From the Head of College

To borrow a line from the legendary voice of rugby league, Ray "Rabs" Warren: "That's outstanding!" There is something special about watching a team dig deep, stay connected and keep turning up for one another when the contest reaches its toughest point. As we move through Week 7 of Term 3, we have entered what rugby league people would call the business end of the game.

Every rugby league match has a period where momentum can swing either way. It is that crucial stage in the second half when fatigue bites, bodies are sore, and the easy option starts calling. The best teams don't look at the scoreboard or complain about the grind. They stick to the game plan, trust their preparation, and continue doing the little things well. That is where character is revealed.

Deep into Term 3, our boys are facing a similar challenge. The excitement of a new semester has given way to the reality of sustained effort, deadlines, assessments and daily responsibilities. As a Marist community, we recognise this stage of the term as a living expression of one of our core pillars: Love of Work.

For St Marcellin Champagnat, a Love of Work was never simply about getting the job done. It was about approaching every task with purpose, generosity and pride. It is about finding satisfaction in giving your best, even when the work becomes demanding. Like a rugby league side defending its line set after set, it requires resilience, discipline and commitment to the team.

Showing a true Love of Work during this important stage of the term looks slightly different across the year levels, but the spirit remains the same:

• For our Primary Students (Years 5-6): it means focusing on the fundamentals. Just as a young footballer learns to pass, catch and tackle correctly, it means taking pride in neat presentation, listening carefully to feedback and continuing to practice new skills until they become strengths, even when energy levels are low.
• For our Middle School Students (Years 7-9): this is where self-discipline becomes increasingly important. A Love of Work looks like taking ownership of organisation, managing study commitments effectively and resisting the temptation to coast. It is about understanding that consistent effort today creates opportunities tomorrow.

• For our Senior Students (Years 10-12): this is truly the championship phase of the season. Every lesson, study session and assessment is part of your preparation for the finals ahead. Living out the pillar of Love of Work means embracing your responsibilities, preparing diligently for exams, setting a strong example for younger students and recognising that hard work is the pathway to your future goals.

   

This week, I challenge every student from Years 5 to 12 to adopt that rugby league mentality that great commentators like Rabs Warren admired so much: keep turning up, stay committed to the team, and keep doing the hard things well. Let us approach each day with a renewed Love of Work, supporting one another as we move through one of the most important periods of the academic year.

And when you see our boys persevering, encouraging one another and finding that extra effort when fatigue starts to set in, you can almost hear Rabs calling from the commentary box:

"They're not giving in. That's what champions do."

Staffing News

On behalf of the MCA community, can I also offer a sincere and heartfelt congratulations to our Assistant Head of College – Students, Mr Phillip Holding, on his recent appointment to the Deputy Principal role at St Patrick's College, Shorncliffe. Phill will take on this role at the beginning of 2027. The recruitment for this important leadership role at the College will begin shortly.

Assumption Mass and Announcement of the 2027 Student Leadership Team

Last week, the Marist College Ashgrove community gathered to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption Mass, a special occasion that brought students and staff together in prayer and reflection on the example of Mary and her faith-filled response to God's call.

A highlight of the Mass was the announcement of the 2027 College Student Leadership Team, marking an important milestone for the students selected to lead the College community in the year ahead. We warmly congratulate:

• College Captain: Connor Campbell
• Vice Captain Mission: Aidan Mansul
• Vice Captain Academic: William Stigter
• Vice Captain Wellbeing: Aiden Honke
• Vice Captain Arts: Luke Dwyer
• Vice Captain Sport: Ike Rowland

These students have consistently demonstrated leadership, commitment and a strong Marist spirit throughout their time at the College. We also acknowledge all students who participated in the leadership selection process and thank them for their willingness to serve.

We look forward to seeing our 2027 student leaders embrace the opportunities and responsibilities of their roles as they continue to foster a strong sense of faith, service and community across Marist College Ashgrove. We wish them every success as they prepare to lead the College in 2027.

Creative Industries Week

This week, Marist College Ashgrove is proud to celebrate Creative Industries Week (24-28 August), showcasing the many exciting pathways, opportunities and careers available within the creative sector.

Throughout the week, students will engage with a range of industry professionals, hands-on workshops and presentations designed to inspire creativity and provide valuable insight into careers across the creative industries. From design, media and visual arts to film, performance and digital technologies, the program highlights the diverse opportunities available to students with creative talents and interests.

