As Semester 1 draws to a close, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on all that has been achieved so far this year. Through the lens of our 2025 theme of ‘Gratitude’ I continue to be thankful for the opportunity to serve this community as College Principal. Blessed to work alongside an incredible College Leadership Team (CLT), I have witnessed great passion, heart and courage as we were inspired to further energise the strategic direction of this incredible community set out in the ‘Our Place, My Story Strategic Plan 2024-2026’. This plan is student centred and a bold promise to this community. The CLT remain deeply committed to realising the ambitious goals that were published. Through work carried out over the past six months, some key opportunities and priorities have emerged, enabling some new strategic projects and activities to be activated by various staff across the College. In light of this, I would like to acknowledge and thank the CLT and Senior Leadership Team, consisting of the various Directors who have been leading this exciting and impactful work. I am also excited to share that our College has been working closely with design and digital creative agency Creature Creative, since early 2024 to activate stakeholder consultation sessions and workshops. A standout of this work was a day spent with students from various year levels to gain the student perspective on why they love this College and where they see the opportunities for the future. All of the work carried out informs a College brand refresh and new campaign and I am looking forward to updating the College community in due course.

I have also enjoyed various events and gatherings, strengthening connections with staff, students and families and look forward to many more in Semester 2. The strength of this community is in its people and the commitment to creating a place of belonging and shared identity among students, teachers, staff, and parents within the community is a result of a strong, supportive and inclusive atmosphere where everyone is able to feel valued, respected, and actively engaged in the College’s Mission and Vision. Deputy Principal Mr Frank Torrisi delivered an inspiring address this week at our Assembly, reminding everyone that we are proudly an authentic Catholic school in the Edmund Rice Tradition, called to ‘Fight the Good Fight’, using our gifts and talents to help create a more just, more loving and more inclusive world. This critical work, inspired by our Mission is always underpinned by the ‘Charter for Catholic Schools in the Edmund Rice Tradition’ The Charter provides Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) schools with a strong compass and guide, informing all College decision making and planning.

We gathered this morning for our End of Term Liturgy, and I was able to thank and farewell some incredible staff members. Our College was able to thank Miss Aoife Doherty, one of our classroom teachers for her time at the College, completing her six-month contract position. Aoife was covering another staff member who was on leave in Semester 1. We also thanked and sadly farewelled Mr Patrick Conn, who joined our community this year but is now relocating to New Zealand to live and work. We also sincerely thanked and bid a sad farewell to Mr David Crewe, Program Leader Mathematics 7-9 and Student Data and Performance. David has decided to take up a new challenge teaching in the independent all-girls school sector from next term. We also spent some time thanking and farewelling Mr Andrew Maynard, classroom teacher, who is finishing up in his 19th year at this College, deciding it was the right time for him to now share his expertise and knowledge at a Brisbane Catholic Education secondary college in the northwest Brisbane region. While she was not with us at today’s End of Term Liturgy, we wish to extend a heartfelt farewell to Learning Support teacher Ms Annette Holmes. Annette has been on leave throughout Semester 1 and has recently shared the news of her retirement and that she won’t be returning. We sincerely thank these staff members for their dedication and service to this community and wish them well as they move on to new adventures.

I’m aware that several College Tours are setting off around the world during the break, including two international tours departing next week. One group of our talented musicians and teachers will head to New Zealand for the Music Tour, while another group of students and staff will travel to Europe for the Battlefields Tour. A number of domestic tours are also taking place, including the Year 10 HASS + Languages Tour to Melbourne and an immersion experience to Cherbourg. I’m looking forward to joining staff and students in Rockhampton, where our students will proudly represent the College at the Rugby League Confraternity Carnival. We wish all groups safe travels and a wonderful time, and we look forward to hearing the exciting stories from these incredible experiences. I’m deeply grateful to the staff who volunteer for these tours, generously giving up time with their own families so our students can enjoy such enriching opportunities.
Thanks again to everyone for such an incredible semester filled with so much joy, energy and success. I look forward to welcoming our students back for Term 3 and the exciting semester ahead.

