Choose Character - Where Light Goes, Character Grows
A message from our Principal, Nicole Gregory
Are our students brave enough to take a chance on a book they may not have ordinarily selected for themselves?
From the Principal
Becoming
Keeping Young People Safe Online
Why Parent Engagement and Education Matter More Than Ever
Since the introduction of new social media age laws on 10 December 2025, schools and youth organisations have been working closely with students and families to understand how these changes are affecting young people. What has become clear is that while the laws aim to protect children, they do not remove the need for education, guidance, and strong parent engagement. In fact, these laws make it even more important to continue teaching young people how to navigate the online world safely.
One of the most important points for parents to understand is that the new laws apply to social media platforms and not to young people themselves. Children and teens are not breaking the law if they are online; the legal responsibility sits with the platforms. This distinction is critical because predators often tell young people the opposite, convincing them they will “get in trouble” if they speak up. We must debunk this message. Young people will never be in trouble for asking for help; the platform is the one held accountable. Despite the restrictions, many young people are still finding ways to stay connected. Some continue using their favourite apps, sometimes even using a parent’s or sibling’s identification, while others are shifting to new or unfamiliar platforms with weaker safety settings. This movement increases the risk of scams, predatory contact, and exposure to harmful content, making open communication and education essential.
At the same time, the new laws have created unexpected challenges around account access and data. Some platforms have removed or locked teen accounts, leaving young people unable to log in while their photos, videos, and personal information remain visible. It is also important to understand that platforms like Snapchat do not instantly delete content, despite what they claim. Data is often retained for up to a year, and recent legal changes mean law enforcement can access this information more easily. Police can now obtain content directly from platforms, which strengthens investigations into cyberbullying, grooming, scams, and image‑based abuse.
Australia has strong laws protecting young people online, including cyberbullying legislation and offences relating to using a carriage service to menace, harass, or cause offence. These laws apply to threats, abusive messages, harassment, and harmful online behaviour. Intimate image laws are also extremely clear: the creation, distribution, procuring, or possession of intimate images involving a minor is illegal, and even asking for such an image is an offence, whether or not the image is ever sent. Young people have been charged for creating inappropriate images, sharing them, requesting them, and even for producing or distributing AI‑generated deepfakes. With AI now capable of creating convincing fake images and video filters capable of disguising an adult as a peer, the risks have evolved rapidly. This makes education, not avoidance, the strongest protection that we can offer.
Support systems are in place to help families. The eSafety Office can order harmful content to be removed, often within a day, and if a situation is criminal, police become involved immediately. Teachers and schools are supported by the Australian Cyber Security Centre and guided by the National Standards for Bullying Prevention in Australian Schools. However, none of these systems replace the need for ongoing education. If we stop teaching young people how to stay safe online simply because the law says they shouldn’t be on certain platforms, we risk creating a generation of children who are online and unprepared, making them the biggest targets. Young people will continue seeking connection, exploring identity, and potentially making mistakes. They may take your ID, use a sibling’s account, or follow advice circulating online about how to avoid age detection. This is normal teenage behaviour. What they need is guidance, reassurance, and adults who stay engaged.
Parents remain the most influential adults in a young person’s digital life. Your involvement (your conversations, your curiosity, and your calm presence) makes a profound difference. Eyes Open Social Media will continue working with TLC students to build strong privacy, security, and decision making skills they can apply across any platform. We do not encourage the use of restricted apps, but we are confident that education and informed choices are the strongest protections for young people online. By working together as parents and educators, we can ensure that young people grow into confident, capable digital citizens who understand how to protect themselves, seek help when needed, and navigate the online world safely, no matter how the laws or platforms change.
An information sheet from Eyes Open Social Media is attached with further details. For additional guidance or support, you are welcome to visit the Eyes Open Social Media website or the eSafety Commissioner for more comprehensive information.
Anna Doré | Deputy Principal - People & Culture
What's Been Happening?
