Radke that is leaving us this year, there are other staff and students. For us to remain in Ur, there are many people we need to hold onto. The departure of each and every one of these people is a loss. But the big difference between our loss and the loss that Abraham experienced, is that we can still remain in contact with those whom we miss. The new year is an opportunity for a new beginning. A new beginning with God, with Mrs Crooks and with new people in our community. Pastor Damien Martin Senior Chaplain
Good question. I don’t know. I look forward to our conversations over the coming year to find out! What is the best book you have ever read? The Road Less Travelled by M. Scott Peck, anything by Jane Austen and for fun, the Harry Potter series! Tell us something that might surprise us about you. I have had the opportunity over my life to be quite adventurous. I have gone white water rafting, hot air ballooning, snorkeling with barracudas, flown in a helicopter over an active volcano, hiked up Yosemite Falls, caught a barramundi in the crocodile infested waters of the Lower Ord River and swum with a whale shark off Ningaloo Reef. I have still to pluck up the courage to go skydiving! Welcome to the Crooks family: Geoff, Remy, Tymon and Tanya Crooks
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD
College Council News 2017-2019 Strategic Plan
Sarah Dixon
College Council is currently finalising a new three-year strategic plan for 2017-2019 which has been a major focus this year. College Council engaged Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) to assist with the process and lead a number of meetings and workshops with College Councillors and College Executive members to discuss the detail of the plan.
Position on College Council: Secretary of College Council.
Members of the wider school community (including staff, parents, and students) were invited to attend a community workshop in May, and again in October to assist ISQ and Council with some of the ‘big picture’ thinking. This input has been incorporated into the final draft. In association with the development of the Strategic Plan, architects have been engaged to develop a Master Plan for the College site. The launch of the 2017-2019 Strategic Plan will take place in the first quarter of 2017 together with incoming Principal, Mrs Tanya Crooks. Implementation of the plan will remain a top priority for College Council throughout 2017.
Council Members Special thanks to College Councillor, Elaine Forster, who retired this year, for her service to the College over many years. College Council has recently appointed a new Council member in James Tan. James is a practicing Lawyer with Corney and Lind, and brings valuable skills in law, finance and administration to the College Council table. Thank you to all members of College Council who volunteer their time to function as the College’s governing body and who ensure that the College remains founded on God’s Word, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The current members of the College Council are:
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Meet Redeemer’s College Council
Chair
Mr Ross Warbrooke
Vice Chair
Mr Andrew Spyropoulos
Secretary
Mrs Sarah Dixon
Members
Mr Michael Hoopmann
Ms Margit Hubbers
Mr Cameron Jaggers
Rev Robin Stelzer
Mr James Tan
Consultant:
Mr Shaun McKenzie
Qualifications: Bachelor of Business (Communication), MAICD; Justice of the Peace (Qualified); Working with Children Suitability Blue Card. Occupation: I’m a Group Manager at Rowland, one of Australia’s largest independent communication, digital and creative agencies. Skillset / experience brought to Redeemer Lutheran College governance: I’ve enjoyed more than 15 years’ experience as a corporate communication practitioner at the forefront of Australian public affairs. In my executive role, I act as a trusted advisor to my clients, many of which are among the country’s largest companies. I bring all of what I’ve learned in this context to the College Council table. Association to the College: I’m a past student (class of 1997), and a future parent. Home church/congregation: My husband Nat and I, together with our children - Grace (5), Abigail (3), and Jael (1) - worship at the Bowen Hills campus of Hope Centre (part of the Australian Christian Churches movement). I am baptised and confirmed in the Lutheran Church, and have also called Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Woongoolba and Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Rochedale, home. Summary of service in congregation/parish/wider church: In addition to volunteering on College Council, I also serve as a Trustee Director of Lutheran Super, the super fund for employees of the Lutheran Church of Australia. Summary of community service: I’m a Director of Teen Rescue Foundation, a national charitable Trust which provides financial support to Australian organisations at the front-line of initiatives addressing teen alcohol consumption. Teen Rescue Foundation was established by Tyson and Rachael Stelzer (College parents and Redeemer Chaplain), to combat underage alcohol abuse. Over the past 18 months, the Trust has raised more than $40,000 for those at the front-line of this issue. Where did you go to school?: Redeemer Lutheran College (class of 1997). What do you like most about Redeemer?: I was blessed with many great teachers while at Redeemer College, and also many great friends. I consider my closest girlfriends, most of whom also attended the College, as Redeemer’s greatest gift to me.
REDEEMER RECORD | JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS
Junior School News From the Head of Junior School Semester 2, 2016 is at an end. Throughout the Semester the Junior School students have been involved in a plethora of activities and learning experiences that have engaged, stimulated, excited and extended their thinking. Highlights of Semester 2 for our students involve: Preps – Growing their very own plant and having a class garden. Year 1 – The GOMA excursion and having parents assisting with reading and literacy groups. Year 2 – Reading and learning about Roald Dahl and his wonderful stories. Year 3 – The Year 3 Sleepover and being able to spend time away from home with friends. Year 4 – The flexible nature of the classrooms and the way the three Year 4 classes interact together. Mrs Kelli McKeiver Head of Junior School
Year 5 – The Term 3 culminating activity and Open Day of “The Zoo” where students could showcase their work. Year 6 – The challenges and new experiences that the Canberra Tour offered. Highlights of Semester 2 for some of our staff involve: Kylee O’Neill - Laughing and having fun with my students every day. Anna Gengos – Witnessing an improvement in not only work but in attitude to learning. Marita Ropelin – The spiritual growth of children and seeing their knowledge and love of God blossom. Renee Brattan – The Year 3 Plays when children come together in groups and produce great performances. Debbie Kellend – The Staff at Redeemer are like a family. Janelle Hamling – I love that the Library can be a place of collaboration, creativity and learning. Personally, as this Semester comes to an end, I am grateful for supportive staff and parents, delightful students, and friends. The community of Redeemer Junior School is a welcoming, caring and encouraging place and one that I have been privileged to be a part of for over 10 years in my role as Head of Junior School. Thank you, one and all!
Year 6 Students Graduate from Junior School! A special Junior School Assembly was held on Friday 26 November where our Junior School students farewelled Mrs Mac, and the Year 6 students celebrated their time in the Junior School before moving to the Middle Years program in the Senior School next year!
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JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD
Farewell Mrs Mac! Following 10 years of outstanding service to Redeemer Lutheran College as our Head of Junior School, Mrs Kelli McKeiver will step down at the end of this year to pursue other professional and personal interests. Mrs McKeiver has had a long association with Redeemer Lutheran College, having served initially for 6 years as a Middle School teacher from 1999-2004. In July 2006, she was appointed as the founding Head of Junior School, and has served in this role for the past 10 years. During her time as Head of Junior School she has led many implementations and projects in the Junior School. Kelli should be deservedly proud of what has been achieved and is to be commended for her development of the student leadership opportunities and personal development program for Junior School students. Under her guidance, our Junior School has grown from a single stream sub-school of 150 students, to a wellestablished vibrant Junior School of over 500 students today. Thank you Mrs Mac for your many years of dedicated service to Redeemer Lutheran College and wish you every blessing in the future!
Junior School Pavement Art On Wednesday 19 October, Junior School students took to the pavement with chalk to create their Australiana themed designs for the Pavement Art House Competition.
Year Level House Winners Year 3: Mansfield - Millie Garey, Kelly Zhao, Lynn Song and Isabel Ju Year 4: Ramsay - Ellie Koppens, Lauren Cropper, Katie Routledge and Natasha Weekes Year 5: Wilson - Imogen Hatherill, Andrew Pollard, Jasmin Wu and Annaliese Atkins Year 6: Ramsay - Leila Koppens, Zander Shepherd, Emma Routledge and Isabella Smart
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REDEEMER RECORD | JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS
Canberra Tour 2016
Book Week Parade
In September, the Year 6 cohort travelled down to Canberra, where they visited Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, the National Museum of Australia, Taronga Park Zoo, the CSIRO Discovery Centre, the National Arboretum, the Electoral Education Centre, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the Royal Australian Mint, the Sportex complex, Questacon and the Tidbinbilla Deep Space Communication Centre.
On September 16, our Junior School Book Week celebrations culminated with a costume parade! Students were invited to come dressed in the Book Week theme – ‘Australia’, ‘Story Country’, or their favourite book character. What a great display of costumes, and it was great to see so many parents come along to watch the parade!
Junior School Swimming Carnival Congratulations to Lavarack for achieving first place at the Junior School Swimming Carnival on November 11.
Year 5 Leadership Day On Wednesday 23 November, Year 5 students took part in leadership activities to prepare them for next year, when they will be the leaders of Junior School!
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SENIOR SCHOOL NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD
Senior School News Stay Gold “Stay gold” is a reference that refers to Robert Frost’s poem and the famous line in The Outsiders by S.SE Hinton. In the novel, Ponyboy recites that “Nothing gold can stay,” meaning that all good things must come to an end. Johnny poignantly urges Ponyboy to remain gold, or innocent. ‘Staying gold’ in Ramsay House took on a whole new meaning in 2016 as they basked in the glory of their House shield victory. Congratulations to the golden ducks for a magnificent effort in the competition. I encourage the other Houses to stay positive and to make a difference in the competition next year. Staying gold is not about winning through, it’s about attitude. It is remaining positive, pure in intention and having hope despite the challenges we face daily. I think our school motto ‘Our Hope is in Christ’ reminds us to ‘stay gold’, to seek the light and the Lord and to rest in the fact that He is in control. Mrs Anastasia Strong Head of Senior School
Remaining positive and innocent at heart also means to see the best in others. In a school, we are presented with students with different levels of maturity, a variety of personalities and most experiencing a pandora’s box of emotions, as they navigate through adolescence. Our staff are very conscious of ‘staying gold’; seeing every child as an individual, living the Gospel and seeing the good in our students. Sincere thanks to the Senior School staff and support staff who shine light and love in the lives of our students every day. At the end of each year, we look back and we can see the growth and development in our students. Each student has learned a great deal through their experiences and in some cases there are amazing transformations in character and attitude. Their physical appearance is often symbolic of the internal growth, as students no longer resemble the child in the ID photo taken in February; their faces have changed and so have their hearts and minds; the important thing is to ‘stay gold’ in the transformation.
