2024 Term 2 Week 2 10 May 2024

Dear Lindisfarne Parents and Guardians,

This was an important week in our School as we conducted our annual Foundation Day services across all three Subschools. We took time to look back proudly on the legacy of the late Canon Ron Dyson, who had the original vision to start the School, and the Parishioners of St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church, Tweed Heads, who had the faith to support that vision. As is the story of the establishment of many of the leading Independent Schools in Australia, funds were low, but hopes were high!

Canon Ron had developed a great relationship with Club Tweed (formerly Tweed Heads Bowls Club), which adjoins St Cuthbert’s Church in Tweed Heads. A loan (later to become a gift) of $50,000 secured the land acquisition at Sunshine Avenue. The demountable building to commence the School year was not ready in time, so the first classes of 1981 were held in the Parish Hall! Eventually, the demountable building arrived, and on March 5, 1981, classes moved to the Sunshine Avenue Campus.

By 1996, the School had outgrown Sunshine Avenue, and members of the Parish, the late Bill Bedser and his wife Shirley, stepped forward and donated land at Mahers Lane, Terranora, to establish a secondary campus and donate the first School Bus.

From those small beginnings, the School has continued to build on the legacy of Canon Ron Dyson and St Cuthbert’s Parish, striving to create a world-class coeducational Anglican Grammar School for the Children and families of the southern Gold Coast, Tweed Coast, and northern New South Wales.

Each year, we strive to improve aspects of our School. On Tuesday, the Reverend Constantine Osuchukwu dedicated and blessed our Lindisfarne Community Garden, which will play a key role in the Agriculture program we recently commenced at the School.

On Wednesday, during our Senior School service, The Reverend Canon Sally Miller dedicated and blessed the Outdoor Courts that have been constructed adjoining the Lindisfarne Community Garden. We look forward to the Outdoor Courts providing additional opportunities for our students now and in the future.

On Thursday at our Junior School Foundation Day service, the Reverend Canon Dway Goon Chew dedicated and blessed the refurbished Performing Arts complex, a cornerstone for music, drama, and dance activities at the Junior School. We are grateful to the School Council for supporting these projects and to our Parents and Friends Association for supporting the beautiful deck that will be an amazing outdoor performance space.

Likewise, the School continues to look beyond our local area to establish relationships with Schools worldwide. I’m thrilled that teacher Celine Mathew and students from Pallikoodam School India attended our Middle School Foundation Day service on Tuesday and visited the Junior School later that day to share some cultural dancing and activities with our Junior School students.

At our Foundation Day services, the respective House Leaders shared the history of their house. We strive to build culture and tradition at our School by learning about and sharing our Lindisfarne Story.

Thank you to the staff, students, and school community for supporting our Lindisfarne Foundation Day celebrations. We are building on the solid foundation created by those who have contributed to our School since its inception.

On Tuesday night, we held our Parent and Friends Association (P&F) Annual General Meeting (AGM) in the Mahers Lane Library. We discussed important issues relating to our school community, including fundraising events, community engagement, and ongoing support for our students' education.

Thank you to the members of our School Community who have accepted Executive and General committee positions for the next 12 months.

President - Penny Brady
Vice President - Steve Cornell
Secretary - Kim Brown
Treasurer - Todd Franzway
Assistant Treasurer - Nathan Jones
Public Officer - Nicole Larson

General Committee
Peta Fahy
Laura Kleinhous
Rachael Mead
Verity Bee
Harriet O’Donnell
Corey Lelean
Nispa Krongkaew
Samantha Reid

We have been delighted to host exchange students from Pallikoodam School India this term. Over the past two weeks, they have been immersed in our educational and cultural practices, attending classes and participating in school activities. This exchange has been an excellent opportunity for Lindisfarne and Pallikoodam students to learn from each other and foster international friendships. I’m very grateful to the staff, students, parents, and host families who have supported the exchange program. A special thank you to Mr Jeremy Godden and school parent Mr Sudeep Mammen for their work in establishing the exchange program.

In September/October of this year, there will be an opportunity for Lindisfarne Students to engage in an inaugural Cultural Immersion tour to India including a return visit to Pallikoodam School. Further information can be found via this link.

I was delighted to see seven past and present Lindisfarne Students representing the Tweed/Border region at the Queensland State Hockey titles- Open Women.

All seven past and present students have also been members of the Casuarina Hockey Club as they have risen through the ranks of State, National, and International competitions. The School is proud to have an ongoing relationship with the Casaurina Hockey Club. Congratulations to the team on reaching the Grand Final of the Queensland Championships, where they were narrowly defeated in a penalty shootout by Brisbane. The player of the Final was Jade Reid (2020), and player of the Tournament Kendra Fitzpatrick (2018).

Current Students Eliza Fahy (Yr 10) and Bridie Bedford (Yr 12) were thrilled to be included in the Open Women’s team and to play with the Lindisfarnians who had gone before them, including Tokyo Olympians, Madison Fitzpatrick (2014) and Savannah Fitzpatrick (2012).

List of students from left to right:

Kendra Fitzpatrick (2018), Shania Myers (2017), Savannah Fitzpatrick (2012), Madison Fitzpatrick (2014), Eliza Fahey (Yr 10), Bridie Bedford (Yr 12), Jade Reid (2020).

