From the Head of College

Mr Michael Newman

In his early schools, St Marcellin Champagnat spoke clearly of the importance of scholastic studies. Marcellin was fixated on the importance of literacy development for every individual child. He prescribed a textbook in 1838 entitled – “New Principles of Reading for the use of the Brothers of Mary.” This book came to life after much research and practical experience – this was the formula in which St Marcellin wished to see all his Brothers teach literacy in Marist schools. By 1916, there were 42 revised editions of this book as the Brothers continued to reflect, alter and improve their ways of teaching reading and writing. From his own experience, St Marcellin understood the opportunities literacy unlocks in the lives of young people. Further, 12 years after St Marcellin’s death, the Marist Brothers then wrote a book to codify excellence in teaching and learning in the Marist Way.

The Catholic Church has always placed a high emphasis on its scholastic studies and knowledge as shown through its esteemed past theologians and scholars of the Church, including – St Gregory VII (1085), St Francis of Assisi (1226), St Thomas Aquinas (1274), St Catherine of Sienna (1380), St Ignatius of Loyola (1556), St Teresa of Avila (1582), St Charles Borromeo (1584), St Elizabeth Seton (1821) and St John Henrry Newman (1890). This emphasis has continued through the life of St Marcellin and through the line of Marist Schools including Australia. I personally have witnessed my outstanding Marist educators including – Br Michael Naughton (Latin and Greek Teacher – composed our College Prayer), Br Bede (Mathematics), Br Valens (French), Br Peter (History) and present Brothers – Professor David Hall fms (recent ACEL recipient of the Dr Paul Brock Memorial Medal) and Dr Michael Green fms. Scholastic studies have always and will remain a high priority for Marist Schools.

Here, at Marist College Ashgrove, this same academic emphasis is at our core. We continue to recognise those students who achieve highly in their academic studies – Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards and Optimus Awards. We also acknowledge those students whose effort and application are exemplary – Head of College Awards. All of these recipients will be recognised during coming assemblies throughout August. As a staff, we continue to analyse each boy's academic results with a view to improving their performance. We look forward to continuing our approach to success for each individual boy in their studies and especially in literacy, numeracy and ATAR results.

In the Spirit of St Marcellin Champagnat, let us pray for the ability to use our God given gifts to not only achieve our potential but for the betterment of our sisters and brothers in need… "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." (1 Peter 4:10)

Marist Tutoring Available

Marist College Ashgrove continues to offer subject specific tutoring. It is a fantastic complementary service offering valuable academic assistance to students throughout the week. Tutoring is provided by Marist Old Boys and takes place in the College from 7:30am to 8:30am and 3:30pm to 4:30pm, Tuesday to Thursday. Boys just need to bring along their work and questions.

For additional support outside of these hours, families can access the Old Boys Tutoring List, which includes contact details for former students available to tutor. This list is accessible via the Parent Portal or can also be located on the parent portal or via this link. Please note that it is the responsibility of parents to liaise directly with Old Boys to arrange tutoring times.

Year 12 Exam and Study

Best wishes to our Year 12 students who have their ‘Exam and Study Day’ this Friday 8th August. This is an important period for the Year 12 boys undertaking an ATAR as they complete their last internal assessments prior to commencing their study for the trial and all-important external ATAR examinations. Parents and students were emailed the timetable and for students it is on Student Kiosk and for parents on the Parent Orbit APP. My thanks to all the boys’ Senior teachers as they continue to work diligently and professionally preparing the boys for their studies.

Feast of the Assumption Mass

Marist College Ashgrove celebrates the Feast of the Assumption next Tuesday 12th August with a college Mass. The Assumption is the major feast day of the Church’s calendar year recognising Mary the mother of God. This feast day recognises the end of Mary’s earthly life and the reunion with her son, Jesus, in heaven. It is celebrated as a public holiday in many countries in Europe and South America as the Assumption recognises God taking Mary into heaven (assumed) as is promised for each one of us. The College, which is named after Mary the mother of God - “Marist” and was formally called “St Mary’s, celebrates this holy day in the Church’s calendar year annually. All boys will participate in the Assumption Mass, celebrated by Fr Alatini Kolofo’ou with a reflection by Br Neville Solomon fms. The ceremony will conclude with the recognition of the boys' wonderful work caring for those who are less fortunate – through the MATES (Marist is taking everyone seriously) program. All families and friends of the College are welcome to attend.