Live Jesus in our Hearts!
Amber Hauff

Semester 1 Academic Reports
Semester 1 reports will be released to parents on Friday 27 June. These reports can be accessed via Parent Lounge and Student Café, both of which are available through the single sign-on facility within Realm.

Each academic report provides students with an overall achievement for each subject, based on the summative assessment items completed throughout Semester 1. This report is complemented by individual feedback for each assessment item, which will be published on Realm.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to discuss the report with their son(s), celebrating successes and identifying opportunities for improvement in Semester 2. It is important to acknowledge where our young men are reaching or exceeding their personal bests. As always, please don’t hesitate to contact your son’s classroom teacher if you have any significant concerns.

Semester 1 Academic Reports Access Guide

Academic Assembly – Celebrating Excellence
On Monday 28 July (Term 3, Week 3), an Academic Assembly will be held to celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of students across Years 5 to 12 for Semester 1. Award recipients and their families will be notified upon returning to school in Term 3. Parents are most welcome to attend the assembly. Criteria for academic awards can be found on Realm.

Year 12 Study Group
In preparation for External Assessment, our Year 12 students will have access to the Senior Library from Week 2 to Week 7 in Term 3. Each Tuesday evening from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, students are encouraged to come to the library to complete their studies. Mrs Rosenberg will be present to supervise the sessions.

I would also like to thank Mrs Nora Maguire, who has kindly organised a group of parents to provide dinner for the boys attending. Dinner will be served from 6.00pm to 6.45pm. We are seeking four parent volunteers each night to assist. If you are available and willing to help, please contact Nora via email at sylviesmum@gmail.com

A huge thank you in advance for your support and for showing our Seniors that they are backed by the entire community. Students will need to be collected by 8.00pm.

Year 10 SET (Senior Education & Training) plans for Year 11, 2026.
SET Plan Interviews will take place on Thursday 14 August and Friday 15 August (Term 3, Week 5). Please note that appointments can be scheduled on either day, but there is only one interview per student.

These interviews provide an important opportunity to discuss students’ future pathways and subject selections for Years 11 and 12. Both the student and a parent/carer are required to attend. Bookings will be made via the Parent/Teacher booking system in Parent Lounge, with further information to be emailed to parents by the end of Week 1, Term 3.

Year 9 JET (Junior Education & Training) plans for Year 10, 2026
Year 9 students will explore pathway planning and subject offerings for Year 10 in 2026 through a JET Plan conversation towards the end of Term 3. These conversations provide an excellent opportunity for students to discuss potential subjects and pathways for their Senior phase of schooling.

Both the student and a parent/carer are required to attend. Bookings will be made via the Parent/Teacher booking system in Parent Lounge, with further information to be emailed to parents by the end of Week 3, Term 3.

Year 8 and 9, 2026 Information Night
On Thursday 14 August (Week 5, Term 3), a Subject Information Evening will be held for students entering Years 8 and 9 in 2026. This evening will provide information about elective offerings available to your son. Further details will be shared with families early in Term 3. Parents and students are expected to attend this important event.

Year 10 & 11, 2026 Information Night
On Thursday 7 August (Week 4, Term 3), a Subject Information Night will be held for students entering Years 10 and 11 in 2026. This evening will provide information about pathways into Senior School, including ATAR, Vocational Education, and the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

Subject stalls will be set up, featuring Heads of Faculty, Senior Teachers, and current students, who will be available to answer any questions you may have about Senior core and elective subjects.

Further details will be shared with families early in Term 3. Parents and students are expected to attend this important event.

Futures Focused Careers Expo
On Monday 4 August, the College’s Futures Focused Careers Expo will take place. This is a wonderful event that provides our students with an opportunity to engage with industry experts and leading institutions regarding post-schooling options.

Students will have access to representatives from Queensland University of Technology (QUT), University of Queensland (UQ), Bond University, Australian Catholic University (ACU), Griffith University, James Cook University (JCU), Redcliffe Aero Club, Powerlink, Surveying Careers Australia, and many more. Further information will be sent to parents and students early in Term 3.