Senior School Athletics Carnival On Monday 18 July, Senior School students participated in Day 2 of the Interhouse Athletics Carnival featuring field events on
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Scurr Oval. Congratulations to all students who participated, and especially to Ramsay for taking out first place.
REDEEMER RECORD | SENIOR SCHOOL NEWS
Lunch on the Green
ReCykle
On Friday 28 October, the Community Service and Cultural Committees joined forces to host Redeemer’s annual ‘Lunch on the Green’. Senior School students were treated to great musical talent whislt enjoying beautiful Spring weather! A sausage sizzle and drinks stall raised $600 to be donated to Orange Sky Laundry and Multiple Sclerosis research. Thank you to staff and students for supporting this great event.
ReCykle was held at lunchtime on Wednesday 14 September and is an annual interhouse competition run by the Community Service Committee in support of the Leprosy Mission. Congratulations to Wilson!
Year 9 Outdoor Education Experience Throughout Term 4, two groups of Year 9 students had the opportunity to spend four weeks at Camp Tuchekoi on the edge of the Mary River and Noosa Hinterland.
View more pictures and read about the adventures of our students at www.redeemer.com.au/blog-categories/outdoor-education In 2017, we’re excited to announce that our Year 9 Outdoor Education program is moving to Mt Binga Outdoor Education Centre!
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SENIOR SCHOOL NEWS |
REDEEMER RECORD
Artist in Residence 2016
Shibakashi Day
Redeemer’s Art Department started Term 3 with enriching Artist in Residence workshops. These offered students the opportunity to have the experience of learning from renowned ceramic sculpture artist, Ruth Park. The Visual Art classes impressed Ruth as they produced amazingly detailed mythical Gremlin heads and life-size human bust sculptures.
Shibakashi Day has been part of Redeemer’s history since essentially the turn of the century; an annual event as predictable as Redeemer Fair and as socially warming as a House Barbecue. Mr Harumichi Nomura, the new Principal of Shibakashi, is not only a former Shibakashi staff member, he was involved in organising the Redeemer Shibakashi event in its very earliest years. This year’s Shibakashi Day had all the fondness of past events as well as new experiences for students involved for the first time.
Year 7 Orientation Day During their last week of school for 2016, our Year 6 students had the opportunity to explore the Senior School on their Year 7 Orientation Day. It was also great to welcome many of our new
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students starting at Redeemer in 2017! Students were lead around the campus and through a range of activities by the student leaders for 2017.
annual report |
2016
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Principal’s Report The introduction of My Redeemer and compulsory BYOD has featured in the life of Redeemer this year. While these are merely tools, it is the practice of embedding them into the daily life of the student which enhances student engagement and ease of access to information, curriculum material and online research. Additionally, both MyRedeemer and the BYOD structure will allow for ever increasing opportunities for communication between home and school, student and teacher and peer to peer learning. Redeemer remains mindful that the traditional learning of literacy and numeracy should be central to teaching and student learning. The ever increasing development and use of flexible learning spaces in both the Junior and Senior Schools have continued in 2016 as they will in the years ahead; they are not end goals in themselves. Rather, these redeveloped learning spaces and new teaching and learning strategies, appropriately developed for flexible learning, are provided to teachers and students as alternative means for higher learning engagement. The College’s annual Springboard showcase earlier this Term presented a rich, diverse and very high quality display of student work from the Visual Arts, Design and Technology, Home Economics, Information Technology and Film and TV. From the Principal’s perspective, the 2016 Springboard Showcase was again very well presented and all staff and students should be extremely proud of their work. In 2016, Redeemer’s NAPLAN results continued to reflect the academic success experienced across the College. For the fourth consecutive year, our student scores were higher than State and National averages in every area tested in every year level. Tracking of cohorts over the last eight years continues to indicate that Redeemer students improve at a greater rate than their State and National counterparts. This success is testament to the support of our parents, the commitment of our students, and the dedication of all staff across the College. In 2017, our students will complete their NAPLAN assessments online. In delivering its academic program, Redeemer remains committed to high expectations and rigor across the College in a manner which is supportive of all ability levels in order that students can maximise their learning according to their ability. Throughout 2016, broader learning activities continued across the College with the 2016 Canberra Tour seeing a strong mix of Junior School and Senior School staffing as part of Redeemer’s ongoing commitment to transition from the Primary to Secondary years. Survey results, and general and specific feedback, continue to highlight Redeemer’s excellent pastoral care across the whole college. Redeemer seeks to continually improve its Pastoral Care service to its families and, where possible, to the wider community.
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Redeemer’s vertical House system provides many avenues to strengthen relationships across the various year levels. The annual Pavement Art competition across both sub-schools remains one of the House competitions where students can build relationships, and exercise their creativity in a fun and meaningful way. This year, the transitioning of Redeemer Year 6 students to the Senior School for 2017 and beyond was very well received by students and parents. The transition process established two years ago continues to include a Transition Passport for Redeemer Year 6s going into Year 7 as well as a range of familiarisation activities which have occurred during 2016, culminating in a successful Orientation Day for new students held just yesterday. The Year 6s had their timetable modified as 2016 progressed, preparing them for the two week cycle that operates in the Senior School, including daily homework and learning to use their pigeon hole as a locker. Other personal-organisation initiatives also assisted the Year 6s in their awareness of what will be required of them in 2017. I take this opportunity to thank all staff who have supported these initiatives in 2016. At Redeemer, students are encouraged to be involved in community service activities. This allows students to reflect, considering others less fortunate than themselves and to unselfishly give of themselves and their resources. In 2016, Junior School donated their weekly chapel offerings to various charities and organisations, including Helping Hands and Australian Lutheran World Service. In the Senior School, the Student Committees enthusiastically ran activities including ReCykle raising money for the Leprosy Mission, World’s Greatest Shave raising funds for the Leukemia Foundation, and Lunch on the Green raising money for the Orange Sky Laundry and MS. Across the whole college, students were involved in delivering over 1000 Easter gifts to local nursing homes and Meals on Wheels, sending 75 Christmas gift boxes to third world countries as part of Operation Christmas Child and raising money through two free dress days for Helping Hands and St Andrews Lutheran College, after their school fire. In addition to the numerous community service activities, the whole college continues to maintain support of the “Helping Hands” Van. The Van has been in action now for two and a half years, and continues to touch the lives of those in our community less fortunate than ourselves. 2016 has seen strong support by students across the College as they have donated goods, and by Senior School students as they have given up their time on a Friday evening to help on the Van roster. In the wider community, Our Saviour Lutheran Church continues to staff the Van over the holiday breaks. 2016 has been an outstanding year for Redeemer’s Co-curricular programs. In addition to tremendous successes in Sport and Music, the cultural activities have enjoyed both good achievements as well as excellent student participation; of particular note were Debating and Chess. I especially congratulate Alexander Black who received a Bronze Medallion in the Brisbane South Chess Championships, placing third in the Open B Division. Debating at Redeemer has made leaps and bounds in performances across Years 6-12. Redeemer competed in the Queensland Debating Union competition with two teams each in Years 7, 8, and 9 and one team in Years 6, and Years 10 to
12. Each team had to deal with a range of topics covered and short prep debates for Years 7-12. Ably coached and supported by a great group of staff and parents, the students developed confidence and improved their ability to produce quality arguments while under the pressure of speaking publically and producing rebuttal. In all year levels except one, there was a team in the finals which was a tremendous result. There has been an abundance of highs in the 2016 Performance Music year with all ensembles and individual performances consistently exceeding expectations through memorable and outstanding performances. 2016 saw Redeemer music performance achieve its best results so far. Top awards were achieved in the Music disciplines of the Bands, Choral ensembles and the Strings. The Senior Singers achieved first place at the Queensland Youth Music Awards, Chamber Strings again won the Open String Orchestra section at Redlands Eisteddfod. The Senior Concert Band’s Platinum Award is the highest for a school band in Queensland. Other ensembles also acquitted themselves extremely well with the Junior Choir receiving a highly commended award at the Queensland Youth Music Awards, many ensembles won their section at the Redlands Eisteddfod inclusive of: The Fellas, Intermediate String Ensemble, Chamber Strings, Senior Concert Band, and Intermediate Band. The Junior Ensembles of Junior Concert Band, Year 6 Band and Intermediate Concert Band all received Gold Awards at Queensland’s MusicFest. In Piano performance, individual students from Years 7 to 11 performed extremely well in competitions which they entered, with special mention of David Kwong (Year 11) who was awarded the Accompanists Guild of Queensland award at the Redlands Eisteddfod. On top of these fine performances, Redeemer’s ensembles again this year provided their version of community service, performing at numerous public events held by the College as well as retirement villages. We thank the entire College community for their ongoing support and encouragement of our hard-working and talented young musicians and we should especially thank the staff involved in Music and the parents’ Music Supporters Group. Without the tireless work of these adults, such a fine music program, as exists at Redeemer, would be very difficult to achieve. The development of Sport at Redeemer in 2016 continued building on improvements from the previous three years with the best performances at the top TAS level in the past decade. The three Trimesters of TAS Sport produced two Premierships with seventeen teams across Tennis, Volleyball, Basketball, Hockey, Netball, Touch and Soccer finishing in the top half of the competition, that is fourth place and above. The achievements of the TAS teams are even more commendable for the fact that Redeemer was the second smallest TAS school in terms of student population in 2016. Additionally, Volleyball in particular had excellent success outside of the TAS competition at Volleyball Schools Cup with the Year 7 Girls placing second in the Junior competition, the Year 10s winning Gold in the Intermediate Schools Cup, while both Boys and Girls Firsts Teams won Gold at the Senior level.
