From the Head of College

Mr Michael Newman

A Challenging New World to Navigate

Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 13;22-30) has a challenging and upfront message. Life is difficult with challenges, so repent and aim before all else at heaven. One enormous challenge facing all parents today, is the world of social media and AI. In an article in the Weekend Magazine titled ‘The Kids are not Alright’ (Aug 16-17, pp 12-18) Ros Thomas states clearly the choice facing each of us as parents - “deactivating our child’s social media to create a playground outcaste, or expose our children to the addiction, the self-obsession and victimisation of living online,” notwithstanding the constant addictive allure to online games.

Our tech giants, their lobbyists and enablers tell us that social media is blameless, enabling connection for young people. Yet, the Australian Bureau of Statistics tell us that 29% of girls and 17% of boys aged between 15-24 were diagnosed with depression and anxiety in 2023. Rates of depression and anxiety in adolescence are in overdrive and seeping into childhood. Under 16-year-olds will openly tell you that social media makes you feel bad about yourself. Body image issues are worse for one in three teen girls. Young people keep posing due to a desperate need for affirmation or ‘likes’ even though their posts are created using fakes and filters.

Thomas quotes young people as saying - “I reckon our generation’s gonna be messed up” and “Social media creates a pressure cooker of expectations for teenagers” or “By the time I was 13, I felt like I was going to die from the stress of keeping up appearances on TikTok. I was waking up in the middle of the night to check my phone, to see what other people might be posting of me to make fun of me” and “You’re competing with other people for affirmation. If someone ignores your request, you feel like a loser.” Others cited, “We need it for entertainment” and “It makes me lazy and unmotivated. My attention span is dwindling so fast, I’m kind of freaked out because it affects my study” and “It’s like a drug.” Finally, to have their phone taken off them is described by young people as - “My mind feels agitated. I have physical symptoms. It’s very uncomfortable. It’s like I’m an addict and I need a hit” and “I feel much, much worse about myself because I know I’m missing out on what’s happening online.”

So, what is the answer? Well, no matter how we choose as adults to respond to this obvious challenge for our children, Thomas believes there is one thing for certain, “we can’t have our children guided into adulthood by a bunch of random people on the internet chosen by algorithms.” As a possible solution, Dr Simon Breakspear at the National Catholic Education Conference last week believed that we need to concentrate and surround ourselves on what has been around for years and we know has worked, like relationships, family, friends, love, religion and good schools.

God of the journey, we pray for all young adolescents that they will be supported by us as adults as they navigate the speed of change and the challenges faced by the rise in social media and AI. Amen.

Marist Victorious at the 2025 Tournament of Minds

On Sunday, Marist College Ashgrove proudly hosted the 2025 Tournament of Minds, welcoming creative and enthusiastic students from across the region. The event was a celebration of innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving, and our Marist teams truly rose to the occasion. Primary Team 2 took part in the Social Sciences Division and won First place, showcasing outstanding creativity and collaboration. Well done Iggy Tognini, Chris Pollard, Ben Moran, Harry Davies, Nate Baldwin, Darcy Muir-McCarey, Moses Yeung. The Marist Read Betweeners won First place in the Secondary Language and Literature Division, impressing judges with their use of mime, poetry, and symbolism. Well done Connor Campbell, James Burt, Harry Cootes, Thomas Lynn, Kane Patricks, James Doolan. Congratulations also to Primary Team 1 competed in the Language and Literature Division and earned an Honours Award. The TomMunity Team received an Honours Award in the Secondary Social Sciences Division. We are thrilled to announce that Primary Team 2 and The Marist Read Betweeners will represent Marist at the State Finals on Saturday 13th September at QUT Gardens Point. Congratulations to all our teams for their incredible efforts and achievements and their dedicated teachers Ms Deacon, Mr Dan Prince, Mrs Robyn Brown and Mrs Sones. Your passion and dedication continue to make Marist proud!