Creative Industries Week encourages students to explore their passions, develop new skills and gain a deeper understanding of the innovation and creativity that drive one of Australia's fastest-growing employment sectors. We thank our guest presenters and staff for their support in providing these enriching learning experiences for our students.

Met North Track and Field Trials

Following the District Track and Field Trials earlier this month, a number of Marist College Ashgrove students earned selection to compete at the Met North Track and Field Trials held at QSAC on 25 and 26 August.

Representing the College with determination, sportsmanship and pride, our athletes competed against some of the region’s most talented students across a wide range of track and field events. Their performances reflected the hard work, dedication and resilience they have shown throughout the season, and they should be commended for the way they challenged themselves at this higher level of competition.

We congratulate all students who qualified for and competed at the Met North Trials and extend our thanks to the staff, coaches and families whose support has played an important role in their success. We wish those athletes progressing to the next stage of competition every success in their future events.

Wear it Purple Day 

On Wednesday 26 August, Marist College Ashgrove will acknowledge Wear It Purple Day, a national day that promotes inclusion, respect and a sense of belonging for all young people.

This year's theme, Colours of Courage, celebrates the courage it takes to be authentic, to support one another and to help create communities where everyone feels safe, valued and respected. The day provides an opportunity for our students to reflect on the importance of kindness, empathy and acceptance, and to consider how their actions can positively impact the wellbeing of others.

At Marist, we are committed to fostering a culture where every boy is known, cared for and supported. Wear It Purple Day reminds us of the importance of creating an environment where all members of our community can thrive, be themselves and feel a strong sense of belonging. We encourage our students to embrace the values of respect, inclusion and compassion that are central to our Marist tradition.

Game Changers 7/8 Retreat

On 27 August, several of our Year 7 and 8 Game Changers students will participate in the Game Changers Retreat, a valuable opportunity for young men to step away from the demands of daily school life and reflect on the choices, values and relationships that shape their journey.

Through engaging activities, discussion and personal reflection, students will connect with students from other Marist schools to explore themes of leadership, resilience, respect and personal responsibility. The retreat encourages boys to consider the positive impact they can have on those around them and challenges them to be leaders in their own lives, families and communities.

The Game Changers Retreat supports the holistic development of our students and aligns with the Marist mission of forming young men of faith, character and service. We extend our sincere thanks to Ben Mead and the Mission Team for supporting our students to access this meaningful experience and to the Marist Youth Ministry and Formation team for organising and facilitating the retreat. We look forward to the positive impact it will have on the young men who participate.

ASHCam Photography Competition 

The ASHCam Photography Competition provides our budding photographers and members of the wider College community with an exciting opportunity to showcase their creativity, technical skills and unique perspectives through the lens.

Entries have now closed and judging is taking place this week, with winners announced on Friday. Whether capturing the beauty of the natural world, the energy of College life or artistic and imaginative scenes, entrants have been encouraged to tell a story through their photographs and share the world as they see it. Entries will be judged on originality, composition and impact, highlighting the diverse talents of our photographers.

The competition will culminate in an exhibition of the winning photographs from each section in the Senior Library, with prizes to be presented at a College assembly in the coming weeks. Students are also invited to vote for the People's Choice Award by casting their vote at the Arts Staffroom during any break this week. The shortlisted images are currently on display in the Arts Staffroom display window.

The competition is always a wonderful celebration of creativity within our College community, and we look forward to seeing this year's inspiring collection of images on display. A special thank you to Christine Larsen and Stacey Finch for their organisation and ongoing support of this much-anticipated event.

14th Annual Interschool Karting Challenge

On 28 August, Marist College Ashgrove proudly hosts the 14th Annual Interschool Karting Challenge, an event that has become a much-anticipated fixture on the College calendar.

This year, the competition will bring together more than 100 students from six schools, with 20 karts competing throughout the day in a showcase of skill, teamwork and sportsmanship. Students have been eagerly anticipating the event and have spent months preparing for the opportunity to race against their peers.

The Interschool Karting Challenge provides a unique avenue for students to develop confidence, decision-making, resilience and camaraderie in a highly engaging environment. Beyond the excitement of racing, the event is an important component of the College's Certificate II in Engineering Pathways program and its involvement in Formula High School program. The karting challenge serves as a valuable feeder activity for students progressing towards the Formula High School six-hour endurance event, where Marist College Ashgrove will field a team of 11 students. Through participation, students gain practical experience in vehicle dynamics, engineering principles, race strategy, teamwork and problem-solving, complementing the technical skills developed in the classroom and workshop.

