Contributors M r Scott Thomson, Ms Penny Roost, 2026 College Captains: Ethan Andrews, Vincent Meraveka, and Digger Rowthorne, Ms Robyn Mann, Mr Damien Barker, Baker Kerslake (Year 6), Roley Van Velthuizen (Year 11), Ms Stephanie Spicer, Ms Melissa Miller, Jack Williams (Year 8), Mr Casey Brealy, Ethan Di Francesco ( Year 6), Mr John Sayer, Ms Erina Hitchings, Ms Alison Kilgour, Cooper Ramsay ( Year 12), Oliver Soberon (Year 12), Freddie Orr (Year 8), Ms Emma Gawthorne, Ms Cathy Lamb, Mr Martin Harmon, Mr Troy Reynolds
Many thanks to M r Mark Anthony, Mr Cooper Corless, Ms Melissa Bates, Mr Will Duffield, M r James Horrocks, Dr Caroline Clancy, Mr Chris Cawley, Ms Rosemaree Rogers, Lucien De Wet (2025 College Dux)
Photography Brody Grogan Photography, Welcome to the Fold, Storymade Media, Nudgee College staff and students
Graphic Design M r Paul Elliot
Printing Screen Offset Printing
Editorial queries, feedback and change of address Telephone: 07 3865 0315 Email: magazine@nudgee.qld.edu.au
Behind the Stripes is published by St Joseph’s Nudgee College’s Development and Communications team in cooperation with other parties. Material in this publication is gathered from a range of sources and does not necessarily reflect the opinions and policies of St Joseph’s Nudgee College.
COPYRIGHT: All rights reserved. Copyright of articles and photographs of Behind the Stripes remain with the individual contributors and may not be reproduced without permission. Other material may be reproduced, but only with the permission of St Joseph’s Nudgee College.
We acknowledge the Turrbal First Nations Peoples of the land and waterways we now know as Nudgee.
St Joseph’s Nudgee College and NC Activities nudgee.com
To purchase a hard copy subscription for $15, please scan the QR code. This gets you two copies in a calendar year. Behind the Stripes is available in July and December.
Behind the Stripes is also available online. Contact us if you would like to exclusively receive a copy of Behind the Stripes via email. issuu.com/stjosephsnudgeecollege
EDITOR’S NOTE
Dear St Joseph’s Nudgee College community,
Marking 135 years of Nudgee College is more than a milestone, it’s a reminder of the people and moments that continue to shape this place each day.
In this edition, we’ve captured the focus and commitment in our classrooms, the energy of boarding, the competitiveness of sport and the creativity found in the arts. More than anything, these pages highlight the students and staff who bring Nudgee to life.
I hope this edition feels both familiar, and reveals something that allows you to see the College from a different perspective, and to appreciate the depth and character of the community we are all part of.
Mr Sid Varghese Editor
ON THE COVER
The 18th edition of Behind the Stripes features Year 10 student, Jordan Irvine on the cover, pictured alongside his Drumline group during Giving Day. With his big smile, Jordan reflects the energy, pride and enthusiasm that characterise student participation in cocurricular life, while also showcasing the sense of unity and shared purpose that Giving Day 2026 fostered across the Nudgee community.
6 12 22 38
56 NC Events
• Senior Investiture Commencement Mass
• Ladies Auxiliary Celebration
• Boarding Formal Dinner
• Welcome to Nudgee
• Anzac Day
• Evening on the Green
• Past Mothers’ Event
• Mother Son Luncheon Open Day
• National Boarding Week
• Long Lunch 64 NC Performing Arts
• Chess GPS Music Showcase
• Debating
• Esports
• Writers’ Circle
68 NC Sport
• Cattle Club
• Cricket
• Cross Country Football
• Rowing
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Volleyball
78 NCAM/NCOBA
• Alma Mater
• Past Mothers’ Report
• Signum Fidei RecipientsFaith in Action
• Everyday Sacrifice, Extraordinary Friendship
• Old Boys Report Old Boys Snapshot
86 NC Foundation: Support the Future of St Joseph’s Nudgee College
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Honouring Our Legacy
There is something deeply humbling about walking through the grounds of St Joseph’s Nudgee College each day. For 135 years, since 1891, generations of young men have walked these same pathways, sat in these classrooms, worn the same colours, and carried the same quiet sense of belonging. It is a legacy that is not simply remembered, it is lived.
To me, that legacy is both a privilege and a responsibility. The current Nudgee College students, staff and wider community are the stewards of this legacy.
It is a privilege because we are custodians of something far greater than ourselves. Nudgee was not built overnight, nor by accident. It has been shaped by the vision, sacrifice, and faith of those who came before us; educators, families, Old Boys, and students who believed in something enduring. Their efforts have created a school grounded in strong values, a deep sense of community, and a commitment to forming young men of character who will positively change their world.
But it is also a responsibility. Because a legacy is not something we simply inherit, it is something we must honour, protect, and grow.
The words that sit above the honour boards in Ryan Hall capture this beautifully: decori decus addit avito, “he adds honour to ancestral honour.” Each generation is called not only to receive what has been handed down, but to enrich it. To leave it better. To ensure that what we pass on is stronger, deeper, and more meaningful than what we received.
This idea shapes my daily role as Principal.
Every decision, whether related to the classroom, the theatre, sporting field, or in the broader life of the College, is guided by a simple question; Does this honour our legacy, and does it prepare our young men for the future? Because while the world around us continues to change at a rapid pace, the core of what Nudgee stands for has remained remarkably constant.
We are still, at our heart, a community grounded in faith, in respect for the dignity of each person, and in the belief that education is about far more than academic success. It is about forming men who will lead lives of purpose, integrity, and service.
The enduring values of Nudgee, faith, courage, humility, and compassion, are not relics of the past. They are as relevant today as they were in 1891. In fact, in a world that can often feel uncertain and fast moving, they are more important than ever.
As John Henry Newman once wrote, “To live is to change, and to be perfect is to have changed often.” Nudgee has certainly evolved over its 135 years. Our facilities have grown, our programs have expanded, and our understanding of education has deepened. But the essence of who we are has remained steady.
And that is our strength.
Because while we honour the past, we are not bound by it. In reflecting on the past, we should not aspire to live in it. The legacy of Nudgee does not call us to stand still, it calls us forward.
that will stay with them long after they leave these gates.
And it means reminding them that they are part of something bigger than themselves.
When a young man wears the Nudgee uniform, he carries with him 135 years of history. He represents those who have gone before him, and he shapes the experience of those who will follow. His actions matter, not just for today, but for the legacy he is helping to build.
The great civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. once said,
It challenges us to ask how we can best prepare our young men for a world that is very different from the one their predecessors entered. A world that demands adaptability, resilience, and a strong moral compass. A world where knowledge is important, but character is essential.
This is where legacy becomes a source of ambition.
