2025 Term 4 Week 7 28 Nov 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we near the end of a rewarding school year, this week has been a joyful celebration of learning, growth, and community.

On Monday afternoon, I had the pleasure of attending the Stage 1 Nativity Play at our Sunshine Avenue Campus. Our youngest students brought Christmas to life with heartfelt narration, song, and beautiful performances. It was a true celebration of the Christmas story and the birth of Jesus, and a testament to the creativity and confidence of our students, guided so well by our Junior School staff.

Tuesday evening marked a meaningful milestone for our Year 9 students with The Rite Journey Homecoming Ceremony. This is always a powerful and reflective event as students return “home” from their symbolic journey, recognising the important transition into young adulthood.

On Wednesday morning, our Early Learning Centre Christmas Concert filled the hearts of families and staff alike with festive cheer and laughter. There’s nothing quite like the joy of our preschool and kindergarten students embracing the spirit of the season.

Thursday’s Thanksgiving Service for Year 6 was a beautiful and emotional occasion. As these students complete their primary years of education, it was a privilege to acknowledge their growth and achievements. With families, grandparents and carers present, we reflected on the journey so far and looked ahead to the next exciting chapter in Middle School.

This morning, we brought the Middle and Senior Schools together for our combined Christmas Carols Chapel Service, which is always a highlight of our final weeks. A huge thank you to our music staff and students for leading such a joyful worship service.

Tonight, our Year 10 students, the class of 2025, will gather for their well deserved Dinner Dance celebration after completing a week of work experience and a chance to enjoy time together as a cohort before they step into their senior years and embrace their HSC studies.

Looking ahead, I warmly invite our Lindisfarne community to join us this Sunday at Mahers Lane Chapel for our whole school Community Christmas Service. Refreshments will be served from 4.30pm, with the service running from 5.00pm to 6.00pm. It promises to be a memorable evening of Christmas Carols, reflection, and togetherness.

Next week, we formally conclude the academic year with our Speech Day celebrations:

Junior School
Monday, 1 December
11.00am - 1.00pm

Middle School
Tuesday, 2 December
11.00am - 1.00pm

Senior School
Wednesday, 3 December
11.00am - 2.00pm

These events are a cherished opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding efforts and contributions of our students and staff throughout 2025.

Wishing you all a safe and restful weekend.

Warm regards,

Stuart Marquardt
Principal

Dear Students, Staff, Parents and Guardians,

As Chrsitmas is approaching I would like to focus this article on Advent - the liturgical season leading up to Christmas.

The traditional Advent season invites believers into a four week period of profound reflection on the advent, or coming, of God through Jesus of Nazareth, and on his anticipated return.

From focused prayer and Scripture reading to lighting candle wreaths and using decorative calendars, Advent celebrations are diverse. Despite these variations, all practices share a heightened sense of anticipation for God's arrival.

More than just a countdown to Christmas, Advent embraces the teachings of Jesus and encourages hopeful waiting, the pursuit of peace, joy amidst challenges, and selfless love in our world, which still knows suffering.

So what exactly is Advent?

Advent is a four week period within the Christian calendar that prepares individuals for the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth at Christmas, while also looking forward to his future return.

Traditionally, each Sunday during Advent highlights a key theme - such as hope, peace, joy, or love - to encourage reflection, prayer, and joyful anticipation.

The Meaning and Significance of Advent

For many, “Advent” means a countdown to Christmas. Whether we envision candy-filled Advent calendars or lights draped over houses with nativity scenes out front, Advent marks a happy season of celebrating.

But the word “Advent” comes from the Latin “Adventus”, which is about a “coming” or an “arrival.” The Latin translation of the New Testament uses Adventus to describe God the Son arriving on Earth, born as Jesus of Nazareth during the 1st century B.C. (see Acts 7:52).

Still, throughout Church history, Advent has more traditionally referred to Jesus’ future arrival, when he comes to complete his work of restoring all creation (see Matt. 24:27; 1 Cor. 15:23; 1 Thess. 3:13).

The Advent season leads to the celebration of Jesus’ birth and also emphasizes his future arrival. It’s a season that includes practices like prayer, giving to those in need, and worship (plus more, depending on the tradition).

It also reminds us that we’re living during the time between Jesus’ first and second Advents, leading us to lament the hardships we experience in a still-broken world, while also forming us into people who wait with longing for the renewed world to come.

Celebrating Advent also means living into it by practicing a generous way of love and care for our neighbors as we partner with Jesus to bring peace on Earth.

The Four Weeks of Advent

In most Christian traditions, Advent is a four-week season of celebration and observation prior to Christmas, each week often focusing on a particular biblical theme. Although the selection and arrangement of themes can vary, these are some themes commonly explored during Advent.

