The Lions' Roar 02/05/2025
Campus News
Date Savers for Upcoming Events
May
Monday, 5 May - Labour Day Public Holiday
Wednesday, 7 May - P&F Mothers Day Stall
Wednesday, 7 May to Friday, 9 May - Year 9 Camp
Thursday, 8 May - Year 3 Awesome Arvo
Wednesday, 14 May - Under 8's Day, Year 10 Career's Festival
Wednesdsay, 21 May - HIA Cross Country
Saturday, 24 May - TMC 30 Year Celebration
Wednesday, 28 May - Prep to Year 2 Sports Day
June
Thursday, 5 June - Years 5 & 6 Transition to Year 7 Information Night
Friday, 6 June - Years 3 to 6 Athletics Carnival
Wednesday, 11 June - Primary HIA Soccer
Thursday, 12 June - Year 12 ATAR Info Night
Friday, 13 June - Beginners Music Concert
Friday, 20 June - Last Day of Term 2
Friday, 20 June - Student Free Day
Please note - dates for events may be subject to change
ANZAC Day Commemorations
This year marks the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings, a defining moment in Australian and New Zealand history. At Tamborine Mountain College, we are proud to continue honouring the ANZAC spirit through both our on-campus service and our participation in the Tamborine Mountain ANZAC Day March.
On Wednesday 24 April, the College community gathered for our annual ANZAC Service. Led with dignity by our student leaders, the ceremony included a moving Acknowledgement of Country, reflections on the legacy of the ANZACs, and a stirring address by Mr John Heydon from the Tamborine Mountain RSL.
On ANZAC Day itself, TMC students proudly represented the College by marching in the local Tamborine Mountain service. Despite the morning rain, their conduct and commitment reflected the values of kindness, integrity, equity, and success that we hold dear.
As a College, we paused to pay tribute not only to those who landed at Gallipoli in 1915, but to all who have served since. Their courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy remind us of the importance of unity, resilience, and community.
Lest We Forget.
French Speaking Competition
The Language Teacher's Association of Queensland invites students from years 4-12 to compete in an online French Speaking Competition. The contest requires students to complete a script (each grade level is different), which is recorded and sent to the judges. If your student would like to compete, please let their French Teacher know as there is a limit to entries.
Entries close June 20th.
Ms Brianne Rodgers
Thriving Through Secondary: The TMC Way
Thank you to all the Year 5 and Year 6 parents and guardians who joined us for our recent webinar, Thriving Through Secondary: The TMC Way. It was wonderful to see so many families engaging with the important conversations about how we work together to support your child’s journey through these important formative years.
At Tamborine Mountain College, we believe the partnership between home and school is one of our greatest strengths. It is a responsibility we hold with great care and pride. Our commitment to purposely smaller class sizes ensures more meaningful time with each student, allowing us to connect deeply with all aspects of their growth, academically, socially, and personally.
This level of individual attention enables us to tailor each student's experience, guiding them to thrive and reach their full potential in every area of College life. When we speak about our College Motto of Empowering Every Student, it is not words to us, rather a principle we live by each and every day.
Your child is known, seen, and valued here at TMC, and it is our privilege to walk this journey alongside them, and alongside you.
This is just the beginning of a series of parent webinars, offering you the opportunity to engage openly with us as a College, ask questions, as we work together to support your child through the many important milestones ahead.
Thank you again for your trust, your time, and for being such an important part of the TMC family.
If you have any further questions or thoughts following the webinar, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to support you and your child every step of the way.
Fiona Stevens - College Principal
Tamborine Mountain College - Teacher Feature
In every classroom, behind every lesson, and within each success story at our College, you’ll find a passionate teacher who brings learning to life. Our new Teacher Feature section is a celebration of the dedicated educators who inspire, challenge, and care for our students each day. It's our way of shining a spotlight on the people who help shape the minds and hearts of our students.
Each edition, we will introduce you to one of our wonderful staff members – sharing a glimpse into their journey, passions, and the unique spark they bring to our TMC community. We hope this feature offers deeper connections between home and school, and a window into the incredible team behind your child’s learning experience.