State Champions – PECAN+ Cyber Security Competition

Congratulations to Ben Hartfiel, Max Gallagher, Cullen Fitzgerald, and Hamish Darr for their outstanding performance in the prestigious PECAN+ Cyber Security Competition! This Capture the Flag-style event challenges students with tasks in cryptography, OSINT, reverse engineering, and more.

Our Marist team demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork, earning First place in Queensland and an impressive third place in Australia. Their success highlights the growing importance of cyber education and the strength of our students in navigating today’s digital challenges. Congratulations gentlemen.

Striving for Excellence: Marist Boys in National Academic Competitions

Over the past fortnight, more than 270 Marist students participated in national and international academic competitions, including the Australian Mathematics Competition and ICAS assessments in Science, Mathematics, and Writing.

These assessments provide valuable opportunities for our high potential learners to extend their skills and showcase their academic dedication. We look forward to celebrating their results soon!

Year 7 Drama – Save the Date and Trinity College London Exams

We look forward to the premiere of 'THE MARIST BOY MOVIE TRILOGY” - these three short films celebrate everything a Marist boy could want in a movie (except tsunamis, megalodons, or anything trademarked as a superhero). Two screenings only on Wednesday 17th September 2025 in the Experimental Theatre - 3:30pm and 5:00pm. Come and support the boys who have devised and performed in their films. There is a special guest appearance by Marist teachers!

We also have had two boys - Edward Hallo and Patrick Thirgood who recently received Distinctions in their Speech and Drama Trinity College London exams. Congratulations, Edward and Patrick.

Queensland Music Festival Success

Congratulations to all MCA musicians and staff for their outstanding achievements at the Queensland Catholic Colleges Music Festival over the EKKA break. Special mention to Chamber Strings and Big Band 1 for receiving Gold Awards, and to Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Choir, and Wind Orchestra for their Silver Awards. Big Band 1 was praised as the standout performance in their section. With over 14,000 student performers, MCA proudly competed in every top A-grade section—Choral, Strings, Wind Band, Big Band, and Symphony. Thank you to our dedicated music staff - Dr Andrew Butt, Megan Harmston, Catherine Wasserman, Samantha Blakeney, Mellanie Stewart, Alison Braidwood and Janelle Lee Long and committed students for your hard work and passion. Well done to all involved!

1st XI Football Team Marches into the Semifinals!

Congratulations to our 1st XI Football team on their impressive 3–1 victory in the Uhlsport Cup quarterfinal yesterday! The team showed great skill and determination, securing their place in the semifinal against BBC, which will take place on Wednesday evening. We wish them the very best as they prepare for what promises to be an exciting semi-final match.

Marist Year 7 Team - QDU (Debating) Grandfinalists

Congratulations to our Year 7.1 Debating Team, who triumphed in their semifinal match last Wednesday 20 August against Citipointe Christian College! 👏 Arguing against the banning of zoos, the boys delivered a powerful and persuasive case that impressed the adjudicators and secured their spot in the Grand Final. The Grand Final is being held on Wednesday 27th August at 6:15pm versus Brisbane Girls Grammer School in what promises to be an exciting showdown. My thanks are extended to their Coach - Caroline Smith and Jo Howe - Debating Coordinator and Assistant Coach. Best of luck to our brilliant Year 7 debaters.

Year 9 and 10 Retreat Days – August 2025

Best wishes to all our Year 9 and Year 10 boys as they embark on their annual Retreat Days at the Cyprian Pavillion on Thursday 28th and Friday 29th August. These compulsory days are a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on their relationships, social interactions, and spiritual growth. The Year 9 Retreat will focus on the theme “Transitioning into Their Final Years of High School”, helping students prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Meanwhile, the Year 10 Retreat will explore “Leadership”—what it means, how it’s cultivated, and the role it will play in their final years at Marist College Ashgrove. We are delighted to welcome back the ever popular and highly skilled Mr Michael Fitzpatrick, who will facilitate both retreats. Thank you Michael for your support and presence in our community over many years as you move into your retirement in 2026. Michael, your contribution to Catholic Education to Queensland over many years and the joy and faith you have shared with students is greatly admired and to be applauded. We are very grateful!