We do not honour our history by preserving it unchanged. We honour it by building upon it. By ensuring that a Nudgee education equips our students not only to succeed, but to contribute meaningfully to the communities they will serve and lead. That means setting high expectations, academically, socially, and personally. It means encouraging our young men to strive for excellence, not for recognition, but because it is the right thing to do. It means forming habits of discipline, generosity, and leadership
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” That question lies at the heart of a Nudgee education. Our legacy is not measured only by achievements, but by the impact our young men have on the world around them.
The young people of today are the heirs for all the ages.
As we mark 135 years of Nudgee College, we do so with gratitude for those who have built this community, and with confidence in those who will carry it forward.
Because the story of Nudgee is not finished. It is still being written. And each of us, staff, students, families, and Old Boys, has a role to play in ensuring that we continue to add honour to the ancestral honour we have inherited.
Decori decus addit avito.
Mr Scott Thomson Principal
OUTOFTHEMUD INTOTHEFUTURE
Scan the QR Code to learn more.
Celebrating Our 2025 Graduates
The Class of 2025 defined a year that was unmistakably their own. Guided by determination, unity, and purpose, they created lasting moments and contributed a meaningful new chapter to the life of the College.
Academically, the cohort continued to excel, building on the strong foundations laid by those before them. When the Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks (ATAR) were released in December 2025, the results reflected not only outstanding achievement, but years of perseverance, late nights, and sustained commitment. Special congratulations to College Dux, Lucian De Wet, for attaining a perfect ATAR of 99.95, and Proxime Accessit,
6
17
Students achieved an ATAR of 99 or higher.
Students achieved an ATAR of 97 or higher.
25.6% Achieved an ATAR above 95.
43% Achieved an ATAR above 90.
Andrew La Monaca, for achieving 99.70. These outcomes stand as a powerful testament to the resilience, discipline, and quiet determination that defined this exceptional cohort.
We also acknowledge the outstanding Year 12 students who were awarded Dux of Subject honours. Their accomplishments highlight both individual excellence and the strong culture of learning and support that defines the College.
81% Achieved an ATAR above 80.
88.6
136
2025 Year 12 Dux of Subjects
Adam Fraser Dux of Legal Studies, Dux of Literature
Alex Smith Dux of Physics
Andrew La Monaca Dux of Mathematical Methods, Year 12 Proxime Accessit
Chace Crema Dux of Essential Mathematics
Davis Sturrock Dux of Agricultural Science
Ethan Rowan Dux of Creative IndustriesCert II
Harry Stoneman Dux of Economics
Harry Wright Dux of Agricultural Science
Henry Potter Dux of General Mathematics
Hilton Im Dux of Japanese
Hunta Thomas Dux of Legal Studies
Isaac Caputo Dux of Aviation Remote Pilot - Cert III
Jack Ezzy Dux of Design
Jack Plowman Dux of Accounting
Jack Williams Dux of Business
Median ATAR score of our Class of 2025.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications received.
Jem Harper Dux of Visual Art
Lachie Cook Dux of Physical Education, Dux of Spor t and Recreation
Levi Slater Dux of Spor ts CoachingCert II
Lucian De Wet Dux of Chemistr y, Dux of Engineering, Dux of Mathematical Methods, Dux of Specialist Mathematics, Dux of the College
Mason Cardew Dux of ElectrotechnologyCert II
Matthew Heath Dux of English, Dux of Physics
Michael Beirne Dux of Essential English
Noah Wright Dux of Business - Diploma
Oliver Gegg Dux of Design
Oliver Lovell Dux of Music Extension
Ollie Linde Dux of Modern History
Roan McNamara Dux of Biological Science
Mastering the Journey
At the pinnacle of the Class of 2025 stands College Dux, Lucian De Wet, whose exceptional results reflect not only academic ability, but determination, resilience, and a thoughtful approach to learning. From navigating the challenges of Year 11 to mastering the demands of senior assessments, Lucian consistently sought to grow, learn, and make the most of every opportunity.
In the following Q&A, he shared the study habits, mindset, and experiences that shaped his success. What study habits or routines made the biggest difference for you during your senior years?
What helped most was developing the habit of consistently engaging
Robert Wilson Dux of Rural OperationsCert III
Ryan Matthews Dux of Digital Solutions, Dux of Religion and Ethics
Samuel Tulley Dux of English and Literature Extension
Sean Reed Dux of Music, Dux of Music Extension
Spencer Ward Dux of Design
Toby Harvey Dux of Study of Religion
Wil O’Rielley Dux of Philosophy and Reason
William Condon Dux of Drama
William Deeran Dux of Drama
Wyley Thorn Dux of ConstructionCert II, Dux of Engineering Pathways - Cert II
Xander Holmes Dux of Visual Arts in Practice
with teacher feedback during class and submitting the strongest draft I could. This allowed me to make the most of feedback opportunities and ensured I didn’t lose marks unnecessarily. After completing internals, the months leading up to externals became a period of focused, consistent study. I found that maintaining a routine of three to four hours of study each afternoon, even if it involved low-effort revision, was crucial for building momentum and strengthening my learning foundation.
Can you share a time you faced academic pressure or setback, and how you stayed motivated?
During Year 11, the transition from generous marking and relatively easy assessments was a significant shock. Assignments were particularly challenging, and receiving several lower-than-usual marks led to disappointment and self-doubt. However, Year 11 ultimately became an important learning period. I realised I needed to take my work more seriously and increase the effort I was putting in. I used these setbacks as motivation to spend more time drafting, actively seek out and apply teacher feedback, and ensure each assignment was completed to the best of my ability.
As someone who achieved exceptional results at Nudgee College, how do you think the school’s culture or opportunities helped shape your success?
The school’s culture of balancing academic work with extra-curricular sport helped me avoid burnout. The strong sense of spirit among my friends, along with supportive teachers, helped keep spirits high during stressful periods. The teachers were exceptional in helping me achieve the results I wanted, consistently providing guidance, support, and resources. Without the opportunities and support Nudgee offered, I would not have been able to achieve the results I did.
Lucian De Wet.
One Journey, Two Generations
For Mark Tocchini, his first day at Nudgee is still vivid. Sitting under Duhig as a young boy, he remembers a Brother tossing each new student a rugby ball as they passed.
“Luckily, I caught it,” he laughs, “but I had no idea what I was doing at training that afternoon.” It was a baptism of sorts, into rugby, into brotherhood, and into a school that would shape his life.
“My mother was the driving force behind it,” he reflects. “She used to say the walls bled history, and that made me feel lucky to be there.” With most boys’ boarders at the time, earning your place took effort, but once you did, “you felt part of something bigger, and that pride never leaves you.”
Some of Mark’s fondest memories are of teamwork. Playing in the 3rds XV in his senior year, he recalls an undefeated season. “It showed what 15 boys can do when they all work together. Winning as a team was something else entirely, it really lifted our spirits.”
Now, years later, he watches his son Braxton walk those same paths.
“I’m very proud, and I can see him starting to work out those relationships as I did,” Mark says. “But importantly, it’s his path, not mine, I have to remind myself of that, especially with the generational gap.”