In 2016, Redeemer competed in the Logan District carnivals for students aged 13-19 years in the sports of Swimming, Cross Country, and Athletics. In all of these carnivals, Redeemer won the Percentage Shield and placed second overall. This is a fantastic result and I congratulate all involved. Congratulations to the following students who were State representatives as follows: Claire Johnson: Queensland Netball Umpire; and Nicholas Sayers: Queensland Rugby Union Referee. Individual student achievement outside of schools sport is also worth noting. Congratulations to Billy Drake: Queensland representative in Under 17 AFL; Sienna Vardy: Queensland and National representative in Under 12/13 Futsal; Alexandra West: Queensland and National representative in Under 16 Indoor Netball, Caden Bardell: National representative in Bechrest Rifle Shooting; and Sam Strickland: National representative in Archery. Held for the third time, all indications are that the Sports Award Evening is maturing into an annual highlight of the Redeemer community. Apart from the celebrations of achievement and service in Redeemer Sport, the significance of the celebrity speaker continues to grow; this year we were inspired by Taylor Worth, Olympian in archery. Our JTAS program continues to grow in strength and is in a fantastic position to develop further in 2017 with the addition of new ideas, programs and structures. Participation throughout 2016 increased each term, with Term 3 being a standout as we fielded eight Soccer teams and six Basketball teams in our weekly JTAS fixtures. We must congratulate all teams who have worked tirelessly at training to develop their skills and be ready for game days! Your commitment to your school is certainly noticed. 2016 has also seen increased presence of the Redeemer War Cry and it is fantastic to hear so many young students showing the pride they have in their school teams after hard fought victories. Thanks to the hard work of Mr Li, we were able to take two Year 6 Volleyball teams to the Primary Schools Cup. This event will become a staple of the Junior Schoolrts program and it was fantastic to see the girls finishing fourth and boys finishing third on the day. For the first time, we have introduced Junior School Sports Captains with each sport being represented by two eager and committed Year 6 students. This initiative will grow further in 2017 as our Captains work alongside the Coordinator of Sports Development to promote their sport and engage younger students in participation. Parents and students will have noticed the continuing use of surveys; I assure parents that the constant gathering of information is both helping the College improve policies and procedures, or the information has been useful in identifying new and emerging needs. Via the use of these tools, Redeemer seeks to better serve its student and parent community, both in its dayto-day operations as well as its forward planning. These tools add to the on-going practice of parents providing direct feedback via traditional communication, meetings and the P&F processes. Community partnerships with the P&F and Our Saviour Lutheran Church have once again been of great benefit to the College in terms of building a strong, caring community that models
2016
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Principal’s Report (continued) responsible citizenship to our student community, participation through service to others, and expressing and exercising the care and love of Christ. Throughout this year, the P&F has continued to support Redeemer through its traditional activities of the parent Supporters Groups and Fair, they continue to investigate new initiatives with the aims of strengthening the P&F through expanded participation and its fund and friend raising activities in general. Every year, I am amazed by the outcomes from the efforts of the P&F and 2016 was an excellent example of parents generously giving of their time and talents in order to support staff and students. Our Saviour’s support of the co-curricular program, Christian Dance, the reading and giving of Bibles to the Junior School and their support of the Redeemer Fair continued to be significant contributions to the community life of Redeemer in 2016. The arrival of Chaplain Nic Hu, sponsored by the LCAQD was a most welcome addition to Chaplaincy services to better serve the evolving needs of Redeemer. The Redeemer community also envelops our more mature friends. Each year we look forward to welcoming the many Grandparents and Special Friends of Redeemer students. This is a very special day for families and one that makes lasting memories for all involved. The annual visit of Redeemer’s sister school, Shibakashi, once again provided students with a positive and personal interaction with another culture and a sharing of cultural experiences, sport and the arts. Shibakashi welcomed a new Principal this year who has indicated that he is reviewing Shibakashi’s interaction with Redeemer and any planned changes would take effect from 2018. This year, Redeemer continued its capital development in both the Junior and Senior School precincts to provide contemporary facilities which effectively support the wide range of academic, sporting and cultural programs on offer. The Junior School was further developed to support Redeemer’s flexible learning strategies. This included the construction of the Junior School Wave, new carpet in the Junior School Library and the addition of a range of flexible furniture pieces for Junior School classrooms. The OSHC facilities were also relocated and upgraded including new carpet, a kitchen upgrade, a new activity area and the courtyard was redeveloped, including a purpose built shade sail. The Senior School saw improvements in the Kleinschmidt Centre, with the addition of two toilets, new water bubblers and two new music tutor rooms. New, high specification computers and monitors were installed in the SH15 computer lab. Air-conditioning was installed in the SB Block laboratories. Remodeling work started in the Senior School Resource Centre and will continue over the Christmas break to upgrade the facility with new carpet, break out rooms, shelving and furniture. Our sporting facilities are also being improved with the completion of the Stolz Sportsfields facilities upgrade including new toilets, showers, kitchen and landscaping. Work will also be completed on the Scurr Oval barbecue facilities, adding an outdoor kitchen and a covered “mini” wave. I would like to formally thank the P&F for contributing $256,000 to these projects.
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It is with sadness that we farewell staff, both teaching and nonteaching, who have served the College for a number of years. We thank each of them for their service to the families of the College and wish them all the very best for the future. I thank the following staff who left Redeemer at various times during 2016: Corin Fudali, Robert Hutton, Younkyung Jung, Antoinette Mattingley, Queenie Niu, Michele Norman, and Gerrit Van Essen. I would also like to thank staff who are leaving at the end of this year; we thank each of them for their service to the families of the College and wish them all the very best for the future. Please join me in thanking: Cheryl Andersen, Yvonne Boonman, Danielle Braiden, Denise Buck, Tanya Burkitt, Jane Gado, Themi Georgiou, Beulah Greaves, Marie Hughes, Zoe Hutton, Delia Loch, Kelli McKeiver, Jessica Morrish, Mark Rasi, Mike Rowlands, Gina Simatovic, Geoff Sockhill, and Zoe Warman. Redeemer has a wonderful staff culture, one that is rich in service, care and professionalism; throughout 2016, staff have worked very hard in their service to families of Redeemer. Looking across the College, I see overwhelming evidence of hard working, committed and loyal staff in the non-teaching area as well. The beautiful grounds of the College have continued to impress community members and visitors alike and are evidence of a dedicated and creative grounds and maintenance staff. The cleanliness of our facilities equally reflects a cleaning crew who are professional and proud of what they do. Elsewhere the academic support staff of the College directly serve the needs of parents and visitors through the various Receptions or in their roles of assisting teachers. In all cases the compliments that flow from the community to the College about the work of our staff are always appreciated. I thank the College Council for their leadership of Redeemer this year. At the governance level of the College, it has been an interesting year as the Council grappled with the ever changing needs of 21st century education and the leadership change which has occurred in the second half of the year. I thank College Council for their dedication, guidance and support of me personally over the past eight years. In closing, I say farewell to you all. It has been a pleasure to serve the Redeemer community. I leave with many wonderful memories which I will treasure as long as I have the capacity to remember. I wish Redeemer all the very best for the future and look forward to hearing about Redeemer’s ongoing development and success. Mr David Radke Principal
College Council Report The year 2016 was another busy one for Redeemer Lutheran College. Some notable observations at the beginning of the year are that “The Wave” covered area was installed in the Junior School, Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) was relocated into MA Block, the roof to SE block was replaced and the “My Redeemer” Learning Management System was introduced. “The Wave” provides additional covered areas for the Junior School students, especially at drop off and pick up times. The relocation of OSHC into MA block provides much-needed additional area for this service which has seen sizeable growth in recent years. The replacement of the SE block roof reflects the ongoing repairs that are required as the College buildings age. I understand that “My Redeemer” has been embraced by students and staff alike. Sport will see a number of changes for 2017. In response to a number of concerns, the College (in association with the P&F) set up the Parent Sport Reference Group. This Group worked hard through the year to prepare and evaluate a survey to identify the Sport needs of the College. This work culminated in the “Shaping the Future of Redeemer Sport” evening held at the beginning of September. This evening recommitted the College to providing an active sporting program, and announced that Years 4 to 6 would continue to compete in the JTAS competition (as has happened in previous years), and that Years 7 to 12 would compete in the Greater Brisbane Conference (GBC) competition. Both competitions are run under the auspices of The Associated Schools (TAS). The GBC competition, however, does not obligate Redeemer to field teams in every year level for every sport in the competition. Fulfilling this requirement has been very challenging in previous years. Nevertheless, Redeemer will continue to attempt to field teams in every year level for every sport where practicable. The College Council appreciates the work of the Parent Support Reference Group and those involved with presenting the “Shaping the Future of Redeemer Sport” evening. The Stolz Sports field change rooms have undergone a major renovation in the last half of 2016. The College is very grateful to the P&F for its financial support of this project. The P&F has also committed financially to new barbeque facilities at Scurr Oval. It is planned that these facilities will be available for use in 2017. In 2016, the Outdoor Education/Camp Program was reviewed, and changes suggested to improve the sequencing between the various year level camps as students progress through the College. The suggested improvements will be gradually introduced as the opportunities arise. The Year 9 Outdoor Education experience will be undertaken at the Immanuel Lutheran College, Mt Binga campsite from 2017 onwards. For the previous six years, the College has used the facilities provided by the Tuchekoi camp near Gympie. The Tuchekoi facilities have served the College well and have allowed students to experience a number of physical challenges, giving students a chance to discover their own