Today, it was an absolute pleasure to participate in the P &F Mother's Day High Tea at Farm & Co. I want to thank our P&F Association for organising this lovely event, which celebrates the essential role that mothers play in the lives of their children, our school, and the wider community.

Ahead of the weekend, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes for a joyous and love-filled Mother's Day on Sunday. May this day be a celebration of all the love, sacrifices, and selflessness that you bring into our lives every day. And to those who are missing their mothers on this day, may you find peace in honouring their memory and the love they brought into your life.

This is the last time I will share a newsletter article with you before taking Sabbatical leave, which commences on Wednesday, 22 May. During my leave, Mrs Charlotte Lush will be the Principal, Mr Jeremy Godden will be the Deputy Principal and Mrs Laura Gallagher will be the Head of the Junior School.

Please give them and the leadership team your full support during my time away. I look forward to seeing you all at FunFest on 24 August, when I return from Sabbatical leave.

After 40 years in Education, I am very much looking forward to this time of rest, renewal, study, and reflection and returning to continue to progress the aspirational plans we share for the future of Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School.

Stuart Marquardt
Principal

Dear Students, Staff, Parents and Guardians,

Foundation Day Services

Our Foundation Day Services this week gave us an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable history of our school and to give thanks to all those whose vision and work were instrumental in starting our school, as well as those who have supported and built it up throughout our 43 years of existence. We thank God for his immeasurable blessings, and pray that we will continue to build on the foundations that have been laid for us, as we take our school to greater heights. Thank you immensely for your support of these services and for being part of this noble and great school.

First Nations Cultural Engagement Coordinator

Last Monday we welcomed Mrs Katrina Singh to our school community as our new First Nations Cultural Engagement Coordinator. Katrina is a proud First Nations Wiradjuri woman, whose family is well connected to our First Nations community in Tweed and on the Gold Coast. Katrina has a passion for working with young people, and has 8 years’ experience working with children with autism and other special needs. She comes to us after working at the Pacific Hope Christian School in Tweed Heads South. Please make her feel welcome.

Christmas Card Competition 2024

This year, we invite all our students to design a card that reflects the spirit of Christmas through the lens of the Christian story, Australian indigenous and non-indigenous culture and the cherished values of Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School.

First Prize: $300 book voucher sponsored by St Cuthbert’s Tweed Heads
Second Prize: $200 book voucher sponsored by The Chaplain.

Please send your designs to constantine.osuchukwu@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au by the 31st of July 2024. The Creative Industries department will judge the entries and decide on the winners who will be announced in Term 3. Our school community will be able to purchase these cards afterwards and the proceeds will go to support the poor and marginalised in our community and overseas.

Spiritual Care for the Whole Community on May 20 at 5.00pm

You are welcome to join us for a Spiritual Care Session in the Chapel on Monday, 20 May 2024 from 5pm to 6pm. This session will give us an opportunity to learn more about silence, solitude and prayer as panaceas to anxiety, worry and hopelessness. As we grapple with the challenges of daily life, and the global warming and warring, prayer gives us the space and time to hold the beauties and fragilities of life in creative tension. As Jesus said, “Come to me all you who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28).

Happy Mother’s Day 2024

We thank God for all our mothers and for all who play the role of mothers in our community. We pray for all mothers -of various forms -and all those who are missing their mothers, or are estranged from them, and those who cannot be mothers or for whom this time is very hard.

In Proverbs 31:25-28, God reminds us of the important role of mothers:

“Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed” (ESV).

If you would like us to pray for any specific intention, please send your prayer requests to this confidential email and our prayer team will pray for you: prayers@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au

The Reverend Constantine Osuchukwu
Chaplain

The next Friends of the Arts meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 14 May at 6:00 pm in the Mahers Lane Library.

All are welcome to come and find out how they can support the Arts at Lindisfarne.

Emma Woodley
Secretary
Friends of the Arts

As Communication Prefect at Lindisfarne, I love reading and writing. However, I understand that not everyone here at school does. But why is that? For a lot of you, I think I could guess why: you feel like teachers and parents force you to read or write, which can be especially frustrating when you’d rather go to the beach, or watch Netflix, or hang out with friends. But what if reading wasn’t like that?

There are so many benefits to reading that you might not even know about! Of course it improves vocabulary and enhances knowledge, but books can also reduce stress, improve memory and concentration and help you relax, all of which are exceedingly important as we move through school and assignments and exams begin to pile up.

Writing is equally beneficial, even in the form of diary entries or gratitude journaling, as it can strengthen your cohesion when writing assignments, and, like reading, can significantly improve concentration and reduce stress.

Putting aside all of those benefits, reading and writing can also be so much fun! I’m sure you’ve heard it a million times, but reading really can take you so many places, places that enthral or terrify you, entertain or disgust you. Writing, especially creatively, can provide an avenue for you to create your own worlds, or act as a space for you to unload some of the stresses of school or home life.

If you want to read or write more but don’t know where to start, I’m always available to chat at school or over email. I have so many book recommendations I’d love to share with you!

Isla Puckeridge
Communication Prefect
isla.puckeridge@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au

School Photo days are fast approaching. Students have been sent home an order envelope as a reminder. The envelope should only be used should there be an issue with online ordering.