The event highlights the strong connection between STEM education and real-world application, inspiring students to explore future pathways in engineering, automotive technologies and motorsport. We wish all competitors the very best and look forward to an exciting day of competition.

A special thank you to Andrew Devoy and Adrian Gray for their dedication in organising this event over many years. Their commitment has helped establish the Interschool Karting Challenge as a highlight on the College calendar and a wonderful opportunity for students to connect, compete and represent their schools with pride, while also supporting the growth of the College's engineering and Formula High School programs.

Year 10 Retreat 

This Friday, 28 August, our Year 10 students will participate in their annual Retreat, facilitated by Michael Fitzpatrick. As our students move into the final stages of their secondary education, this day provides a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect and consider the leadership journey that lies ahead.

The Retreat is designed to challenge students to deepen their understanding of themselves, their relationships and their responsibilities as members of the Marist community. It also serves as an important stepping stone towards their final two years of schooling, encouraging them to embrace the opportunities before them with confidence, commitment and a strong sense of unity as a cohort.

As a College, we hope each student approaches the day with an open heart and mind, and with the courage and compassion to support both themselves and those around them. We thank Michael Fitzpatrick for his guidance and leadership in facilitating this important experience and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our young men as they prepare for the journey ahead.

Please refer to the Mission section of this newsletter for further details regarding the Year 10 Retreat.

Year 9 Exam Block

From 31 August to 3 September, our Year 9 students will undertake their Exam Block, providing an important opportunity to demonstrate their learning, consolidate knowledge and further develop the study habits and exam techniques that will serve them well throughout their senior years.

Assessment is an important part of the learning journey, allowing students to reflect on their progress and showcase their understanding across a range of subjects. We encourage all Year 9 students to approach this period with confidence, preparation and a commitment to doing their personal best.

We thank our teachers for their continued support and guidance in preparing students for these assessments and acknowledge the important role parents and carers play in encouraging effective study routines at home. We wish all Year 9 students every success during the examination period.

Fun Fact

Did you know that our campus has a rainwater storage capacity of over 924,000 litres? That is enough water to fill nearly half an Olympic-sized swimming pool! 

It's a great reminder of the hidden infrastructure on our 10-hectare grounds working around the clock to keep our community sustainable and green. 

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.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday 25 August

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

• House Meetings

   

Wednesday 26 August

• Met North Track and Field Trials - continues
• Wear it Purple Day
• Tutoring - English/Literature Extension Economics French Chemistry Study of Religion
• Community Mass - College Chapel (all welcome)
• Primary Morning Study
• Creative Industries Week: Music Special Guest Performance - Break 1
• College Assembly
• Mission Captains Meeting (Mission Office)
• Creative Industries Week: Audio Club Guest Artist - 3:15pm – 4:15pm

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

   

Thursday 27 August

• Game Changers 7/8 Retreat
• Green Ash
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly
• AIC Practice Meet #1

• 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
• Creative Industries Week: DJ Performance - Break 1
• Creative Industries Week: Music Kahoot Competition (Primary) - Break 1

• AIC Round 5 Primary Basketball v St Edmunds College

   

Saturday 29 August

• AIC Round 5 v St Edmunds College
• Photos: Rugby League, Tennis and Basketball

Monday 31 August

• Year 9 Exam Block - starts
• Year 10 Outdoor Recreation - Rock Climbing
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly
• Student Leader Portfolio Meetings
• Environment Group Meeting
• Paddington Community Centre Visit

• Rosies Outreach

   

Tuesday 1 September

• Year 9 Exam Block - continues
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Maths Methods, Chemistry, Physics Middle Years Maths/Science
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• House Meetings

• Year 5 2027 Parent Information Evening - 6:00pm – 7:00pm

   

Wednesday 2 September

• 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)
• AIC Practice Meet #2
• AIC Track and Field Meet #2 - 3:30pm
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Math Methods, Physics, Middle Years Maths

• Hockey Brisbane Schoolboys - 4:00pm – 5:00pm

   

Thursday 3 September

• Father's Day Breakfast - 7:00am – 8:30am
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly
• Environment Group – Room 801

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

   

Friday 4 September

• Student Free Day
• Year 5 and Year 7 2027 Orientation Day

• Gifted and Talented Testing Day

   

Saturday 5 September

• AIC Round 6 v Villanova College

• Marist Long Lunch

   

Sunday 6 September

• Father's Day
• Boarders' Mass