Walkathon and Battle of Bands

This Sunday, 10th August, Marist will be holding its largest student fundraiser for the year – The College Walkathon. We thank the Enoggera Barracks who have again agreed to allow us to walk through the Barracks. This Parents & Friends facilitated event raises money which goes towards facilities for the College and students – toilets and change sheds on Cameron Oval and seating and shelter around the sporting ovals. There are various prizes for the students who raise significant money, including going into the draw for tickets on half-way for next year's State of Origin game. The walkathon will end at McMahon Oval where families are encouraged to enjoy the wide variety of foods available and the Battle of the Bands.

We look forward to Sunday's compulsory walkathon and thank you sincerely for your financial support and sponsorship of the boys. My gratitude is extended to Mrs Donna Lynn (President of the Marist P&F) and her team – Mrs Naomi Searle, Mr Phill Holding, Mrs Kelly Byrne, Mr Jon Pollard, Mr Gareth Kolkenbeck-Ruh, Mr Nathan Ayre, Ms Sue Going, Mr Callum Clarke, Mrs Toni Martin, Mrs Bethany Halpin, Mr Vincent Teodosia and Mrs Jenna Harding. Parent helpers, Mr Adam Bennett, Mr Stephen Ball, Ms Sue Hartfiel, Ms Julia O’Rourke, Mr Paul Rabie and Mr Brendan Lynn. Course Guides: Kathleen Channells, Tara Bartlett, Mem Altun, Vanessa Altun, Christine Brown, Kath Nolan, Jeremy Nolan, Penny Somerville, Lisa Keogan, Phillip Keogan, Richelle Power, Carlie Marks, Jason Lambley, Jessie Robinson, Claire Barkell, Carol Rooney, Paege Bellett, Pat Bellett, Leanne Chandler, Caroline Snow, Kimberly Williamson and Catherine Milne, together with the ADF and QPS parents for their organisation and facilitation of the day.

See you on Sunday for what is always an enjoyable day.

Dances – Years 5 & 6 and 7 & 8

The annual Years 5 & 6 and Years 7 & 8 dances will be held at the Champagnat Centre next Tuesday 12 August at 5pm and 7:30pm respectively.

To attend boys can obtain a ticket from the Humanitix link that was sent from either Mr Connolly & Mr Kolkenbeck-Ruh. All girls’ schools invited have been issued an allocation of tickets to purchase and distribute – these are: Loreto College, Stuartholme College, Lourdes Hill College, Mt St Michael’s College, St Rita’s & All Hallows.

All money raised will go directly to Australian Marist Solidarity (AMS). AMS believes that education has the power to eradicate poverty and, therefore, works to ensure young people have access to educational opportunities. This year, the focus of the fundraising campaign will be focused on St Joseph’s College Tenaru in Solomon Islands, which was established in the late 1940’s by the Marist Brothers.

I thank Mrs Anna Nasr - Assistant Head of College – Mission, Mr Gareth Kolkenbeck-Ruh – Acting Assistant Head of College - Students, Mr Michael Connolly – Assistant Head of College – Primary and their support teams for the organisation of the evening. I would also like to thank the Senior students and staff who will assist with the supervision on the night. Thank you to all boys and families for supporting this important cause in which I am sure the students will enjoy.

Feast of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop

On the side wall of the College Chapel to Our Lady and St Marcellin Champagnat, hangs a beautiful painting of St Mary Mackillop (pictured below). On August 8th, we honour St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia’s first canonised saint and a woman of deep faith, courage, and compassion. Mary dedicated her life to the education and care of those in need, founding the Sisters of St Joseph and establishing schools across Australia, especially in country areas. Many of us would have attended a school facilitated and administered by the “Brown” St Joseph Sisters, me included. St Mary Mackillop’s legacy reminds us of the power of perseverance, kindness, and trust in God’s providence. As a college community, we are inspired by her example to live with purpose, serve others generously, and embrace the dignity of every person. We remember and pray to our first Australian Saint, Mary McKillop, this Friday 8th August.