Order Website: https://www.advancedlife.com.au/

Lindisfarne School Code: 29R JHB 5LV

School Photos for 2024 will be taken in a traditional class format, so if your student is absent on photo day, they will not appear in the class photo. Where possible, we will take the individual photo on one of the other days.

Key Dates:

Wednesday, 15 May: Junior School Photos, Junior School Sibling Photos, Split Campus Sibling Photos

Sibling photos taken at the Junior School on this day will include sibling photos where students from the same family attend different campuses. Mahers Lane students will be taken by bus to the Junior School on this day to meet their Junior School siblings for these photos. 

Monday, 20 May: Middle School Photos, Middle School Sibling Photos

Tuesday, 21 May: Senior School Photos, Senior School Sibling Photos

Sibling photos crossing between both Middle and Senior School can be taken on either day. 

Please email community@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au for any related queries.

Simon McKinley
Director of Community Engagement

BOOKING LINK - BUSINESS BREAKFAST BROOKE HANSON

We always love when we can welcome our preschool families in to celebrate special occasions with us, and our Mum’s are definitely worth celebrating!

Over two days our four classes took turns to pamper our mum’s and special people. While here we ensured they were pampered with massages and manicures, adorned with beautiful beaded jewellery, relaxed while moulding sensory playdough, delighted with tasty treats from our morning tea buffet, and that we captured just how special they are with beautiful portrait paintings.

While we greatly missed the mums that could not be with us on the day, we understand that the juggle of life is tricky and hope you felt the love we sent your way today. We appreciate everything you do each and every day and hope you enjoy opening your special gifts that were lovingly made for you by your children while here at preschool.

On behalf of our preschool team, we wish you a beautiful weekend celebrating the people you love.

Warmly, Mrs Aimee and Mrs Charlie

Dates for Term 2

Please find below some Term 2 - Junior School key dates to add to your calendar:

• Monday 13 May (week 3) - Girls Futsal Gala Day Year 3 & 4 Girls

• Tuesday 14 May (week 3) - Boys Futsal Gala Day Year 3 & 4 Boys

• Thursday 6 June (week 6) - DNK Cup Rugby Union Gala Day Year 4 Boys

• Friday 21 June (week 8) - 3-6 Athletics Carnival

• Friday 21 June (week 8) - K-2 FUN Athletics Carnival

Total Football Academy - After school Program

The Total Football Academy program is now full for Term 2. It will be running again in Term 3 for those who have missed out. Students enrolled in the program are to meet Mr Croft on the Kindy deck steps each Monday to mark a roll.

AFL Auskick

AFL Q will again be running the AFL Auskick program at Sunshine Avenue. The Auskick Program is an inclusive game based AFL program that is loaded with FUN Games and Activities for teaching young people the game of AFL.

Auskick will commence at 3.15pm on Wednesday 15 May and will continue for 6 weeks

If you are interested in trying this program you can find all the information relating to the program by following this link:

https://www.playhq.com/afl/register/19b48d

For students attending they will be required to meet Mr Croft inside the back gate (Arkinstall Park gate) at 3.00pm on Wednesday afternoon straight from class. The staff from AFL Q will mark a roll of attending students and then take responsibility for the remainder of the session.

Parents can collect their child from Arkinstall park NO LATER THAN 4.15pm.

Spotlight on Oliver Krebs

On the school holidays Oliver represented the Gold Coast region at the Regional Futsal titles.

His team, newly formed for the competition, were coming 4th in their group, then won quarter finals, semi final and then came out as runners up at the grand final.

Congratulations to Oliver and team for their fantastic efforts. 

Nathan Croft
P-4 PE Specialist

In an inspiring display of environmental stewardship, Stage 3 students during DiscoverEd have been actively engaged in bush regeneration efforts. Their latest endeavour involved relocating Small-Leaved Tamarind, an endangered species, demonstrating their commitment to preserving biodiversity. Through hands-on participation, these students are not only learning about the importance of conservation but also making a tangible impact on our local ecosystem.

Kristina Diaz and Amber Jarvis
Year 6 and Year 5 Coordinators

Each week, I reflect on the sense of purpose that fuels the Senior School. Many families have shared with me that Lindisfarne's commitment to Compassion, Wisdom, and Respect was a decisive factor in choosing our school. It is heartening to learn how these values resonate with families and align with their aspirations for their children.

It is important to note that at Lindisfarne, these values are not just idealistic words; they form the foundation of our educational philosophy and daily interactions. However, it is crucial to recognise that these values coexist with equally important principles of standards, self-discipline, and (sometimes) consequences. Embracing the School’s values involves subscribing to all aspects of the School’s ethos - not merely selecting parts that are convenient or appealing.

Choosing Lindisfarne means embracing the full spectrum of what is offered. This includes expectations around uniform standards, the compulsory nature of school camps, and an expectation that all interactions are courteous and respectful. These elements are integral to the School's identity and operations. They are essential in nurturing resilient individuals who are prepared for the challenges of life beyond our classrooms.

The aim is to work in partnership with every family to instil these values deeply and consistently. This partnership involves supporting children in developing self-discipline and resilience, empowering them to stand on their own two feet. By adhering to a complete set of values and expectations, our collective efforts are enhanced to build strong, capable young adults.