Louise Ivers, Primary Music Teacher
What inspired you to become a teacher?
My passion for music and passing in the many benefits it has on a child’s development and academic success.
If you weren’t a teacher, what career would you have pursued?
I nearly became a nurse. I guess you could say I just want to help others.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing children’s enjoyment and success in music-making.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I’m a professional Violin and Viola Player.
What’s your favourite book or movie, and why do you love it?
I love Disney remakes or Musical movies - I think because they are entertaining.
What’s a memorable moment from your time at Tamborine Mountain College?
Directing the Lion King musical 🦁 a career highlight.
Share with us some of your greatest achievements in life?
Studying Music at the QLD Conservatorium, being selected for the Orff Schulwerk Music training program at the University of Mozart in Salzburg, Austria, and of course being a Mum to 3 gorgeous boys!
What’s a piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self?
Make the most of these former years, do what you’re afraid to do.
What are your hobbies outside of school?
I don’t really have hobbies, I spend my time away from school being a mother and enjoying my kids while they are young.
If you could learn a new skill instantly, what would it be?
To be a jazz drummer or cake decorating.
What’s one thing your students have taught you?
I’ve learnt about bands and song artists I’ve never heard of.
If you had to describe your teaching style in three words, what would they be?
Fun-loving, creative and inclusive.
What’s your favourite thing about the Tamborine Mountain College community?
I love the smaller school feel, allowing me to get to know staff and students better. I also love working in such an inclusive school with people from all walks of life.
What’s one song that always puts you in a good mood and why?
Coldplay - Paradise.
Independent Schools & the Federal Election
As we approach the upcoming federal election, we want to share some important information about the potential impact it may have on our College and the Independent school sector as a whole. Decisions made during this election could directly affect funding and the ability of families to choose schools that align with their values and aspirations.
Independent schools like ours operate on a combination of government funding as well as the fee contributions of families. Ensuring stable and fair funding is essential to maintaining the high standards of education we strive to provide, as well as the lower school fees.
Raising awareness about these issues is an important step in protecting the diversity and accessibility of education for all families. To support this effort, we are participating in the School Choice Counts campaign, which highlights the value of Independent schools and the importance of fair funding.
If you would like to learn more about where each of the political parties stand in relation to independent school funding, visit School Choice Counts
Your support is invaluable in making a difference, not just for our school, but for Independent schools across Australia.
Fiona Stevens - College Principal
Direct Debit Payments
IMPORTANT UPDATE - SCHOOL EASYPAY (DIRECT DEBIT PAYMENTS)
Payment Option and Fee Changes Effective Thursday 1st May 2025
Dear Parents/Guardians
School EasyPay has advised that starting Thursday 1 May 2025, there will be some changes to the payment processing fees:
· The fee for International Card Transactions will increase to 3.95%
· The fee for Failed Payments will increase to $20.00.
· Processing fees for all other payment methods will remain the same
While School EasyPay remains committed to keeping fees minimal, these adjustments are necessary to maintain secure and reliable payment services for everyone.
What do you need to do?
There’s no immediate action required on your part, but we recommend reviewing your payment arrangements and ensuring your account details are up to date to prevent any potential issues with transactions.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Accounts department on 07 5545 3644 (option 6).
We appreciate your understanding and continued support.
Australia's Biggest Morning Tea - Term 2
We are incredibly proud of our Secondary Student Representative Council (SRC) for taking the initiative to host a fundraiser for the Cancer Council next Term. Their dedication to making a positive impact in our community is truly inspiring!
On Friday, May 16th, TMC students will be holding an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, raising vital funds for cancer research, prevention, and support services. Students will also be selling items on the day to raise money.
Every dollar raised makes a difference, and we encourage our TMC community to get behind this fantastic cause! You can support our students' efforts by donating here: https://www.biggestmorningtea.com.au/.../TamborineMountai...
Let's show our SRC how proud we are of their commitment to helping others!