Week 1: Hope
Week 2: Peace
Week 3: Joy
Week 4: Love

This overview of what Advent is has intended to help you meditate on each of these themes so that you might deepen your understanding of Advent and experience the season in a new way, as we prepare to celebrate, once again this Christmas season, the coming of the Christ child.

Happy Advent everyone!

Blessings,

Reverend Lyndon
Chaplain

St James Anglican Parish - Parish Centres

• St James, 122 Marine Parade, Kingscliff NSW 2487

• St Marks, 15A Coronation Avenue, Pottsville NSW 2487

Wednesday, 24 December

5.30pm Christmas Play with Carols at St James, Kingscliff followed by

6.00pm Family and Children’s Service including decoration of the Christmas Tree

11.00pm Christmas Vigil with Carols at St James, Kingscliff

Thursday, 25 December

8.30am Holy Communion Service at St James, Kingscliff

9.30am Holy Communion Service at St Marks, Pottsville

St Cuthbert’s Anglican Parish, 13 Powell Street, Tweed Heads NSW 2485

Wednesday, 24 December - 8.00pm Family Service

Thursday, 25 December - 9.00am Holy Communion Service

All Saints Anglican Parish - Parish Centres

• All Saints, 32 Byangum Road, Murwillumbah NSW 2484

• Holy Trinity, 1473 Kyogle Rd, Uki NSW 2484

• St John’s, 4 Carraboi Terrace, Tyalgum NSW 2484

Sunday, 21 December

9.00am Christmas Service at Holy Trinity, Uki

Wednesday, 24 December

5.30pm Holy Communion Service at All Saints, Murwillumbah

6.00pm Traditional Christmas Carol Service at St John’s, Tyalgum

Thursday, 25 December

9.00am Holy Communion Service at All Saints, Murwillumbah

SCHOOL FEE CASH PAYMENTS

If anyone is wishing to pay their school fees in cash at either Maher’s Lane or the Junior School, could you please call or email in advance to make an appointment, outside of start and finish bell times.

Planning ahead will ensure you do not have to wait.

ALL 2025 FEES NOW DUE IN FULL

Any outstanding school fees are now overdue and should be finalised immediately, if you have not done so already.

2026 PAYMENT PLANS & ANNUAL FEE CALCULATIONS

If you have not already made a request and wish to receive calculations for 2026 Direct Debit Payment Plan, or Annual Fee Discount option, could you please email accounts to request this in writing, if you have not done so already. Please be patient, as we will reply back before the start of Term 1.

We appreciate your assistance and wish you all a safe Christmas.

Accounts Department

Email : accounts@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au

For new students enrolled for 2026 who require a Lindisfarne Bus, please submit a bus application, at your earliest convenience. Link is on our website.

Students who currently travel on a Lindisfarne Bus, DO NOT need to reapply.

The Lindisfarne buses provide a service for students registered to travel to and from the closest bus stop to the residential address of the family. The Lindisfarne Bus service does not have the capacity to meet requests such as transport for students to swap buses for travel to other locations for sport, work, social or other reasons.

Should your child need to attend such an activity, we advise you to make alternative arrangements, like carpooling, to transport your child to their event.

Your understanding of this matter is appreciated. Please direct any Lindisfarne bus enquiries to bus@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au

Brett Dinsdale
Business Manager

What a year it has been for the Parents and Friends Association. Although it was not a FunFest year, it has still been busy and productive. Events included the Trivia Night, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls, the Mother’s Day High Tea, the Big Boys’ Breakfast, Athletics Day barbecues and a Golf Day. A sincere thank you to everyone who supported these events, and a special thank you to the committee for your dedication and effort throughout the year.

There have been many projects that the Parents and Friends Association has supported over the past twelve months. At Sunshine Avenue, industrial fans were installed in the Assembly area, water fountains were replaced and work has commenced on a dry creek bed. At the Middle and Senior School Campus, eight hammocks were replaced in the Middle School playground, the Steinway piano was refurbished, choir risers were purchased, old drinking fountains were replaced and additional drinking troughs were installed. Over the Christmas break, the Canteen area will also be upgraded with new flooring and additional seating.

At our final meeting for 2025, we agreed to support a new Preschool mud kitchen, to purchase an additional six Lindisfarne-branded marquees, and to purchase and install a new water fountain in B Block at the Middle and Senior School Campus.

The year 2026 is a FunFest year and it is sure to be significant. The Parents and Friends Association is always grateful for your support. Whether it is an hour on a barbecue, donating raffle prizes, sponsoring an event or moderating a year group’s Facebook page, every effort contributes to creating an even better environment for our children. If you would like to become more involved, you might consider joining the committee. It is extremely rewarding and does not require a large time commitment.