capabilities. The move to the Mt Binga facilities will allow the College to provide an outdoor education experience which has an inherently Lutheran ethos. The College Strategic Plan has been a major focus this year. I take this opportunity to thank the parents, students and staff who have contributed to the development of the Strategic Plan 2017 to 2019. This Strategic Plan is proposed to be released in the first quarter of 2017. In association with the development of the Strategic Plan, architects have been engaged to develop a Master Plan for the College site. The College also farewells its third Principal, Mr David Radke, at the end of 2016. Mr Radke has accepted the appointment to become Principal of Grace Lutheran College and he commences there in January 2017. College Council thanks Mr Radke for his eight years of service to Redeemer Lutheran College. During his time here, Mr Radke has led many improvements and changes in response to the ever-changing demands of teaching and education. As a Council, we are grateful for his many new ideas which have enabled the College to stay at the forefront of changes in the education sector. On behalf of College Council, I thank Mr Radke for his tireless efforts to advance Redeemer College. At many times, this has involved long hours and personal sacrifice, and we also recognise David’s wife Naomi and children for their wonderful support. We wish Mr Radke all the best at Grace Lutheran College and we pray God’s many blessings for his future. In January 2017, the College community will warmly welcome Mrs Tanya Crooks as Principal, and we look forward to the next chapter with Mrs Crooks at the helm. Please take the time to introduce yourselves to her over the coming months. Redeemer Fair was another College highlight. Organised by the Parents and Friends Association, it was a very successful event again this year, despite the threat of stormy weather. I am aware that many parents, students and staff volunteer their time over an extended period of time to make this such a great event, and on behalf of College Council, I thank you all for your efforts. Redeemer would not function as well as it does without all the work of the auxiliaries. There is the P&F Association, Sporting Supporters groups, Music Supporters, Redeemer Foundation, Our Saviour congregation and the list goes on. To all of these auxiliaries and the associated volunteers, I and College Council thank you. I want to thank College Councillor, Elaine Forster, who retired this year, for her service to the College over many years. I welcome Cameron Jaggers and James Tan who have been appointed to College Council this year. I take this opportunity to thank all the members of College Council who volunteer their time to function as the College’s governing body and who ensure that the College remains founded on God’s Word, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. “Our Hope is in Christ” Mr Ross Warbrooke Chairman
2016
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Parents and Friends Parents and Friends Committee 2016 has been another busy year for the P&F. We started the year with a new President, Vice President and Treasurer (and without a Secretary). The year kicked off with our free family event, ‘Movie Night under the Stars’. Unfortunately, it turned into Movie Night under the Rain Clouds, so we moved the event into the MPC and a great family night was had watching the much loved film, ‘Paddington’. Early in the year we committed to allocate $200,000 to the upgrade of facilities at Stolz Sportsfields, and we are very proud of this project. Our sporting teams now have modern team change rooms, showers and amenities to be proud of sharing with their opponents. The new canteen facility will allow the P&F and our Supporter Groups to provide a service to our community and that of visiting schools. We look forward to celebrating the opening in the near future of this large P&F legacy project. Also in 2016, we committed $56,000 to fund a solution for food offering at Scurr Oval in a joint project with the school. A ‘wave’ shelter, electric barbecue, servery area and much needed bubblers will be built on the edge of Scurr Oval to service both Scurr Oval and Glover Fields. This will be a sought after venue for school functions, Supporter Groups, sports days and even as a learning space with the undercover area and future grandstand. The first stage of this project is on track for completion in 2016. Next we facilitated and funded the Junior School Disco which was well attended by the year levels. By the middle of the year we were full-steam into planning for the Fair and decided on several changes for 2016. For the first time in 9 years, we moved music back outside with an enormous stage and a wonderful afternoon with “Music on the Green”. Thanks to the sponsorship of Ray White Rochedale for their generous support of this change. The Fair was a great community day and thanks must go to the very hard working committee and our community volunteers, we raised around $23,000 which will fund P&F projects in 2017. Thanks especially to the staff members that give up their time to help at the Fair; it is greatly appreciated. It would be remiss of me not to mention two amazing staff members who give up so much of their free time to make the fair a success. That is, Julian Schubert and Teri Grandin, you are two very special people and we are blessed to have you in our community. The P&F also supported the school in terms of the Sport’s Reference Group and the “Changing the Future of Redeemer Sport” initiative. It will be an important part of 2017 and I encourage all families to get involved. 2016 has seen poor attendances at P&F meetings and we hope that many more of our families will support us in 2017; it is a great way to find out how our school functions and find out first-hand the plans for the future. We have on the other hand had outstanding attendance from Heads of Sub-schools, Executive staff, and on the back of parent feedback last year, a member of College Council has attended almost every meeting. We thank you for your support and time. On behalf of the P&F I would like to thank David Radke for all he has done to support us in our endeavours and his constant encouragement. David, you have been a great leader to us and we appreciate everything you do and will miss your guidance (and you picking up all the rubbish in the car park late on fair nights!)
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Finally, I want to thank my amazing P&F Management team: Amanda, who did two roles this year (as we couldn’t find a Secretary); Sarah, who took over Treasurer as her first role on the P&F (no small feat); and Natalie and Juan for their parent feedback. It has been a pleasure working with all of you. We don’t know what 2017 holds for us, but I would like to thank the community for the honour of leading the P&F in 2016, and I hope you agree it has been a very successful year! Safe and happy holidays to all our Redeemer families. P&F Management Committee President: Nicole Mazzer Vice President: Amanda Drake Secretary: Amanda Drake Treasurer: Sarah Perry Parent Reps: Natalie Pashen, Juan Jeffery Fair Committee: P&F Management Committee plus Jacqui Garey David Herron, Teri Grandin (Tuckshop Convenor), Julian Schubert (Director of Community Relations), Michelle Formann (Sponsorship Coordinator) Mrs Nicole Mazzer President
Music Supporters Group As 2016 draws to a close, it is time to reflect on what has been another very successful year for Redeemer Music. The number of students who participated in our various musical ensembles this year was huge and we must take a moment to thank all of the teachers and staff involved in managing these groups. We have been lucky enough also to see growth in numbers within our Music Supporters Group and we thank all of our volunteers who have so freely given of their time to support and encourage Redeemer’s wonderful music program. There have been numerous successes across all of our ensembles and age groups this year from our Junior Choir who performed at Sommerville House by invitation, to the many groups receiving awards at the Redlands Eisteddfod and towards the end of the year all of our bands who participated in Music Fest received a Gold award with the exception of Senior Concert Band who were awarded the Platinum award (the highest possible achievement)! Congratulations to all students involved in these wonderful achievements. Once again this year, Music Supporters were involved in the Chamber by Candlelight Concert and the Piano and Vocal Competition, both of which were very successful. We saw a big change to the music performance program at Redeemer Fair this year with the groups performing on a massive stage on the Chapel Green. This really put on display our many very talented young musicians for all fair-goers. Music Supporters once again were involved, running a snack stall. As always, all of the proceeds of our various fundraising activities throughout the year go directly back into the music program. Of note this year we were able to put funds into the purchase of a Bass Clarinet and we ran a major fundraiser throughout the second half of the year to help purchase a new tuba for our band program.
Supporter Groups We would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff involved in the music program for their ongoing dedication and support and also the many parents who support their students in music. I would also like to thank the members of the Music Supporters Group for their tireless efforts and look forward to doing it all again in 2017! If you would like to be involved in the Music Supporters Group in 2016 please don’t hesitate – we’d love to see some new faces! Ms Jodi Baptie Music Supporters Group
Redeemer Lutheran College Cricket Club The Redeemer Cricket Club and Supporters Group have had a successful 2016. The year commenced with several successes for teams in the JTAS and TAS competitions during Term 1, particularly in the younger teams, using skills developed during the 2015 pre-Christmas club competition. The TAS season concluded with a celebratory family cricket match and barbecue at Scurr Oval, with parents joining in and everyone sharing a fun cricket field-shaped cake! This year’s pre-Christmas club cricket season saw the Redeemer Cricket Club field four teams with more than 40 students from across Years 2 to 7. We had 3 teams in the Eastern Districts Junior Cricket Association (EDJCA) club competition and a team of Year 6 and 7 boys competing in the Brisbane East and Redlands (BEARS) club competition. There has been great improvement across all age groups with some players now in their 3rd or 4th season of club cricket. We have been very grateful for the assistance of Mr Tommy Peak in coordinating our coaches this year and liaising with the college. Special thanks also to the RLC ground staff for preparing a beautiful turf wicket on Scurr Oval without which we would have had difficulty growing into the BEARS competition. This field and wicket have been the envy of our opposition – and a great advertisement for the College! Parents have been very enthusiastic in 2016. Parent involvement remains crucial and without the assistance of parents as managers, scorers and umpires cricket could not operate. Cricket might demand a little bit more from parents but it also rewards by giving them the opportunity to be more actively involved in their children’s sport. We find that supporting cricket is a very social activity. Although some may perceive the hours watching cricket to be tedious, it is a fantastic way to avoid the household chores for a while and spend time getting to know other parents and families from the College. The Saturday morning coffee run has become a cricket ritual, and the easy pace of the morning gives rise to analysis, anecdote and the occasional gasp (don’t you dare be reaching for the biscuits when your child takes a catch or bowls someone out). There have also been plenty of edge of the seat moments, as the run chase counts down and the final dot ball (or perhaps 4 runs) is greeted with ecstatic cheers from the sidelines.
