Boarding News

Last weekend, we were delighted to welcome eight future boarders to Marist for one of our Boarding Sleepover Experiences. Many of our current students will remember taking part in a similar experience before beginning their own boarding journey. It is an invaluable opportunity for boys to become familiar with boarding life, meet new friends, and gain confidence about joining the community.

The weekend was filled with a range of activities designed to help the boys connect and enjoy their time on campus. A special thank you goes to the staff of La Valla and Hermitage Residences for their support, and to our Recreation Officer, Lewis Reardon, whose engaging program ensured the boys had a memorable experience. By the end of the weekend, our prospective 2027 boarders had formed new friendships and developed a much better understanding of life in Marist Boarding. 

It was also a busy and rewarding weekend for members of our boarding team who were representing the College across regional Queensland. Meagan Loane (Director of Enrolments – Boarding & International) and Debbie Cross (House Parent) travelled to Quilpie to support the annual Channel Country Ladies event. This important gathering provides women from rural and remote communities with opportunities for connection, learning and support. We were proud to partner with the organisers and are grateful to Meagan and Debbie for representing the College.

Meanwhile, Ty Casey attended the Boarding Schools Expo in Charleville, where he met with prospective families exploring boarding options for their children. Following the expo, Meagan, Debbie and Ty joined together to host a dinner for local families. Opportunities like these are always a wonderful way to reconnect with current, former and future Marist families within their local communities. 

Looking ahead, our Year 11 boarders will travel to the Bunya Mountains this weekend for the annual Year 11 Boarding Leadership Camp. Introduced several years ago, this program is designed to prepare students for the responsibilities and expectations that come with being senior boarders. As they move towards their final year of schooling, the boys will participate in a series of workshops and activities focused on leadership, teamwork and personal growth. 

The camp focuses on three key goals:

• Developing an understanding of positive and effective leadership.
• Strengthening camaraderie and teamwork within the Year 11 cohort.

• Creating a shared vision and plan for what the group hopes to achieve as Year 12 leaders next year. 

   

I am grateful to Ty Casey, Lewis Reardon, John Murphy and Deb McDermott for their support in making this valuable experience possible. I look forward to spending time with the boys as they begin their journey towards becoming the next generation of boarding leaders at the College.