I continue to hope all parents see the profound value in what the Senior School is striving to achieve. The aspirations for our students are unashamedly high, and they require a commitment from everyone to the full ethos of the School.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our shared goals.

Camp

Preparations for our Senior School camps are progressing exceptionally well, and we are excited about the enriching experiences we have planned for our students. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the staff members who are leading these camps, dedicating their time and expertise to ensure a memorable adventure for every participant. We kindly remind all families to prioritise completing the necessary paperwork and acceptances via SEQTA Engage.

Foundation Day

Wednesday's Senior School Foundation Day Service was a beautiful celebration marking another year of our school's rich history and promising future. I extend my gratitude to The Reverend Constantine Osuchukwu for shaping a service that perfectly commemorated Lindisfarne's birthday. In my opening address, I reflected on our journey from the modest beginnings in 1981 at St Cuthbert’s Church Hall to our current status as a distinguished institution and a beacon of hope within the community. As we continue to celebrate Foundation Day in future years, Lindisfarne remains committed to shining its light both within our community and beyond, upholding our values of growth, education, and service.

Stage 6 Reports

This week the Stage 6 Mid Course Reports were published, an important milestone for our students, especially those undertaking Year 12 subjects. These reports serve as an effective gauge of each student's progress, providing valuable insights into their academic achievements and areas for improvement. We trust that students and parents will find these reports to be a useful tool in guiding future learning strategies and maximizing educational outcomes as we approach the latter half of the academic year.

Kate Cornell
Head of Senior School

Subject selection is an exciting time for our Year 8 and Year 10 students who are considering their choices for next year, 2025. Please see the links for the Year 9 2025 and Year 11 2025 Curriculum Manuals. These detail the requirements for subject selection and the subject offerings for 2025 across a diverse range of interest areas. For our Year 8 students and families, a reminder that an information evening for Year 9 2025 Subject Selection will be held on Tuesday, 11 of June at 6.00pm.

As our Year 10 students embark on their final stage of their educational journey at Lindisfarne in 2025, subject selection is an important part not only of the academic requirements but of their sense of fulfilment and enjoyment of their final years of schooling. Please read through the requirements, which will also be explained in depth at the Year 11 2025 Subject Selection evening at 6pm on Monday 17th of June. For those students who elected to complete the Natural Ability program the testing is due on Sunday 12th May and may also assist when considering subject offerings. Students are encouraged to talk to their classroom teachers and ask questions about subjects they may be interested in. We are excited to add some new subject offerings in 2025, particularly some non ATAR subjects which can enhance pathway options for all students.

Stage 6 Mid Course Reports for Years 11 and 12 have been released on SEQTA Engage. Please direct any subject specific questions to the relevant classroom teacher in the first instance. Some Year 11 subjects have not yet been formally assessed and students will have received an estimated grade to indicate progress. Their assessment marks will be updated in SEQTA as assessments are completed and marked.

Lauren Ward
Acting Dean of Studies

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RECENT GAMES

SCOTS PGC

We were very proud to host our first home games of term 2 at Casuarina Rugby Club versus Scots College PGC. Scot’s made the long trip from Warwick and we want to thank them for giving all our squads a great hit out. Thanks also to Will Campbell from NSW Rugby for refereeing our main fixtures as well as former 1st XV players, Levi Dangerfield, Harry Davison-Long and Tex Kropp and our parent supporters, Steve Esgate, Carin Jones and Kylie Mison who all helped out with the BBQ for our guests.

1st XV 46-0

Our 1st XV had a strong start to term 2 with a great win over Scots PGC 1st XV. There was some great attacking rugby played and our boys dominated both in time of possession and territory, which led to a number of our tries. Standouts for the Linidsfarne 1st XV were Taj Krasna, who played one of his best games for our school in both attack and defence, Cash Cratchley and Will Sullivan, who both had a number of strong carries and combined to score a well worked try off an attacking lineout towards the end of the first half. There were also encouraging signs from our less experienced 1st XV players, with Eddie Esgate, Lukas Laing, Ben Anderson, Timana Andrews and Noah Brown all showing development in their rugby skills and knowledge.

U15 38-0

On a cloudy day with scattered showers at Casuarina, the Lindisfarne Lions under-15s faced off against Scots PGC from Warwick in a rugby match that showcased the Lions' growing prowess. While a bit wet, the fast track allowed for quick play, and the Lions' defensive aggression, which has become their trademark, was on full display. The Lions' defense held firm throughout, denying Scots PGC any scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, some slick backline movement and strong carrying from the forwards allowed the Lions to control the game.

Captain Zane Weston led his team with authority, showing exceptional defensive skill and orchestrating the team's attacking plays. Teo Martin and Tom O'Brien also had standout performances, contributing to the game's flow and maintaining pressure on Scots PGC. Newcomers to rugby Luke Jones and Harvey Vecht made impressive contributions, demonstrating why they're becoming important players for the Lions. Their energy and support play complemented the established players' efforts. The final score reflected the Lions' dominance, with a resounding 38-0 victory. This comprehensive win speaks volumes about the team's potential and sets a high bar for the rest of the season.

U13

The U13 rugby team kicked off the term in spectacular fashion, securing a resounding victory over Scots PGC. The match, held on Friday @ Casuarina, showcased the team's exceptional talent and determination on the field.