Thank you to Principal Stuart Marquardt and all staff for another wonderful year. I wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and a relaxing break, and I look forward to seeing you at the Principal’s Welcome event on Friday, 6 February.

Penny Brady
President
Parents and Friends Association

Throughout Term 4, our Kitchen Garden program at the Junior School has been a hive of activity, with every year group planting, harvesting, cooking, creating and contributing to our Caring for Country Green Market in meaningful ways.

Our Year 1 students explored the tiny wonders of our garden, voting in the ABC Insect of the Year, preparing and planting seedlings, and learning about the lifecycle of ladybugs before heading out on an insect scavenger hunt. They also stepped into the kitchen, proudly making spring onion crackers to sell at the market.

Year 2 learners planted a range of herbs and vegetables, and even when wet weather kept them indoors, they continued their kitchen garden journey through engaging activities focused on common kitchen utensils, including matching tasks and a scavenger hunt. The children also used fresh garden produce to make bright, tasty nasturtium pesto for market day.

Year 3 has been busy bakers and scientists. They harvested onions to make delicious upside-down onion tarts, and measured garden bed temperatures to understand how depth affects growing conditions. The students helped prepare beautiful edible flower shortbread cookies along with soothing lemon balm salve - both popular items at our market that showcased the produce from our garden.

Our Year 4 students have taken on leadership and design challenges, voting on a new name and sign for the chicken coop and mapping the garden with purpose - considering design, maths links, and why different areas are used in certain ways. They also participated in the Aussie Bird Count and crafted super healthy mini quiches for the market.

Across the school, the children have been learning through real world, hands-on experiences that develop skills in teamwork, food preparation, environmental care and scientific thinking. Their hard work in both the garden and the kitchen has continued to build confidence, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for fresh food and the natural world.

Kathryn Leary
Teacher-Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program

Please see gallery below for more photos

This week we celebrated our 40 Junior School Accelerated Reader Word Millionaires with a Pizza Party in the Music Garden. Congratulations to the following students who collectively read over 72 million words and completed nearly 3000 quizzes, demonstrating their love of reading and commitment to achieving their goal.

Multimillionaires

• Akihiro Srinath (6.4 million)
• Toby Fisher (3.7 million)
• Adam Cornell (3.5million)
• Tessa Kelly (3.2 million)
• Ben Johnstone (3 million)
• Amelia Whitley (2.8 million)
• William Manwarring (2.6 million)
• Charles Goldstein (2.6 million)
• Elizabeth Popov (2.4 million)
• Alton Barbagallo (2 million)
• Juno Honey (2 million)
• Rishi Pettit (2 million)
• Honor Pippett (2 million)
  

Millionaires

• Ivy Keals-Smith
• Caleb West
• Emmeline Stevens
• Loíc Bell
• Harper Kelly
• Daniel Liu
• Eva Read
• Archie Stevens
• Macy King
• Eloise Newman
• Séamus Nolan
• Rocky Crow
• Chloe Kilner
• Claire Braby
• Frankie Jacks
• Florence Occhipinti
• Conor North
• Harvey Luxton
• Tyler Ellison
• Hunter Leigh
• Serena Won
• Hazel Osmond
• Ari Malina
• Lucia Rohrlach
• Bunty O’Donnell
• Hayden Won

Krissy Affleck
Junior School Information Services & Digital Pedagogy

Middle School Speech Day

We look forward to celebrating our 2025 Middle School Speech Day next week.
The event will be held at Ngahriyah, Mahers Lane Campus on Tuesday, 2 December at 11:00am, and will conclude at approximately 1:00pm.

All Year 5-8 students are required to attend, as we come together to recognise their achievements across the year. Speech Day is one of the key moments in our school calendar; an opportunity to acknowledge excellence not only in Academic Studies, but also in Citizenship, Service, Effort, Sport and Cultural pursuits, which together reflect the character and values of our community.

Students must wear their full school uniform, including blazer and tie, as the formal nature of the occasion reflects the significance we place on honouring their efforts and contributions.

Parents and carers are warmly invited to join us.

To assist with seating and arrangements, please confirm your attendance by Friday, 28 November 2025, using this link.

When arriving on campus, we ask that you follow staff directions and signage for parking.

We look forward to celebrating with you.

Year 6 Thanksgiving Service & Disco

This week, our Year 6 students gathered in the Mahers Lane Chapel for the Thanksgiving Service, marking the conclusion of their primary education. The Liturgy recognised their learning, growth and increasing responsibility as they prepare for the next stage of their education.

Following the service, students enjoyed a celebratory lunch with their teachers, acknowledging the effort and contribution shown throughout the year.