Year 12 Camp – Step up & Step out
Our 2026 Senior Leaders began their final year of schooling with a memorable and energising Year 12 Camp at the beautiful Alex Park Conference Centre in Alexandra Headlands. Set against the backdrop of sun, sand, and sparkling ocean, the camp offered the perfect environment for students to reconnect as a cohort and reflect on the exciting journey ahead.
Across the two days, our seniors embraced every opportunity to strengthen relationships, celebrate the beginning of Year 12, and build the supportive networks that will carry them through the year. The beach quickly became a gathering place, whether walking together along the shoreline, cooling off in the waves, or simply enjoying the peacefulness of the coast. These shared moments allowed students to re-establish friendships, welcome new connections, and affirm their commitment to supporting one another throughout 2026.
When not at the beach, the group made great use of the centre’s facilities, including plenty of time spent swimming and relaxing in the pool. A variety of team-based activities encouraged collaboration, communication, and reflection, helping students consider the role of leadership, resilience, and community in shaping their final year of schooling. These sessions not only built confidence but also reinforced the importance of leaning on one another, and the broader TLC family, as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of Year 12.
One of the highlights of the camp came in the evenings, when students gathered to watch the Australian Open, play cards and board games together. These moments of shared excitement, cheering, and friendly rivalry created a wonderful sense of togetherness and added an extra layer of joy to the camp experience.
The atmosphere throughout the camp was one of anticipation, gratitude, and determination. Our seniors returned to school energised, focused, and filled with a renewed sense of purpose. With strong momentum already building, they have stepped back into their classrooms ready to embrace the opportunities of their final year, setting ambitious goals and looking ahead to all that awaits them beyond our school gates.
We are incredibly proud of our 2026 Senior Leaders and look forward to supporting them as they continue to grow, lead, and flourish this year.
Luke Stanley | Year 12 Camp Coordinator
Meet our New Staff
As we step into 2026, we are delighted to welcome a number of new staff members to our College community across Secondary, Primary and Operational. Each brings a wealth of experience, fresh perspectives and a shared commitment to supporting our students and families. You may also notice some familiar names among our new starters, as we proudly welcome back staff who are returning to TLC. We look forward to the contributions they will make as they settle into their roles and become part of our vibrant community.
SECONDARY
- Lauren Cowburn | Head of Pathways
- Tiarnan Green – Head of Faculty (Humanities and Business)
- Vanessa Guild | EAL/D Mentor Teacher (7 to 12)
- Honor Hugo | Secondary Teacher
- Tyla Farley-Cook | Secondary Teacher
- Sandy Dippelsmann | Curriculum Assistant
- Jenn Heibloem | LIFT Learning Assistant
PRIMARY
- Thalia Wang | Chinese Language Teacher
- Talisa McEldowney | LIFT Learning Assistant
- Hannah Markby | LIFT Learning Assistant
- Elena Volf Fidalgo | Primary Teacher
- Heather McQuade – Teacher Librarian
OPERATIONAL
- Tanja Ussher – LIFT Learning Assistant (Library)
- Jesse Perry | Property Services Officer
DANCE TUTORS
- Miranda Coyle
- Kayla Thomas
SPORT COACHES
- Kiesha Muckan
- Brian Doughty
- Amanda Issa
- Danil Anokhin
- Kai Francis
Celebrating our Lakes Learners
Two Brothers' Success: George & Henry
We are proud to celebrate the incredible futsal achievements of George S (Yr 7) and his younger brother Henry (Yr 5), whose dedication and talent continue to shine on the national and international stage.
Between November and December, George represented Australia on the AFA Philippines Futsal Tour, competing in the Philippines U11 Futsal Invitational Tournament. Showing great courage and leadership, George proudly sang the Australian National Anthem for the team when no one else volunteered. With two Australian teams competing, history was made as both progressed to an all-Australian Grand Final. Although George’s team narrowly missed the win by one goal, he was recognised for his outstanding performance, receiving Best Defender of the Game.
Back home, George’s U11 QLD Football Academy 2 Futsal team (Predators) also reached finals. While George was unable to attend due to his international commitments, his team finished third overall and acknowledged his vital contribution to their success.