A standout player of the game was Jax Di Mieri, who delivered a remarkable performance by scoring an impressive four tries. Jax's agility, speed, and strength were instrumental in securing the team's victory.

Not only did the team excel in attack, but their defensive capabilities were also outstanding. The defence, led by Sully Groves, displayed impeccable teamwork and skill, successfully keeping Scots PGC from scoring any points throughout the game.

The victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire U13 rugby team. Congratulations to the team on a fantastic start, and we look forward to more thrilling matches throughout the term.

U18 Girls 7s

In the inaugural game of the season, the Lindisfarne U18 girls' Rugby 7s team faced off against Scots College with high spirits and determination. With the majority of girls being in their second year in the Lindisfarne team, they displayed impressive teamwork and skill, executing precise passes and solid defensive strategies.

The game culminated in a well-deserved victory for Lindisfarne, with the captain, Ruby Power, earning recognition as the best player for her exceptional contributions on the field. This triumph not only marked a successful start to the season but also highlighted the potential and talent within the team.

U15 Girls 7s

The U15 Girls had help from the Lindisfarne Touch team to field a team for this game, due to this we started with touch rugby for the first half. The Girls showed great field awareness and teamwork using the space of the field to spread the ball and get in a few tries in the first half. For the second half the girls that were familiar with tackling joined with some of the SCOTS PGC team to play full tackle Rugby 7’s for the second half. Congrats to the girls for winning the first half 3 tries to 2 and thank you to the touch team for assisting with numbers.

KEY DATES

Please see upcoming key dates for our boys’ and girls’ program below. You can find the full list of key dates HERE.

Boy’s

Girl’s

OTHER ITEMS

Salt Bar Sponsorship

We are extremely proud to have the Salt Bar as sponsors of the 2024 Lindisfarne Rugby Program.

As part of this sponsorship, Salt Bar has generously provided all members of the Lindisfarne rugby community (e.g., parents, supporters, friends) with a 10% discount on food and drinks.

You can use this discount anytime you are at the Salt Bar and to access this discount:

1. Download The Pass app via the App store or Google Play

2. Go to More > Promo Code and enter the code LINDISFARNE

3. Make sure to use The Pass app when ordering food and drink at the Salt Bar

Insert Flyer

Player of the Day / Game

As part of our sponsorship with the Salt Bar, we are very lucky that all our Players of the Day / Game will receive a $25 voucher to spend on food and drink at Salt Bar.

Term 1

Term 2

Monday After School Training

In 2024, our main training session outside of school time is on Monday after school from 1530-1645. Although we have had good numbers to our term 1 training sessions, rugby union is a team sport and we still need as many of our players to be in attendance week in and week out to grow the Lindisfarne rugby program in term 2. Hopefully, the car-pooling details will help this and if we can be of assistance in any way, please let us know.

Also, please note we will NOT be sending reminders for these training sessions (all players and families should assume our Monday afternoon training will ALWAYS BE ON), however we will let you all know in ample time if we need to cancel a session due to weather or other factors.

Training Attire

Students should also be in proper training attire (NOT school sports uniform) with mouthguard, boots and any other equipment they play with for every training session, including school sport. This requirement also includes integrated school sport on Thursday i.e., students should wear our rugby training top or similar and not the school sport polo at this time. Alongside this, students should have a towel and spare school uniform to change into in case there is wet weather.

Stack Team APP

The Stack Team app will be our Rugby Union program’s main form of communication for all our squads, with exception of U12 boys.

As a reminder, both parents and Boy’s U13, U15, 1st XVs and 7’s and Girl’s 7s students who have parental permission for smartphones will need to download the app and join the Lindisfarne Rugby Program in the app.

To download the Stack team app, use the following links:

● iOS: https://www.teamapp.com/ios-ap...

● Android: https://www.teamapp.com/androi...

Once downloaded, please search for 'Lindisfarne Rugby Program' and request to join.

More Information

If you have any questions about the above, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Coyne (jcoyne@lindiisfarne.nsw.edu.au).

The deep soaking wet continues across our region - but at least not inundating us causing floods, and much better than the alternative - drought. This hasn’t helped much of our integrated sports program which has had most outdoor grass activities washed out. Lindisfarne hosted the NCIS Cross Country on Wednesday, which also was within a whisker of being cancelled..

Lots of regional Futsal competitions are happening throughout this week and next - with some good results coming through, seeing numerous teams hit the QLD Champion of Champions rounds at Nissan Arena later in the year. A full write-up in next week's newsletter once all the games are completed.

Netball fixtures and rugby fixtures this week as well.

Next week, we have our Open Boys Football team flying to powerhouse school Knox for the CIS Knockout - good luck, lads, our boys will be right in this!

Also, we are sending a strong team to the Far North Coast NSW Regional surfing competition in Lennox Head. There is also some AFL Border Schools action on Tuesday, along with NCIS Football on Wednesday - so, as usual, lots of sports action taking place!

NCIS Cross Country

A fantastic day's action at North Coast Independent Schools Cross Country on Wednesday - with runners needing a combination of fitness, endurance and old fashioned racing smarts - to tackle the slippery conditions.