Shore 2 Gate: Walking with Purpose, Giving with Heart
On the final Friday of Term 2, the St Patrick’s College community came together for our much-loved Shore 2 Gate annual fundraising event—a tradition that continues to be deeply embedded in the heart of our College. More than just a walk, this event symbolises unity, connection, and compassion, as students and staff walk side by side in support of causes far greater than ourselves.

At our assembly on Monday, I took the opportunity to highlight some of the incredible charities we are supporting through this year’s event.

The Redcliffe Breakfast Club
A long-time partner of the College, the Redcliffe Breakfast Club offers vital support to those in our local community living on the margins. Many of our students are already familiar with the organisation through their involvement in our Thursday and Saturday Paddy’s Van Ministries.

One of their most inspiring initiatives is the Sleepbus—a purpose-built vehicle that provides a safe, secure, and dignified place to sleep for those experiencing homelessness. In a society where no one should be forced to sleep on the streets, the Sleepbus offers a compassionate alternative to rough sleeping or living out of a car. Our donations help cover essential operating costs including security, laundry, and maintenance—making a tangible difference in people’s lives.

The Ruben Centre, Nairobi
Across the globe, in the heart of the Mukuru slum in Nairobi, Kenya—home to approximately 700,000 people living in extreme poverty—The Ruben Centre is a beacon of hope. In a community where up to 20 families may share one water tap and toilet, and where most homes lack electricity, the Centre provides critical services: education, healthcare, economic development, and social empowerment.

Through these programs, The Ruben Centre restores dignity and opportunity to some of the most vulnerable individuals. Recently, our Year 11 and 12 students participated in a powerful initiative, Doco in a Day, capturing stories of resilience, transformation, and hope from Nairobi. I encourage you to take a moment to view these inspiring student-produced documentaries:

Doco in a Day - St Laurence’s College – Part 1
Doco in a Day – St Patrick’s College – Part 2

Shore to Gate is more than a physical journey—it’s a journey of empathy, action, and solidarity. By walking together, we are helping to carry the burdens of others, lighting the path with hope and generosity, demonstrating that we are a community that cares.

A Journey of Connection: The Rite Journey
At St Patrick’s College, we believe in nurturing not only the minds but also the hearts and souls of our young men. One of the most treasured traditions that reflects this philosophy is the Mother/Significant Female and Son Walk—a key component of The Rite Journey (TRJ) program.

Held during Term 2, this compulsory walk focused on the theme 'Relationship with Others', providing mothers or significant female figures and their sons the opportunity to share meaningful conversation and connection.

A Walk to Remember
There was a quiet sense of anticipation as we gathered and set off together for both the morning and afternoon walk sessions. The walk invited us to step away from the busyness of daily life and into an experience of presence—of listening, sharing, and truly seeing one another. It wasn’t just a walk in the physical sense, but a journey through memory, growth, and mutual discovery.

Conversations That Mattered
Along the way, we were guided by a series of thought-provoking questions that opened the door to deep and often surprising conversations:

- “Is there a part of your physical body you think men worry about the most?”
This question led to honest reflections about body image and self-esteem. It gave space to name insecurities and recognise the pressures placed on young men to look or behave a certain way.

- “How would you describe your experience of puberty?”
Here, laughter often met vulnerability. Sharing stories across generations helped us realise how universal (and sometimes awkward) this stage of life can be, while also affirming each person’s unique path through it.

- “What do you think you might value most in a person you’d like to be in a relationship with?”
This prompted important reflections on values, respect, and the kind of love and connection that truly matter. It allowed us to speak openly about relationships and what it means to build them with kindness and care.

- “What’s the most important thing in a healthy relationship?”
Discussions around trust, communication, and respect affirmed the foundations of strong relationships—within families, friendships, and future partnerships.

- “What useful things did you learn from sex education?”
This question gently invited openness, helping to normalise conversations about sex, consent, and personal boundaries. It also gave mothers and significant female figures the opportunity to affirm or clarify the messages their sons were hearing.

A Moment to Pause
Following the walk, we shared a light snack together. This simple gesture—sitting side by side and continuing our conversations—added another layer of connection. It was a moment to breathe, reflect, and simply enjoy each other’s company.

