The Lakes College Celebrates 21 Years of Learning, Growth and Community

By Tracey Williamson

The Lakes College (TLC), a Uniting Church School in North Lakes, has marked a significant milestone in its history, celebrating its 21st birthday on Friday 1 August during a special Foundation Day Assembly.

Executive Officer of Uniting Education, The Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod, Jon Moriarty, joined the College community for the celebration, which brought together the entire student body from Prep to Year 12 in the Multi-Purpose Hall.

It was a moment of reflection on the College’s journey from its humble beginnings in 2005, when just 88 students and two classroom blocks stood on the site, to today’s thriving learning community of 1,169 students.

Principal Nicole Gregory opened the event by reflecting on the College’s history, vision and future:

“We remember today the people who bravely stood on this property 21 years ago and had a vision for a school called The Lakes College. We celebrate all the staff, students, parents, and carers who have and are part of our becoming. We are indebted to those who dreamed the dream – those who chose to labour, nurture, and support TLC across 21 years. Because of this collective effort, the College has reached its milestone of 21 years. TLC finally has the keys to adulthood, and with the Board and Executive optimistic about the future, exciting doors are now opening.”

Mrs Gregory also reflected on the symbolic meaning of turning 21, considering both the opportunities and responsibilities that “adulthood” brings for the College.

The Assembly included recognition of 12 staff members for their long service to the community. Ten-year acknowledgements were given to Miss Clara Aleckson, Mrs Karen Ball, Ms Hellen Crane, Mrs Lanie Malherbe, Ms Kerri Nelson, Ms Ella Martin, Mrs Rachel Siegfried and Mr Luke Stanley. Fifteen-year acknowledgements went to Mrs Gill Harris-Jones, Mrs Julie Kleinschmidt and Mrs Virginie Levier, while Ms Kristel Johns was honoured for 20 years of service. As a Foundation staff member, Ms Johns has been at the heart of TLC’s story, and she addressed the Assembly, sharing personal reflections on the College’s growth and milestones.

The event also celebrated students past and present. Four students received Foundation Day Awards, which recognise individuals who exemplify the ethos and spirit of the College and their names will be inscribed on the Foundation Day Honour Board as a lasting record of their contribution.

In addition, the College named their Alumni of the Year: 2019 graduate, Opal Francis. A past Vice College Captain, Opal has pursued a career in Occupational Therapy while maintaining a strong connection to TLC through her involvement in Strike Theatre, where she has written award-winning scripts, directed performances and mentored students.

Music also played a role in the celebration, with the Paganini String Ensemble, conducted by past student and current Music Tutor Rebekah Hall, delighting the audience with their rendition of Dua Lipa’s Dancing the Night Away.

Rev Tim McMenamin closed the Assembly with a prayer and blessing, reminding the community of the abundance and grace that has guided the College throughout its history.

From its foundation to its 21st year, The Lakes College has remained committed to being “a Light in the Heart of Brisbane’s North.” With its strong foundations and forward-looking vision, the College community is optimistic about what lies ahead.

Happy 21st Birthday, The Lakes College!