In the evening, the Year 6 Disco brought plenty of fun and energy. Students enjoyed pizza, music and time together, a fitting way to conclude their primary schooling. We extend our thanks to the Parents and Friends Association for generously providing the pizzas and Zooper Doopers for the celebration and to Rod Bertram for the tunes and lighting.

Year 5 End of Year Movie Night

Our Year 5 Movie Night was also held this week and was a great success. Students relaxed, enjoyed a film and celebrated the year with classmates. Thanks to the P & F for once again supporting the evening by providing the pizzas and Zooper Doopers - a highlight for many students.

End of Term - Important Reminder

As we approach the end of Term 4, please note the following key dates:

• Final day for students: Wednesday, 3 December

• Semester 2 Reports released: Tuesday, 2 December via Parent Lounge

We encourage families to review the reports together and take time to reflect on the progress made across the semester.

Cathy Cox
Head of Middle School

In a powerful display of community spirit this week, the entire Year 7 cohort successfully assembled stationery packs for students in need throughout Northern NSW and QLD.

The assembly line began with the counting of the core component: the pencil cases donated by 7E. With some Christmas tunes in the background, Homerooms then worked together to divide their donated goods into equal allotments to fill each pencil case, creating a system of stations for each item. 7G and 7D had pens, 7C and 7B with pencils, 7H with rulers and glue and 7A with Erasers and Pencil Sharpeners. The year group split as some stayed with their homerooms, and some students began walking around collecting the goods for the packs.

In our second last stop, students added exercise books donated by 7F to our piles, and picked up any extra donations of handballs, folders and fiction books. The last stop was to our selected students who volunteered to tie a nice, neat bow around each pack. Their dedication to ensuring the packs were kept together and well presented was excellent to see.

The Year 7 students were involved in this project as a part of their service learning in Pastoral Care, in which we have been exploring ways to help others in our community. We have discussed how both donations and giving up your time can have an immense positive impact on others.

A special shout out to 7F, 7C and 7G who brought in the most donations for our packs, once accounting for a variety of types of items. We are so proud of all our Year 7s, getting to end the year with such a fabulous display of teamwork and caring.

We know that these packs will be highly valued and very much appreciated by all who will use them in the community as they return to school next year. Thank you to all those who donated stationery items to make this possible.

Catherine Johnson-Dyson
Year 7 Coordinator

As we finish the school year, we are excited to recognise our final group of Word Millionaires as part of the Accelerated Reader program.

Each student invited has read over one million words this term. This is an incredible achievement that showcases their dedication and passion for reading. They were celebrated with a special morning tea with Mr Marquardt and Mrs Cox to acknowledge their hard work.

We are very proud of these students and hope their love of reading continues into the new year.

Bronte Ryan
Year 5 Teacher

Last week, I unpacked the fast approaching social media age restrictions set to come into effect on 10 December, which will require major platforms to remove and block accounts held by under 16s. As the date draws closer, more parents are asking the same questions: What will this actually look like? How will my child cope? And what on earth should I be doing now?

A recent Sydney Morning Herald article by Kimberly Gillan captured the complexity of what families are about to experience. The shift won’t be simple. Many teens are deeply embedded in online peer groups; some will feel relieved, others anxious, and some will simply find workarounds. The ban may be legally aimed at tech companies, but the emotional fallout will land in our living rooms.

This is where parents play a crucial role as guides.

Acknowledge the Emotional Impact

Social media has become a key place for self expression, connection and memory keeping. For some teens, losing these spaces may feel like losing part of their world. Rather than celebrating the ban, show empathy and curiosity. A simple and supportive conversation can help them feel understood rather than dismissed.

Use This as a Reset Moment

Because the rule is external, parents do not have to be the enforcer. This is a chance to encourage more in person socialising and create opportunities for teens to connect offline. Small changes, such as inviting friends over or facilitating weekend activities, can help fill the gap left by online platforms.

Keep Dialogue Open

Regular, relaxed conversations help young people process change. Ask what they enjoyed about being online and what they think they will miss. Being open and non judgmental encourages teens to share more freely and strengthens trust.

Prepare Practically Before 10 December

Help your child download or export photos, videos and contacts they want to keep. Planning alternative ways to stay in touch with friends can also reduce anxiety about what comes next.

Model Balanced Tech Use

Reducing your own social media time, even slightly, signals unity and sets the tone for healthier habits in the household. It also helps teens feel they are not the only ones making adjustments.

Expect Some Ups and Downs

Irritability or sadness is normal as teens adjust to losing familiar digital spaces. Continue offering patience and reassurance. Remember that teens will still access other online platforms like WhatsApp, Discord, YouTube Kids, Roblox and Google Classroom, so staying engaged and aware remains important.

A Moment for Reconnection

Although the changes may be challenging, they also offer an opportunity for families to reconnect and reset digital habits together.