Strengthening the Bond
Looking back, this walk was far more than just a program requirement. It was a chance to slow down and really see one another—to connect, to listen, and to share stories that don’t often come up in everyday life. It reflected St Patrick’s College’s commitment to holistic education: forming young men not only in knowledge, but also in character, compassion, and connection.

For those who took part, the Mother/Significant Female and Son Walk left lasting impressions—reminders that strong relationships are built in the quiet moments, the shared stories, and the courageous conversations along the way.

We now look forward to sharing a similar experience next term, as we invite fathers or significant male figures to join their sons for a special walk on the last Thursday of the term—another opportunity to strengthen connections and continue the journey together.

Year 12 Parent Evening: Supporting the Journey to What's Next
As we approach the final stretch of the College year, we invited all Year 12 families to join us for the Year 12 Parent Evening—an important event focused on careers, QTAC, the Rite of Passage program, and strategies for finishing the year strong.

The evening was designed to equip both students and parents with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to navigate the transition from school to post-school pathways. Whether students are considering university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or entering the workforce, the session provided valuable insights and practical guidance.

Finishing Well: Advice for Families
The final months of Year 12 can be both exciting and overwhelming. Staff shared reflections on lived experiences, with a specific focus on practical ways to support students in the months ahead. Mind you, this advice could easily apply to all families in our community.

Be a calm presence
- Support and reassurance are more valuable than academic advice.
- Avoid adding pressure—encourage effort over results.

Create a supportive environment
- Help them maintain a healthy routine: sleep, meals, downtime.
- Encourage a balanced lifestyle and time for self-care.

Stay informed, but respect boundaries
- Know key dates (exams, applications), but let your son take the lead.
- Be available to talk, but don’t force conversations.

Celebrate their efforts
- Acknowledge hard work, regardless of outcomes.
- Plan something enjoyable after exams—a trip, dinner, or a relaxing day out.

Connection and Strength: Rebuilding the Battalion
Creating a culture of connection is key to student engagement—and for young men, that often starts with redefining what it means to be strong. Positive masculinity encourages traits like empathy, courage, and respect, helping boys feel safe to be themselves and genuinely support one another.

But even with the best intentions, we don’t always get it right. Our Senior leaders have worked hard this year to reimagine what it means to be a true Band of Brothers—not limiting that bond to the sidelines of football and rugby fields but extending it to all aspects of College life.

True support looks different. It’s asking, “Are you okay?” and really listening. It’s showing up, not just hyping up. It’s knowing that strength isn’t about staying silent; it’s about standing shoulder to shoulder—especially when things get tough.

An important part of my own St Pat’s journey came during our recent Back to Shorncliffe Day. It was here I saw the power of community and togetherness. And while there were moments when we weren’t at our best, there was a shared understanding of what it means to support one another (pictured).

We remain committed to creating spaces where our young men feel seen, valued, and engaged—not just in their learning, but in life.

Last weekend, St Patrick’s College faced Villanova College in the final round of the Term 2 AIC (Australian Independent Colleges) season. With premierships on the line and teams eager to finish the season on a high, it was fantastic to see our young men take to the field with passion and pride.

The season has flown by, and it’s hard to believe that Term 2 has already come to an end. One of the defining challenges this term has been the weather. Since the beginning of Week 6 in Term 1, the rain has been relentless. Weekly training sessions were cancelled, and many Football matches were impacted across all AIC venues due to waterlogged pitches. The Sports Department is especially grateful to the Curlew Park ground staff, who did an outstanding job each week to keep our fields open and playable.

Despite these challenges, our teams performed well on the pitch. In the past, we have not always been considered contenders by the larger AIC schools in Football or Rugby. However, as we’ve done in other sports, we’ve continued to make incremental improvements in the quality and competitiveness of our teams—and we’re closing the gap. Many of our more established rivals are learning that to underestimate us is to do so at their own peril.

While we didn’t take out many premierships across Football or Rugby this season, our teams proved they are more than competitive. There were many encouraging performances across all year levels in both codes.

This year’s Back to Shorncliffe Day fixture against Padua College was very well supported, with a large and energetic crowd. Inspired by the atmosphere, our teams lifted and produced excellent results against our Northside rivals. Moving forward, our goal is for students to bring the same level of commitment and passion to every game—not just the major occasions.

