A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Welcome to another edition of Behind the Stripes.

In late 2019, the College commissioned an external consultant to engage with individuals from the extended Nudgee College community who have had past affiliations with the school. These individuals included past mothers and fathers, past staff members, Old Boys and their partners. Within this group there were those who have recently left the College including young Old Boys, as well as those whose association goes back over many years. The consultation also included representatives from established groups such as the Past Mothers’ Association and the Nudgee College Old Boys’ Association.

Why was the consultation undertaken? What was hoped to be achieved through the process? It has become evident that society has entered a time when schools, such as Nudgee College, are being asked to be more inclusive and to maintain connection for the extended school community in a contemporary manner. Not only do Old Boys wish to stay connected but so do mothers, fathers and staff members as their time at the College comes to an end. In researching ways for addressing these needs it was apparent that there were few models to follow and that the formulation of such a group would be largely pioneering work.

Subsequent to the consultation a report was written and tabled with the College Advisory Council and the College Leadership Team for their further consideration and discussion during Semester 1. This has continued throughout the course of 2021. As we approach the end of Nudgee College’s 130th year, it is timely to share the future directions that will stem from the consultation. In essence, the report made a strong recommendation that there is a desire within the College to remain connected from those individuals with past association.

Work is now underway within the College to form a new community group to address this. At present, this group has been given the title of the Nudgee College Alumni Community (NCAC). It is envisaged that the NCAC will be a natural extension of the numerous traditions and regular social, cultural, and business engagements established through the passion and commitment by many volunteer Old Boys, their spouses, past parents and teachers of Nudgee College.

We are moving towards the establishment of a new structure, the NCAC Advisory Committee, in early 2022. Terms of Reference need to be formulated that will include how the NCAC reports to the Principal and Nudgee College Advisory Council, as well as its working arrangements with existing alumni structures such as the NCOBA and Past Mothers’ Association. More information will be provided to the College community as this exciting and innovative initiative takes shape. Should you wish to register your interest for the NCAC, please contact Acting Director of Development and Communications Ms Hannah Kilburn (hkilburn@nudgee.qld.edu.au).

As always this Semester 2, 2021 edition of Behind the Stripes captures many dimensions of school life. While there have been interruptions and some cancellations due to COVID-19 during the course of the year, the reality is that day-to-day school life has continued (albeit with masks in the classroom; perhaps a first in our history!). Importantly there has been minimal disruption to Learning and Teaching. At the time of writing this and with a few days left of Year 12 External Assessment, all Seniors have been able to complete the full suite of assessment: something that looked unlikely at various times of the year.

Of course, we were very disappointed not to be able to host some signature events in Term 3. These included the Dimensions Art Festival, our home game with St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace that include various Old Boy reunions and the Boarders’ Bash as well as the Long Lunch. For our students the biggest disappointment was the interruption to Term 3 activities and Rugby Union, in particular. However, I do acknowledge how the 1st XV responded to this disappointment with resilience and a determination to maintain high standards. They can be very proud of their undefeated GPS season.

Throughout 2021, our 130th year was recognised and celebrated in a variety of ways. This edition features two of these. The blessing of our Great Cross was an atmospheric occasion and its raising is symbolic of our faith-filled history as well as our hope-filled future. It will be a landmark in a sacred precinct of the College grounds for generations to come. The launch of our 130th publication Reflections: Celebrating 130 Years of St Joseph’s Nudgee College, One Story at a Time was also a unique occasion. Its creator, Mr Brody Grogan, has captured the essence of Nudgee College through the stunning images and diverse stories of just some of the individuals and families who make up our community.

In commending this edition of Behind the Stripes to you, I do likewise recommend paying a visit to the school grounds to view the Great Cross and to spend time reading Reflections. Both are expressions of our famed Nudgee Spirit and both are expressions of Signum Fidei - a ‘Sign of Faith'.

WRITTEN BY PRINCIPAL MR PETER FULLAGAR