In early January, George again represented U11 QLD North Coast at the AFA Club National Championships in Sydney, marking the third time he has been selected to represent Australia on an AFA tour. Most recently, George and fellow student Idol B (Year 6) competed in the Gold Coast International Futsal Tournament with the Predators U11 team, finishing fourth in a highly competitive group.
Looking ahead, George has been selected to compete in the AFA 2026 Northern Regional Futsal Titles in April with Pine Eels and will fly to Malaysia later in April to once again represent Australia.
Henry has also had an exciting year, having been selected for the AFA 2026 Northern Regional Futsal Titles in April with Pine Eels. In early May, he will travel to the Philippines to represent Australia on an AFA tour.
Congratulations to George and Henry on their remarkable achievements. We look forward to following their continued success — the future is bright for these two brothers!
We love celebrating the successes, wins and proud moments of our Lakes Learners — both on and off the field. Please make sure you share them with us by emailing [email protected].
Community
Connecting Our Community in 2026
Happy New Year and welcome to Term 1!
On behalf of The Lakes College Community Association (TLCCA), I would like to warmly welcome all families to another exciting year at TLC. Our Executive team has returned refreshed and enthusiastic about continuing to support and connect our wonderful school community throughout 2026.
Invitation from the TLCCA President - Supporters' Register
Scan the QR code or click here to register your interest in supporting your TLCCA and being a part of the action!
Second Hand Uniform Shop – A Huge Thank You
As the school year began, our Second Hand Uniform Shop (SHUS) once again came alive thanks to an incredible group of parent and carer volunteers. During the busy Back-to-School period, these volunteers generously gave their time to welcome new families, answer questions, offer advice, and keep the shop running smoothly—sorting, folding, hanging, tidying and, most importantly, providing a friendly and reassuring presence.
Their efforts make a genuine difference to families across the College, and TLCCA is deeply grateful for their kindness, energy and commitment to our community. Here's a roundup of our January numbers to amaze and impress you with $15,019 in totals sales! The majority of these sales are from 636 recycled items saving the families that purchased them $14,368 versus those that purchased them new. Further families that provided items for sale will share in around $7,300 in reimbursements being 50% of the item sale prices—expect to see these deposits in early February!
Second Hand Uniform Shop Opening Times
- Monday to Friday: 8:00am – 9:00am
- Tuesday: 2:30pm – 3:30pm
TLCCA Picnic in the Park
TLCCA is excited to once again host Picnic in the Park, to be held on Saturday 7 March. This much-loved event is a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, meet new faces, reconnect with friends and celebrate the start of another school year in a fun and active child friendly event.
We are very pleased to share that our Treasurer, along with the TLCCA Executive, were successful in securing $3,200 in City of Moreton Bay's Local community support grant to support this event. We sincerely thank the City of Moreton Bay Council and our local Councillor and Deputy Mayor, Jodie Shipway, for their continued support and encouragement of the TLCCA over many years.
Everyone is welcome - bring the kids, grandparents, special friends, for a picnic and afternoon of games, inflatables, and fun. TLCCA will be providing a sausage sizzle, popcorn and snow cones, but families are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. This is a strictly no alcohol event. Please bring your own picnic blanket and picnic chairs as well as hat / sun / shade protection.
To give us an idea of numbers please register your attendance via the link below:
Trivia Night is Back!
Our TLCCA Trivia Night is back on Saturday 6 June - make sure you save the date! Follow all the updates on the Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share...
TLCCA February Meeting
Our first general meeting for the year will be held on Wednesday 25 February in the Main Administration Boardroom at 6:30pm. We always welcome new faces, and meetings are attended by a member of the College Executive, providing a great opportunity to hear what is happening across the school.
We look forward to another positive and connected year ahead and hope to see many of you at our upcoming events.
Rob Leanord
TLCCA President
[email protected]
What's on the Menu this Term
Term 1 Wunya Café Menu - Download the Spriggy Schools app to register and place your order today - Spriggy Schools - Reliable Online Canteen Ordering
Please note:
- Orders can be placed in person at the Café or via the Spriggy School app. All orders need to be placed before 9:00am.
