From the moment we rolled out of Avondale’s school gates and cruised up to southern Queensland, the music became a travelling sermon. God’s handiwork framed every note, rolling hills, calm rivers, and rugged coastlines all strung together by the Pacific Highway, while laughter, rehearsals, and spontaneous songs spilled through and beyond the bus.
Every student surrendered their mobile phone and with Wi-Fi gone, the hum of chatter kicked in. Stories flowed, card decks appeared, and belly-laughs bounced off the bus windows. Students rediscovered the reward of face-to-face connection. Volume levels occasionally threatened the decibel rating of a jet engine, but the joy was pure, and the connection real.
Along the journey the chatter gave way to song. No bluetooth speaker could have matched the warmth of those blended, unprocessed voices. It was a living reminder that God 'wired' us for community - with real exchange, the ability to listen, respond, and create together.
At each school and church along the coast, our students stepped onto the stage with humility and intent. The repertoire ranged from spiritual songs to fun TV series music like the Octonauts, but what tied every setlist together was a heart for service through music. Host Principals and Chaplains repeatedly commented on the well mannered, poise, talent, and professionalism of our young musicians and singers. Whether loading percussion gear, stacking chairs, praying with others or cheering on peers during sound-checks, they modelled servant leadership in real time.
The tour reminded us why Avondale places such value on performing arts. Music is a unique language of emotion and empathy, one no machine will ever fully master. Tech is brilliant, but a device can’t read the crack in someone’s voice or the sparkle in their eyes. Empathy, listening ears and shared laughter, is part of God’s wiring for us. Trips like this give students a lived experience of this.
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Colossians 3:16
Phones are back in pockets now, but our prayer is that the gratitude expressed by those they blessed—and the harmonies they shared—will continue to resonate. Students carried more than instruments, and their music travelled farther than any stage.
To every parent and caregiver, thank you for entrusting us with your children. For someone who can barely play a triangle I was inspired and blessed by their talents and skills.
Mr Jaco Tams
Assistant Head of Secondary:Student Welfare
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