Volleyball Queensland Schools Cup

This weekend, our senior volleyball players will represent Marist College Ashgrove at the Volleyball Queensland Senior Schools Cup, held from Friday 8 August. This annual volleyball festival brings together over 2,500 Year 11 and 12 students from state and independent schools across Queensland for three days of exciting competition. Participation in this prestigious event offers our athletes a valuable opportunity to further develop their skills, strategies and teamwork. A heartfelt thank you to Mr Patrick Denkes for organising MCA’s involvement, and to Mr Tim Walker, Mr Patrick Denkes and Ms Bella Say for their dedication in coaching our teams. Goodluck, gentlemen.

Sevens Rugby Update – Under 18 Boys

Last Friday and Saturday, our boarder Under 18’s side secured two wins out of three games in the Western Sevens tournament. They showed great determination and teamwork, defeating Emerald State High School 26–14 and Marist Emerald (2) 26–7, after a close 10–17 loss to Rockhampton Grammar. On Sunday, the boys played valiantly in the finals. The team finished 4th overall. I thank our boarding staff for accompanying the boys and promoting our college boarding at this enjoyable Rugby Sevens carnival.

Year 8 Pastoral Days and Kokoda Challenge

Our Year 8 students will take part in their re-scheduled Pastoral Days on 5 & 6 August, postponed earlier this year due to the March cyclone. Each House group will enjoy a full-day excursion around Mt Coot-tha, participating in the Kokoda Challenge program facilitated by Character Builders—an organisation renowned for its work with young adolescents. This program is designed to support students’ personal development through activities that build teamwork, resilience, leadership, and respect. It also serves as a valuable introduction to the Year 9 Camp in 2026.

Tuesday 5th August: Ridley, Ephrem, Foley, Harold

Wednesday 6th August: Gilroy, Ignatius, Rush, Slattery

We look forward to seeing our Year 8s embrace the challenge and grow together through this enriching experience. Thank you to Mr Tim Walker (Pastoral Leader 7-12 Wellbeing) for his organisation and to all the staff accompanying the boys.

Marist College to Host Northwest District Track and Field Carnival

Marist College will again host the Primary Schools Northwest District Track and Field Carnival on Thursday 7th August, and Friday 8th August, with a special twilight 1500m event on Tuesday, 5 August. We look forward to welcoming 26 local primary schools and over 400 athletes each day, along with their families, school staff, and Queensland Athletics officials. Thanks to Mr John Lambourne (Primary Sports Coordinator) for his facilitation and our senior students who will be assisting as marshalls and event helpers on the day. We look forward to hosting this vibrant and important Primary representative athletics carnival!

Year 7 Immunisations

A reminder to parents and caregivers that Year 7 immunisations will take place on Thursday 7 August. This is part of the Queensland School Immunisation Program and helps protect students against preventable diseases. The vaccinations include -Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Human Papillomavirus. Please ensure your child wears their sports uniform on the day and has had a good breakfast. My thanks are extended to Kolkenbeck-Ruh – Acting Assistant Head of College – Students and Mrs Kelly Byrnes for their organisation of this vaccination program for the boys.

City vs Country

Marist College Ashgrove is proud to host the annual City vs Country Rugby League Game on Tuesday 12 August, held on the afternoon before the EKKA break. This spirited event is a highlight for many of our students, bringing together teams in a friendly yet competitive match that celebrates camaraderie. We extend our best wishes to both teams for an enjoyable and safe game. Special thanks to our coaches - Mr Brad Winchester and Mr Mal Grealy. Boarding families down for the EKKA break holiday are invited to come along and support their team at McMahon Oval, as I am sure the City families will be present in numbers.

May our loving God with Mary our good mother and St Marcellin Champagnat walk with all members of the Marist College Ashgrove Family.