Secondary News
Apprenticeship Information Sessions
MEGT are an apprenticeships provider on the Gold Coast and they are running an information session for families, students and employers on Thursday May 29th, from 7 am to 9 am at the Nerang Bicentennial Community Centre. If your student is interested in becoming an apprentice in any area, it will be worthwhile attending the session to hear about the process and meet potential employers.
Tickets must be booked to attend; they are free and can be accessed through the link:
Please contact Mrs Parker-Browne if you have any questions.
Tamborine Arts Trail
A selection of our Secondary students are exhibiting their artworks at the Tamborine Arts Trail over the Labour Day long weekend. Their work will be displayed alongside local artists at the Tamborine State High School, showcasing the creativity and talent of our emerging young artists. We encourage families to visit the trail, support our students, and celebrate the vibrant arts community we are proud to be part of. A selection of our Secondary students are exhibiting their artworks at the Tamborine Arts Trail over the Labour Day long weekend. Their work will be displayed alongside local artists at the Tamborine State High School, showcasing the creativity and talent of our emerging young artists. We encourage families to visit the trail, support our students, and celebrate the vibrant arts community we are proud to be part of.
Mrs Jackie Olivier
Year 3 Excursion to Jellurgal
Last Tuesday, Year 3 embarked on a wonderful cultural excursion to Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre at Burleigh Heads. It was an amazing day filled with learning, storytelling, movement, and connection to Country.
The excursion began with a captivating Indigenous dance performance that was magical. Students were then invited to join in and learn a traditional dance themselves, bringing energy and movement to our morning. This was of course very welcome after our long bus drive there!
We also had the special experience of walking onto the beach and having our faces painted with ochre, a meaningful tradition that added to our understanding of Aboriginal culture and customs.
We listened to Dreamtime stories, including the powerful tale of Jabreen, and discovered the rich history of Burleigh Hill and its significance to the local Yugambeh people. It was a valuable opportunity for students to connect our HASS learning from Term 1 about Connection to Country to real-world experiences and deepen the students' appreciation of Australia's First Nations cultures.
After our cultural experience, we took a scenic walk across the Tallebudgera Bridge and enjoyed a lovely creekside lunch under the shade of the trees. The beautiful setting was the perfect way to end our excursion before boarding the bus back to school.
We were incredibly grateful to have so many generous parent helpers join us on the day. A special thank you also to Mr Olivier and Mrs Porter for coming along and supporting the students throughout the excursion. This day would not have been possible without your help!
Mrs Martine Kramer & Mrs Julie Sands
Term 2 - After School Lego Club
Early Learning News
A Clucking time in Term 1!
One of the most memorable highlights of Pre-Prep's Term 1 was our exciting incursion on Caring for Chickens in the lead-up to Easter! This hands-on experience was incredibly well-received by both our children and families, sparking joy, curiosity, and lots of learning.
Our little learners had the unique opportunity to engage with the chickens and discover what it means to care for animals responsibly. Along the way, we integrated valuable math skills — counting newly hatched chicks, tracking eggs removed from the incubator, checking brooder temperatures, and estimating how much water was needed to keep our feathered friends happy and hydrated!
We’re absolutely thrilled to share that all of our chicks found loving homes within our TMC community! This initiative not only nurtured responsibility and empathy in our young learners but also helped strengthen the sense of connection and care among our families.
What a wonderful way to celebrate life, learning, and community — all in one peep-tastic project!
Mrs Rachael Fernandez
Sports News
Congratulations to Our Star Player – Headed to Cairns!
We are incredibly proud to announce that one of our very own Sports Captains, Anna H-P , has been selected to represent the AFL South Coast regional team in the upcoming state competition in Cairns at the end of July!
This is an exceptional achievement that reflects Anna’s talent, dedication, and hard work both on and off the field. Competing at this level is no small feat, and we know she will represent our school and the Southcoast region with pride, sportsmanship, and determination.
We wish Anna all the best as she prepares for this exciting opportunity. Go get 'em in Cairns – we’ll be cheering you on from home!
Well done, Anna!
Mrs Louise Martin