Season Highlights
There were three standout achievements in Term 2:

1st XI Football – AIC Premiers
It had been 10 years since our last Football premiership. The 1st XI had come close in recent years but had been unable to clinch the title—until now. Heading into Round 7, the team knew that a win against Villanova College would secure at least a share of the premiership.

The match started brilliantly, with James Black scoring a header in the opening minutes. The large SPC crowd erupted in celebration. Although we dominated possession and territory for much of the game, we couldn’t extend the lead, and the first half ended 1–0. The second half was tense, with Villanova refusing to give in. They hit the post late in the game, but we held firm.

With 10 minutes remaining, Connor Scully found the back of the net, giving us a valuable 2–0 cushion. Villanova kept pressing, but our boys were determined. At the final whistle, scenes of joy and celebration broke out among players, coaches, and the crowd. The 10-year wait was over—the 1st XI were crowned AIC Premiers. It was a fitting finale for our Year 12 players to end their school Football journey on such a high.

Coach Mr Dan Medhurst reflected:

“What a season and what a team of staff, coaches, and players we have! This fantastic achievement couldn’t have been reached without everyone pulling in the same direction and creating a hardworking culture. Not only did we play the best Football, but we were also the fittest team out there each week. Well done to everyone involved!”

7A Rugby – AIC Premiers
The 7A Rugby team entered Round 7 unbeaten and determined to finish strong. The game was a tight contest with no clear dominance. However, our team stuck to the game plan. As they’ve done all season, their tight defence frustrated the opposition. From limited possession, St Pat’s scored two first-half tries. The second half remained a defensive battle, with neither team able to score, resulting in a 10–0 win and an undefeated premiership.

9A Rugby – AIC Premiers
In another premiership decider, the 9A team also faced Villanova. The game was physical from the outset, with Villanova enjoying early pressure. Our defence stood firm, and on one of our rare attacks, we scored a converted try to lead 7–0 at halftime. Two second-half penalty goals extended the margin to 13–0, securing another undefeated premiership.

It had been 10 years since either of these age groups last secured an AIC Rugby premiership. To win both on the same day was a phenomenal achievement for the players and coaches.

1st XV Rugby – Strong Finish
Following a strong showing the week prior on Back to Shorncliffe Day, the 1st XV had one final opportunity to give their all. The game was played at a frenetic pace, with both teams attacking at every opportunity. St Pat’s dominated early, but unforced errors allowed Villanova back into the game. The final score of 26–41 was a fair reflection of the match. While our boys gave everything, Villanova’s polished performance saw them finish stronger.

Coach Mr Barry Faumausili commented:

“I’m proud of how the boys have fronted up, particularly over the last two rounds. They’ve shown real determination in both attack and defence and put their bodies on the line. Some of the tries we’ve scored were outstanding. I want to commend the outgoing Year 12s for their contribution to the 1st XV and wish them all the best as they conclude their Rugby journey at the College.”

So concludes the Term 2 AIC Season. Well done to all students who represented the College with spirit and determination. Congratulations again to the 1st XI Football Squad, and to the 7A and 9A Rugby teams for their outstanding premiership-winning seasons.

As we shift our focus to Term 3, we look forward to bringing you updates on our Basketball, Rugby League, and Tennis teams—where we intend to continue to Fight the Good Fight.

St Patrick's College AIC Chess Triumph
It has been years in the making, but the St Patrick's College First IV Chess team has claimed its first-ever outright Australian Independent Colleges (AIC) Premiership, finishing the Term 2 season undefeated.

In a staggeringly competitive division—historically dominated by St Peter’s Lutheran College and St Laurence’s College—the St Patrick’s College 1st IV Chess team (pictured left to right), comprising Oliver Allen, Hamish Gaskell, Max Phillips, Isaac Lawther and William Jones.

In the final round last Friday, our young men secured a thrilling away victory over Villanova College, clinching the outright premiership in a nail-biting finish. The team held their composure under immense pressure, showcasing their skill and resilience.

This remarkable achievement reflects years of commitment, with strategic training that has refined the abilities and mindset of our Chess players. The dedication of our students, coaches, and staff has paid off in spectacular fashion.