For Braxton, having a Nudgee dad comes with its moments. “He’s told me a lot of stories,” he says, smiling. “Some probably shouldn’t be repeated.”
One, however, gets frequent airtime, the famous rugby ball test on day one. “I’ve definitely heard that more than once,” Braxton laughs. “It’s a good story, but yeah, I know it well.”
There are others too, like the classic tuckshop prank involving milkshakes.
“Dad was a bit of a practical joker,” Braxton admits.
But beyond the stories, there’s something deeper. “It made me feel like I belonged here before I even started because Dad went here,” he says.
That sense of belonging grew quickly.
“In my first week, boys just sat down, had a chat, and found common ground.
Joining the Cattle Club has been great too, meeting boys with similar interests.”
“It’s easier to talk to Dad about school because he gets it,” Braxton adds.
“Especially with mates or schoolwork, he understands the Nudgee way.”
Both father and son speak about belonging. For Mark, it was something earned over time. For Braxton, it came quickly, but no less meaningfully.
Looking ahead, Mark hopes his son takes more than just an education.
“That’s important, of course,” he says, “but it’s the camaraderie I hope stays with him, the kind you carry for life.”
And while much has changed, the size of the school, the facilities, even the classroom experience, some things remain exactly the same.
“The humour,” Braxton says.
“The spirit,” Mark adds.
Across generations, the thread is clear, Nudgee is more than a school.
It’s a shared journey, one of friendship, pride, and a brotherhood that stands the test of time.
Ms Penny Roost Alumni and Community Manager
THE CAPTAINS
BEYOND the BLAZER
Behind every blazer is a story, not just of leadership, achievement, or possibility, but of growth, vulnerability, humour and heart.
As Captains in our 135th year, our leaders are often seen at assemblies, on the sidelines, and at the front of the community. They represent the College with pride and confidence. Yet leadership is not only forged in public moments; it is shaped in the quieter spaces, in early mornings, in difficult choices, in moments of doubt, and in the experiences that stay with you long after they’ve passed. This piece invites you to meet our Captains beyond their titles. Each was asked to complete the sentence, “If you really knew me, you’d know that...” What follows are honest, and personal reflections, stories that reveal something unseen behind the blazer.
“If you really knew me, you’d know that I grew up on a family farm.”
For College Captain Ethan Andrews, leadership begins there, in early starts and long days alongside his dad, doing whatever needed to be done. “It didn’t feel like much at the time,” he reflects, but the rhythm of that life, and nights spent finishing a job before the rain came, instilled something lasting. “That’s where I picked up most of my values.”
Years later, returning to the farm, he recognises how deeply those moments shaped him, a quiet foundation of reliability, responsibility and leading by example.
Across each story, there is no single path to leadership. Instead, there are moments, some quiet, some uncertain, some unexpected, that shape character over time.
For Vice Captain Vincent Meraveka, it begins with hesitation. “If you really knew me, you’d know that in Year 5, I asked my parents not to send me to Nudgee.” Grounded in the familiarity of his primary school and the friendships he wasn’t ready to leave, the thought of stepping into something new felt uncertain.
Yet in that decision, one he didn’t choose at the time, he found growth.
Nudgee became more than a school; it became a brotherhood. “It has taught me that moving forward in life is essential,” he says, a lesson that now shapes how he leads, encouraging others to embrace change and discover who they can become beyond their comfort zone.
And for Vice Captain Digger Rowthorne, the story takes an unexpected turn under stage lights.
“If you really knew me, you would know that I was Jafar in two separate Aladdin musicals growing up.” In a childhood filled with rugby, surfing and the outdoors in Coffs Harbour, it was a drama that left a different kind of mark. Confidence, expression, and
the courage to be seen came not from the field, but from performance. At times, he felt the weight of expectation, the idea that certain passions didn’t belong together. Looking back, he sees it differently. “There should never be any reason to suppress what you love.”
Across each story, there is no single path to leadership. Instead, there are moments, some quiet, some uncertain, some unexpected, that shape character over time. Whether it is learning to show up and do your part, stepping into the unknown, or embracing every part of who you are, these experiences live on beneath the blazer.
Together, they remind us that leadership is not defined by a title or a moment in the spotlight, but by who you are when no one is watching. As we celebrate 135 years of Nudgee, our Captains lead not only with pride, but with authenticity, humility and purpose, shaped by the stories they carry and the ones they continue to write.
14 In Conversation with Our New
Dean of Students
James Horrocks
There is a deep sense of purpose that underpins our conversation with Nudgee College’s new Dean of Students, a commitment to formation, belonging, and the holistic development of young men as true Signum Fidei.
Having long admired the College from afar, James speaks warmly about what first drew him north.
“Nudgee is a school that I have always heard wonderful things about,” he explains. “Its approach to learning and teaching, along with its focus on the overall formation of young men as Signum Fidei, has always impressed me.”
Coming from another Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) community, the move felt both natural and intentional. “The charism and approach taken to forming young men in the Edmund Rice tradition has always resonated with me and my own approach to boys’ education and development.”
Prior to joining Nudgee, he served for over a decade at Waverley College as Director of Student Wellbeing and a member of the College Leadership Team. He also held leadership roles at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College Kensington within the Sydney Catholic Schools system. Across State, Catholic and Independent sectors, his work has consistently centred on pastoral care, academic leadership, and student formation.
At the heart of his philosophy is what he describes as “high expectations and high support.”
“I believe in maintaining high expectations to help push students to achieve their best and become the best versions of themselves,” he says, “while also providing general and targeted support to give students the skills and formation they need to meet those high expectations.”
For James, supporting students is about walking alongside them.
“It’s about guiding them in their growth and choices, rather than holding their hands and making decisions for them.”
By fostering relational environments where students feel safe and respected, he believes boys are empowered to flourish academically, spiritually and personally.
Looking ahead, two key priorities shape his vision: belonging and mattering.
“Students should feel not only that they belong to their school community, but that they actually matter to it,” he says.
In a College community as diverse as Nudgee’s, spanning boarding, day and international students from urban and rural backgrounds, ensuring every boy feels genuinely seen and heard is essential.
A defining experience from his previous school illustrates this commitment. When leading the
development of a new Student Wellbeing Framework, students were placed at the centre of the process. Through focus groups and feedback, boys helped shape the language, symbols and delivery of the framework itself.
“That experience reinforced for me that formation and community building is not done to students; it is done with them,” he reflects. “Genuinely involving students in policies and frameworks that impact them directly enhances belonging and engagement.”
Since arriving at Nudgee, the welcome has been unmistakable.
“The staff, students and families have been incredibly welcoming and authentic,” he says. “It is clear that Nudgee is a school with deep tradition, strong charism and clear purpose, but also with a keen eye on the present and future of boys’ education.”
With presence, connection and relational leadership at the forefront, James is eager to help guide the boys of Nudgee as they grow into young men ready to make a positive contribution to the world, true Signum Fidei.