Please note that girls can play cricket too. They have been involved in JTAS teams in the past and we would love to see that continue and perhaps get a few involved in club cricket as well. Cricket remains a great Australian pastime, steeped in national identity, culture and language. Redeemer’s cricket supporters and club would like to invite all students and parents at the college to get involved with cricket in 2017 and join in the fun. Mr Tore Eivers Cricket Supporters Group
Rugby Supporters Congratulations to all of our Rugby players this year. Your dedication and commitment to your teams, despite flagging numbers, was great to see. Rugby Supporters are a group of parents who volunteer to work on the barbecue, serve food and drinks, and clean up at the end of the day at Stolz Sportsfields on home game days. Stolz is a remote venue, and the help and support they give to the players and spectators is very much appreciated. I’d like to thank everyone who volunteered their time this year throughout Rugby season, whether playing, coaching, refereeing, spectating or volunteering on the barbecue. Your contributions are greatly appreciated. I encourage all parents to get involved - it is a great opportunity to support the players, meet other parents, and create an awesome Rugby community. Funds raised throughout the Rugby season are used for the benefit of Redeemer Rugby. This year, funds have been used to purchase training jerseys for the First XV, trophies that were presented at the Rugby dinner, and to subsidy the rugby dinner. I would especially like to thank Madonna, Ian, Belinda and Katherine; and also my own family Grahame, Andrew, Nick and Hamish. Without these people, the Rugby barbecue would not have been possible, and I have to say not as much fun. The annual Rugby dinner was again celebrated at The Glen Hotel and it was wonderful to see all players from Redeemer TAS and JTAS dressed as young men in jacket and tie to celebrate the season and award their exceptional players. We look forward to next season and the changes to Redeemer Rugby, not least our newly renovated change rooms and brand new canteen, thanks to the P&F. Next year, I am looking forward to using our funds to the benefit of our players, creating an awesome Rugby community, and to encourage the boys in their commitment to their teams and their love of the game. Mrs Fiona Sayers Rugby Supporters
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2016 Awards Valedictory Awards
Valedictory Awards Subject
Award
Student
Subject
Award
Student
Accounting
The Anne Schmidt Perpetual Award for Meritorious Effort in Accounting
Winnie Liao
Languages Japanese
Award for Excellence in Languages
Christie Wong
The Parents & Friends Award for Excellence in Ancient History
Sarah Lam
Biological Science
The Judy Kuo Award for Biological Science
Shania Feroz
Business and Commerce
The Dr Myra Seeto Award for Business and Commerce
Samuel Wendt
Chemistry
The Peter Wu Award for Chemistry
Michael Dileo
Christian Studies
The Glover Award for Excellence in Christian Studies
Drama
Early Childhood Studies
Ancient History
Legal Studies
The Award for Legal Studies
Zoe Nay
Manufacturing Technology
The Manufacturing Technology Encouragement Award
Jack Grimes
Mathematics
The Jerry Krauel Award for Meritorious Effort in Mathematics
Xiaotong (Alice) Zhou
Modern History
The Parents and Friends Award for Excellence in Modern History
Neve Ferreira
Joshua Green
Music
Excellence in Senior Music Award
Samuel Poon
Excellence and Service in Drama Award
Madeline McInnes
Music Extension
The Judy Kuo Award for Music Extension (Performance)
Samuel Poon
TLC Training Solutions Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies
Gabrielle Morris
Physical Education
The Award for Excellence in Physical Education
Joshua Green
Physics
Samuel Poon
The Sean Frieberg Memorial Prize for Economics
Michael Dileo
The H & K Chan Award for Physics
Science
Shania Feroz
The Noël Chan Award for English
Ziyue (Monica) Li
The Dr Nicole Seeto Award for Science
Technology Studies
The Technology Studies Award
Benjamin Myatt
English Extension
The Ted Balfe Memorial Prize for English Extension
Zoe Nay
Visual Art
The Visual Art Award
Rebecca Chan
Film and Television
Award for Excellence in Film and Television
Shania Feroz
Vocational Education
The Simpfendorfer Memorial Award for Vocational Education
Stephanie Valiotis
Geography
The Parents and Friends Award for Excellence in Geography
Rebecca Chan
University of Queensland
The University of Queensland Award
Joshua Green
Graphics
The Parups Waring Architects Award for Graphics
Xiaotong (Alice) Zhou
Home Economics
The Home Economics Award
Carly Furlonger
Hospitality Practices
Award for Excellence and Service in Hospitality Practices
Natasha Aslander
Award
IPT
The Information Processing and Technology Award
Jarod Lam
Leadership Award - College Captains
Economics
English
Information Technology Systems Languages - German
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Shania Feroz
Jonathan Liu
The M, R & A Pennisi Award for Excellence in Information Technology Systems
Michael Dileo
Award for Excellence in Languages
Rucha Kashikar
- German
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Japanese
REDEEMER ANNUAL REPORT
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2016
Samuel Poon
Year 12 Service Awards Student Rucha Kashikar Joshua Green
The Caltex Best All Rounder Award
Hailey Ryan
The Ron Masterton Trophy for Music
Samuel Poon
Year 12 Service Awards
Natasha Aslander Benjamin Myatt
McKenzie Trophy for Loyalty, Service and Leadership
Jordyn O’Kearney
The Foundation Trophy
Aimée Harper
College Academic Awards Year 6
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Student
Award
Proxime Accessit
Caitlyn Halim
Athletics (Boys):
Leila Koppens
The Klupp Perpetual Trophy for Boys’ Athletics
Liam Woodward
Dux
Basketball (Girls):
The Kanowski Trophy for Girls’ Basketball
Hailey Ryan
Cricket:
The BG “Sno” Lindsay Memorial Trophy for Cricket
Peter Blakeley
Grace Farmer
Proxime Accessit
Ryan Feroz
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Student
Dux
Shanice Timotius
Proxime Accessit
Sohini Kundu
Cross Country (Boys):
The Stumer Family Trophy for Boys’ Cross Country
Liam Woodward
Dux
Rachel Chiong
Football (Soccer):
Carter Lagana
Proxime Accessit
Nicola Puttock
The Anderson Trophy for Best and Fairest - Open A Soccer
Dux
Teresa Poon
Hockey:
The Logan Trophy for Service to Hockey
Renee Treeby
Proxime Accessit
Sarah Owens
Netball:
The Redeemer Trophy for Netball
Kacey Chalmers
Swimming (Boys):
The Paice Trophy for Boys’ Swimming
Samuel Wendt
Swimming (Girls):
The Donna Zernike Trophy for Girls’ Swimming
Kymbalee Gibbs
Ziyue (Monica) Li
Tennis (Boys):
The Boys’ Tennis Award
Jack Peoples
Xiaotong (Alice) Zhou
Tennis (Girls):
The Girls’ Tennis Award
Petra Stiller
Touch:
The Harris Perpetual Shield for Girls’ Touch
Jordyn O’Kearney
Volleyball (Boys):
The Mark Garton Trophy for Boys’ Volleyball
Nicholas Harper
Volleyball (Girls):
The Tanya Reedman Shield for Girls’ Volleyball
Aimée Harper
Pierre de Coubertin Award 2016
Alexandra West
Parents and Friends Association ‘Blue Spirit’ Award
Aimée Harper
Mikaela Logan
Dux 11
2016 Sports Awards
Award
Olivia Wormwell
Proxime Accessit
Caleb Caswell
Dux
Peter Kleinschmidt
Proxime Accessit The Lumsden Trophy for Dux of the School
Samuel Poon
College Service Awards Year
Student
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Angela Seager
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Bailey Darnell
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Dominic Duval
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Jordana Wenke
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Joshua Cheung
for Service to Sport
Sportsman of the Year Parents and Friends Association
Claire Johnson
Sophee Monsour Madison Shepherd
school year
Sariah Suter 9
Jack Thurstun
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Bronte Kelly
Awards presented during the year Award
Student
Debating and Public Speaking:
The Beth Stick Trophy for Debating and Public Speaking
Jett Stanton
Drama Performance:
The Nicky Bricknell Award for Drama Performance
Natasha Aslander
Callie Chew David Kwong
Library Service:
The Sandra Pigott Award for Library Service
Adam Barry
Lily Oxford Brent Simmonds 11
Troy OlsonJohnson
Sportswoman of the Year
Shanice Timotius 8
Benjamin Myatt Liam Woodward
Parents and Friends Association
Isabella Daley
Hailey Ryan
Anna Stirling James Wissler 12
Natasha Aslander Benjamin Myatt
2016
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REDEEMER ANNUAL REPORT
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Redeemer Celebrates 2016 2016 Senior School and Junior School Celebration Ceremony
2017 College Captains and Student Leaders
In 2017, the Student Leadership Body will incorporate those students who are selected to serve as Captains of the College, Sport and Music as well as those elected as student House Captains. This group works as a team in cooperation with all other Year 12 students and with the support of senior administrators. We are pleased to announce to you the College Captains and Student Leaders for 2017. Girl’s College Captain Ashleigh Nicholls Boy’s College Captain Connor Hurley Girl’s Vice Captain Claire Johnson Boy’s Vice Captain Peter Kleinschmidt The 2016 Senior School Celebration Ceremony incorporating presentation of awards for students in Years 7-11 was held on Friday 25 November 2016, and the Junior School Celebration Ceremony for Prep to Year 6 incorporating the presentation of awards and Junior School graduation certificates for Year 6 students was held on Tuesday 29 November 2016 in Redeemer Chapel. View the photos, award recipients, service order and listen to the audio from each of the ceremonies at: www.redeemer.com.au/news/blog
Lavarack House Captains Anna Stirling, Lauren Wilson, Isaac Olson, Ky Wain Mansfield House Captains Catherine Hung, Bianca Kempen, Fletcher Geary, James Wissler Ramsay House Captains Callie Chew, Madi Dupere, Joshua Lie, Max McConochie Wilson House Captains Emily Boulus, Rachel Famularo, Jordan Hunt, Steven Magin Music Captains Tracy Wu, David Kwong Sports Captains Alexandra West, Peter Blakeley
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 | mail@redeemer.com.au | www.redeemer.com.au A school of the Lutheran Church of Australia Queensland District | ABN 40 618 603 690
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REDEEMER RECORD | SENIOR SCHOOL NEWS
Redeemer Fair Saturday, 22 October, 2016
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COLLEGE NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD
Springboard 2016 Wednesday, 19 October, 2016
2018 Scholarships A co-educational Christian College for Prep to Year 12
Scholarships are now open for Year 7 and Year 11 in 2018 Year 7 scholarships are tenable for four years with Year 11 scholarships tenable for two years
www.redeemer.com.au/enrolments/scholarships 745 Rochedale Rd, Rochedale | Telephone 07 3340 8807
OBH 25954
Registrations close Friday 17 March 2017 For full terms and conditions, or to apply, visit
REDEEMER RECORD | COLLEGE NEWS
Cambodia Service Learning Team
Music Success
Over the September holidays, Miss Stiller and eight enthusiastic students, traveled to Cambodia on a Service Learning Tour in association with ALWS (Australian Lutheran World Services) and LWD (Life with Dignity). In order to see the works of these incredible organisations, the team visited villages in the Kampong Chhnang and Battambang provinces that are making their way out of poverty. Throughout the tour, the team met many Cambodians who welcomed them into their homes, proudly showed us their newly learnt sustainable farming techniques, their organised agricultural and village meetings, and their passion for education. It was absolutely amazing and the two weeks completely changed our views on life and our thoughts on service.
During Semester 2, all students in music groups delivered an exceptionally high level of performance at MusicFest 2016 and the Redlands Eisteddfod.
