From the Head of College

I hope our students and families enjoyed the time honoured 5-day EKKA break. It was wonderful to see so many of our students, families and staff at the EKKA when the Blinkhoff crew descended on the EKKA on Thursday – I really appreciated it, especially several of our students coming up and saying g'day. I'm also aware of a number of families that chose to head to the bush or to the beach for a mid-term break. I hope the break was a good one.

As we return to the rhythm of the second half of the term, I encourage all students to refocus on their learning and make the most of the many opportunities ahead. Term 3 is always a busy and rewarding time, and there is much to look forward to in the weeks ahead. By staying organised, engaged and committed to their goals, our students can continue to make the most of all that Ashgrove has to offer. Start with the simple things - uniforms, grooming and attendance - are all the keys to a successful final third of the school year.

Bullying No Way: National Week of Action 

This week, Marist College Ashgrove joins schools across Australia in recognising Bullying No Way: National Week of Action. The 2026 theme, Small Acts, Big Impact, serves as an important reminder that creating a positive culture is everyone's responsibility. A simple act of kindness, including someone who feels left out, or speaking respectfully to others can have a profound impact on a person's day and sense of belonging. 

As a Catholic and Marist community, we are committed to ensuring that every member of our College feels safe, valued and respected. We also take this opportunity to reaffirm that bullying in any form has no place at Marist College Ashgrove. Creating a culture of dignity, compassion and respect requires ongoing commitment from all of us: students, staff and families alike. 

When we choose kindness, consideration and empathy each day, we help build a stronger community where everyone can flourish. 

AIEF Graduation and Networking Day 

Yesterday and today, I have had the privilege of travelling to Sydney with our Indigenous Support Officer, Kierran Moseley, and two of our Year 12 students to attend the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) Graduation Ceremony and Networking Day. 

The Graduation Ceremony celebrates Indigenous students from schools across Australia who are completing their secondary education and recognises their determination, resilience and achievement. The associated Networking Day provides opportunities for students to connect with alumni, participate in workshops and explore future pathways in education, leadership and employment. 

These experiences are invaluable, and we are proud to support our students as they engage with the broader AIEF community. I thank Kierran for his outstanding work supporting our Indigenous students and look forward to celebrating the achievements of all involved.

Queensland Catholic Colleges Music Festival 

Congratulations to our eight premier music ensembles who participated in the Queensland Catholic Colleges Music Festival last week. We are delighted to share that our students were recognised with four Gold Awards and four Silver Awards, reflecting their commitment, enthusiasm and love of music. 

Thank you to our dedicated Music staff who guided and supported the ensembles throughout the festival. Their encouragement and expertise play an important role in helping our students grow as musicians and performers. 

We congratulate all students and staff involved on these wonderful achievements. More highlights from the festival can be found in the Music Department section of this newsletter.  

Vintage Old Boys Mass and Lunch 

Last Friday, we were delighted to welcome members of our Vintage Old Boys community back to the College for our annual Vintage Old Boys Mass and Lunch. The cut-off to be classified as 'vintage' is currently 1986, so as a proud '92 Old Boy I was relieved to learn I have not yet reached the threshold...  

The day commenced with Mass in the College Chapel, providing an opportunity for prayer, reflection and thanksgiving. We were also honoured to bless the Military Honour Board, acknowledging the service and sacrifice of Old Boys of both Ashgrove and Marist College Rosalie who died serving our nation during times of conflict.  

Following Mass, guests toured the Tower, reliving past glories, particularly reflecting on when the Tower was part of the boarding house or as the college chapel. Lunch in the Cyprian Pavilion was filled with conversation, laughter and the sharing of memories as old friendships were rekindled. 

A particular highlight was the recognition of two remarkable members of our Old Boys community. Former Marist brother and past Head of College Geoffrey Joy OAM was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the Marist College Ashgrove Old Boys' Association, while John O'Hare (1972) received the 2026 Arthur Apelt Memorial Service Award in recognition of his outstanding service and commitment to the College and Old Boys community. 

The day was a wonderful reminder that the spirit of Ashgrove extends far beyond our school years. The connections formed here endure across generations, and it was heartening to witness the strength of those bonds once again. Thank you to our Events Team, the Old Boys' Association and all who attended for making the occasion so memorable. 

National Science Week 

This week we celebrate National Science Week, with the 2026 theme "Seeds of Science: Nurturing Knowledge for All." 