This transition may be challenging for many of our young people; however, I, for one, welcome this change. Too often, I have seen the harm caused by (and to) young people through the misuse of social media platforms. These restrictions offer an important circuit breaker, but their success depends on all of us. It is essential that families and the School work together to help students adapt. I ask parents to be proactive in this space, rather than turning a blind eye to continued use or enabling workarounds. Together, we can help our young people navigate this shift with confidence, and I genuinely appreciate your partnership as we support them through it.

Kate Cornell
Head of Senior School

Our Silver Duke of Edinburgh group has recently returned from their Qualifying Expedition to the NSW Snowy Mountains. After arriving at Canberra Airport, we made the drive down the Monaro Highway to Jindabyne before setting up camp at Island Bend on the famous Snowy River. The group was treated to incredible views of the Aurora Australis throughout the evening and cooked up their first camp meal. From here, the group began their hike at Guthega Power Station, the first infrastructure project built under the Snowy Mountains Scheme. 

Heading into the high country, they made their way through snow patches en route to White’s River Hut, built for sheep graziers and later overtaken by workers on the scheme. The following day involved a chairlift ride to the top of Thredbo, where students made their way through the snow towards Mt Kosciuszko. Unfortunately, deep snow conditions meant we couldn’t make it to the summit, but we got close! 

The final night was spent on the shores of Lake Jindabyne, before embarking on the long trip home. The group is commended for demonstrating fantastic teamwork, endurance and positive attitudes towards embracing and overcoming each challenge thrown their way. They are now looking forward to commencing their Gold Award in 2026.

We are also excited to share yesterday, Braden Miller became the first student from Lindisfarne to be awarded the prestigious Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. Braden travelled to Government House in Sydney to receive his Award from Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, the 39th Governor of NSW since Governor Phillip in 1788. We are extremely proud of everything that Braden has achieved, especially his service to the local community and his positive leadership on his two Adventurous Journeys. We look forward to celebrating further Gold Awards in 2026.

Mr Nathan Alterator
Duke of Ed Coordinator

After two years of planning, our dream of taking a group of students to walk the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea finally became a reality. A group of six Lindisfarne students, accompanied by five staff, departed Brisbane on 10 November to embark on our eight-day trek across the Owen Stanley Ranges, walking in honour of the soldiers who so bravely fought for the future of Australia during the Kokoda Campaign in World War II.

We got off to a bumpy start when our flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta was cancelled. This meant a long day in the departure lounge, followed by another unexpected night in a hotel. A 3 a.m. start the following morning finally saw us on our way, and by 6am, we were bound for Popondetta. We landed in hot, steamy conditions before beginning a 3.5-hour truck ride to Kokoda, the official starting point of our journey.

Over the next seven days, we and our 15-kilogram packs trekked across the rugged Owen Stanley Ranges, climbing steep mountains and navigating sharp descents. The Kokoda Track stretches approximately 96 kilometres and rises to more than 2,000 metres above sea level, with one of its highest points, Mount Bellamy, reaching around 2,190 metres. The constant elevation changes and intense humidity are just two of the reasons why Kokoda is recognised as one of the most demanding treks in the world.

Every step became tricky and challenging. Ankle-deep mud, tangled tree roots, and incredibly slippery slopes turned even short sections into major efforts. We climbed up waterfalls, crossed fast-flowing creeks, scrambled over ridgelines, and pushed ourselves physically and mentally every day. The near-constant wet shoes and clothes added to the difficulty; everyone had up and down days.

While the physical challenge was immense, the emotional impact of the experience was even more powerful. Walking across ground where Australian soldiers once fought, and where many lost their lives, brought the history of the campaign into sharp focus.

During 1942, Australian forces fought a series of desperate battles along this very track as they attempted to hold off a much larger and more experienced Japanese force. The campaign included significant engagements such as Kokoda, Isurava, Eora Creek, Templeton’s Crossing, and Brigade Hill. These battles were fought in appalling conditions: soldiers were sick with malaria and dysentery, crippled by trench foot, exhausted from the terrain, and often outnumbered and undertrained. Yet they held their ground, and later pushed the Japanese northwards back toward the beaches at Buna, Gona, and Sanananda.

Knowing this history, and seeing memorials, weapon pits and original defensive positions, gave us a deep appreciation of the courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice shown by those who fought to protect Australia. Each of our boys was assigned a soldier to research before departure. Throughout the trek, they shared their soldiers’ story with the group: their background, their role in the campaign, and in many cases, the circumstances of their injury or death. These reflections often moved both staff and students to tears. Hearing the personal stories of young men, many of the same age as our students, highlighted the true human cost of the Kokoda Campaign and made the experience even more meaningful.