Le Rosey Game Changers Forum & Year 7–8 Retreat and Marist Forum

This year’s Le Rosey Game Changers Forum invites students to deepen their understanding of leadership, meaningful relationships, and teamwork through the lens of ‘Marist’. Structured around three engaging workshops, participants will explore their identity and faith through activities, discussions, and reflections designed to guide them on their journey as young Marists.

We also extend our best wishes to all Year 7 and 8 students attending the Game Changers Retreat and Marist Forum at the Marist Centre, Brisbane, on Friday 29th August from 10:00am to 2:00pm. This enriching experience is open to all Game Changers students and others interested in exploring Marist values, leadership, and community engagement. Students are asked to bring their own morning tea, but lunch will be provided. We look forward to a day filled with reflection, connection, and growth as our students continue to develop as compassionate and faith-filled leaders.

Year 9 Exam Block – Term 3

We wish our Year 9 students all the very best as they prepare for their upcoming Exam Block in Week 8 of Term 3. This period is an important milestone in their annual academic journey, as they consolidate their learning and demonstrate their understanding across core subjects. Students are reminded to check their exam timetable carefully, arrive punctually, and come well-prepared with all necessary materials. We encourage all boys to maintain a balanced routine of study, rest, and wellbeing during this time. Good luck Year 9 students. This will be followed by the Year 9 Camp in Week 9.

Brisbane Schools Hockey Cup - Grand Final

Best wishes to the Marist College Ashgrove 1st XI Hockey Team who has qualified for the Grand Final in the prestigious Brisbane Schoolboys Hockey Cup. After a season of strong performances and unwavering determination, our team will face St Edmund’s College, Ipswich this Wednesday at 4:15pm at the State Hockey Centre. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and talent of our players, guided by the dedicated coaching of Mr Isaac Pratt. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Marthy Watson, whose support as program coordinator has been invaluable throughout the season. A special mention goes to Ms Kathryn Badini for her ongoing leadership and encouragement, and to all parents for their continued support. Good luck on Wednesday, gentlemen.

Creative Industries Week

Creative Industries Week continues with many more exciting activities on offer. We encourage all boys to be involved!

Still to come:

Wednesday 27th August
- Visual Art - Workshop still to be confirmed – break 2 (A02) – tentative (artist - Dylan Bolger) – mural development - Indigenous students
Thursday 28th August
- Visual Art - Uplift Project in break 1 at the Art Courtyard
Friday 29th August
- Music BBQ and Beats - sausage sizzle and live music at the Draney Theatre Courtyard
- Visual Art – Uplift Project in break 1 at the Art Courtyard
- Ashcam - winners announced and photographic display of winning images will be installed in the library

My thanks are extended to Stacey Finch, Megan Harmston, Alison Braidwood, Enrico Le Mura, Rebecca Taylor, Sam Blakeney, Dr Andrew Butt from the Arts faculties (Music / Visual Art / Drama / FTV) for their organisation and facilitation of this program.

Met North Track and Field Trials – Tuesday 26th to Wednesday 27th August

Best of luck to all Marist College Ashgrove students competing in the Met North Track & Field Trials on Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th August. Held across two days, this event brings together top athletes from the region to showcase their speed, strength, and skill across a range of track and field disciplines. We are proud of our boys for their dedication and training leading up to this event and look forward to seeing them represent the College with determination and sportsmanship.

Upcoming Event: Tower Art Show 2025 – Opening Night

You are warmly invited to the Opening Night of the Tower Art Show 2025, held in the Tower Building on Friday 12th September from 5:30pm to 9:30pm. This annual celebration showcases a stunning array of artworks from students and community artists, across a variety of styles and mediums. We are thrilled to welcome special guest Bastian Allfrey, whose presence will add a special touch to this creative evening. Tickets are now available and include entry to the show and a chance to win in the raffle.

Website: https://www.marash.qld.edu.au/news-events/events/tower-art-show/

Opening Night Tickets on Sale now https://events.humanitix.com/2025-tower-art-show-opening-night-and-raffle-tickets

Bookings close 10:00 am Friday, 5th September 2025

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