Boarding News

Last week, the Director of Boarding Enrolments and I travelled out to Goondiwindi to spend time with one of the great country communities that continues to support Marist boarding so strongly. We were invited to be part of the Goondiwindi Emus Rugby Club’s major annual fundraiser — a golf day that brings together families, local businesses, and community leaders from across the district. It was a fantastic day of connection. Events like this not only allow us to engage with families in an informal and enjoyable setting, but they also play an important role in raising the profile of Marist boarding in the region. Being visible and present in communities like Goondiwindi ensures that, when families begin thinking about boarding pathways for their sons, they know who we are, what we stand for, and how we care for the young men entrusted to us. Goondiwindi has long been home to a number of our past, current and future boarding families, and it was really nice to share dinner with several of them on Friday night. Hearing stories from home, catching up on boys’ progress, and reconnecting with families who are part of the wider Marist story — are always highlights of these regional visits. We are very grateful for the hospitality shown to us and for the ongoing trust placed in our boarding community. We look forward to continuing these visits across regional Queensland and interstate throughout the year.

Our Year 12 boarders enjoyed a special recreation outing on Saturday, heading to Kings Beach at Caloundra for a late‑afternoon and early‑evening trip they have been hoping to do since the start of the year. Once they settled on a date, the planning began in earnest — and the boys made the most of every minute. Several swims in the surf were followed by a lively game of touch footy on the sand, as well as cricket, spikeball and even a bit of gridiron. It was wonderful to see the boys simply enjoying each other’s company and having fun as a year group. We capped off the afternoon with a BBQ dinner overlooking the beach, before the boys discovered an ice cream shop that ended up doing a roaring trade as the sun began to set. These moments — when our senior students can step away from the busyness of their final year and spend time together as mates — are incredibly valuable. It was a fantastic outing and a great reminder of the strong bonds within our Year 12 boarding cohort.

All the boys are quite busy this week finishing off a number of assessments and they have been reminded many times that there is no substitute for hard work if they are seeking improved academic results. Mr Monk (Senior Academic Supervisor) and our team of academic tutors are targeting help sessions for each boarding year group based on when their exams and other assessments fall due. Please check in with your son and reinforce the need to work hard and ask for help if needed.