Mission

Mission is an important part of the College program, giving an opportunity for students to look beyond themselves to the needs that exist locally, nationally and internationally.

Locally: through service activities such as the Salvation Army doorknock, visiting aged care homes, backyard blitz and fundraising for cancer research.

Nationally: NETV, where high school students visit aboriginal communities in North Queensland.
Click here to read more about the NETV program and view photographs from a recent trip.

Internationally: Fundraising for World Vision; Child Sponsorship through Compassion; Senior Student overseas mission trip to refugees in Northern Thailand.

Thailand Mission Report 2008

We made it! Through what was a stretching and inspirational journey into the Karen Refugee Encampment lining the hills of Thailand bordering Burma, we made it. Praise God! Of no lesser significance was, of course, the second leg of our adventure at Baan Fah Sighy Orphanage where Phil and Wanida, along with their 27 children replenished us.  We then completed the work for which we were called

Although this was the second visit for Mr Benge, Ellisha, Alex and me (Mr Sun), and an impressive fourth time for Mrs Gallacher, the trip was still excitingly unpredictable. Our first two attempts to enter into the Karen Refugee Camp were denied then delayed  by government proceedings. We therefore visited two other Karen villages and ministered there with songs, sermons and testimonies. When we finally gained access to the Refugee camps, we were alight with anticipation. Here, the team braved wet, muddy slopes, humid conditions, unfamiliar smells and annoying mosquitoes. Despite the initial shyness of the Karen, we soon connected on levels I did not think possible within three short days. Their inviting smiles, servant-hearted actions and raw passion for God and people have certainly touched our lives. This is testament to their strength. Many of the Karen students’ stories of being persecuted by corrupt Burmese troops brought some of our team to tears. From witnessing parental executions to being burdened with unpayable taxable amounts and then being pursued with gunfire while trying to escape, the Karen have endured it all. Surely God knows His rescue plan for this people.

Then, it was off to the Orphanage where our ministry included song, dance, puppetry, drama, teaching and preaching as well as paving, digging, roofing and fertilizing! All members of the team worked valiantly and cohesively without complaints, despite the heavy lifting and unusually hot temperatures, quite uncommon for the wet season. Although each student was required to carry out a range of jobs, individual strengths emerged for the benefit of the team. Some award categories have been created below:

NOBLE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS Awards: Morgan, Callain, Mari, Lornagh
PHOTO CHAMPION Award: Nieve
BIG GUNS Awards: Travis, Kobi, Laine, Alex
SO U THINK U CAN SING Awards: Monique, Ellisha, Sophie

A big thank you to those who have helped in one or numerous, big or small, ways related to the planning, promotional, fundraising and prayer support aspects of this trip. We are grateful for your kindness. Special thanks go to Selena Kavic (Head of Fundraising), Keith and Liz Francis (Hillcrest), Pastors Ian and Judy Aitchison (Effective Aid International), Pastor Somchai, Calvin Huang (Head of Transportation), Phil and Wanida Hohnen (Baan Fah Sighy Orphanage) and also to the parents of the students who took part in the trip – without all of whom, this trip would not have been the success that it was.

Finally, to the team of students: “An extraordinary accomplishment. It has been our pleasure to have shared this mission with you. We are so proud of you!”

From the Team Leaders: Di, Brian and Dave