In One Word, NUDGEE
135 Years, Countless Stories, One Word at a Time.
Nudgee College is not just a place of learning, it is a feeling, legacy, and a shared loved experience shaped by generations of boys, families, and staff. The Nudgee Spirit is not something that can be measured or captured in a single moment; it is found in everyday conversations, shared challenges, small victories, and the quiet acts of care that define life within our community.
For some, Nudgee represents belonging, for others it speaks to opportunity, resilience, faith, friendship, service or growth. Each person’s connection to the
College is unique, shaped by their own journey, and the people who walked alongside them along the way.
On the following pages, four members of our community share one word that captures what Nudgee means to them, along with the story behind that word. While no single reflection can speak for every experience, together they form a powerful portrait of a College that lives not only in its traditions and history, but in the hearts and minds of all who proudly call it ‘home’.
Beyond
Since starting at Nudgee, I’ve realised it’s more than a school. I’ve embraced new experiences, both sporting and academic, some easy and others challenging. Nudgee pushes me beyond expectations, comfort zones, and in the classroom, teaching life lessons beyond grades. Beyond winning, and beyond forgery or imitations, it’s uniquely ours, focusing on effort and growth.
Baker Kerslake Year 6 Student
Opportunity
Since commencing in 2004, the one word that defines Nudgee for me is opportunity. Our community invites students and staff to deepen faith in the Catholic tradition and serve through social justice. In classrooms and beyond, young men pursue excellence across academic, cultural, and sporting pathways. As a teacher and House Dean, I’m privileged to nurture growth, character, belonging, and faith.
Robyn Mann Shaw House Dean
Mateship
Not long after leaving Nudgee, many of our senior class gathered in Kingaroy to farewell a dear mate taken far too soon. In that moment of shared grief, mateship was formed during our time at Nudgee. It was more than school friendship; it was a bond that endured. Across rugby fields, weddings and life’s milestones, those Nudgee mates have remained a constant presence.
Damien Barker NCOB 1966
Brotherhood
Being a boarder has shown me that Nudgee is about more than education, it’s about the people you share it with. Brotherhood means supporting one another, celebrating successes, and facing challenges together. Whether in class, on the sports field, or during everyday moments, this bond shapes who we are, teaching loyalty, respect, and the value of lifelong friendships.
Roley Van Velthuizen
Year 11 Student
New Approach to Enrichment
Academic Allstars is a new academic Enrichment program introduced in 2026 for Year 5 and Year 6 (Semester 2).
Participating students were invited to extend on their learning following the Future Problem-Solving curriculum designed to consider real world global issues through research, collaboration and structured thinking with an emphasis on critical and creative thinking, strong communication, ethical decision making; preparing students for an ever-changing world. This year’s prescribed topics include: Invasive Species, Space Exploration, Video Games and Surveillance
Participating Year 6 students who received either a Gold or Silver academic award at the conclusion of 2025 include: Niki Bhuimbar, Digby Booth, Ethan Di Francesco, Gus Geyer, Ned Gransbury, Harry Hobbs, Kobe Hufer, Finbar McCaffrey, Hamish Miller, Vincent Moore, Josh Oddie, Louis Orr, Chase Page, Sawyer Pugh, Marcus Waugh and Jasper Wright.
“The Academic Allstars program in the Junior School provides a purposeful and structured opportunity to extend our high-achieving students beyond the core curriculum. By engaging our students in rich, collaborative tasks and emphasising higher-order thinking, the program not only enhances engagement and academic growth but also nurtures the learning habits essential for long-term success. The selected students have
demonstrated a deep love of learning, and this program provides an ongoing opportunity to harness and further develop that enthusiasm in a meaningful and engaging way. It is a wonderful addition to the range of learning opportunities provided to our students in the Junior School.”
Mr Paul Cazzulino (Director of Learning & Teaching Junior School)
Here is what some of our students had to say about their experience with the program so far:
“Throughout my journey, I have realised that an Enrichment program for excelling students is completely essential, Academic Allstars was perfect. It not only helps us to thrive as a society, but also strives towards a better future. In these lessons, we have enjoyed topics toward space and how it can develop our future.” Gus Geyer (Dux of Year 5 2025)
“Academic All Stars has been an enjoyable activity outside of the regular curriculum with a fun environment with people not from your normal class. It poses challenges that you wouldn’t have to overcome in the usual classroom, adding another layer to learning.” Finbar McCaffrey (Proxime Accessit of Year 5 2025)
Ms Stephanie Spicer Program Leader of Enrichment
TECHNOLOGY WITH PURPOSE
Nudgee Students Build for Good
Teaching Digital Solutions at St Joseph’s Nudgee College means helping students understand how technology can solve real problems. But there is nothing quite as rewarding as seeing former students take the skills they began developing here and put them to work in such a genuinely positive way, and in service of their fellow Nudgee brothers.
It began with a request through our Boarding community. The mother of a former boarder, a young man paralysed in a car accident, reached out asking whether a group of students might lend their skills to something meaningful. Through his recovery, her son had connected with another remarkable young person who responded to life-changing injury with purpose, founding The Sharing Shed, a charity inspired by the Walking With Ava Foundation, which loans disability equipment to those who need it most.
What followed is a beautiful example of the Boarding community and Old Boys network coming together. Could we help? The answer was never in doubt.
In Their Own Words
When we heard about the opportunity to support The Sharing Shed, we all looked at each other and just said, ‘When can we start?’
Getting to work together with other Old Boys for such a special cause has been a great experience. We’ve been
working on building a website for The Sharing Shed to help take their initiative nationwide. The charity was initially set up as a physical shed for sharing unused mobility equipment like wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches. We’re taking it online by building a ‘Facebook Marketplace’ style app.
It’s incredibly rewarding getting to work with your mates while knowing you’re making a real difference to the thousands of Australians who need mobility equipment every day.
A major highlight of our time working on this project was visiting The Sharing Shed’s physical space. It was eyeopening to see the generosity of the community and the sheer amount of second-hand equipment being given a second life. We were also surprised at how quickly the initiative is outgrowing the shed, having already filled up two storage units in just a couple of months. We’re very excited to help grow The Sharing Shed online and allow people all over the country to exchange mobility equipment.
Nudgee College would like to congratulate 2023 Old Boys, Mitchell Dudurovic, Darcy Franklin, Oliver Kele, Rohan Shirkhedkar, and 2022 Old Boy Harveer Birk for their incredible work on this project and appreciate the time they have put into this article.
How the Nudgee Community Can Help
We’d love to hear from other members of the Old Boy community who may be able to provide ongoing support to The Sharing Shed. You can get involved by:
Donating unused mobility equipment
• Spreading awareness online and in your networks
• O ffering technical support or resources to help the initiative grow
Being involved in this cause has been a privilege, and we can’t wait to see how The Sharing Shed grows online.
Ms Cathy Lamb Head of Technologies
NC SNAPSH T
EDMUND RICE LITURGY
During Term 2, the College community gathered in prayer to mark the Feast Day of Blessed Edmund Rice. The liturgy reflected on his enduring example, encouraging students and staff alike to carry forward his spirit through their actions and to embody what it means to be a true Signum Fidei, a ‘Sign of Faith’ in the lives of others.
