From Our College Captains

Captain's Welcome Address

Welcome to St Bede’s College. To our new Year 7 students, I want to extend a warm welcome as you embark on this exciting new chapter of your journey. This marks the beginning of an experience that will shape you in ways you can’t yet imagine. 

I remember my first day at St Bede's vividly. I was a small boy, my blazer too big for me, nervous yet eager to embrace what lay ahead. It didn’t take long for me to realise that St Bede’s is more than just a school—it is a brotherhood, a place where friendships are formed, challenges are met with resilience, and every student is encouraged to become the best version of themselves.

One of the great things about St Bede’s is that there are so many avenues for you to make friends, even with people you may not have known before. When I started, I was the only student in my Year 7 homeroom from my primary school, so making friends was a necessity in order for me to cement my place. In that class was Joseph Hetherington, I managed to fit into Flynn Hunter's friend group, and Finn Clark and I had the same footy personal trainer. At the time, we were just kids finding our way in a new environment. But today, those same boys have become family.

We now stand together as College Captains, having shared countless memories over the last four months as we’ve worked closely to lead our school. This journey has strengthened our bond, proving that the friendships you form here will not only last, but also shape your experience in ways you never expected.

Starting at a new school can feel overwhelming, but know that you are not alone. Every student and teacher here is committed to making you feel welcome and supported. Over time, you will discover your place in this community—whether in the classroom, on the sporting field, through music and the arts, or in the countless other opportunities available to you. My advice is simple: get involved, try new things, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

It is easy to stay within what feels familiar, but I encourage you to break free from the comfort prison we often lock ourselves in. This limits our dreams, our thinking, and our creativity, preventing us from becoming the best versions of ourselves. True growth comes from stepping outside of what feels safe and embracing the unknown. Challenge yourself to take on new experiences, and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

The blue blazer you wear represents more than just a uniform; it symbolises the values of our College—respect, integrity, and excellence. We wear it with pride, knowing that we are part of something greater than ourselves. The legacy you create here will be defined by how you honour the blazer. The opportunities are endless, and the journey is yours to shape.

As you begin this journey, remember this powerful quote from Kobe Bryant: 

“Rest at the end, not at the middle. Have a dream, sacrifice for it, and never, ever rest in the middle.” 

As you start your journey here, you might feel like the beginning is slow compared to others, but trust me—this is just the start. Embrace every challenge, and give your best effort each day. The hard work you put in now will set you up for success down the road, and by the time you reach the end of your journey, you’ll be proud of how far you’ve come.

Homework will not be your biggest challenge this year. It will be the moments when you have to push yourself beyond what you think you’re capable of. When things get tough, remember that it’s okay to struggle, as that’s when you’ll learn and grow the most. Trust the process, and keep moving forward, step by step.

As Year 7s, this year will be filled with many "firsts"—your first Athletics Day, first Swimming Carnival, first time taking a train with Beda boys, first time public speaking in front of others, and your first time playing footy in front of the 1800 passionate Beda Boys on the front oval. 

You’ll also experience your first Mission Action Day, which will likely be one of the most memorable days of your school life. On 28 March, you will all be encouraged to raise money for impoverished students and schools in Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, and Thailand among others. On the day, you will undertake a 10km walk, which, as Miss Kelly would say, symbolises the lengths that students in third-world countries walk to school.

This year, we have two major goals: to increase the percentage of students fundraising to 70%, and to raise $100,000.

We believe that by leading one another, setting an example, and working together, we can achieve this incredible goal. Every donation, every effort, and every step you take will make a real and lasting, life-changing impact. Your participation is not just about raising funds—it is about coming together as a community. With your help, you will make an incredible difference. 

Throughout your journey, take pride in your achievements, big and small. Celebrate your successes, learn from your failures, and never stop striving to improve. Each day is an opportunity to grow, to push yourself, and to make a positive impact on those around you. Whether you are in Year 7 or graduating in the Class of 2025, the experiences you have here will shape who you become.

To all our new students, welcome to the St Bede’s family. We are excited to have you with us, and we look forward to seeing the impact you will make. Enjoy the journey ahead, because your story starts today. You are now part of something special—a tradition of excellence, unity, and brotherhood. Make the most of every opportunity, and know that we are here to support you every step of the way.

Best wishes

Maurice Kerbage