We finished our journey with a visit to Bomana War Cemetery, the resting place of more than 3,800 Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives during the Pacific campaigns. Walking among the rows of white headstones was a deeply sobering way to conclude our trek, and a powerful reminder of how grateful we should be for the sacrifices made by so many.

The experience and the memories of Kokoda will remain with us forever, inspiring us to continue sharing the story of Kokoda and honouring those who walked before us.

Kokoda Coordinators
Kelly Bedford and Julie McDowell

Please see gallery for more photos

Over the past twelve months, under the guidance of St Barnabas Head of House Mrs Kelly Bedford, Year 10have been participating in service learning, giving their time and energy each week to a variety of local organisations. Their service has included supporting preschools, visiting aged care facilities, helping with environmental projects, assisting those less fortunate, and creating sanitary products for women in need. 

Every year for the past 15 years, our amazing Librarian, Gail Dessmann, has worked tirelessly to collect funds, gifts, and gift cards to support local charities, raising tens of thousands of dollars in the process. This Christmas, we asked Year 10 to put their service learning skills into action by supporting Gail and the School Chaplains and give back to our local community during a time that can be particularly stressful for families. Within the Tweed, more than 500 families are currently experiencing homelessness, a number that continues to rise due to increasing living costs and a shortage of affordable housing. 

Each Year 10 Tutor group was tasked with creating a Christmas gift box for a child of a specific age and gender. These boxes will be handed out at the AGAPE Christmas lunch, distributed through the TweedWomen’s Shelter, and used by the Kids in Need charity. 

The response from Year 10 was overwhelming. Students took ownership of the initiative, allocating items among themselves, organising who would write the card, preparing the gifts, and wrapping the boxes. Tutors commented on the positive atmosphere in their classes, with some even playing Christmas music as the boxes came together. In total, more than 40 boxes were produced, each one helping to support our local charities and bringing joy to children in need. 

This initiative not only makes a meaningful difference within our community but also continues to instil in our students the satisfaction and joy that comes from the simple act of giving.

Julie McDowell
Dean of Students - Senior School

Please see gallery for more photos

At this week’s Senior School Assembly, our Year 9 and Year 11 students were invited to pause, reflect, and look forward with intention as the school year draws to a close. In my address, students were challenged to consider the mark they have made over the past ten months, not through accolades, but through character; the everyday choices that define how we treat others, our environment, and ourselves.

I have shared the full speech below and invite our community to reflect on these shared values alongside our students. As always, thank you for your ongoing support in helping young people grow well, finish well, and look ahead with hope.

As we come to the end of another school year, I want you to ask yourselves this: What do you hope people remember about you this year?

Many qualities shape who we are becoming as a school. I want to focus on three of these today: kindness, respect, and accountability.

Kindness has been one of those quiet forces. I’ve seen it in the way some of you have looked out for each other, including someone who was on the outside, or choosing to speak with patience rather than frustration. These gestures matter. They shape our school's culture every single day.

Respect has also been central. Respect for your teachers, for one another, for yourselves, your appearance and for the environment we share. Respect is not just about following rules. It’s about recognising the people around you, valuing their time, their effort, and their right to learn, feel safe, and feel supported. When you show respect, you strengthen our whole school community.

And finally, accountability. Taking ownership of your choices is where real maturity begins. This year, many of you have shown that you can acknowledge your actions, learn from setbacks, and commit yourselves to doing better. Many of you have truly put that into practice. That is what genuine growth looks like.

This year, I’ve watched many of you grow in other ways that deserve recognition. Some of you have learned to manage challenges that once felt overwhelming. Others have found your voice, your confidence, or a deeper awareness of the impact you have on those around you. Growth is not always loud or obvious; often it happens quietly, in the moments no one sees. But it changes us all the same.

However, I also want to speak directly to those of you who feel you haven’t grown as much as you hoped. Those who feel they’ve taken a few steps backwards, or who are finishing the year disappointed in themselves. It’s never too late to change your direction. Growth doesn’t follow a straight line, and it certainly doesn’t run on a school calendar. What matters is not where you are today, but the choices you make from here. Every one of you is capable of resetting, stepping up, and writing a better chapter next year. And we will be here to support you when you do.

As we finish the year, I hope you can look back and see how far you’ve come, not just academically or on the sporting field, but personally. The qualities you’ve built this year will serve you far beyond school. And as we move toward the holidays and a new year beyond that, my hope is that you continue to practise kindness, show respect, and take accountability, not because someone is watching, but because these are the foundations of strong character and meaningful relationships.

Because one day, when you’ve left this place, people won’t remember the test you bombed or nailed, the game you won, or what you had for lunch. What they will remember is how you made them feel and the person you became while you were here.