Ashleigh Nicholls, Year 11
Redlands Eisteddfod First Place •
Senior Concert Band
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Intermediate Concert Band
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Fellas
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Chamber Strings
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Intermediate String Ensemble
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Year 6 Band
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Intermediate Stage Band
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Second Place:
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Stage Band
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Senior Singers
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Junior Concert Band
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College Choristers
MusicFest 2016 Platinum Award •
Senior Concert Band
Gold Award: •
Junior Concert Band
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Year 6 Band
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Intermediate Concert Band
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STAFF NEWS | REDEEMER RECORD
Staff News Lutheran Education Queensland Staff Service Awards
Lutheran Education Australia Service Award Lutheran Education Australia Service awards are presented to people who retire from service, in public recognition of more than twenty years of distinguished service. They have demonstrated a loyal commitment to Christian education in Lutheran schools and have given dedicated and exemplary Christian service. Mrs Denise Buck 22.5 Years Service
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Lutheran Education Queensland recognises staff and volunteers by offering awards for service over a significant period of time. At our recent Celebration Ceremonies, we recognised those who have served for ten and twenty years. Mr David Bliss, Executive Director of Lutheran Education Queensland, presented the Lutheran Education Queensland Service Awards and the Lutheran Education Australia Service Award at our recent Senior School Celebration Ceremony on Friday 25 November and Junior School Celebration Ceremony on Tuesday 29 November 2016.
10 Years Service
20 Years Service
Support Staff
Support Staff
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Mrs Kirstine Harper
1. Mr Mrs Jeanette Benyon
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Mrs Susan Hose
2. Mr Federico Lopez
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Mrs Christine Stasinowsky
Support Staff
Academic Staff
3. Ms Linda Tonkin
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Mrs Leesa Chalmers
College Council
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Mr Themi Georgiou
4. Mr Ross Warbrooke
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Mr Darryl MacDonald
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Mrs Angie Morris
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Mr Grant Symons
College Council •
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Mr Michael Hoopmann
Denise Buck’s service to Redeemer Lutheran College commenced in July 1994 in the position of Relief Person Friday. Over the past 22 ½ years, her role has transitioned into a permanent position as the Accounts Clerk and then the Accounts Officer in the Business Office. She has continued to serve the College in this capacity. Denise has been a loyal, hardworking and committed employee who was well known and loved in the Redeemer Community. Her long standing commitment has meant that she has developed strong and lasting friendships with both past and present colleagues. Denise’s caring approach and dedication to integrity have been consistent themes in her interaction with others. Denise has always been an active and devoted member of Our Saviour Lutheran Church, further demonstrating her Christian mission of service to Redeemer. Denise’s faithful and conscientious service to her Lord and the Lutheran Church of Australia, through her service in Lutheran schools, has been excellent and is humbly recognised through this Award. Mr Michael Rowlands 26 Years Service Michael Rowlands was appointed as the full-time ICT Professional Development Coordinator at Redeemer Lutheran College from 27 April 2003. From 8 May 2006, he also accepted the role as Head of Information and Communication Technology. In 2016, his role changed to e-Learning Coordinator for the College. Prior to his appointment at Redeemer Lutheran College, he had been teaching at Luther College since 1990. Michael has provided invaluable support to Redeemer staff both in and outside the classroom especially in his new role as e-Learning Coordinator. Michael was always willing to put himself out to assist his colleagues and students. His patience was unrelenting. Nothing would be too difficult for him. He has established rich and positive relationships with staff and he has a genuine care and concern for everyone in the Redeemer community. Michael’s faithful and conscientious service to his Lord and the Lutheran Church of Australia, through his service in Lutheran schools, has been excellent and is humbly recognised through this Award.
REDEEMER RECORD | STAFF NEWS
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Staff Farewells At our end of year functions, we have also farewelled the following staff from Redeemer Lutheran College. A special thank you to each person for their recent service to Redeemer Lutheran College: •
Mrs Danielle Braiden (Junior School)
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Mrs Jane Gado (Senior School)
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Mrs Jessica Morrish (Senior School)
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Mrs Gina Simatovic (Library Assistant)
At the end of 2016, we are sad to farewell our Principal, and staff who have served Redeemer in excess of 10 years (or close to). 1. Mr David Radke – Principal (8 years) 2. Mrs Tanya Burkitt – Senior School Teacher (9.8 years) 3. Mrs Zoe Hutton – Teacher Assistant (10 years) 4. Mr Themi Georgiou – Senior School Teacher (10 years)
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Farewell Mr Rasi Deputy PrincipalCurriculum After 16 years of distinguished service to Redeemer, Mr Mark Rasi departs the College at year’s end. Mr Rasi has served in permanent roles at Redeemer, covering classroom teacher, Curriculum Leader for Health and Physical Education and, for the past six years, Mr Rasi has served as Deputy Principal-Curriculum. 12 Mr Rasi will be remembered as an Old Scholar who spoke fondly of his student days. Many will remember him for his support for sport; he will also be remembered for his clear and passionate Christian witnessing and his commitment to leading educational change. We wish Mr Rasi all the very best for the future.
5. Mrs Delia Loch – Junior School Teacher (12 years) 6. Mrs Marie Hughes – Senior School Teacher (12 years) 7.
Mrs Geoff Sockhill – Junior School Teacher (12.6 years)
8. Mrs Beulah Greaves – Library Assistant (13.3 years) 9. Mr Michael Rowlands – Senior School Teacher (13.7 years) 10. Ms Yvonne Boonman – Senior School Teacher (15.7 years) 11. Mrs Cheryl Anderson – Cleaner (15.8 years) 12. Mr Mark Rasi – Deputy Principal - Curriculum (16 years) 13. Mrs Kelli McKeiver – Head of Junior School (16.5 years) 14. Mrs Denise Buck – Accounts Officer (22.5 years)
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Our Saviour Lutheran Church News
Redeemer and Our Saviour - Our Community There’s an old proverb that says “It takes a village to raise a child”. This proverb has been attributed to African cultures but there have also been similar sayings found in many cultures throughout the world. A child has the best ability to become a healthy adult if the entire community plays a part in the raising of the child. There are many studies and references to the benefits of other significant adults in our children’s lives. Search Institute in the U.S. has identified 40 Developmental Assets that help young people grow up healthy, caring and responsible. Amongst these assets is a Caring School Climate, a Caring Neighbourhood and Other Adult Relationships (defined as 3 or more non-parent adults). Mum’s and Dad’s, Aunts, Uncles and Grandparents have traditionally played these roles, however, the role of the extended family has been somewhat lost in a society that is more mobile than ever before. It is a regular occurrence for families to move on to new cities, states and even countries for a variety of reasons, including work commitments, education opportunities, family connections and even just for a change.
The partnership that exists between Redeemer Lutheran College and Our Saviour Lutheran Church provides a community that extends beyond the student/teacher relationship and provides a much larger ‘village’ than a school can provide. As a church community Our Saviour provides a faith home for worship, for bible study and for prayer, and as a supportive community we also provide opportunities to develop and grow relationships with other families, friends and ‘significant adults’. We serve the community in numerous ways including Playgroup, OSY (Our Saviour Youth), Helping Hands (the yellow street van) and HOSTS (Hands of Our Saviour Together in Service). We invite all Redeemer families to join us as we celebrate community and share in the raising of our children. Here’s a snapshot of community life at Our Saviour.
Our Saviour Youth Our Saviour Youth (OSY) is planned with a mix of activities with an abundance of joy, energy and faith growth. In Semester 2 OSY enjoyed a Lock-In sleepover in the Chapel, Messy Games, Bowling, Laserforce, a Disney-themed night, Epic Boss Battle, Carnival Night, and, of course, the popular Cowboys, Indians, Lizards and Aliens night!
Our Saviour Playgroup Playgroup is more about connecting and sharing with other Mums, Dads and carers than it is about the kids, but rest assured that the children have lots of fun as well.
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Our Saviour Lutheran Church News
Bush Bonanza for Cambodia Redeemer’s Multi-Purpose Centre was filled with flannelette shirts, smiling faces, tasty food, farm animals, high spirits and great music for the 2016 Bush Bonanza on Saturday 6 August! The night was a success, with all who attended having endless fun, and a final result of over $3,800 raised for Cambodia
through the work of Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS). Thank you to the many hands that worked hard in the weeks prior, and especially on the day of the event, for your efforts and support.
Holy Grounds Coffee Shop Seeing young and old share together to support a common cause demonstrates the joy of community. At the Holy Grounds Coffee Shop the youth who served coffee were supported by our older members who baked cakes and made sandwiches to support the Redeemer Fair.
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Our Saviour Lutheran Church News
Christmas at Redeemer To celebrate Christmas as community is a special thing for all ages and we were gifted to hear the message of Jesus birth shared with us as our children told the story through dance, song and drama announcing “Hallelujah! He’s Here!” Christmas at Redeemer is always a very special time for Our Saviour.
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Our Saviour Lutheran Church News
Our Saviour Confirmation On Sunday 11 September, 14 of our young people, most of whom were also students of Redeemer, stood in front of the congregation and affirmed their faith in God. Many of these young people were baptised as infants and have grown up knowing that they are God’s special children. In the lead up to the Confirmation service, these young people were involved in further teaching, helping them understand what God has done in their lives. It was both inspiring and encouraging to hear the statements of faith made by these young people as they shared the meaning of having God in their lives. Confirmation classes will be run again in 2017 for all ages.
Inspired by Jesus Our Saviour Lutheran Church worships in Redeemer Chapel, 745 Rochedale Rd, Rochedale Every Sunday, 8.30am morning worship, 9.30am children’s ministries, 6.00pm evening worship For more information contact Our Saviour Lutheran Church office, “Doorways” 545 Underwood Rd, Rochedale. Phone: 3219 0055 Email: office@oslc.org.au Pastor Robin Stelzer – Pastoral Care Hotline – 0439 606 989
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REDEEMER ALUMNI | REDEEMER RECORD
Reunions Class of 2006 – 10 Year Reunion
Class of 1996 – 10 Year Reunion
Saturday 3 September 2016 at The Glen Hotel
Saturday 3 September 2016 at The Glen Hotel
Experience Redeemer Wednesday 22 March 2017, 9.00am – 11.00am Take a closer look at Redeemer Lutheran College Experience the Redeemer difference - Our Culture, Our Programs, Our Environment. Join a College Tour, and take a closer look at Redeemer Lutheran College. Meet school leaders, hear about the heart of the college, and see classrooms and facilities up close in action. RSVP Online: www.redeemer.com.au/experience Email: enrolments@redeemer.com.au Phone: Enrolments Registrar on 3340 8807 Redeemer Lutheran College, 745 Rochedale Road, Rochedale 36 OBH 25954
REDEEMER RECORD | REDEEMER ALUMNI
2017 Reunions Class of 1986 Celebrates 30 Years! The Foundation Class of 1986 reunited on Saturday 8 October for their 30 Year Reunion at The Glen Hotel. Many memories were shared and friendships reacquainted throughout the night! The Class of 1986 was the third group of foundation students to graduate from Redeemer Lutheran College.