Congratulations to the following advancers - HERE. We will post a more thorough write up in next week's newsletter. A few photos from the day below:

CIS Swimming

NSW CIS Secondary swimming was this week, with some results coming through from our parents and a few screenshots sent from NCIS. Our Junior relay consisting of; Myla Naylor, Malii Stewart, Madison Harper and Lyla Wessel - came 4th in the final! A cracking effort!

At the same NSWCIS event - Riley Johnson, in year 8 was collecting medals for fun! Check out the enormous tally he clocked up. Amazing work Riley, congratulations.

• 200M IM - 1st
• 200M BR - 1st - He broke the record
• 100M BK - 1st
• 50M FR - 2nd
• 50M BK - 2nd
• 100M BR - 2nd
• 50M BR - 3rd (such a tight race and last race of the day)
• 100M FR - 4th

Great news that he is through to the NSW All Schools Swimming champs in the final week of May!

Hoping for some more results from our other swimmers by next week's newsletter run.

Damien Clucas
Head of Sport

Commendation to Gracie Crimson and Eliza Fahey who recently competed in the 18s State Hockey Championships. Their team won their division and were crowned 2024 State Champions. From this carnival, Gracie was selected as a shadow for the 18s Queensland State Hockey Team. Congratulations Gracie. Eliza has previously been announced in the 16s Queensland State Team and played at the Nationals Tournament in Hobart last term. Eliza was pivotal in the state team reaching fourth place. Congratulations Eliza.

Gold Coast Debating

Week 2 was a clean sweep for our Lindisfarne Debaters! Well done to our Junior B and Inter A teams who represented our school with pride, sportsmanship, and impressive skill.

Intermediate A: Lag1

Topic: In leadership, policy is more important than personality

Side: Affirmative

The team had a convincing win this week in a nail-biting short prep debate. Heir coach Miss Wainwright was particularly impressed by their fast thinking under pressure which enabled them to come out with impressive rebuttals and ‘Points of Information’. The case line was:

In a world constantly on the verge of revolution, decisions based on policy will inspire change reflective of community and individual desires.

Congratulations to Ben, Nicolas and Tessa. Well done!

Junior B: LAG1

Topic: We spend too much time online.

Side: Affirmative

Congratulations to Zhyan, Mason, Eva and Emily on their outstanding efforts this week which brought home a solid victory. Their coach Mrs Eldridge commended their well thought out arguments and excellent speaking skills.

Well done team!

Junior B: LAG2

Topic: We spend too much time online.

Side: Negative

Incredible efforts from Noah, Aria, Charlotte, Lillia this week. Their proud coach Mrs Konik spoke highly of their teamwork, and rebuttals. Their ability to think on their feet served them very well this week- particularly Lillia whose speech was packed full of excellent points that attacked the oppositions case.

Congratulations Junior B Lag2!

Emily Brewer
English Coordinator

Year 12 Advanced students have been busily creating discursive writing pieces as they study Module C, The Craft of Writing. A discursive piece of writing is essentially a personal essay, and this style can be found in publications such as The New Yorker, The Atlantic, The Conversation and such. NESA defines discursive texts as “Texts whose primary focus is to explore an idea or variety of topics. These texts involve the discussion of an idea(s) or opinion(s) without the direct intention of persuading the reader, listener or viewer to adopt any single point of view. Discursive texts can be serious in tone and can have a formal or informal register”.

Please enjoy these samples and celebrate the excellent work of our HSC English students.

Katy Otto
English Teacher

“Really good fiction could have as dark a worldview as it wished, but it’d have to find a way both to depict this world and to illuminate the possibilities for being alive and human in it.”

- David Foster Wallace

The power fiction brings is one beyond that a human is designed to wield. To become the God of a universe, where a mere twitch of the fingers could ‘misspell’ apocalipse, is a dangerous tightrope to walk. Such power lends itself to complete freedom, and with it, slithers in temptation. Similar to that of a curious child who has been gifted a magnifying glass upon a particularly sunny day.

As humans, it is incredibly simple to create a story steeped in sorrow, as it is one many have forced themselves to see. Despite the freedom of fiction, it is easy to fall into what is familiar, and only tumble further and further down into the well, until even the brightest star has faded. Their eyes are adjusted, their pupils dilated. Even the slightest shred of hope, or the echoes of laughter become a flame too bright for their eyes to bear, and they shrink away, eraser in hand, a blur in what could have been. But a flame’s beauty burns sharper when it dies. Or, perhaps, like that curious child, they only wish to know how dark their worlds can get. No matter the intention, eventually, their inky black seas turn droll as the eyes of all who see it adjust too, with naught to focus on. Without the moon, without her flecks of light dancing upon the inky black sea, there is nothing but dreary lull. But that flame of a single candle is enough to entrance the eyes of those who gaze upon it, to readjust their eyes, if only for a moment.

For every flame that is snuffed out, there is beauty and then loss. A dynamic, a change in the world, infinitely more than if it had never existed. It is too easy to simplify, to see only dark or light. The smallest gaps of sunlight through the grey clouds, the moon in the night sky or a quick smile even in the face of a grim situation - easy to forget in the face of overwhelming gloom. And yet, the tiny, flickering shadows in the edges of the universe where starlight goes to die will dance all the same. Without the light, no matter how small, that creates the shadows, there is no depth, no shape. There is nothing for an audience to see or hold onto in a sea of hopeless ink. So, no matter how little, let there be light.