Let’s finish this year strongly, proud of the growth we’ve made, and committed to living out kindness, accountability, and respect every day.

Thank you for the year we have shared. I am proud of the people you are becoming.

Dan Robins
Assistant Head of Senior School

This year was a resounding success for our students involved in The Rite Journey, marking a significant step in their growth toward maturity and adulthood.

The journey began back in March with the meaningful Calling and Departure Ceremony. At that time, our students were asked to make a commitment to the process and consciously decide which habits or mindsets they needed to leave behind as they took their first steps into this new phase of life.

On Tuesday night, we reached the pinnacle of this year-long program with the deeply moving Homecoming Ceremony. It was a celebration of their immense growth, their deepened understanding of themselves, and the challenges they had successfully overcome. It also provided a crucial opportunity to reflect, consolidate their learning, and step into their developing maturity with confidence.

We were thrilled and incredibly proud of our dedicated staff and committed students. At The Rite Journey Conference in Christchurch, Lindisfarne was recognised with a major honour, receiving an award naming us the 9th Lead School internationally for The Rite Journey program. This recognition is testimony to the hard work and success of our school.

Cathy Myers
Coordinator of The Rite Journey | Head of St Stephen House

Driving to School? Don’t Forget This!

To ensure student safety, all Year 11 and 12 parents/guardians are required to complete the Student Driver Authority Form. This grants permission for your child to drive to and from school and provides essential vehicle details for safety and identification. This is a requirement for all student drivers and must be completed before driving to school is permitted.

Please complete the form here: Student Driver Authority

Student Administration

Dear Community,

We are seeking Expressions of Interest from families who are open to welcoming international students into their homes. Hosting an international student is an enriching cultural exchange - creating genuine connections, sharing everyday Australian life, and offering a young person from overseas a sense of belonging.

The experience is equally rewarding for our families, who often tell us that hosting broadens perspectives and brings curiosity and gratitude into their own home. Our Hosting Models at Lindisfarne operate several models of international hosting to support the variety of programs and partnerships we engage in globally:

Short to Long Term Homestay (Paid Hosting via Homestay Provider)

Through partnership with homestay providers, families may host international students who enrol for an extended period at Lindisfarne. These placements are arranged on a contracted, paid basis and typically involve students enrolled in short and long-term study programs at our school.

Short Term: up to 1 Term

Long Term: minimum of 1 Semester (with the option to extend)

Voluntary Hosting (Sister School and Friendship School Exchanges) & StudyTour Programs

Our most inclusive and enriching hosting model invites Lindisfarne families to voluntarily welcome students from our network of sister and friendship schools across the globe. These visits focus on building enduring global connections, often with opportunities for future reciprocal visits by Lindisfarne students.

What’s Involved?

• Provide a safe, welcoming home environment.
• Include the visiting student in daily routines and family activities.
• Offer support and encouragement as they engage with our school and community. 
• Most visits are short-term, ranging from a few days to several weeks.
•  Full support and guidance are provided by the Lindisfarne International team.
  

We would love to welcome more school families to become part of our global school community. To express your interest, please complete the Homestay Expressions of Interest Form or contact the International Department at international@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au to show your support.

Rebecca Wilson
International Student Coordinator

The penultimate week of school for the year is almost done. A massive few days off sport for our YOUNG GUN Athletes over the next few days, at the School Sport Australia Track and Field Championships in Canberra.

All the best to the following students who will certainly be right up there in the top handful of competitors trying to take home a medal:

• Elle Down
• Andie Buchan
• Jack Kane

Next week, our U15 and U17 year boys basketball teams will go about their business at the Australian Schools Championships. Best of luck to these young men, who have been training since September.

Non-term events:

7-13 December Australian Volleyball Schools Cup

2026 Integrated Sports Selections Dates

The 2026 Integrated Sports Program is the compulsory sport timetabled into students' academic calendars. Unfortunately, we are being pressed by providers of costs going up; insurance, rates of pay, and other outgoings are all forcing their hands. We have no choice but to pass these on.

Term One Sports Selections will open on Clipboard on Wednesday, 14 January, 7 pm and close on Tuesday, 21 January, 8 am. Sport options will be sent out to families in early January.

For Terms Two to Four - nomination dates are as per the below and subject to change, in which case it will be communicated to all families.

Term 2: Wednesday 4 March, 7:00 pm to Tuesday 10 March, 8:00 am

Term 3: Wednesday 27 May, 7:00 pm to Tuesday 2 June, 8:00 am

Term 4: Wednesday 2 September, 7:00 pm to Tuesday 8 September, 8:00 am

100+ Names: Gold Coast’s finest student athletes of 2025

Please see below from the recent feature of our three athletes, Koa Stotz, Andie Buchan, and Elle Down, in the Gold Coast Bulletin.

