PRINCIPAL'S PEN 

Leadership: Evolving perspectives and local celebrations

Leadership is a concept we often hear about, yet it carries a wide range of meanings. At its core, leading involves influencing the behaviour of a group so that their collective efforts achieve more than they could individually. While the traditional top-down model of leadership still exists, it is increasingly giving way to a more modern approach – one that values consultation, inclusion and collaboration.

American civil rights leader Dr Martin Luther King Jr once said, “Anyone can lead, because anyone can serve.” This idea of leadership through service resonates deeply with us at St Augustine’s. We believe leadership is not limited to a select few, but rather is an opportunity that all students can grow into. It challenges the outdated notion that leaders are born, not made. Instead, we recognise that leadership potential emerges at different times and in different ways for each individual – especially during the teenage years.

‘’Anyone can lead because anyone can serve’’

 Dr Martin Luther King

With that in mind, I’m pleased to share two important leadership announcements. First, congratulations to our newly appointed 2026 college prefects who were formally announced at yesterday’s assembly. Second, we celebrate Brother Peter Carroll’s election as Superior General of the Marist Brothers – a significant and honourable leadership role within our broader community. You can read more about both announcements below.

2026 College prefects 

These young leaders have demonstrated exceptional dedication during their time at Saints, and we look forward to witnessing their positive contributions to the College next year. 

We were privileged to have over 40 young men bravely put forward their names for prefect positions. While not all were successful, each deserves recognition for their commitment and willingness to step up and be considered for a leadership position. 

Br Peter Carroll elected Superior General of the Marist Brothers

During the September school break, it was announced that Br Peter Carroll, Provincial of Star of the Sea Province, was elected Superior General of the Institute of the Marist Brothers. This historic decision was made on 30 September, during the 23rd General Chapter, held in Tagaytay, the Philippines.

He becomes the 15th Superior General of the institute and only the second Brother from Oceania to serve in this role, following the late Br Charles Howard who was superior general from 1985 to 1993. Br Peter will guide the Marist Institute for the next eight years, leading a global mission to continue the mission  of St Marcellin Champagnat: to make Jesus Christ known and loved, especially among children and young people.

Br Peter has a close affinity with St Augustine’s. He was here recently to announce the closing of the Marist Brothers’ residence and has been a regular special guest at our Commencement and Assumption Masses in recent years. 

On behalf of St Augustine’s, we extend our sincere congratulations to Br Peter and wish him every blessing in this most important role. 

India Night

Finally, I hope you can join us on Saturday 1 November for our annual India Night. Lionel Williamson has been the driving force behind this  fundraiser since 1995. Thank you to the Marist Association, under the guidance of Brett Toombs, which has accepted responsibility for continuing Lionel’s great work. We invite our whole Saints community to be part of this important fundraising initiative.