- EFTPOS/Paywave Card is available at the Café
What's On?
Queensland School Library Week
The Lakes College will be celebrating Queensland School Library Week from 9-13 February. This year’s theme is “Light the Way”. There will be themed bookmarks available for students from the library counter, and some special ways to get involved.
Students will be able to have a “Blind Date with a Book”, by selecting a wrapped book and borrowing it without seeing the cover but instead reading a short blurb on the wrapping.
There will be books for this display from our Fiction, Middle Fiction and Secondary Fiction collections as well as some from our very popular Graphic Novel collection. There will also be the opportunity for students and staff to show their appreciation for our school library in an ‘analogue’ way by writing a ‘love letter’ to the library on an old-fashioned typewriter in the library foyer.
Finally, QSLA (Queensland School Library Association) is holding Primary and Secondary competitions to celebrate Library Lovers Week:
- PRIMARY COMPETITION
- The Primary competition has two categories, Prep - Year 2 and Year 3 - Year 6
- Prep - Year 2: What is your favourite story? Draw or paint a picture to illustrate this. Your picture should be on an A4 sheet. Add a caption if you like
- Year 3 - Year 6: The theme is Light the Way. Produce an artwork to reflect the theme Light the Way
- SECONDARY COMPETITION
- Secondary students (Year 7 - Year 12): Light the Way
- Produce an artwork or take a photograph to reflect the theme Light the Way
Entries for these competitions can be handed to the library staff. Only one entry in each category will be sent in to QSLA to enter the competition. Good luck!
We hope students appreciate this chance to connect with the library and enjoy the amazing space and resources we have on offer here.
Happy Reading!
Suzanne Coffey | Head of Library
Proud Partners
Thank You to our TLC Sponsors 2026
The Lakes College extends sincere thanks to our TLC Sponsors, whose steadfast support plays a vital role in fostering the overall development and wellbeing of our students. We acknowledge and value the dedication of the businesses listed below, whose investments directly enrich the educational journey of our students. Their contributions provide invaluable resources and open doors to opportunities that might not have been accessible otherwise. We are truly grateful for their commitment to enhancing the educational experiences at The Lakes College.
Gold Sponsor: Luxury Lifestyle Homes
Luxury Lifestyle Homes exemplifies unparalleled excellence in the design and construction of dream homes in Brisbane. With meticulous attention to detail, they are dedicated to transforming visions into reality. What sets Luxury Lifestyle Homes apart is their fusion of precise workmanship and proven processes, ensuring clients receive a home that is not only tailored to their exact specifications but is also completed on time, within budget and without stress. The team at Luxury Lifestyle Homes takes pride in bringing dream homes to life, creating a delightful and stress-free experience for their clients throughout the entire process. https://luxlifehomes.com.au
Gold Sponsor: Family First Care
Quality in-home nursing services that put you and your family first. We don’t just focus on quality nursing services. We’re committed to helping you lead a healthier, active, more fulfilling life. Our focus is YOU. Our focus is our partners and their FAMILY. We want the best outcome for you. https://www.familyfirstcare.co...
Community Sponsor: North Lakes & Surrounds Electrical
Since 2004, North Lakes & Surrounds Electrical have been the local electrician serving the North Lakes community. As a family-owned and locally operated electrical contracting business, they have successfully contributed to the growth and development of the Moreton Bay Region. When you choose their services, you are not just hiring an electrician; you are investing in a relationship built on trust and expertise. North Lakes Electrician | North Lakes & Surrounds Electrical (northlakeselectrical.com)
Community Sponsor: Pizza Hut Mango Hill
Got a craving for a delicious pizza in Mango Hill? Us too! What you should do is make haste to the Mango Hill Pizza Hut store at Shop 2, 2 Halpine Drive, serving up piping hot pizza for lunch and dinner every day of the week! https://www.pizzahut.com.au/st...
Community Sponsor: AIM Retirement Planning
AIM Retirement Planning is an owner-operated Financial Planning business founded with a clear purpose: to enhance the financial well-being of everyday Australians through affordable and cost-effective solutions. http://aimrp.com.au