ASH WEDNESDAY
On Wednesday 18 February, the College gathered at the Christian Brothers’ Conference Centre (CBCC) to mark the start of Lent through an Ash Wednesday liturgy. Staff and students were invited to receive ashes in the shape of a cross on their foreheads, offered by Fr John Gillen, senior students, and Principal, Mr Scott Thomson.
CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA
On Friday 6 March, Junior School students and staff came together under the O’Neill undercroft before spreading out across the southern end of the campus collecting rubbish.
WORLDS GREATEST SHAVE
A huge congratulations to our students, staff, and volunteer shavers for taking part in this year’s World’s Greatest Shave! Thanks to the generosity and effort of our community, we raised over $56,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation, an outstanding achievement from everyone at Nudgee College.
ST JOSEPH’S DAY MASS
On Thursday 19 March, the College community came together to mark St Joseph’s Day. Established in 1891, St Joseph’s Nudgee College in Brisbane was placed under the patronage of St Joseph by the Christian Brothers, reflecting the qualities they seek to inspire in their young men, courage, loyalty and integrity.
DA VINCI DECATHLON
Congratulations to Nudgee students who competed in this year’s da Vinci Decathlon at Brisbane Boys College.
NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK
We recognised National Reconciliation Week and embraced the true meaning of this year’s theme “All In” at Nudgee! Led by our Liberating Education Program, activities throughout the week included a O’Brien dorm campfire, Year 6 Art Workshop, Mass at St Stephen’s Cathedral, and connecting online with Aurukun State School via zoom just to name a few!
YEAR 5 CAMP
Year 5 enjoyed an unforgettable three-day adventure, embracing the weather and throwing themselves into a range of exciting and challenging activities. The experience provided plenty of opportunities for the boys to step outside their comfort zones, build friendships and create lasting memories together.
A new chapter for the
College Advisory Council
December 2025 marked a significant transition for the Nudgee College Advisory Council (CAC), as Br Damien Price concluded six years of service as Chair and Dr Caroline Clancy stepped into the role.
A General Practitioner with more than two decades of experience, Caroline brings a deep commitment to care, service, and community, values closely aligned with the spirit of Nudgee College.
A proud Nudgee parent alongside her husband Liam, Caroline has two sons who have been actively engaged in College life, with one currently at the College and the other graduating in 2025, giving her a genuine understanding of the student and family experience. Since joining the Council in 2023 in the Formation role, she has demonstrated a strong connection to Edmund Rice Ministries, a deep faith, and a consistent focus on student-centred decision-making.
Reflecting on the transition into the role of Chair, Caroline says the pastoral focus she developed through the Formation portfolio continues to guide her approach to leadership.
“I have spent the last three years in the Formation role on the Council, meeting with the Dean of Mission and Identity and the Dean of Students regularly, to provide updates on those areas to CAC meetings. This sense of a pastoral relationship with the CAC has extended to my role as Chair, and I still feel a strong connection to the Formation role, as matters of student wellbeing and spirituality underpin every decision we make at Council.”
Caroline also acknowledges the leadership of Br Damien Price and the example he set during his time as Chair.
“Br Damien brought faith, humility and a sense of humour to his role as Chair, and while I may not have his dance moves, I hope to build on his dedication to ensuring each student who passes through Nudgee has the opportunity to reach their potential, in whichever area that lies; that they and their families know they are part of a wider community, and that they are taught by staff who feel valued and supported.”
Central to Caroline’s vision for the Council is maintaining a strong focus on the student experience. While the Council considers the broader strategic direction of the College, she believes it is essential that the individual student remains at the heart of every decision.
“While we look at the big picture of Nudgee College, we remain conscious of the detail, the day to day, the individual within that picture that is the Nudgee student, and during my time as Chair, my goal is to ensure that he, and his Nudgee experience, remains central to our decision making. It is important to
me that we are an intentional Council, and thoughtful in our processes, and remain true to Edmund’s charism. There are some significant projects in Nudgee’s future, and I look forward to supporting Scott and the school as these commence, and we see Nudgee grow and develop.”
Caroline also highlights the value of the Council’s diverse membership, which brings together parents, Old Boys, boarding families and former staff, each contributing insights drawn from their connection to the College community.
“As a Council whose members are parents, NCOBs, boarding families and previous staff members, the Council provides insights into all the areas of College life, from both their personal experience, as well as their work on their respective subcommittees. With this in mind, each time the Council acts in its advisory capacity, the goal is first and foremost what is best for both the student and the school.”
Looking ahead, Caroline is energised by the opportunities before the College and the role the Council can play in supporting its continued growth.
“The opportunity to support Scott and the school in some exciting projects over the next few years, as well as the ongoing incredible work in all areas of the school - academic, cultural, sporting, boarding, spirituality. Nudgee’s reputation continues to gain strength, and it’s exciting to be witness to the incredible behind the scenes work that contributes to this.”
“While we look at the big picture of Nudgee College, we remain conscious of the detail, the day to day, the individual within that picture that is the Nudgee student.”
30
INTER-HOUSE SNAPSH T
The Br Vic Larkin Shield campaign began with an action-packed Interhouse Swimming Carnival, as Houses proudly displayed their colours and competed with spirit in the pool. From fast-paced races to energetic relays, and plenty of fun along the way, students from Years 5 to 12 created an exciting atmosphere. Well done to Duggan House on securing the first major win of the year, and to Fogarty House, who had come second.
March carried that energy forward with the Inter-house Cross Country Carnival, held across the College’s
picturesque grounds. Students took on courses ranging from 2km to 6km, demonstrating resilience, stamina, and strong House spirit throughout. After consistent performances across all divisions. It was the same one-two again, as Duggan House finished the day in first place, with Fogarty coming in second.
Inter-house competition continued in Term 2, with Chess. Across a series of tightly contested matches, students demonstrated sharp strategy, patience, and sportsmanship. Well done to all competitors, and
congratulations to Shaw on securing the win with Tierney coming in second.
Also in Term 2, the Inter-house Showcase saw weeks of rehearsal come to life on stage. From music and movement to creativity and comedy, each House delivered performances full of energy and personality. After an entertaining afternoon, Shaw House reigned supreme yet again.
With Inter-house Debating, Track and Field, and Esports still ahead in Semester 2, the battle for the Br Vic Larkin Shield has only begun.
Rising Star, Right at Home
From walking the halls as a student to now shaping them as a valued staff member in the Performing Arts department, Will Duffield (NCOB 2023) has created spaces where creativity and confidence can flourish.
Recently named Rising Star of the Year by The Educator, Will has quickly become known for the energy, care and encouragement he brings to every program he leads, inspiring students to find their voice and grow in confidence.
For him, Performing Arts and the creative areas he coordinates are not only about skills or competition, they are about helping students find their voices, build confidence, and feel truly seen. Every debate, match and workshop become an opportunity to spark imagination, foster connection and strengthen a sense of belonging within the Nudgee community.
