On Thursday, 7 June 2018 the Centre for Innovation and Creativity was officially opened at Northside Christian College.

Partnering with the Winter Arts Festival, this event celebrated the creativity of students through the arts, and reflected on the generosity of donors, partners and the Northside community. 

The Junior School Concert Band commenced the festivities, with orchestral works including John Williams' Star Wars (Main Theme). The afternoon continued with award-winning performances from Piccolos and Vivace Voices, Year 10 drama True Colours, a solo performance from Liam McCallum (Year 12 student), and an exciting range of drama and dance performances.

On the Level 1 balcony, past students reminisced at the Alumni Lounge, where Northside memories kindled new and old friendships. In the Treehouse, impressive student artworks were admired, bought and even witnessed in the making. The smell of wood-fired pizza drifted over the courtyard green, mixing with the buzz of conversations and the impressive musical talent.

The main stage lit up as the sun set, with Member for Aspley Mr Bart Mellish MP and Board Chair Mr Phil Stay officially opening the Centre for Innovation and Creativity to applause, alongside Principal Mr Leighton Kuss, Board Director Mr Carl Wood and Ps Nathan Bean (Senior Pastor Nexus Church).

The audience were also treated to both Sophia B performing Franz Liszt's Dedications, and Cat Gallager performing Goodbye Yellow Brick Road by Elton John. 

Long-time staff members and respective Heads of both Art and Music departments, Mrs Lyn Smith-Cottrell and Mr Maitlohn Drew were honoured with the inaugural Principal's Fellowship Award, followed by a guard of honour from current Year 12 students.

The night continued with film and television displays, drama and dance (including the Year 10 dramatic interpretation of Titanic), VIP connections in the Entrepreneurial Hub and of course, delicious hot drinks and soup available from hospitality student-run cafe, the Kitchen CINC.

The Winter Arts Festival and official opening of the Centre for Innovation and Creativity was a night of grateful reflection and genuine celebration that Northside won't forget.