We congratulate all members of the St Patrick’s College AIC Chess Team, whose collective efforts saw the College finish third overall in 2025—an outstanding result that highlights the growing strength of Chess at the College.

A heartfelt congratulations to all the players, Coach Mr Jack Rogers, supervising staff Mr John Greenham and Mr Sam Norton, and our Chess Coordinator Ms Veronica Bannan (pictured) on an incredibly successful season.

For a more in-depth review of the 2025 AIC Chess season, please visit the AIC Sport Website.

Term 2 Music Evening & Music Tour Bon Voyage
Our Term 2 Music Evening and Bon Voyage Concert, held in the Christian Brothers Building on Tuesday evening of Week 8, was a resounding success. The event celebrated the vibrant musical talent within our College community and was attended by a large and enthusiastic audience. With 18 ensembles performing throughout the night—and hosted by Mr Laurent Dubois and our Music Captains, Zen Sutton and Kian Hooper Nguyen—the evening was a true showcase of the students' dedication and commitment to making great music together.

Performances included Big Band 3, Percussion Ensemble 3, Brothers in Song, Concert Band, Guitar Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble 2, String Ensemble, Junior Voices, Big Band 2, Junior Strings, Percussion Ensemble 1, Concert Winds, Singers, Chamber Strings, Boys from the Shore, and Wind Symphony. A highlight of the evening was the special performances by students preparing for the upcoming New Zealand Music Tour. The combined Tour Concert Band and Choir delivered an energetic rendition of My Shot from the Broadway musical Hamilton, along with a scintillating performance by the Tour’s Big Band.

We were deeply honoured to have Mr Paul Corfield join us for the evening, leading a commissioning and blessing of the Music Tour group.

We would like to congratulate and thank our Administration team, the Cultural Support Group, our Maintenance and Facilities staff, Audio Visual/IT staff, Tech Crew, and Stage Management team for their wonderful, concerted effort in allowing our young men to shine.

We extend our sincere thanks to Woods Music, based in North Lakes, and to Mrs Brenda Kinsella for their generous partnership with our Music program. We also thank our dedicated Music staff for their tireless efforts in making the evening such a success.

New Zealand Music Tour – Leaving Monday!
Excitement is building as the New Zealand Music Tour prepares for take-off next week. A group of 33 students and six staff members—including myself, Mrs Roxanne Rosenberg, Mr Laurent Dubois, Mrs Fiona Engwirda, Mrs Kristen Cadoo-Dagley, and Mr Kevin Camrass—will set out to make their musical mark across the North Island during the first week of the Term 2 holidays.

The Tour will begin in Auckland, where students will enjoy a special visit and recording session in a professional studio owned by Neil Finn of legendary rock band Crowded House. The itinerary includes a performance and workshop with the Manukau Symphony Orchestra, as well as a public performance in Aotea Square.

From Auckland, the group will then head to Rotorua for a thrilling mix of cultural and adventure experiences. Highlights include a visit to Velocity Valley Adventure Park, some leisurely (but no doubt competitive) luging, a magical trip to the famous Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie set Hobbiton, and an immersive Māori cultural experience—complete with a traditional hāngi.

The tour promises to be an unforgettable blend of music, culture, and brotherhood. We look forward to sharing many fantastic stories upon our return and extend our very best wishes to the attending staff and student musicians.

Put on your glad rags and get ready to razzle dazzle! The CSG invites you to our 2025 Trivia Night on Saturday, 2 August — and it’s all about stepping back into the Roaring Twenties! Think jazz tunes, secret speakeasies, swanky flapper style, and a whole lot of fun.

Doors swing open at 6pm, with the Trivia kicking off at 7pm sharp!

Tickets are just $200 for a table of 8 or $25 each — grab your gang and book your spot HERE!

Bring your own food and nibbles, and we’ll take care of the drinks (no BYO, please). With fabulous prizes for the best-dressed tables and the ultimate trivia champs, you’ll want to go all-in on the glitz and glamour.

It’s time to channel your inner Gatsby and dance the Charleston into a night of laughter, friendly competition, and roaring good times. We can’t wait to see you there!