From the College Principal

As another term draws to a close, I have found myself reflecting on the many ways our young men, staff and families bring the St Patrick's College Mission and Vision to life each day. Through their actions, we can easily see the Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) Charter Touchstones lived out in practical and meaningful ways across our community.

Central to this is the partnership we share as parents and educators in helping our young men grow into confident, compassionate and purposeful people. In her book Mattering, Jennifer Wallace argues that young people flourish when they know they are valued and that they have something meaningful to contribute. That message resonates strongly with me. Whether through learning, service, sport, culture, leadership or the everyday interactions that shape College life, our boys are constantly being encouraged to recognise their strengths and use them in the service of others.

When we acknowledge our young men not only for what they achieve, but also for how they treat others, respond to challenges and contribute to the wider community, we help them discover their God-given gifts and understand the difference they can make in the lives of others. As an Edmund Rice community, we want every young man to leave St Patrick's with a strong sense of who he is, a commitment to justice and service, and the courage to Fight the Good Fight throughout his life. Thank you for your partnership in this important work.

This commitment to belonging, leadership and service was reflected powerfully at Tuesday's Senior Leadership Rite of Passage Mass. During this significant occasion, our 2027 Seniors were presented with their Senior ties and, in the presence of their families and staff, pledged to unite as a cohort and generously serve our College community in the year ahead.

It marked an important step in their journey as Senior students and served as a timely reminder that leadership at St Patrick's College is not defined by a title or a tie, but by a willingness to serve others, strengthen relationships and contribute positively to our community.

That same spirit was evident throughout a term filled with opportunities, achievements and memorable moments. We have been incredibly proud of the way our young men have represented the College through Instrumental Music, Debating, Theatresports and Dance, as well as in our Trimester 3 Association Independent Colleges (AIC) sports of Basketball, Tennis and Rugby League.

I would also like to congratulate our College Hockey Team on its outstanding third-place finish in the Brisbane Schoolboys Cup. This is a tremendous achievement and a credit to the players, coaches and families who have supported the program. While several teams celebrated premiership success this term, what stands out most is the way our students have embraced teamwork, resilience and commitment to one another. The friendships formed, lessons learned and sense of connection developed through these experiences are every bit as important as the results themselves.

This weekend, our Champion Basketball School of Queensland (CBSQ) Senior Basketball Team heads to the Gold Coast to begin its campaign. I wish the team every success and look forward to getting along to support them. I would also like to acknowledge the many students who have earned selection in regional and State representative teams and, in the case of Theo Tsingos in Year 11, national representation in Cricket. I continue to be amazed by the talent, dedication and passion of our young men. As a College community, we take great pride in supporting each of our boys as they pursue excellence in whatever path they choose. I also extend my warmest best wishes to our athletes participating in holiday training, meets and games across Track and Field, Cricket, Basketball and Touch Football.

The opportunities available to our students would not exist without the generosity of so many members of our community. Whether you have assisted with sport, culture, learning, events, pastoral activities or one of the many other programs that enrich College life, your support makes a genuine difference. By volunteering your time, expertise and energy, you help create opportunities for our young men to grow, connect and thrive. On behalf of our students, staff and families, thank you for your contribution to the life of St Patrick’s College.

I would also like to acknowledge and thank Mr Sean Toovey, who has served as Acting Deputy Principal while Mr Frank Torrisi has taken some well-deserved leave; Mr Tim Hoysted, who stepped into the Dean of Students role; Mr Dom Crowley, who served as Acting Director of Students; and Mr Zane Kent, who served as Acting House Dean of Quane. Each has willingly taking on additional responsibilities and providing outstanding leadership throughout the term. Their calm, thoughtful and professional approach has ensured continuity and support for both students and staff, and I am sincerely grateful for their service.

I also want to recognise and sincerely thank every member of our College staff. Day after day, our staff go above and beyond to ensure our boys have the very best environment in which to learn, grow and thrive. Their care, professionalism and commitment are evident not only in the classroom, but across every aspect of College life. I am deeply grateful for the energy and generosity they bring to their work and for the difference they continue to make in the lives of our young men.

As another busy and rewarding term comes to an end, I would like to sincerely thank every member of our community for the contribution you have made throughout the term. Together, we continue to create opportunities for our young men to learn, grow and thrive.

I would like to extend my warmest wishes to all staff and students who are heading off to the slopes of Jindabyne and Perisher Ski Fields on Saturday. May your journey be safe, enjoyable, and filled with unforgettable moments.

I wish all our families a safe, restful and enjoyable break and look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4.