Jay Cahill

Frankenstein

When I was younger, I believed Frankenstein to be the name of the monster in Mary Shelley’s masterpiece.

I am certain I was not the only one to make this mistake. Although maybe that is wishful thinking. At the ripe age of seven I had no idea who Shelley was, the creator of the ambiguously stitched thing that kept me up and reeling at night, accumulating in mounds of clothes that cast long, gnarled shadows onto my bunk bed. Or that I would come to love her mother's works in adolescence, or eventually study her in Extension 1 English. Whether it be due to terrible marketing or badly timed Halloween spin-offs, I had always thought Frankenstein to be the name of the terrifying disfigured creature that rose from an amalgamation of disembodied limbs, painted on tiny faces in bruises of blues and greens for tacky Halloween parties. I had a morbid fascination with these kinds of monsters - I suppose that's what you could call them - and as a lover of Tim Burton, I couldn't quite get the image of it out of my mind.

But Frankenstein wasn't the creature, the ‘monster’.

And you can imagine the kind of shock that actually reading Frankenstein afforded me, sometime around Christmas of last year in my garden when I realised the disfigured monster of bad Halloween tropes was not in fact Frankenstein, but the name of his tortured creator. Suddenly this ‘creature’- as Shelley names it - was not the main wicked monster but instead the victim. And I realised that Frankenstein was indeed still the monster, only not in the original way I had thought. It was not his troubled creation that was left alone with only the burning desire to be loved, burning so much that, eventually, it overcame him.

It got me wondering so much about the creator and creation. I suppose it's always been a point of inflection, being an artist and a writer, the silent but ever-present fear your creation might just be the thing that destroys you completely. Or makes you. Or be the only thing you are defined by. Or be nothing. But is that what being a creator is all about? Is that not the risk we take, to stain our hands in the forging of our masterpieces?

By creating something so out of the ordinary, so consuming and utterly insane, was Victor Frankenstein doomed from the start? Was he insane even just to create?

But I do not think it is insanity that drives us to create. Maybe that is a part of it - certainly - but not the driving force. What that driving force is, I cannot tell you. I think it is something we have to find out along the way.

The shock that I received upon hearing that I had completely and utterly misinterpreted a key part of the story of Frankenstein also got me questioning all the other misinterpretations I must have formed over the course of my amicable eighteen years of earthly existence. If I so wrongly judged the lonely creature of Frankenstein to be a monster, without even properly knowing the story, what else have I? I suppose it is a frankly human thing, to judge before really knowing the full narrative, before seeing it from all haphazard angles, but I don't think it is an entirely wrong thing.

This got me continuing my train of thought on what it means to be human - our intelligent yet often ignorant morals and behaviours. I say this almost as if I am something other than human, observing from afar. In Frankenstein, everything the ‘creature’ learns is through the window of the humble DeLacy’s cottage. All it strives for is something comfortingly relatable - acceptance and forgiveness - and yet when the creature reveals itself the DeLacy’s are horrified. It leaves the reader reeling over the split-second chance that had the humble family stopped and looked past the disfigured collection of limbs hulking before them, had they listened to the gentle manner in which the creature spoke and behaved, perhaps Frankenstein would have had a very different outcome in the end. But again, this is part of the intrinsic human paradigm, to overlook and ignore the story from all angles except one's own. I believe this can be changed and realised, but being inside one’s own mind the whole of one’s life, (even the word ‘one’. Singular and isolated. Alone.) how can you ever truly leave that and all the influences that have made you think the way that you do. To allow the psyche to take a shuddering step into unreachable waters. And how can you expect others to know every single facet, every word on every page in every chapter of every book in the essentially endless chasm of your skull? How could the DeLacy’s see past the horribly disfigured monster to the gentle person beneath who simply craved, just as we do, to be loved?

Luca Daniel

Silence

I find true beauty in the silence. Not in the chaotic colour of the city, the bustling streets filled through with thousands of people, each leading their own life with their own issues, problems, beauties and joy. Not in the wistful calm of the ocean, waves pushing up and down the sand as the breezes pull the joyous shrieks of children down the beach. Definitely not in the cynical demise of man, country vs. country, army vs. army, man vs. man. When political feuds turn into red painted fields where poppies grow, when the eery post of last tremors through a crowd, grasping at necks and sending shivers down spines. The infantry storm the battle field, struggling, scrimmaging, and combating for that extra metre of land in the name of their patriot state. But what an odd name, Infantry, where by definition it means specialisation of military personnel who engage in warfare combat but the word consists of a mere infant. Young, helpless, a child in the first period of life. But how ironic, as an infant grows through life, infantry fall to their demise. But infantry and infants are one in the same, though infants are taught the opinions of the politically minded whilst infantry are taught to fight the fights of said politically minded, young, helpless and at the mercy of their commanders.

Youth is so easily stolen, taken and encapsulated in the form of order and conduct, responsibility and purpose. It gradually fades with time and age, a slow stripping of childhood and its replacement with the wish of becoming an adult and all the ‘glorified’ excitement of being old and mature and dignified. But this dream of being a ‘big kid’ removes the joy of the moment, of being a kid and playing with your toys all day, going on play dates to your friends houses and before you know it, youth is gone, childhood is gone, you didn't realise it flew out the window around 50 km ago and it’s too late to turn back. The car is completely silent as you drive to the large boat, accompanied by your sad but proud parents, where you will board with 500 other youth-stripped children and handed a rifle in hopes that it will protect you against the opposition who shoot round after round of ammunition your way.

