Hello, my name is Shane and I am the outgoing Recreation and Community Engagement Officer at Langports Gold Coast. After almost 5 years working for Langports, it’s time to say goodbye!
My job involved organising and creating activities for students on the Gold Coast. The activities program plays an integral role at Langports, where students can not only practice their English skills, but meet new friends and enjoy amazing experiences.
If there is one thing I will truly miss about my job is meeting so many new people from all over the world and being able to be a part of their Australian experience.
I certainly had some amazing memories and these were the activities and events that were part of my #langportslife:
1. Byron Bay Weekend
This weekend will be my 25. and final activity for Langports and we are certainly going out with a bang!
Byron Bay Weekends have been revolutionary with every Friday night’s Paint Party incorporating a themed dress up night ranging from Tennis Players, Santa Squad, Construction 
workers and a wedding, to some well known pop culture references such as Grey’s Anatomy, My Kitchen Rules, Super Mario Bros. (Mario vs. Luigi) and the Netflix Series “Money Heist”.
This activity was perfect in getting to know the students and sharing some amazing moments and memories.
2. Moreton Island Weekend
This is the most underrated island on the East Coast which every student should visit.
With some many amazing activities like kayaking,
sandboarding, snorkelling to name a few and many 
beautiful sightseeing spots on the island most notably the sunsets every Saturday afternoon, it’s one island I will truly miss visiting.
3. Langports Student Party
Every three months, students and staff come together to raise money for the Langports Foundation. A great night out with plenty of food and photo booth to share throughout the night.
One of my proudest moments happened at the Student Christmas Party of 2019. We broke all records with over 230 students attending and raising over $4600.
4. Langports Got Talent
We had amazing singers, dancers, rappers, actors, guitarists and even a student playing the triangle!
Nevertheless, Langports Got Talent was a real celebration of students doing amazing and extraordinary things.
I certainly enjoyed hosting all 7 seasons and seeing the students shine in front of the whole school with an array of talent.
5. Langports QLD Cup
The spirit of the competition between Brisbane and Gold Coast schools is remarkable!
Great sportsmanship was shown throughout the entire day in all the sports on offer!
The last two Cheer Squad victories in May 2018 and October 2019 will go down as one of the best routines put together with an amazing group of students!
6. International Day
With an added Masterchef meets The Block style competition between all nationalities, International Day is a real Friday afternoon treat for the many students tasting and experiencing different cultures.
The school truly comes together and so many delicious meals were served to the judges table.
7. Speed Friending Session
What started as a one-off Valentine’s Day event quickly turned into a conversation exercise that took off instantly across all classes. It was a perfect activity where students were meeting people and sharing themselves with other nationalities.
8. Oktoberfest Brisbane
The biggest Oktoberfest event in Australia, Brisbane certainly shined and our students experienced the best of this annual German culture.
9. The Chase Australia: Student Screening
In 2016, I was fortunate to take part on Australia’s #1 Game Show, The Chase: Australia.
I shared my experience with the entire school and a moment that I share with the students every year.
10. Melbourne Weekend
One of the many trips I did with different groups of students over selected weekends throughout the year.
It was a great opportunity to share the culture, nightlife and sights that Melbourne has to offer.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
When I started at Langports, I truly had no idea what was to come.
I learnt so much in the last 5 years and am truly thankful for this amazing experience.
I have mixed emotions, I’m sad to be leaving behind a job that has changed my life, but on the other hand, I’m happy to have made lifelong friends and memories that I will truly cherish.
Thank you to all the amazing staff and students for allowing me to be the person who I am and bringing their positive and amazing attitudes to my life.
I am forever grateful for the experience Langports has provided for me and am looking forward to what the new decade will bring.
I wish everyone all the best of luck with your future endeavours, and if you are ever down in Melbourne, let me know and would love to catch up with you again!
Thanks for the memories and see you all again soon!
Shane – Recreation & Community Engagegement Officer, Langports Gold Coast