From the Head of College

This week, I would like to acknowledge three members of our College Leadership Team who, along with myself, represented our great school at the Marist Schools Australia Biennial Conference held in Fremantle, Western Australia. My sincere thanks to Mr Daniel Bull (Acting Assistant Head of College – Mission), Ms Kirsty Payne (Executive Director – People, Policy and Workplace Relations), and Mrs Leigh Jackson (Assistant Head of College – Learning and Teaching, Middle Years) for their participation in this significant gathering of Marist educators from across the country. 

The 2026 conference was centred on the Marist theme Full of Grace – Transform the World with God’s Love, inviting participants to reflect on how God’s grace is experienced, nurtured, and shared through the ministry of Catholic education. The conference brought together educators and leaders from Marist Schools Australia and diocesan schools that embrace the Marist charism, creating a rich opportunity for prayer, formation, dialogue and professional learning.  

Through keynote presentations, workshops and collaborative discussions, delegates explored contemporary approaches to evangelisation, leadership and mission, while remaining grounded in the enduring values of St Marcellin Champagnat. Particular emphasis was placed on the role educators play as witnesses to hope, compassion and belonging, and on the ways that small acts of service and authentic relationships continue to transform the lives of young people.  

What remains especially inspiring is the breadth and strength of the Marist story across Australia. The conference highlighted the remarkable gift of Marist education, not only through the 13 Marist Schools Australia governed colleges, but also through the many diocesan schools that proudly share in the Marist tradition. Together, these communities form a vibrant network committed to nurturing young people who know they are loved by God, who strive for excellence, and who seek to make a positive difference in the world.  

As a College, we are grateful for the insights, inspiration and renewed sense of purpose we will bring back to our community. Our participation ensures that Marist College Ashgrove continues to draw upon the collective wisdom, experience and vision of the wider Marist family, strengthening our mission of forming fine young men of faith, learning and character.

Catholic Education Week 

From Monday 27 July to Saturday 2 August, we celebrate Catholic Education Week, a time to recognise and give thanks for the wonderful gift of Catholic education. At Marist College Ashgrove, Catholic Education Week is an opportunity to celebrate our faith, our community and our shared commitment to nurturing young people to grow in knowledge, spirituality and service. 

Inspired by the teachings of Jesus and the values of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, our students are encouraged to be compassionate, courageous and beacons of hope in the world around them. Throughout the week, we will reflect on the many ways our faith shapes learning, relationships and service within our College community. 

We thank our staff, students, families and Old Boys for their ongoing support of the Marist mission and for the many contributions they make to the life of our College each day. Together, we celebrate the unique spirit of Catholic education and the difference it continues to make in the lives of young people. 

Year 9 Performance & Pathway Conversations 

A reminder to Year 9 families that Performance and Pathway Conversations will take place from Monday 27 July to Thursday 13 August. 

These important conversations provide students, families and staff with an opportunity to reflect on progress, celebrate achievements and discuss future learning goals. Students are encouraged to take an active role in the process by considering their strengths, identifying areas for growth and exploring the pathways available to them as they continue their secondary education at Marist College Ashgrove. 

The Performance and Pathway Conversations are a valuable part of supporting student growth, engagement and success. We encourage all Year 9 families to make the most of this opportunity to discuss aspirations, set meaningful goals and plan for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.   

Environment Group Free Dress Day  

This Friday, 31 July, students are invited to support the Environment Group's annual Free Dress Day by embracing this year's colourful theme, "Wear Fluoro Like a Highlighter!" We encourage all students to get involved by wearing their brightest fluoro outfits and helping to turn the College into a sea of colour.  

Students participating in Free Dress are encouraged to make a donation of $2, $5 or $10, with all funds raised supporting the important work of Stationery Aid, which provides essential school supplies to students and families in need. Donations can be made through Parent Lounge via the following link:  https://monitor.marash.qld.edu.au/monitoronline/Account/AddToMyCart/%5BFUN%5DFREEDRESS2?itemType=1&shopGroupId=27 

To make donating as easy as possible, tap machines will also be available around the College on Friday morning, allowing students to contribute using their student ID cards. At first break, members of the Environment Group will be selling ice creams and soft drinks for $3 each, with proceeds supporting future sustainability initiatives around the College, including the purchase of a new compost bin, gardening tools and plants. 

We thank our College community for supporting this initiative and look forward to seeing everyone in their brightest fluoro gear on Friday.  

Father / Father Figures and Son Reading Night - Reminder

A reminder to families of students in Years 5-8 that our annual Father / Father Figures & Son Reading Night will be held on Wednesday 5 August from 5:30pm to 7:30pm in the Draney Theatre.

This special evening provides an opportunity for students and their fathers or father figures to spend quality time together while celebrating the many benefits of reading. Research consistently highlights the important role that positive male role models play in encouraging boys to develop a lifelong love of reading, with strong literacy skills supporting success both at school and beyond. 

Guests will enjoy an inspiring presentation from acclaimed Australian author Tristan Bancks, browse the book stall, read together, enjoy light refreshments and have the chance to win exciting raffle prizes. Families are encouraged to register via the following link: Marist Reading Night 2026 – https://events.humanitix.com/marist-reading-night-2026

As part of the evening, we are also inviting families to support our Mission program by donating a book suitable for students in Years 5-8. Books in good condition can be dropped off at the Secondary Library and will be distributed to children in Papua New Guinea. We look forward to welcoming our students and their fathers or father figures for what promises to be an enjoyable and memorable evening celebrating the power of reading and connection. 

Year 9 Retreat 

On Monday 3 August, our Year 9 students will participate in their annual Retreat, presented by Mr Michael Fitzpatrick, one of Australia's most experienced facilitators of retreat and reflection programs for Catholic secondary students. The Retreat will focus on the themes of Christian Leadership and Social Justice, providing students with a valuable opportunity to listen, reflect and engage with issues relevant to their stage of development. 