My great grandfather was that of a soldier in WW2, assigned to the 57th/60th battalion he was stationed in Salamaua, Papua New Guinea, however he never spoke of his service. Such horrific things best stay on the battlefield, but he would often mention and I quote, “There are two things you need to care for, your teeth and your feet. Without your teeth you can't eat, without your feet you can't walk '', the true mind of a soldier. He did however mention the silence that signified the end, end of warfare, end of killing. That peaceful moment when brothers in arms became brothers in blood. When the birds refused to sing and the wind ceased to blow in fear that this silence was all but a fleeting mirage of hope. That silence was eerie, but welcoming. A moment to farewell the fallen and welcome the freed. The silence that let tears stream down a dirty face and knees to buckle, collapsing under the weight of dreams. But these dreams were no longer dreams but the reality of the end. The end of fighting this stupid fight, the end of watching mates, friends, people you know lose the fight you had just survived as there are no winners in warfare, no victors, just survivors. And the silence stretches on, on and on and on.

This silence, it transcends time and society. Spans over all of us like a cloak of protection, though we must never forget, lest we forget the fallen, the injured, the disheartened and the hurt. But this hurt is not a generational thing, it did not end with those who experienced it. It is a living organism whose presence can be felt at all times, heavy on the shoulders of the living. And the silence flows on. When we face to the West, then to the East, with the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them. Silence encompasses the crowds and never has such a lack of sound brought so many people together. Without the bustling chatter and lively banter of human nature we are so alone, left to our own thoughts but connected together in our web of silence. Honouring just a single moment to those who have fallen for the rise of us all. The power such memory commands over us, to strip us of our voice in testament to the silence of the battlefield, to silence of the lost, to the silence of an infant who sleeps sound at night. This is what I find beautiful in the world.

Charlotte Yette

Our Year 7 Japanese classes have taken a dynamic leap into language learning and cultural exchange. Kicking off Term 1, they embarked on a project to craft engaging "How To" videos that showcase their Australian way of life to their peers in Japan. This initiative, developed by our Languages Faculty in line with the new Modern Languages syllabus, encouraged students to create fun and informative videos on a variety of activities, using simple Japanese instructions. The range spanned from quintessentially Australian tasks such as making steak sandwiches and lamingtons, to the adventurous art of surfing.

The students showcased their hobbies and aptly demonstrated typical Australian activities like mowing the lawn and making delicious avocado toast, offering their Japanese peers a glimpse into their daily lives. Other unique activities, like preparing a mouse to feed a pet snake, were also on display, which certainly captured attention!

Each video was carefully crafted using basic Japanese to ensure clarity and cultural sensitivity, reflecting the students' understanding of the importance of language in cultural exchange. The project not only enhanced the students’ language skills but also deepened their appreciation for the nuances of cultural interactions.

We are thrilled to see our students engage so enthusiastically in this cross-cultural dialogue and look forward to the response videos from Japanese students, eager to share their own cultural experiences. This exchange marks the beginning of what promises to be an enriching journey in cultural exchange.

ゴデン先生

Mrs Godden
Japanese Teacher

Smithy Sprint: Excitement Builds for Annual Event

Get ready to lace up your running shoes because the annual Smithy Sprint is just around the corner! Named in honor of Canon Peta Smith, a former principal of Lindisfarne, this thrilling event is set to take place next Wednesday, the 15th.

The Smithy Sprint is a race like no other, spanning from the bottom oval all the way to the top of the school grounds. It's not just a race; it's a testament to our school's spirit of competition and camaraderie.

This year, the Year 10 PASS students will play a pivotal role in making the event a success. As part of their studies in Event Management, they will take on key roles in planning and running the event. From mapping out the course to organising checkpoints and ensuring accurate timing for participants, the Year 10 PASS students have been hard at work behind the scenes.

The Smithy Sprint follows hot on the heels of our Foundation Day celebrations, adding an extra layer of energy and enthusiasm to the event.

Mark your calendars for lunchtime on Wednesday for the Smithy Sprint. For more details, be sure to check the daily notices. It's going to be a race to remember!

Get ready to sprint, Lindisfarne!

Year 10 PASS

Save the Date

Germinate Record Live, our annual fundraiser gig for Tweed Palliative Care & Wedgetail Retreat will take place on the evening of Wednesday, June 12. As well as supporting this wonderful facility, Germinate Records Live showcases the work of our super talented singer songwriters. More information, including ticket information will be available in the coming weeks.

Freestyle Rap Workshop Featuring DreDub

On the afternoon of Tuesday, May 21, renowned local rapper, DreDub will be holding a freestyle rap workshop in PA 11. In addition to his own work as a Hip Hop artist, DreDub writes, records and tours with JK-47. The workshop will take place during periods 5 & 6. Spaces are very limited so interested students should contact me ASAP to book their place and take advantage of the opportunity to learn the art of freestyle rap from one of Australia’s best.

Please email brett@germinaterecords.com to secure your spot.

Brett Canning
Lindisfarne Recording Studio