PRINCIPAL'S PEN 

Salty tomatoes!

So, what do salty tomatoes have to do with the Class of 2025 graduating?

This year’s Graduation Liturgy was a truly beautiful occasion – full of reflection, gratitude and a real sense of hope for what’s ahead.

Deacon Tony’s homily captured the moment perfectly. Drawing on the words of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount, “You are the salt of the earth”. Deacon Tony reminded our graduates how important it is to be people who bring goodness, honesty, reliability and hope to the world around them.

Salt, he said, can transform even the simplest tomato. As Deacon Tony put it, “With a pinch of salt, a tomato becomes next level.” His message was simple but powerful: each of our graduates – and every one of our students – has the power to bring out the best in others, to preserve what is good and to add flavour to the communities they’ll join beyond the school gates. With just a little seasoning, our world becomes kinder, deeper and better.

Our graduates are called to bring that same spark – the courage, kindness and integrity that make life richer. The world needs more “salt,” and our Class of 2025 is ready to share it. To our graduates: you’ve shown heart in your friendships, perseverance in your studies and spirit in your service. You’ve been the salt that’s given flavour to our college community – and for that, we’re so grateful.

As you step into your next chapter, may you keep seasoning the world with goodness, compassion and light.

Photos of all the Valedictory Celebrations are in the Parent Portal. 

Marist Schools Australia

There has been much happening in the Marist world lately. As I have previously written, Br Peter Carroll has been elected as Superior General of the Marist Brothers. In more recent news former College Principal Brother Michael Green has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the Australian Catholic University. This distinction acknowledges Br Michael’s outstanding contribution to Catholic education, Marist formation and theological scholarship. 

Closer to home, we celebrated the achievements of two long-serving members of staff: Mr Jamie Miller and Mrs Kim Vani. With a total of 48 years combined, both staff members have contributed significantly to our community, showing dedication and perseverance, often working with quiet determination. Mr Miller and Mrs Vani were both recognised at the recent annual Marist Schools Australia Regional Dinner in Brisbane.

World Teachers’ Day

Last Friday, we joined schools across the nation in celebrating World Teachers’ Day – a special opportunity to recognise the dedication and commitment of our wonderful teachers. Their passion for education helps to shape and inspire the young minds who will lead our future. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Parent Forum for generously providing a beautiful morning tea for our staff. Your thoughtfulness and effort made the day truly memorable and was appreciated by all.

Parent Forum

I extend my sincere gratitude to our Parent Forum for their active engagement and support throughout the year. We have convened once each term, with between 20 and 60 participants. Each meeting has provided us with invaluable insights and constructive ideas from our parents and carers, which we are excited to explore and implement to enhance our college community.

The Parent Forum has supported the following projects this year: 

• The roll out of larger lockers across the school, which will culminate in the final Year 11 lockers installed during the Christmas holidays.
• The purchase of equipment for the showground’s oval.

• The recent installation of water fountains that provide chilled water and cater for large water bottles. 

   

Thank you to the forum's committee members: Mrs Emma Gelling, President; Mrs Jemma Picco, Treasurer; and a special mention to Mrs Leanne Kear. Leanne’s third of three boys graduated this year, and she will step down from her role. Leanne has supported the College for over 10 years through the P&F and now the Parent Forum. 

India Night

India Night last Saturday was a great success, with over 200 adults attending as well as many young children. We raised over $9000 for a great cause, supporting a school in India. A heartfelt thank you goes to Glenn McKenzie and his Tolle's team for preparing the exquisite food we enjoy each year. We also extend our deepest gratitude to the families and businesses who generously donated prizes. Your support and contributions make this event truly special.