Science plays a critical role in helping us understand our world, solve problems and prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Throughout the week, our students will have the opportunity to engage in a range of activities designed to ignite curiosity and foster a love of discovery. 

From crystal-growing competitions and microscope investigations to the ever-popular slime-making activities, students will experience science in practical and engaging ways. The week will conclude with the Amazing Race (Science) on Friday, where students will work collaboratively to tackle a variety of scientific challenges. We are grateful to our Year 11 UQ Science Ambassadors who will be leading many of these activities. 

At Ashgrove, we are fortunate to have a world class facility for our students to engage in Science. I also acknowledge our students and staff who embrace inquiry, creativity and innovation. I encourage our community to celebrate the many ways science enriches our lives and inspires future possibilities. 

I wish all students a wonderful week of exploration, learning and discovery. 

Feast of the Assumption Mass 

On Wednesday, our College community will gather to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption, one of the most significant feast days in the Catholic tradition. 

The Feast of the Assumption invites us to reflect on Mary's faith, humility and trust in God. Her example continues to inspire us to live lives of service, hope and faithfulness. 

These moments of prayer and reflection are important opportunities for us to come together as a faith-filled community and strengthen the values that underpin life at Marist College Ashgrove. I look forward to sharing this special celebration with our students and staff. 

Year 10 Immunisations 

As part of the Queensland School Immunisation Program, our Year 10 students will receive their scheduled immunisations on Monday, 24 August. 

Students will receive their second dose of the Meningococcal B vaccine, helping to protect them against a serious bacterial infection and supporting the health and wellbeing of our broader community. 

Families will have already completed the required consent process prior to the first dose, and no further action is required. Students are encouraged to have a good breakfast, remain well hydrated throughout the day and attend in full College uniform. 

Should families have any questions regarding the program, please contact the College Health Centre. 

And finally, a huge congratulations to the mighty Madagascan Lemurs for taking out the Division 2 LMS Cricket premiership last Sunday.  

Thanks everyone, all the best for the week ahead, Paul  

May our loving God with Mary our good mother and St Marcellin Champagnat walk with all members of the Marist College Ashgrove family.

Tuesday 18 August

• National Science Week - continues
• Bullying No Way: National Week of Action - continues
• Design Track Camp - starts
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Maths Methods, Chemistry, Physics Middle Years Maths/Science
• Green Ash
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• House Meetings
• Photos: Academic Co-Curricular, Football - Break 1
• Year 11 Visual Art Excursion

• Stuartholme Student Eccofest - 3:30pm – 6:00pm

   

Wednesday 19 August

• Tutoring - English/Literature Extension Economics French Chemistry Study of Religion
• Primary Morning Study
• Photos: Basketball, Captains, Golf and Hockey Teams - Break 1
• Assumption Mass
• Mission Captains Meeting (Mission Office)
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Math Methods, Physics, Middle Years Maths

• Hockey Brisbane Schoolboys - Round 5

   

Thursday 20 August

• Green Ash
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly

• Tutoring - English, Economics, Chemistry, Study of Religion, Middle Years Maths/ Science/English

   

Friday 21 August

• Primary Morning Study

• AIC Primary Round 4 Basketball v St Laurence's College - 4:00pm – 6:00pm

   

Saturday 22 August

• AIC Round 4 v St Laurence's College

   

Sunday 23 August

• Meals on Wheels Working Bee - 9:00am – 11:00am

• Boarders Mass

   

Monday 24 August

• Creative Industries Week - starts
• Year 10 Immunisations
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly
• Student Leader Portfolio Meetings

• Environment Group Meeting

   

Tuesday 25 August

• Met North Track and Field Trials - starts
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Maths Methods, Chemistry, Physics Middle Years Maths/Science
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study

• House Meetings

   

Wednesday 26 August

• Wear it Purple Day
• Tutoring - English/Literature Extension Economics French Chemistry Study of Religion
• Community Mass - College Chapel (all welcome)
• Primary Morning Study
• College Assembly
• Mission Captains Meeting (Mission Office)

• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Math Methods, Physics, Middle Years Maths

   

Thursday 27 August

• Game Changers 7/8 Retreat
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly

• Tutoring - English, Economics, Chemistry, Study of Religion, Middle Years Maths/ Science/English

   

Friday 28 August

• ASHCam Photography Competition - Winners Announced
• Inter School Karting Challenge
• Year 10 Retreat
• Primary Morning Study

• AIC Round 5 Primary Basketball v St Edmunds College

   

Saturday 29 August

• AIC Round 5 v St Edmunds College