This term has been action-packed with an outstanding variety of service, cultural, and sporting activities. Our Music, Dance, and Drama students have been front and centre, delivering regular performances for the Junior, Middle, and Senior School Play productions, as well as two standout World of Movies shows that celebrated the depth of talent within our performing arts community.

Our Music students will represent the College at the Queensland Catholic Music Festival, where all Year 5 and 6 students performed in their respective string ensembles or bands. Their achievements will be featured in a future edition of the College newsletter.

Our Debating students have also excelled this year. After competing in the QDU Debating Competition throughout Terms 1 and 2, five of our teams qualified for the knockout finals in Term 3 — an exceptional result. Congratulations to LHC 7.1, 9.2, 9.3, 10.1, and 10.2, and a special mention to Jorja B, Poppy M, Lucie R, Gabrielle R, and Asia S from LHC 10.2, who reached the Quarterfinal Round.

On the sporting front, our Junior School Primary Downey Park Netball Association teams are finishing their season strongly, as is our Morningside Panthers Lourdes Hill College Purple AFL team. We look forward to seeing their performances in the final rounds.

Our CaSSSA Open and Junior Basketball and Soccer teams have shown exceptional form in the first rounds of the season, while our Open and Intermediate Touch teams continue to impress. On Monday 18 August, 100 LHC athletes will compete at the CaSSSA Athletics Carnival — our largest and strongest team yet. We wish them every success.

Our Rowers have also enjoyed strong performances at the Brisbane Schoolgirl Rowing Association regattas at Wyaralong Dam. In Regatta 2, Stella B, Lucinda S, and Elodie L each claimed third place in their single scull events. Lourdes Hill College will proudly host the BSRA Head of the River on Saturday 30 August, and we warmly invite our community to attend and support our rowers. Please contact me or Ms Bridget Redden if you are able to attend. Buses will be provided for student spectators.

Our service groups have continued to meet fortnightly, and we always welcome new members. Any student interested in joining one of our many service opportunities is encouraged to get involved. Highlights this term include the Outreach High Tea, Eat Up sandwich making, and Meals on Wheels letterbox drop. We sincerely thank all students who generously give their time to initiatives that make a real difference in our community.

Finally, Term 4 cocurricular sign-ups are now open. Please check the Parent Orbit app for details and registration.