A New Chapter Begins as Shane Jurecky Installed as Encounter's Fourth Principal

Encounter Lutheran College celebrated a significant milestone on Monday morning as Mr Shane Jurecky was officially installed as the fourth Principal in the College's 25-year history.

The Installation Service, held in the Kondole, brought together the entire College community, with students from Early Learning to Year 12, staff, parents, College Board Members and invited guests joining in this special occasion. Representatives from across the Lutheran Church and Lutheran education sector were also in attendance, including Bishop Andrew Brook (LCA SA/NT), Bishop Paul Smith (Lutheran Church of Australia), Craig Fielke (Executive Director, Lutheran Education SA/NT/WA), Jodie Hoff (Lutheran Education Australia), the Hon. Lou Nicholson MP, Mayor Moira Jenkins, and principals from Lutheran schools across South Australia.

The service was a joyful celebration of faith, leadership and community, formally welcoming Shane into his new role while asking God's blessing over his leadership in the years ahead.

As part of the Installation Service, Shane was presented with a series of symbolic gifts that reflected both the values of Encounter Lutheran College and the significance of Christian leadership. A sapling represented new beginnings, steady growth and a flourishing future, while a Bible reminded him that God's Word remains the foundation of the College. A staff polo symbolised belonging and the shared journey of leadership alongside staff, a traditional Schultüte welcomed him into the rich heritage of the College, and a coffee table book of Victor Harbor celebrated the community he and his family now call home. Together, these gifts served as a powerful reminder that leadership is strengthened through faith and the support of a caring community.

Shane brings more than 30 years of experience in Lutheran education, having served as a teacher and educational leader across South Australia, Queensland and Victoria. After more than 20 years away, he and his wife Sarah have now returned to South Australia, where they are excited to become part of the Encounter and wider Fleurieu communities.

The Installation Service also marked the beginning of a new chapter following the faithful leadership of former Principal, Mr Kelvin Grivell, who concluded 14 years of dedicated service to Encounter Lutheran College at the end of Term 1.

As we begin this exciting new season, we give thanks for God's continued guidance and provision and pray that Shane will be richly blessed as he leads our College community into the future. We look forward with great confidence and anticipation to all that lies ahead for Encounter Lutheran College under his leadership.