The Lions' Roar Master - Tamborine Mountain College

Campus News

30 Year Anniversary Community Celebration

What an unforgettable day! Our 30 Year Anniversary Community Celebration was a heartwarming reminder of the incredible spirit that makes Tamborine Mountain College so special.

We were absolutely thrilled to welcome record-breaking numbers of past, present, and new families, students, staff, and alumni to campus, all coming together to honour three decades of TMC.

Held under clear skies and surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the mountain, the event welcomed past, present and new students, staff, families, and friends for an unforgettable day of connection, nostalgia, and fun. Aptly themed Lighting Up Young Minds for 30 Years, the celebration brought old faces together with new, sparking stories, laughter, and the spirit of community that has defined the College since its founding in 1995.

From the moment the grounds opened, the College buzzed with excitement. Children smiled with delight on the free rides, while others cuddled baby farm animals or enjoyed a gentle pony ride through the shaded paddocks. Live music by the talented Tamborine Mountain College choirs and bands plus much-loved entertainer Georgia Blue set the perfect backdrop for the day, with her soulful vocals and upbeat energy keeping the crowds tapping their feet and singing along.

Food trucks lined the lawn, serving everything from gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas to sweet treats and icy slushies, a hit with children and adults alike. Picnic blankets and deck chairs dotted the hill, with families enjoying the feast while soaking up the sun and sounds of celebration.

Inside the College, a special Memory Lane exhibition showcased three decades of memorabilia. Visitors poured over class photos, memories from years gone by, and heartfelt messages from alumni who have gone on to make their mark in the world. Many shared laughs as they spotted familiar faces, some even reconnecting with former classmates and teachers for the first time in years.

A huge thank you to our amazing P&F for hosting the P&F Stall, and all of our fantastic families who donated - you all raised over $1000!

As the sun set over the mountain it symbolised the spirit of unity and support that has underpinned the College since day one.

To everyone who joined us, thank you. You helped us create a truly magical moment in our College’s history. Together, we lit up the mountain with pride, joy, and a bright vision for the future.

Tamborine Mountain College - Teacher Feature

David (Dave) Evans, Primary Sports Coordinator

What inspired you to become a teacher?
My passion lies in sharing the benefits of sport and fitness with the next generation, with the aim of enabling them to reach their full potential and surpass their perceived limits. I am dedicated to empowering, encouraging, and inspiring young individuals to excel in sport. Additionally, I seek to foster a deep appreciation for sport, fitness, and a holistic balance of cognitive, physical, and spiritual well-being. My ultimate goal is that they depart with a lasting love for sport and physical activity that continues to enrich their lives through childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.

If you weren’t a teacher, what career would you have pursued?
Medical Field - Doctor. My motivation to pursue an alternate career as a doctor stems from a profound commitment to helping people of all ages and empowering them to achieve optimal health. This dedication is coupled with a strong and sustained intellectual interest in the complexities of human health, including the study of anatomy and physiology, and a holistic appreciation for the human body. My understanding encompasses not only the physical aspects but also the interconnectedness of cognitive, physical, and spiritual well-being, alongside a deep understanding of the body's fundamental biological components.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
My passion lies in working with young people, where I am driven to inspire, empower, and guide them in realising their full potential and exceeding their perceived limitations. Witnessing their achievements and the joy it brings them in their skills development, activities, and sporting endeavours is a deeply rewarding aspect of a career in teaching.

What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I speak two other languages other than English in Serbian & Spanish.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Abraham Lincoln - Amidst the United State's most critical juncture, Abraham Lincoln's leadership was characterised by an unyielding moral compass directed against slavery, a compelling and strategically articulated vision for national unity, and a profound empathy that fostered collaborative effectiveness within a diverse and highly capable team. His capacity for decisive yet adaptable strategic decision-making, his steadfast resilience throughout immense adversity, and his remarkable skill in cultivating trust and empowering his team were pivotal in achieving the paramount objective of preserving the Union and initiating the transformative policy of abolishing slavery. Lincoln's leadership, distinguished by his humility, a commitment to ongoing self-development, and a strategic emphasis on unity and reconciliation, endures as a potent and timeless model of effective leadership in navigating periods of profound organisational and societal transformation.

What’s your favourite book or movie, and why do you love it?
The Dark Knight Trilogy, under the direction of Christopher Nolan, holds a significant place for me as it redefined the on-screen portrayal of Batman, a cherished childhood superhero. Nolan masterfully transcended the conventional comic book narrative, introducing a profound level of complexity. This dark, intricate, and thematically rich saga offers a realistic and grounded exploration of heroism, morality, and societal decay within the context of Gotham City. Nolan's signature directorial approach emphasises plausibility, deliberately minimising fantastical elements to cultivate a world that feels remarkably relatable, even with its larger-than-life characters. I particularly appreciate how the trilogy delves deeply into the intricate motivations and psychologies of its characters, including Bruce Wayne/Batman, his key allies such as Alfred, Jim Gordon, and Harvey Dent, and his formidable adversaries like Ra's al Ghul, the Joker, and Bane. These characters are depicted with human fallibility, driven by compelling backstories, and confronted with morally challenging dilemmas that ultimately shape their destinies and life journeys.

What’s a memorable moment from your time at Tamborine Mountain College?
The students' response to my approach has been highly encouraging, and it is rewarding to observe the positive impact my passion for sport, fitness, and holistic development is having on their lives. They are beginning to understand the deliberate structure of our activities and are embracing the vision I have for their growth. Through motivation and empowerment, they are developing an intrinsic belief in their capabilities, leading to tangible achievements. This is reflected in their recognition of their progress and a growing understanding of their potential.

Share with us some of your greatest achievements in life?
Graduating University Twice - First for my Bachelors Degree and Secondly for my Masters degree. Each day, making my parents and grandparents proud of my achievements and continued drive to excel in everything I do.

What’s a piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self?
"Keep pushing and stick to your beliefs", "Don't ever let anyone put your fire out, use it and refuel even-more to succeed."

What are your hobbies outside of school?
Fitness, Triathlon, Coach at F45 & Water Sports (Surf lifesaving, Jet Skiing / Surfing).

If you could learn a new skill instantly, what would it be?
Learn a 4th Language.

What’s one thing your students have taught you?
Even when facing life's challenging moments, outside of school, they will always be a source of positive influence and bring out the best in you, making you smile and laugh.

If you had to describe your teaching style in three words, what would they be?
Engaging, Fun, Direct.

What’s your favourite thing about the Tamborine Mountain College community?
From the outset of my tenure starting in early 2025, the College community has extended a warm welcome and demonstrated significant support for my aspirations to advance our Physical Education program. This positive and collaborative atmosphere is instrumental in facilitating the program's enhancement, ultimately maximising our students' prospects for growth, achievement, and the full realisation of their potential and beyond.

What’s one song that always puts you in a good mood and why?
"Gnezdo Orlovo" by Breskvica holds a deeply personal significance for my father and me. This particular song invariably elevates my spirits, regardless of the time of day, as it evokes cherished memories of my father and the formative experiences where he encouraged my ambition and leadership from a young age. Breskvica is an artist whose work I greatly admire, as she consistently elicits profound and positive emotional responses. Furthermore, this specific track possesses an uplifting and motivating quality that inspires me to strive for success. Even when confronted with challenges, whether significant or minor, the song instills a sense of optimism and the belief that obstacles can be overcome. Hearing "Gnezdo Orlovo" invariably brings a smile to my face, filling me with the confident anticipation of a positive day ahead.