Boarding News

Dear Boarding Families,

With the emergence of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, many of our families made the decision to temporarily remove their sons from the boarding house into the care of family or friends. We are incredibly grateful for the support and cooperation of all the parents during this time. Having lower numbers allowed us to move all remaining boarders into one building, where we could more effectively care for them when the weather became more extreme.

From Thursday until school reopened on Tuesday, 39 boarders stayed behind and we want to extend our appreciation to these boys for the way they accepted the situation and worked alongside our boarding staff. They showed great resilience and cooperation throughout the storm’s impact.

On Friday night, as the effects of the cyclone intensified, this group of boys were relocated to the Draney Theatre, where we set up mattresses, a food station, an area for the nurses, a ping pong table, spike ball nets, a PlayStation, and a TV to watch the football. The change of scenery brought a sense of fun and community, and the boys made the most of the opportunity to have a sleepover all together. Their positive attitude and ability to adapt made the best of a challenging situation.

We commend these 39 boys for their flexibility and spirit, and we are proud of the way they handled the circumstances. Thank you to the parents for supporting their sons through this challenging time and a massive thank you to all the Boarding Staff who assisted with supervision.

This coming Saturday afternoon, we welcome a large group of visitors to the College from two junior rugby clubs based in western Queensland. Marist is hosting a special rugby clinic for around 120 junior players from the Dalby Wheatmen and the Goondiwindi Emus. Thanks to Richard Graham and the boys in the Open Blue Squad who will be coaching at the rugby union clinic for our visitors. The parents and siblings of the children participating will also enjoy some Marist hospitality in the Cyprian Pavilion whilst the clinic is taking place. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our wonderful school which will be alive with cricket and volleyball games on Saturday. We look forward to welcoming our guests from the Emus and the Wheatmen.