Deputy Head of College News

What a marvellous week we’ve had at Marist! The extraordinary depth and breadth of gifts and talents on display was simply sensational! From the College Musical to the first round of AIC sport, the Optimus Breakfast and the student involvement in College tours, our Marist men are truly shining.

Importantly, I want to extend a heartfelt thanks to all the parents, caregivers and extended family who have, for many years, supported their children to develop a love and passion for whatever it is that they are pursuing. From music ensemble rehearsals, instrumental tuition, theatre classes, weekend rehearsals or evening performances, to early morning sports training, games in the rain (or wind or heat!), the tutoring and help with homework, or the gentle mentoring and support, our students are afforded the opportunity to develop excellence as a result of the time, commitment and support of the adults in their life. And so, an enormous thank you to all our families for everything that you do to support our students so that they have the opportunity to excel, wherever their passion lies.

Notwithstanding this incredible support, the students themselves have been marvellous. The talent on show last week across numerous portfolios of the College was awe-inspiring. Right alongside the students were, of course, the incredible staff. Whether it be guiding, encouraging, challenging, supporting, giving so much of their time, the staff walk with our students to ensure they reach their potential and achieve at their best. It is with deep gratitude that we acknowledge the work of our staff in supporting the students in their various endeavours.

In summary – a big thank you to our families and staff, and a huge congratulations to our students!

Walkathon: Sunday 9 August 2026 - Term 3

This year’s Walkathon is scheduled for Sunday 9 August 2026 and is a proud long-standing Marist tradition which continues to be our largest Marist Family event of the year. Proudly partnering with our neighbours, the Australian Defence Force and Gallipoli Barracks.

In keeping with College tradition, the Walkathon is set to raise funds for the Marist College Ashgrove Parents and Friends Association who will use the funds to support the College to enhance facilities and improve the educational journey for all Marist College Ashgrove students now and into the future. In recent years funds have contributed to upgrades to the Flats fields, fans in the Champagnat Centre mezzanine, the purchase of the College Coffee Van, upgrades to the Music Centre and upgrades to playground basketball facilities and upcoming upgrade to Cameron Oval change rooms, shade and seating areas for students and spectators.

Fundraising will be achieved through community sponsorship of students participation in the Walkathon. Students are encouraged to collect sponsorship to walk on the day through a cashless donation system where parents, family and friends can donate online here.

Student participation on Sunday 9 August 2026 is compulsory. All students will be required to walk the 10km course however if a student cannot complete the course due to medical or mobility reasons and they wish to participate, they are able to complete the 4km All Abilities Course. If for any reason your son cannot attend, please ensure that you communicate this with his Head of House or the Year 5-6 Pastoral Leader prior to the event. Any student unable to walk on the day will be expected to complete the Make-Up Walkathon on Tuesday afternoon, 11 August.

As in past years, family members are invited to join in the walking.  If you or members of your family would like to join either the full walk (10km) or the All-Abilities Walk (4km) be sure to register on the following link here.

Parent and guardian help is very important in running the Walkathon and any assistance you can provide on the day will be greatly appreciated. Please register here before 9:00am Thursday 6 August.

For parents who are currently serving members of the Australian Defence Force or the Queensland Police Service (QPS), there are volunteer opportunities available within the Barracks precinct on the day of the Walkathon. Volunteers for these roles must hold a current DCAC/ID Card. If you are interested in assisting, please contact Jon Pollard directly at jon.pollard@defence.gov.au.

Thanking you in anticipation of your valued support of the tradition of the Marist College Ashgrove Walkathon. We look forward to a fun-filled day for our students and family members.