Will considers the recognition less like an accolade and more like affirmation. “Awards are often framed as arrival
points,” he reflects. “In education, they’re better understood as affirmations of direction.” For him, that direction is clear, relational, student-centred learning where creativity, trust and challenge exist side by side. That philosophy is evident across the Performing Arts spaces he helps lead. Under the guidance of Director of Performing Arts, Mr Sam Smith, Debating, Esports, and Writers’ Circle have continued to grow in depth and culture. “Performing Arts at Nudgee is not simply about performance,” Will says. “It is about voice. It is about courage.”
His own memories as a student still shape the way he approaches his work today. What stands out most is not a trophy or result, but the
sense of brotherhood and teachers who cared about who he was becoming. One defining moment was helping run the College’s first Inter-house Esports competition in 2022. Watching Tierney auditorium filled with students, cheering on their mates affirmed something powerful for Will, belonging can be cultivated in many forms. That belief underpins his approach to mentoring. He speaks about noticing effort before outcome, drawing quieter students into conversation, and creating spaces where boys feel genuinely seen. Often, the most meaningful growth happens beyond the classroom, in a lunchtime rehearsal, after-school training session, or a conversation that builds trust.
One student story in particular stays with him. A new boarder, overwhelmed by the transition to College life, tentatively joined an Esports session. One week became two. Attendance became routine. Routine became belonging. Today, that same student mentors’ younger boys and helps shape the direction of the program. “Confidence is rarely built in a single dramatic moment,” Will says. “More often, it grows through supported challenges and steady encouragement.” Looking ahead, Will’s goal is simple: that every Nudgee student who steps into a Performing Arts space leaves more confident, more capable, and more connected than when they arrived. In many ways, his journey has now come full circle. The boy who once found his place at Nudgee, now ensures others find theirs.
“Performing Arts at Nudgee is not simply about performance. It is about voice. It is about courage.”
Nudgee’s Learning Playground
Many people still associate libraries with lonely places, where children sit silently and work in solitude. At Nudgee College, our library has been carefully curated and nurtured to become a lively, engaging place of connection. If your son says he spends lunchtime in the library, he might be part of our Robotics Club, where children work together to conceptualise, code, and create robots using our LEGO Spike kits. He could be coming to LEGO Club, where students collaborate and share creative ideas, letting their imaginations run wild with endless possibilities. He could be versing peers in board games, chess, or connecting with peers through brutal games of Uno Flip. He might be coming in to talk to our fabulous, friendly library staff about his day, an assignment, some research, or about finding something wonderful to read. He may even just be popping in to visit our Nudgee budgies, Bert and Ernie, or our rainbow fish. Perhaps he is coming along to one of the clubs that run from our space like Writers’ Circle, Open Doors, or Maths Homework Help? Whilst he may also come in to complete some last-minute homework or study, or to work on assignments, for libraries still remain a place for focused work, our students are encouraged to collaborate: to talk, test each other, share ideas, and learn together. Gone are the days of the silent, lonely library. Our library is a place of connection and learning. It’s also a place that fosters interest: an interest in learning, an interest in new topics, an interest in activities, and an interest in others.
Often, when people think of libraries, they imagine silent, serious spaces lined with books, inhabited by studious young people and cranky librarians who patiently wait to pounce on the perpetrator of even the faintest noise. References: Webber, C. (2024, May 22). Why
Reading is known to build empathy, assist in the development of selfidentity, and help us connect with, understand, and relate to others and the world around us (Webber, 2024).
As a home of books and information, it’s important that our library reflects the very benefits we want students to gain from reading, so that we can help them become the fullest version of themselves throughout their time at Nudgee. We want our students to discover new interests, to make new friends, and to engage with new concepts. We want them to discover themselves, their loves, passions, values, and their identities, in the representations and information they find on the pages of books. Ultimately, we want our students to find the topic or interest that really sparks
their desire to know more, as this encourages a genuine engagement in learning.
In this way, our library is far more than a place to borrow books, it is an engaging, safe, inclusive space where students feel a sense of belonging. It is where friendships are formed, ideas are shared, wellbeing is nurtured, and curiosity is ignited. While the image of the silent library may still exist in popular imagination, the reality at Nudgee College is something far richer: a vibrant, welcoming environment where students are encouraged not only to learn, but to connect, create, and grow.
Ms Melissa Miller Head of the Learning Centre
FROM THE WRITERS’ CIRCLE DESK
Sacred Spaces, Shared Stories
Certain places within a College transcend their physical form and become woven into its living identity. At Nudgee, the grandstand at Ross Oval, the Treacy Building, and the Chapel are among those placesspaces that have become custodians of memory, tradition, and faith. Across generations, they have borne witness
My first memory of Nudgee was at Ross Oval watching the Rugby First XV play against the black and red. At five years old, I remember hearing the cries of the Nudgee Grandstand bellow out across the packed oval. This day has resonated with me until my first time in the Grandstand as a student. This time, we were in a very close match with our visitors from Ipswich Grammar School. But this day at Ross Oval, I felt a different sort of feeling. It wasn’t one of awe, confusion, or wonder. It was one that no words can describe: Nudgee Spirit. Every time I walk to the Grandstand, I think back to that afternoon and the immense sense of belonging that I felt as a student of Nudgee.
I also feel a deep sense of pride as a third-generation Nudgee man. When I sit down for my Humanities class in Duhig on a Monday morning, I am reminded that I am learning in the same place my great-great uncle did 97 years ago, in 1929. It makes me feel connected to the past and proud to be part of such a strong tradition. However, I know that I am not the only one with this kind of story. Hundreds of students have ancestral ties to Nudgee, each with their own story and legacy. Equally, firstgeneration students that walk through these gates carry their own stories from diverse backgrounds. It is this combination that truly makes Nudgee so special. It is our ability to
to the experiences of countless young men, quietly shaping the spirit and character of those who pass through them each day. The following reflective piece captures one student’s deeply personal journey through these spaces - a journey shaped by family legacy, College tradition, and the enduring call to live as a ‘Sign of
connect and share this sacred space and all its 135 years of history that makes Nudgee mean so much to so many.
My grandfather, Brian Williams (NCOB 1963) often tells me a story about his first days at Nudgee. While he says the College was different, many traditions have remained the same.
Boys still have to wear collared shirts into the dining hall, attend Mass on
It is our ability to connect and share this sacred space and all its 135 years of history that makes Nudgee mean so much to so many.
a Sunday evening, and still chant the same war cry. One notable difference was the school song. Set to the World War II tune The Halls of Montezuma, it focused almost exclusively on the Nudgee First XV, boldly declaring, “Admiration of all GPS we’re the finest ever seen and we glory in the title of the Nudgee” and celebrating its dominance across the GPS. However, the current hymn ‘Sign of Faith’ glorifies a different honour. It is one of unity, one of a man who espouses Catholic values while still reflecting on the individual journey of a Nudgee man. It shows that Nudgee is more than just a venue for
Faith’. His story reminds us that while buildings may age and songs may change, the spirit that binds Nudgee men across the decades remains steadfast, connecting past, present, and future in one shared story.
