PRINCIPAL'S PEN 

The power of presence, guidance and community

I came across a story about a group of young bull elephants in Africa that I shared at yesterday's Father’s Day Assembly. Following the loss of the older bulls in their herd, the younger elephants began behaving wildly, becoming destructive, aggressive and unpredictable. Park rangers eventually discovered that all the older bull elephants in the area had either died or been poached for ivory. With no elders around, the young males roamed unchecked.

The solution was strikingly simple. Rangers flew in several older bulls from nearby reserves. Within weeks, the chaos subsided. The older elephants did not need to do much: just a flap of their ears, a stern trumpet or a mock charge was enough for the younger bulls to recalibrate. All they needed, it seemed, was the steady presence of a role model.

While an unusual story to share at a Father's Day Assembly, it offers a vivid reminder. Boys do not simply work out how to become good men. They need role models. They need fathers, parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches and mentors whose words, actions and example help shape their character and values.

This message was reinforced beautifully by Haruyoshi Yamashita and Brock and Zack Caltabiano, who reflected on the influence their fathers have had on their lives. As they explained, the most important lessons are often not delivered through advice but through example. Boys notice how the adults in their lives respond to challenges, persevere through adversity, treat others with respect and demonstrate integrity. Influence, at its most powerful, is built through relationships.

At St Augustine's College, we recognise that the formation of young men is a shared responsibility. Families and schools work together to provide the guidance, support and boundaries that help boys grow into young men with strong minds, gentle hearts and a deep sense of purpose. Every day, we see the positive effect that caring adults have when they set high standards, model empathy, teach resilience and uphold the dignity of others.

The assembly also celebrated the achievements of many of our students across leadership, sport, music, film and television. We recognised the recipients of the Three Violets Award: Thomas King, Ralph Nanang and Ben Maher, for exemplifying the Marist values of simplicity, humility and modesty. Congratulations were also extended to Cruz Vang-Ly, recipient of the Saints Man Award, whose actions embody what it means to be both a good Christian and a good citizen.

As we celebrated Father's Day, we were reminded of the village that raises our boys. We are deeply grateful for the commitment of staff, families and our wider community. In

particular, we thank the fathers and father figures whose guidance, encouragement and unwavering support help shape the fine young men of Saints. Their influence extends far beyond the classroom and leaves a lasting mark on the lives of our students. 

Click the image below to watch the Father's Day Assembly.

Introducing our fifth House

Following more than 18 months of consultation, feedback and discernment, we are excited to announce that the College's fifth House is now taking shape. Earlier this year, the decision was formally confirmed, and we have since finalised the House colours and motto. We are now entering the final stage of the process, with the House crest refined and waiting on Bishop Joe's approval.

The enthusiasm shown by staff and students throughout this process has been tremendous. In particular, the feedback received during our recent staff day played an important role in shaping the final direction of this initiative. The introduction of a new House represents an exciting opportunity to strengthen belonging, participation and house spirit across the College.