PRINCIPAL'S PEN 

At Saints, we pride ourselves on producing young men with strong minds and gentle hearts, who will be good Christians and good citizens. Last Thursday, at our Academic Awards Assembly, we were privileged to listen to such a man: Old Boy Jeremy Trantor, who was Dux of the College in 2001 and a boarder. 

Jeremy spoke about being in a good place with work and family, and about a boy at school who was smart and enthusiastic – an avid reader and musician; unapologetically loud and outspoken. He did, however, describe himself as "shy, nerdy and weird". He went on to say that he didn’t make friends easily, he wasn’t invited to parties and struggled with sport. He had hurt feeling and many tears. 

Jeremy explained that what he didn’t know then was that he was neurodivergent. His world didn’t make sense. He now knows he had autism and ADHD. 

For a boy who struggled at school, his message was simple – the care and kindness of other people at school made all the difference. He finished with, “But most of all – be kind. Just be kind. You never know what someone is going through and a small act of kindness can make such a difference.”

Jeremy is certainly a good man with a strong mind and a gentle heart.

Academic Awards Assembly

 It was pleasing to see 250 parents fill Lennon Hall to watch 209 of our boys receive academic awards. We have an enviable academic record. Other notable achievements included our basketball, AFL, volleyball and football teams that won their respective grand finals, as well as a sterling performance from the College band. It was an occasion worth celebrating.

In light of all this, it can be easy to think that we are doing very well or what we do is special. However, it is important to remember that success is not the finish line – it’s a platform for greater growth. And while we are proud and celebrate these achievements, let's wear our achievements with humility. For those that didn’t receive an accolade at assembly, remember the Scottish legend of Robert the Bruce and the spider. 

Congratulations Br Darren!

In exciting news, Br Darren Burge has been appointed as the new leader of the Marist Association of St Marcellin Champagnat. Many of us will remember Br Darren’s leadership and contribution as principal to our own community during his five years here at St Augustine’s, and we extend our warmest congratulations to him as he takes on this significant national role. His appointment is a moment of pride for our college, and a powerful reminder of the enduring connection we share with the wider Marist family. We look forward to seeing Br Darren continue to shape Marist life and mission across Australia with the same commitment and heart he shared with our community.

We also express our deep gratitude to Br Peter Carroll for his outstanding service as the inaugural leader of the Marist Association over the past decade. Br Peter has guided the association with wisdom, humility and spiritual depth, fostering a culture of thoughtful discernment, inclusive leadership and practical action. His calm presence, good humour and unwavering commitment have helped navigate the association through times of challenge and growth. We thank him for his leadership and for laying strong foundations upon which Br Darren and the Marist community will continue to build.

Completed Ambrose Residence refurbishment 

This time last year, the long-awaited refurbishment of the Ambrose residence began, marking the start of a 12-month transformation project. With construction barricades in place and works underway, staff and students alike showed great patience and understanding during the disruption. We are pleased to announce that the refurbishment is now complete, and we are delighted to welcome back the use of this important space.

A special thank you goes to the National Indigenous Australians Agency, whose generous funding made this project possible. The newly upgraded facilities have been excitedly received by our Year 10 boys in Lower Ambrose and our junior girls in Upper Ambrose  who are now enjoying the state-of-the-art accommodation. The revitalised Ambrose Residence is a significant step forward in enhancing student life and wellbeing at the College.

And finally, thank you to all our students. The first two weeks of Semester 2 have been seamless. Walking the classrooms, it seems our young men have begun the semester diligently. 

Remember - like the spider and Robert the Bruce – to take adversity and hard times as the perfect opportunity to demonstrate character by not giving up but persisting.

Catholic Education Week

Next week, we celebrate Catholic Education Week. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge the vital role Catholic education plays in nurturing not only academic excellence but also faith, compassion and service. As educators, we are privileged to support the holistic development of our students, inspiring them to become good Christians and good citizens.

Save the Dates

Saints is celebrating 95 years – 16 August

All parents, staff, Old Boys and partners are invited to this special event hosted by the SAC Old Boys Association. Book today!

Cerise & Blue Open Night – 26 August

You're invited to our Cerise & Blue Open Night! Bring the family, invite friends and discover what makes Saints so special.

Farewell to the Marist Brothers – 27-29 November

As you know, the Marist Brothers will be leaving St Augustine’s at the end of the year. We plan to celebrate the 190 Marist Brothers that have dedicated their lives creating such a wonderful school. Please set aside the dates below to help us celebrate their enduring presence.