As we begin Term 3, we reflect on the meaningful experiences of a group of Year 11 students who participated in the Mt Isa Immersion during the June holidays. This annual Immersion provides students with the opportunity to step beyond their own community, encounter the realities of life in rural and remote Queensland, and witness the Church's mission in action.

Hosted by Father Mick at Good Shepherd Parish and coordinated by myself and Ms Cadence O’Reilly, our 10 students spent five days learning from local people and serving alongside parish ministries. We visited the Youth Hub (a service for young people experiencing crisis), spent time with children and staff at Boulia State School, and participated in community initiatives including the Ngukuthati Children and Family Centre and Good Shepherd Catholic College. Throughout the Immersion, students also explored the unique landscape and rich culture of the region while building relationships with those they encountered.

A highlight of the trip was learning about the Min Min lights of the Australian outback. 

Each evening concluded with a time of reflection, inviting students to prayerfully consider what they had experienced and how God was calling them to respond. These moments of reflection, together with the hospitality of the Mount Isa and Boulia communities, challenged students to deepen their understanding of justice and service.

In living our 2026 College theme, Be the Light, students discovered that being a light for others often begins by listening, learning and walking alongside people with humility. 

We thank the Good Shepherd Parish community for their generous welcome and the many organisations that shared their stories with us. The LHC Year 11s are especially appreciative of Fr Mick for his warmth and wonderful sense of humour!

We look forward to seeing how this transformative experience continues to inspire our students to lead lives of faith, compassion and hope within our own Lourdes Hill community.