The following Redeemer Alumni Reunions will be held in 2017. Class of 2007 - 10 Year Reunion Class of 1997 - 20 Year Reunion Class of 1987 - 30 Year Reunion Please ensure that you have your contact details up to date with Redeemer so that we can inform you of the dates and details regarding these reunions. If you are interested in organising one of these reunions, please also contact the College on 07 3340 8822, or email alumni@redeemer.com.au Further information will be available on our website at www.redeemer.com.au/ community/alumni early in 2017. Contact the college now to ensure that your details are up to date, or if you would like to organise the reunion for your year!
Stay in Touch Remember to update your phone, email and mailing address with us: Email: alumni@redeemer.com.au Telephone: 3340 8822 Post: Redeemer Alumni, Reply Paid 6090, Upper Mount Gravatt, Qld 4122
Online All of the details regarding reunions for Redeemer Lutheran College can be found online at our website: www.redeemer.com.au/ community/alumni www
Find reunion news keep up to date at Redeemer’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ RedeemerLutheranCollege/ events Follow Redeemer Lutheran College on www.twitter.com/ RedeemerCollege
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REDEEMER ALUMNI | REDEEMER RECORD
Matthew Keith (Class of 1993) Australian Farmer of the Year Redeemer Lutheran College past student, Matthew Keith (Class of 1993), has recently been awarded the Australian Farmer of the Year for 2016. The awards recognise rural champions both on and offfarm. Celebrating innovation, diversity, passion and success, the awards showcase the modern face of farming, while paying tribute to those who have made enormous contributions. These annual awards are co-hosted by ABC Rural and the Kondinin Group. Australia’s Farmer of the Year Matthew Keith (93) (married to Miquette (Cavill 93) is a cane farmer turned rubbish warrior, who with his grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles, siblings and cousins, has turned the family business into a recycling facility. The Keith family farms 600 hectares of sugarcane at Woongoolba, half way between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. “Our family business started back in the 1940s when my grandfather, from very humble beginnings, started farming sugarcane,” Matthew said. The next generation, including Chris (95) and Josh (03) has since transformed the business by taking the green leaves left on the ground after harvesting and turning them into mulch.
“Sugar cane prices fluctuate and you never know what the weather’s doing, so it just gives you a bit more security.” In 2001, the family started Rocky Point Mulching, selling packaged sugarcane mulch to hardware stores. The company now has an annual turnover of $30 million, sourcing cane waste from growers throughout south east Queensland and northern New South Wales. “A lot of local farmers say it’s the difference between being viable with growing sugar and not,” Matthew said. Lead by Josh, the family is currently expanding the company’s recycling portfolio, by sourcing waste wood and green waste from Gold Coast City Council and turning it into decorative mulch. “We take in urban waste timber like pallets, diverting it from landfill and grinding it up as mulch,” he said. They also want to invest in energy production technology, powered by waste products. “We’re a very large power consumer here on site, so we’re looking at anything where we may be able to generate our own power,” Matthew said. “If you stand still for too long other guys will overtake you, so you’ve always got to be looking and researching into other areas.” The Keith family also owns cattle properties in southern Queensland.
“Depending on the price of sugar at the time, this mulch can be up to 50 to 100 percent to the value of sugar,” Matthew said.
A family celebration: Michael Keith, Jennifer Keith, Teagen Dakers (Keith 05), Cherie Keith, Brieanna Keith, Josh Keith (03), Alexander Keith, Chris Keith (95), David Keith, Janette Keith and Matt Keith (93) celebrate winning Farmer of the Year.
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REDEEMER RECORD | REDEEMER ALUMNI
Tim Delport (Class of 2009) Redeemer’s General Sir John Monash Scholar On 21 November, the General Sir John Monash Foundation announced Redeemer Alumni Tim Delport as one of 20 Sir John Monash Scholars for 2017 at the Sydney Opera House. The John Monash Scholarships are the most important postgraduate scholarships available in Australia today. They are awarded to outstanding Australians with leadership potential and support up to 3 years of postgraduate study at prestigious universities around the world. John Monash scholarships are named in the honour of one of Australia’s outstanding military and civilian leaders, and a great contributor to Australian life. Its mission is to invest in outstanding Australians from all fields of endeavour who demonstrate remarkable qualities of leadership and have the ability to deliver outcomes and inspire others for the benefit of Australia. (GSJMF, 2004) Tim Delport graduated from Redeemer Lutheran College in 2009 and went on to study a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil & Geotechnical) at the University of Queensland, graduating in 2014 with First Class Honours and a UQ Geotechnical Engineering Scholar. During university and in the years since, he’s worked with well-known industry companies, such as BHP Billiton, Golder Associates, Rio Tinto, and now WSP | Parson’s Brinckerhoff, as well as making research contributions. He’s also volunteered extensively, holding leadership positions in a number of organisations, and provided academic and coaching support for indigenous and non-indigenous students throughout their tertiary studies.
Tim is also a passionate athlete and learned musician outside of work. He pursues triathlon where he has represented Australia in sprint and off-road World Championships for his age group the last two years. In music, he graduated with the Excellence in Senior Music award from Redeemer in 2009, along with having obtained his A.Mus.A on Piano in the same senior year - though insists music is now a casual pastime. Tim will commence his General Sir John Monash study for a DPhil in Engineering Science at Oxford University in September 2017. His PhD will aim to explore technical (coupled flow, deformation and fluid/heat transport), social, environmental and economic constraints to the application of engineered geothermal energy, of which Australia has considerable resource potential. Tim intends to pursue postdoctoral studies and further development and career opportunities, ultimately leading to a contribution to Australian politics and policy around energy, education and the environment. His announcement as a part of this prestigious cohort makes him the second of Redeemer’s alumni achieving such a level of honour, joining Andrew Trotter (04) who was named a Rhodes Scholar in 2012. Redeemer’s Deputy Principal - Curriculum, Mark Rasi, is a past teacher of Tim’s, now friend, and has been following him on his journey for some time. “Tim’s announcement as a Sir John Monash Scholar is an exciting time for all and comes as little surprise to those that have been close to him across the last few years. His energy and passion toward focusing his strengths in a direction which can help others and ultimately lead toward a greater contribution to Australia, is quite inspirational. Redeemer and his past teachers are quite proud to have been able to play a part is his development.” said Mark. We congratulate Tim on his achievement and look forward to following his journey and contributions across the future.
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REDEEMER ALUMNI | REDEEMER RECORD
Jessica Papst (Class of 2001)
We recently had the privilege of catching up with Jess Papst (01) following a busy year, to find out what she has been up to since graduating from Redeemer Lutheran College in 2001. What was your favourite subject at school? Legal Studies and English, both for the surplus of words I suppose. Who was your favourite (or most influential) teacher at Redeemer? My English teacher, Mr Austin. The man knew how to push me to be better and saw potential in me when I was (almost) completely oblivious. What was the most valuable thing that you learnt at Redeemer? I found it to be a pretty inclusive place, and hard work was encouraged. I think I already had a natural tenacity and determination to go after what I wanted or to be the best I could - but the way I learnt to study and learn, to plan, came from the influence of my subjects and teachers at school. What did you go on to pursue after graduating from Redeemer? I got a pretty good OP so I decided to change my preferences last minute and do a course that I thought was more prestigious. I only lasted about six months, my creativity was stifled and I didn’t know what to do. I literally woke up in the middle of the night and decided to change courses and pursue a double degree in acting and education - to turn me into a high school Drama teacher. Hadn’t taken Drama in school, didn’t really have anything but instinct to follow, but I took a risk and enrolled. The audition process was tough but I felt more comfortable than I had in years, and over those 4-5 40
years I met some of the most amazing people, who are still good friends today. I had found my “tribe” and realised I was totally a theatre kid! I started doing musical theatre productions with Harvest Rain in my final year of uni, which gave me the bug for performing, and for the next 6-7 years I was teaching performing arts full time, running eisteddfod teams, performing in back to back community theatre and independent theatre productions in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast as well as choreographing a number of local productions as well. My professional debut in 2011 and the subsequent independent and pro-am work I was able to pursue alongside teaching grew my love of performance and eventually it wasn’t possible to continue working at both careers and I began to scale back my teaching to give myself room to grow as a performer. In 2012 I left the education system full time, teaching at private studios and full time Dance courses as a Musical Theatre specialist whilst building a career as an entertainer. What steps did you take to end up in the position you are now? Entertainment is talent, hard work, good business and good luck. You have to love it enough to keep going when the audition doesn’t work out, or there aren’t any auditions for a while. You have to be smart about your choices and experiences - but the best way to know that is to always do work you feel passionately about, that is honest for you, that you will grow in some way by doing. You have to be prepared to take any and all side jobs to pay the bills, or do something for work that is flexible enough to take time off for auditions and rehearsals - so find a side-gig that you don’t hate; I really love teaching and I love my retail job! You need to always be working at something, to keep you ready for work and to develop your skills (also stops you from being bored!) so making your own work and going to dance classes, singing lessons, acting workshops is pretty normal. This is the kind of thing where no one is going to find you on the street, or hand you a job, you have to be prepared to be your own boss. Sure, I have an agent, but a lot of the work you do yourself and you have to in order to continue networking and learning. You also never know when that person you met in a theatre foyer will be sitting across from you in an auditions so it’s very important to be kind to everyone! And to have enough confidence, without a difficult ego, to keep your spirits up even when things look hard.