Mr Will Duffield Writers’ Circle Coordinator
a sporting field or classrooms, having become a school for everyone in its storied tenure.
Circling back to my first memory of Nudgee, there is someone special who made that happen. My father Dan ‘Danny’ Williams. He was a Nudgee Old Boy of 1993 but stayed as a part of the staff as a Boarding Supervisor. It was his actions that instilled my love for Nudgee from a young age, which I am forever thankful for. Additionally, it was my brother Paddy (NCOB 2025), who truly showed me what it means to be a Nudgee man.
In closing, music artist Tim McGraw encourages listeners to “hold the door,” say “please” and “thank you,” “don’t steal, don’t cheat, and don’t lie,” and reminds us, “I know you have mountains to climb. But always stay humble and kind.” This message, above all else, is one that I hope that Nudgee men continue: to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat. It is still my dream that the blue and white remain dominant on the field, on the pitch, on the courts, on the river, and in the auditorium. Although, if Nudgee students continue to be young men of integrity and signs of faith, this act is enough to triumph the honour of any sporting victory.
Jack Williams Year 8 Student
The Soundtrack of Boarding
It is 7.58pm on a Thursday night in Boondall. The air is still. From the top of the Learning Centre, the airport lights flicker in the distance, indifferent to the high-stakes silence in the top-floor classrooms. In this space, 320 boys are, theoretically, studying without a skerrick of distraction.
But the silence is brittle.
A jittery Year 9 makes the first move. The rhythmic zip of a pencil case, the thud of a laptop lid closing thirty seconds too early: leadership, after all, is found in small actions. His companions follow suit. Before the supervisor can even check their watch, the quiet confinement of study is abandoned for something much more “boy-sterous.”
At 8.00pm sharp, the floodgates open. Nine rooms’ worth of captives are
released in a stampede of feet on concrete stairs. This cacophony moves like a wave toward the boarding village, momentarily splintering into four houses as boys race to their rooms for a singular, essential item: the blazer. It’s a chaotic uniform of spiffy blue and white stripes thrown over sweat-stained work shirts and footy shorts as they converge on the centre of the Village.
One boy steps onto the platform. The crowd erupts, then vanishes into
a vacuum of silence with a single hand gesture. From chaos to order. The Year 12 Prefect speaks, a momentary calm before the “real” sound of boarding begins.
“Nudgee, are you ready? Ready!”
“Yes, we are ready! Ready!”
For ten minutes, the Nudgee boarders own the airwaves of Boondall. While some neighbours take to their keyboards to post on the community Facebook page, 320 boys, backed by the ghosts of 10,000 brothers who came before them, roar into the night. Then, as quickly as it began, it’s over. The war cry fades, replaced by the frantic crinkle of two-minute noodle packets and the clink of spoons in Milo mugs before bed.
“Rock Around the Clock” is the anthem, the headliner of our community. But the true discography of Nudgee Boarding is found in the smaller, B-side tracks; the sounds that aren’t for the neighbours, but for us.
The Track list
It’s a soundtrack made of a thousand disparate notes. It’s the tense, rhythmic clack of pool balls connecting in the common room during a game that is far more competitive than it has any right to be. It’s the unabashed, booming acoustics of the showers, where a student’s surprisingly good (or hilariously bad) taste in music echoes off the tiles, turning a Saturday morning shower into a concert that rivals Coldplay at Suncorp Stadium. Sometimes, the soundtrack is purely functional. Old Boys of Cotter House tell me they always knew I was approaching because of the distinct click of my right knee, a biological early warning system that saved many a boy from being caught doing the wrong thing.
There are moments of levity that remind you exactly who lives here:
the unfortunate, booming flatulence that shatters the silence of a corridor after lights out, followed by the inevitable, contagious ripple of muffled laughter. Boys...
But there are softer, heavier tracks, too. It’s the muffled whimpering of a younger student in the dark, the sharp sting of homesickness finally catching up to him, and the low, murmuring comfort of a staff member or peer stepping in to bridge the gap between home and here.
We find our voice in both the sacred and the silly. On Sunday nights, the Chapel fills with the solemn, beautiful harmony of “Ancient Words,” where the same voices that growl war cries on Thursday become a singular force of faith. Contrast that with the out-oftune mayhem of Singing Practice in Tierney Auditorium, where reverence is swapped for a rowdy rendition of
Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten.”
Between the pitchy vocals and the uncouth, uncoordinated dance moves, it’s a loud reminder that we never take ourselves too seriously.
Above all, the most vital sound in the village is the constant, underlying hum of laughter. It’s the sharp bark of a joke cracked around the kitchen bench and the tired giggles in the hallways after a long day.
These sounds are the heartbeat of our community. They are loud, they are occasionally messy, and they are sometimes heartbreakingly quiet. Combined, these tracks define who we are: a Boarding Family that doesn’t just share a roof, but shares a pulse. This pulse keeps the heart of Boondall beating year after year...
Mr Casey Brealy Dean of Boarding
A Letter Through Time
Dear Nudgee Old Boys and students to come,
It feels strange to think how Nudgee College is 135 years old, back when Sandgate Road was a dirt road.
I wonder what life was like back then when all that there was, was the Treacy Building. Did you know that the Flats, which are now sports fields, were formally one big crop farm?
I often wonder what Nudgee may be like in years to come.
If there’s one thing, I know for certain is that brotherhood means everything at Nudgee and that proves that daily life at Nudgee is the best! When I first came to Nudgee, I felt a sense of belonging and pride in being a Nudgee man from the very beginning.
I am sure Old Boys felt the same, and future boys will too. One thing I have learnt, it’s that there is nothing wrong with making a mistake and that it is important to learn from it and adapt.
Nudgee is well known for its dominance in athleticism in a wide range of sports; who doesn’t love watching the 1st XV on a Saturday afternoon on Ross Oval? But, Nudgee is so much more than that. You would often see Nudgee boys competing in Debating, Music, Chess and other types of activities included in Performing Arts. Then there is the agricultural centre near the flats, and technology and Esports. For me personally, all the activities
that Nudgee has to offer have really helped me with socialising and enjoying representing my school. The opportunities at Nudgee are truly endless.
Nudgee Old Boys might remember some of the most recognisable, older buildings across the campus. Iconic places such as the Treacy Building, Ross Oval and our famous Grandstand, or the Chapel or some of our newer buildings such as the McKennariey Centre or the Library.
Nudgee has constantly evolved over its 135 years and no doubt will continue to do so in the future.
I’ve spoken to past and current Nudgee boys, but the future, well, that’s a different story. I myself was nervous when I first came to Nudgee which is completely natural, however, those nerves quickly subsided and I felt I belonged here the moment I stepped in thanks to the Nudgee brotherhood and all the opportunities Nudgee has to offer. So future Nudgee boys, promise me, you will embrace the opportunities and remember that you are always welcome at Nudgee College.