As part of the Year 9 Religious Education program, it is expected and understood that all Year 9 students will attend and actively participate in this important formation experience. The Retreat forms a significant part of the holistic education offered at Marist College Ashgrove, encouraging students to deepen their understanding of themselves, their relationships with others and their responsibility to contribute positively to the wider community.  

We extend our sincere thanks to Mr Dan Bull (Acting Assistant Head of College – Mission), Mrs Clare Locke and Mrs Jenna Harding for their outstanding organisation and coordination of this year's Retreat. Their commitment helps ensure our students are provided with meaningful opportunities for reflection, growth and faith formation. 

Walkathon 

A reminder to all families that Walkathon 2026 will take place on Sunday 9 August. A proud and long-standing Marist tradition, the Walkathon remains the College's largest family community event and is proudly supported through our partnership with the Australian Defence Force and Gallipoli Barracks. 

Funds raised through this year's Walkathon will support the Marist College Ashgrove Parents and Friends Association, helping to enhance College facilities and improve the educational experience of current and future students. Recent P&F-funded projects include upgrades to the Flats fields, improvements to the Champagnat Centre mezzanine, the College Coffee Van, enhancements to the Music Centre, basketball facilities and the upcoming Cameron Oval precinct improvements. Students are encouraged to seek sponsorship from family and friends through the College's cashless donation platform: Donate and Sponsor a Student: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/tCuF9vy6Pa?origin=lprLink 

Student participation is compulsory, with students completing either the 10km Walkathon course or, where appropriate, the 4km All Abilities Course. Families are warmly invited to join their sons on the walk. If you would like to participate in either the 10km or 4km course, please register using the link below: Family Walk Registration: https://signup.com/go/SQNpznk 

Parent and guardian volunteers play a vital role in the success of the Walkathon. Those wishing to assist on the day are encouraged to register via the volunteer link above before Thursday 6 August. We look forward to welcoming students, families and staff for another enjoyable day of community spirit, participation and Marist pride. 

College Musical –  School of Rock 

What an incredible success our 2026 College Musical, School of Rock, proved to be. Across four outstanding performances, audiences were treated to a spectacular showcase of talent, hard work and dedication, with students delivering an unforgettable theatrical experience filled with energy, humour and exceptional musicianship. 

Bringing together students from Marist College Ashgrove, Stuartholme School, Mt St Michael's College and Brigidine College, this year's production beautifully showcased the spirit of collaboration, creativity and friendship that makes our annual musical so special. From the remarkable performances on stage to the musicians, backstage crew, technical teams and countless volunteers working behind the scenes, every contribution played a vital role in bringing the production to life. 

Having attended the Friday evening performance with my family, I was absolutely blown away by the quality of the production. The talent, enthusiasm and professionalism displayed by our students were exceptional, and the seamless organisation behind the scenes was evident throughout the evening. School of Rock was a truly entertaining and inspiring production, and one of which the entire College community can be immensely proud. 

A special thank you and congratulations to Megan Harmston (Producer), Rebecca Taylor (Director), Bella Rowe (Stage Manager), Bonita Gerry (Assistant Stage Manager), Michael Keen (Musical Director), Sam Blakeney, Jamie Kennedy, Rowan Dekkers and Monica Howarth, whose leadership, expertise and commitment helped make School of Rock such an outstanding success. 

We also extend our sincere appreciation to the many staff, parents, volunteers and supporters who contributed their time, talents and encouragement throughout the production. The success of a musical of this scale is truly a team effort, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who played a part. 

Congratulations to all involved on a spectacular production that was a wonderful celebration of the performing arts and a fitting showcase of the extraordinary talent within our College community.  

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 28 July

• Catholic Education Week - continues
• Year 9 Performance and Pathway Conversations - continues
• Student Monitoring - continues
• Year 8 PAT Testing - continues
• Bee Brain Challenge
• Year 10 Business Excursion
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Maths Methods, Chemistry, Physics Middle Years Maths/Science
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• House Meetings

• Brisbane Youth Jazz Festival

   

Wednesday 29 July

• 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)
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Math Methods, Physics, Middle Years Maths
• Hockey Brisbane Schoolboys - Round 3

• Marist Parent Lecture Series

   

Thursday 30 July

• RACQ Workshop for Year 11
• Year 11 Cert III in Visual Art Photography - Mt Coot-tha
• 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

• Year 5 Band and Strings Concert

   

Friday 31 July

• Environment Group Free Dress Day
• Primary Morning Study
• AIC Round 2 v St Peters Lutheran College Primary Basketball

• Internal Track and Field Meet #2

   

Saturday 1 August

• AIC Round 2 v St Peters Lutheran College

• Tennis/Basketball/Rugby League Photos

   

Sunday 2 August

• Boarders' Mass

   

Monday 3 August

• Year 9 Retreat
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly
• Student Leader Portfolio Meetings
• Environment Group Meeting

• Rosies Outreach

   

Tuesday 4 August

• Year 8 Pastoral Day - starts
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Maths Methods, Chemistry, Physics Middle Years Maths/Science
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study

• House Meetings

   

Wednesday 5 August

• Year 12 Sport and Rec Camp - starts
• 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)
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Math Methods, Physics, Middle Years Maths

• Father Son Reading Night

   

Thursday 6 August

• District Track and Field Carnival - starts
• 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 7 August

• Primary Morning Study

• AIC Round 3 v St Patricks College Primary Basketball

   

Saturday 8 August

• AIC Round 3 v St Patricks College

   

Sunday 9 August

• Walkathon and Battle of the Bands