What experiences/achievements have you had since graduating from Redeemer? This year I was privileged to tour Australia with some great artists in a show called “Carole King: The Songbook of Her Life”. I have always loved her music so it was such a beautiful experience singing her work night after night in all these gorgeous parts of Australia. It was when we performed on The Morning Show in Sydney that I was pinching myself - like, how did I get here? I have travelled a little (New York most recently) and worked with some incredible artists here, and in New York, developing my sound and my career. I’ve now written and performed four cabarets at venues and festivals across Australia - one this December in Melbourne - and I won the Queensland division of the International Cabaret Contest in 2014 and competed in the finals in Sydney. Whilst there have been some lovely nominations and awards for my performance work and choreography over the past decade, my favourite achievements have been the brilliant roles I’ve had the privilege to play; Velma Kelly in Chicago, Liza Minnelli in The Boy from Oz, the Female Authority Figure in Hairspray, Boyka in Eurobeat, The Witch in into the Woods, Frau Blucher in Young Frankenstein, Paulette in Legally Blonde. Alongside artists I respect and often with some of my best friends. I’m proud of the work I’ve done and I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had to hone my craft - particularly when I never studied it in school and I didn’t have the option of a musical theatre degree to help me. It was a natural inclination, observation of other great artists, being open to learning more and a LOT of hard work that got me to where I am today. You have to be equally tenacious and easy-going in this game! If there is one piece of advice that you could pass on to current students, what would it be? It’s the same advice Mr Austin gave me and it has stuck with, and proven resonant, in my life (though I have taken some liberties, in essence it’s the same): You’re 16 or 17. You will have multiple career changes in your lifetime (I’ve basically had 3). Stop putting pressure on yourself to have it all figured out at graduation. Do your best, give yourself options, find something you love and pursue it. Just prepare yourself for the “first” career because it probably won’t be the same as what you start doing now. Be ok with change because it’s a guarantee!
REDEEMER RECORD | REDEEMER ALUMNI
Weddings Breanna Hutton (11) and Jake Mercep (10)
Congratulations to Breanna Hutton (11) and Jake Mercep (10) who were married Friday 16 September 2016 on the Gold Coast.
Births
Congratulations Melissa (Spann 00)
Melissa (Spann 00) and Jim Schirmer welcomed baby Felix on 5 August 2016. He was born eight weeks early, but after five weeks in hospital he is home and charming everyone including his big brother, Hugo (2).
April Meggs (Kwok 04) and Josh Meggs (04)
Tim Kotzur (86)
Congratulations to Tim Kotzur (86) who has been appointed Head of College at St Peters Lutheran College Indooroopilly and Springfield, commencing in January 2017. Tim moves from St Peters following 7 years as Principal at St Andrews Lutheran College, Tallebudgera.
Ruth (Jacobsen 95) and Stephen Parker (89)
Benjamin Johnston (99) and Renée Johnston (Beliveau 00)
April Meggs (Kwok 04) and Josh Meggs (04) welcomed their first child Zebadiah Chi Lam Meggs on 20 October 2016 at 2.53pm.
Ruth (Jacobsen 95) and Stephen (89) Parker travelled to LA earlier this year with their 4 daughters to celebrate Stephen earning a Doctor of Ministry through Fuller Theological Seminary.
Claire Hutton (10)
Stephanie (Shepherd 01)
2016 has brought two new beginnings for Benjamin Johnston (99) and Renée Johnston (Beliveau 00) by launching their branding, design and photography business ‘Evocative’ and welcoming their first born son Harvey James born on 11 October. Check out what Ben and Renée have been up to at www.evocative.cc
Congratulations to Stephanie (Shepherd 01) and Garrath McPherson on the birth of a daughter, Mollie Rose McPherson, born on 7 July 2016.
Claire Hutton (10) moved to the Philippines last month (and onto Cambodia soon) to work for Bloom Asia, an organisation that educates and equips girls who have come out of trafficking. For more information about Claire’s mission mission trip, visit claireolivia.com and bloomasia.org 41
REDEEMER ALUMNI | REDEEMER RECORD
Congratulations Ryan Norris (04), Dan Mueller (98) and David Haak (04) Congratulations and God's Blessings to three past Redeemer Lutheran College students: Ryan Norris (04), Dan Mueller (98) and David Haak (04), who have graduated from Australian Lutheran College School of Pastoral Theology and joined the ranks of Lutheran Church of Australia pastors after being ordained by Bishop John Henderson in Adelaide at Blair Athol SA on Sunday 4 December. They will take up their first assignments in 2017. Pictured from left to right, they are: Michael Prenzler (assigned to Magill and Adelaide Deaf Community SA), Ryan Norris (Tarrington Vic), Dan Mueller (Walla Walla NSW), Peter Klemm (Cummins SA), David Haak (Beenleigh Qld), and Valdis Andersons (SA/NT District)
Redeemer presents ‘The Music Man’ in 2017! 2017 College Musical: 28-29 April 2017 Redeemer Lutheran College is excited to announce its College Musical for 2017, ‘The Music Man’. This musical follows fast-talking travelling salesman, Harold Hill, as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys' band that he vows to organize – this, despite the fact that he doesn't know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian, the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen.
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This award-winning, critically acclaimed Broadway classic is an institution, thanks to its quirky characters, and one-of-akind, nostalgic score of rousing marches, barbershop quartets and sentimental ballads, which have become popular standards. The 1957 show became a hit on Broadway, winning five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and was later made into a film in 1962 and again in 2003.
The 2017 production of ‘The Music Man’ will be held on 28-29 April 2017 at the Logan Entertainment Centre. Tickets will go on sale early in 2017, so stay tuned to the Redeemer Facebook page or our website at www.redeemer.com.au/ events/musicman for further details. Our 2015 musical sold out, so don’t miss out!
REDEEMER LUTHERAN COLLEGE PRESENTS
BOOK, MUSIC AND LYRICS BY
MEREDITH WILLSON STORY BY
MEREDITH WILLSON and FRANKLIN LACEY
Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia). All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia. FRIDAY 28 APRIL 7.30PM SATURDAY 29 APRIL 2.00PM SATURDAY 29 APRIL 7.30PM
Adults $30 ~ Concession $25 ~ Children $25 Purchasing Tickets Cash, Eftpos, Mastercard or Visa ONLY *Online www.loganentertainmentcentre.com.au ^Phone Logan Entertainment Centre Ticketing (07) 3412 5626, Monday-Friday 9.30am-4.30pm #In Person Logan Entertainment Centre, 170 Wembley Road, Logan Central. Monday-Friday 9.30am-4.30pm and one hour prior to performances *Additional $2 booking fee + 1.8% credit card fee. ^Additional $3 booking fee + 0.5% credit card fee. #0.5% credit card fee applies.
A PRODUCTION BY THE STUDENTS AND STAFF OF REDEEMER LUTHERAN COLLEGE, ROCHEDALE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: WWW.REDEEMER.COM.AU/EVENTS/MUSICMAN REDEEMER LUTHERAN COLLEGE, 745 ROCHEDALE ROAD, ROCHEDALE, QLD 4123
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Redeemer Events Calendar The full college calendar can be found
redeemer.com.au/events
FEBRUARY
MARCH
APRIL
MAY JUNE
JULY
23 Monday 24 Tuesday 26 Thursday 31 Tuesday
Term 1 commences 8.25am for Years 7, 10 and 12 Prep Orientation Day, 9.00am-10.30am Term 1 commences Term 1 commences at 8.25am for Prep to Years 6, 8, 9 and 11 Australia Day Public Holiday Junior School Parent Information Evening, 7.00pm (Chapel)
1 2 4 13 28
Senior School Interhouse Swimming Carnival (Aqualogan, Springwood) 2017 Opening Service and Installation of New Principal, 8.45am P & F Movie Night Under the Stars, 5.30pm (Chapel Green) Parents and Friends Annual General Meeting, 7.00pm Time Capsule Opening
Wednesday Thursday Saturday Monday Tuesday
22 Wednesday 25 Saturday 25 Saturday 27 Monday 28 Tuesday 28 Tuesday 31 Friday 31 Friday
Experience Redeemer – College Tour, 9.00am-11.00am (Redeemer Chapel) GBC Finals Round Scholarship Testing for Years 7, 8 and 11 entry in 2018 Senior School Interhouse Cross Country Carnival, 9.00am Junior School Interhouse Cross Country Carnival, 9.00am (Fred Davey Oval) QCS Practice Senior School Special Worship, 8.40am (Redeemer Chapel) Term 1 Concludes
14 Friday 16 Sunday 17 Monday 18 Tuesday 19 Wednesday 24 Monday Monday 25 Tuesday 28 Friday 29 Saturday
Good Friday Worship, 8.30am (Redeemer Chapel) Easter Sunday Worship, 6.00am and 8.30am (Redeemer Chapel) Easter Monday Public Holiday Student Free Day Term 2 Commences ANZAC Dawn Service, 6.00am (Chapel Green) Grandparents Day for Senior School students, 9.55am-12.20pm (Chapel) Grandparents Day for Junior School students, 1.00pm-3.00pm (Chapel) ANZAC Day Public Holiday College Musical: The Music Man, 7.30pm (Logan Entertainment Centre) College Musical: The Music Man, 2.00pm and 7.30pm (Logan Entertainment Centre)
1 9
Monday Tuesday
Labour Day Public Holiday NAPLAN Testing Commences
3 10 16 20-21 21 2 23
Saturday Saturday Friday Tuesday-Wednesday Wednesday Thursday-Friday Friday
JTAS Finals Round GBC Finals Round Shibakashi Day (Senior School) QCS Practice Day Junior School Sports Day (Scurr Oval) Senior School Interhouse Athletics Carnival (Scurr Oval) Term 2 Concludes
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Tuesday
Term 3 Commences
Redeemer Parents and Friends Committee presents
Movie Night Under the Stars FREE outdoor family movie night on the Chapel Green Saturday 4 February 2017 5.30pm – Food available to purchase at the Chapel Hub 7.00pm – Movie screens on the Chapel Green Redeemer Lutheran College, 745 Rochedale Rd, Rochedale
www.redeemer.com.au/events/movies
OBH14330
JANUARY