Koa Stotz

“Stotz broke two Australian U14 records at the Australian Age Swimming Championships in Brisbane. Stotz claimed three gold (50m Free, 50m Breaststroke (record), 100m Breaststroke) and three silver medals (100m Free (record), 50m Fly, 200m IM). Koa is preparing for the State Championships in December.”

Andie Buchan

“Buchan ran an incredible 10-second personal best to win the NSW PSSA Primary Athletics Championships 1500m, in a time of 4:38 at the NSW PSSA. As a 12-year-old, this time has qualified for her to trial in the Commonwealth Games Australian team. She has also progressed to the Sporting Schools Australian National Championships. She also claimed first place at both the Athletics Australia National Cross Country Championships and the Sporting Schools Australia Nationals, with a gap on the rest of the field.”

Elle Down

“The 10-year-old absolutely destroyed the field moments after the starting gun, winning both the Athletics Australia National Cross Country Championships and the Sporting School Australia Nationals. Down also qualified for the Sporting School Australia Nationals Athletics with two first places in the 800m and 1500m (record time), spacing the rest of the field.”

Spotlight on Isaiah Mammen

Isaiah (Year 8) achieved an impressive 4th place in the NSW State Tennis Champion of Champions final over the weekend. Competing against the top 24 players from across regional NSW, he performed exceptionally well, finishing with four wins and just one loss.

Following this strong performance, Isaiah has been selected to play in the 14 Boys North East Tennis Team, which will compete at the Queensland Junior Teams Carnival in Brisbane from Saturday, 13th to Wednesday, 17th December 2025.

In this event, the top six boys and girls in each age group from the region are chosen to compete against players from across Queensland, the Northern Territory, Japan and New Caledonia.

Damien Clucas
Head of Sport & Activites

Last week, our junior school community was treated to a beautiful end-of-year string concert, showcasing the hard work and dedication of our young musicians. Students from across the program performed a range of pieces with confidence and musicality, reflecting the growth they have made throughout the year.

A particularly special part of the performance was welcoming our younger students in Kindergarten to Year 2, to the audience. Many were seeing string instruments up close for the first time, and it was wonderful to watch their faces light up as they heard the violin, viola, cello, and double bass played live in concert. Their enthusiasm was unmistakable, with many eager questions and excited conversations continuing long after the final note.

The concert also provided a fantastic introduction to our Immersion String Program, which has flourished under the watchful eyes of Mr. Dean Kennedy. This program allows students to learn a string instrument in small group settings, building musical skills, confidence, and teamwork. Thanks to the school’s support, our String Immersion Program makes learning and playing string instruments accessible and exciting for all students. For families interested in their child joining the program in 2026, information and an expression-of-interest link will be available soon.

We congratulate all our performers on an outstanding year of music-making and look forward to seeing the program thrive in the years ahead.

Harriet O’Donnell
Music Teacher

Over the past week, students in Years 7-11 returned their M2 MacBook devices.

On Monday, the Y12s (2026) were inducted into their new M4 MacBook devices. The session was conducted all at once, as a cohort, in the Senior Centre. Approximately half of the group returned for an induction into their supporting iPad device. This is the first year we have offered an iPad, alongside a Mac, to students to support their HSC studies. An iPad for notetaking will really help our seniors keep their thinking organised in the final year of school studies. A special thanks to Mr Eric Luna, Apple Professional Learning Specialist, who conducted a special induction into the iPad for the Y12 students to help them get underway.

As we move now to the deployment of the new devices, a reminder of the induction times is provided below. Students will require permission via ‘Excursions and Events’ in SEQTA Engage in order to take their new device.

Induction Sessions - 2026 Cohorts

Any students who have not yet returned their M2 device (unless purchased), need to do this as a priority. The final day for returning devices is December 3.

One Last Opportunity to Purchase an M2

The school is excited to share that there will be one final opportunity to purchase an M2 Apple MacBook device from our retired fleet. On Thursday, 4 and Friday, 5 December, the school will offer up a small number of devices for in person purchase. These will be available for inspection and purchase at $800 (inc.GST). The devices can be viewed and purchased at the Mahers Lane Library between the hours of 8.00am and 4.00pm on these dates. Once the items are sold, there will be no further opportunities to buy.

Mr Kane Bradford 
Head - Professional Practice, Innovation and Partnerships

Mr Anthony Gerke
Manager - Information Services

Take advantage of the best range of products and great prices.

As a partner of Lindisfarne, we are excited to announce that JB HiFi is generously offering the School Community access to their Corporate Benefits Program. 

Choose from hundreds of technology brands and thousands of unique technology products, appliances and electronics.

Susannah Jepson
Administration Assistant - Partnerships

Click HERE to view Summer Vacation Details