Ethan Di Francesco
Year 6
“If there’s one thing I know for certain, it is that brotherhood means everything at Nudgee and that proves that daily life at Nudgee is the best!”
PORTAL TO THE PAST
100 YEARS
of the ROSS OVAL GRANDSTAND
The 1904 College Annual recounts that ‘Nudgee decided to hold its Annual Sports Day in conjunction with the day college, Gregory Terrace. It proved to be a wise determination as the united sports attracted a large attendance and consequently gave greater zest to the various races. Afternoon tea was served on the grandstand and the lawn.’
A few years later, the 1907-08 Annual comments in its Cricket report that ‘the general aspect of the ground has also been very much improved by the erection of a substantial grandstand, capable of providing accommodation to over five hundred spectators.’
This stand served its purpose but an aerial image from 1922 reveals it did not stand the test of time and required further development in the years that followed.
By 1927, five acres of land had been cleared and levelled at a cost of £8 per acre on the Mound, and the Annual records that ‘a new grandstand with accommodation for about five hundred people is approaching completion, and we can envisage a completed oval that will surpass anything of its kind in the Commonwealth.’
The 1929 Annual shows a packed stand with features of today’s stand clearly evident, while a 1935 aerial image provides a striking northlooking vista of the grounds and surrounding landscape.
The 1957 Annual captures a moment in time, portraying the stand with its red roof and the infant Boondall Drive-In Theatre in the background (soon to be proudly infamous in many Nudgee stories of window leave)
Throughout each of these eras, the grandstand and its space and aura steadily assumed an identity that spoke to the heart and soul of the boarding school. This identity edged closer to fully embracing the moniker of ‘spirit’.
The Brothers, those ever-present men who had committed their lives to the education of boys, possessed a wisdom that transcended the times and that was passed down through the generations by virtue of their own community life. The boarding community gathered in close physical proximity when they were in the dining room, in the Chapel and when they gathered in the Grandstand. The
challenges for the Brothers were those of retaining true links to the past and of responding honestly and with integrity to the needs and demands of a changing world. These spaces were common experiences to every generation of Nudgee lad and each generation would come to have its unique ‘take’ on how the life of the college was embodied therein.
Increasingly, it had become very evident that the experiences of camaraderie, mateship, resilience, loyalty, love and passion had tangible common links to the emotions and feelings shared by successive generations of lads whilst in each of these spaces – the Grandstand was
1922.
a highly visible space (as opposed to the other two which were contained within the bubble of Nudgee life) and one that the public, the community, the state and the country came to witness with awe, respect and pride.
The astute Brothers and their very equally astute staff members (Jack Ross, Jack Wagner, Dallas O’Neill and Greg Hose come to mind) came to understand that the lads assumed the persona of a single entity as they supported their mates out on the paddock. These same astute educators would quietly step to the side and let the lads ‘do their thing’ in the stands. It was folly for staff members to think that they might be the ones in charge. If ever there was a powerful public face of how educators might work closely with teenage youth and for both to have their dignity and integrity enhanced, the dynamics of a vibrant Nudgee grandstand came to be that face. Visitors flocked to the Mound in order to savour this manifestation when it was in full gusto.
As the decades rolled by, the mid 1960s saw the increase in Nudgee’s enrolment. Day students became a significant factor. By the back end of the 1980s (1988) it became very apparent that the five hundred seat capacity of the four bay stand was stretched beyond the needs of the larger number of lads. Contextually, Nudgee had emerged from the sporting drought years of 1972-1985 when no success was achieved in any
of the many GPS Championships and Premierships that had been contested since 1918. A group of lads was gathered as young Year 8 students in 1983 and as they progressed through their college life they were mentored and taught how to win. 1986 was the drought-breaking year. Rugby was the sport but the mindset extended across the College.
One physical manifestation of this shift was the need for a larger platform for supporters that could accommodate a growing student enrolment. The stand was extended to six bays, with pine timber generously donated by a Nudgee Old Boy family. Enrolments continued to rise for the next decade and in 2000,
the new millennium brought the third iteration of the grandstand’s footprint. A seventh bay was added. Its pine timber, too, was again very generously supplied by a Nudgee Old Boy family.
In 2018, in the GPS Rugby round against The Southport School, every parent’s and teacher’s nightmare was visited upon the community when the stand, in full verve, cracked at a junction between the original iron bark stand and the 2000 pine extension. Students of the day in the stand at the exact moment have vivid memories. Those modern-day astute mentors and minders, referred to earlier, very quickly secured the safety of every single lad and the moment passed.
1957.
1929.
1977 - Br Bede McKennariey on Ross Oval.
The latter part of 2018 and into 2019 saw the restoration of the grandstand.
As a heritage-listed structure on the boundary of the College, it was rebuilt in line with its original design.
M3 Architecture guided the project, resulting in a structure of ironbark and galvanised steel, preserving its character while ensuring its longevity.
On July 5, 2019, just under a year after the incident, the grandstand was returned to the College for future generations to enjoy, continuing its role as a central gathering place within the life of the school.
It is not lost on people that it was in the centenary year of the GPS Association that the ripple in Nudgee’s universe occurred. Each of the brother schools in the association has its own story. There is the Bull Pen at Normanby, the windswept flats at Northgate, the reclaimed swamp at Victoria Park, the revitalised cattle grazing paddocks at Tennyson, and the colosseum at State High. There is the government land at Fursden Road, the field carved into the coal mine hills of Ipswich with the circular boarding house overlooking it, the flood plains of Norman Creek at East
Brisbane, the low water table of the ovals at The Southport School (TSS), and the magnificent Village Green at TSS. There is the equally magnificent field carved into the hills on the eastern edge of the Darling Downs in Toowoomba, and the field carved out of the vale at Miskin Street, Toowong. Yet, common to them all is one truth: a visit to Ross Oval at Nudgee College remains the most feared, respected, anticipated and admired fixture every two years.
Mr John Sayer
College Archivist and Museum Curator
1988 - Extended Ross Oval Grandstand.
100 YEARS
GIVING DAY 2026
Giving Day 2026 will be remembered as a significant milestone for St Joseph’s Nudgee College, defined
by an overwhelming wave of community generosity.
It is one thing to plan a fundraising campaign, but it is another entirely to witness an entire community unite with passion, purpose, and a shared commitment to the future of the College.
Together, the Nudgee College community achieved something truly historic. 2026 was our highest grossing Giving Day in Nudgee history! The collective response was nothing short of breathtaking, raising $226,852. These funds will directly contribute to bringing the Flats Precinct to life, with the first phase of this exciting development set to open in June 2027. This milestone ensures that the opportunities and values that define a Nudgee College education remain accessible and strong for generations to come.
This achievement was made possible by the extraordinary generosity of the wider community of parents, staff, Old Boys, and friends. The College owes a debt of immense gratitude to the visionary matching donors, whose incredible up-front commitments doubled the impact of early donations and provided the vital momentum needed for success.
A special congratulations must also go to the winning and most generous Old Boy cohort of the
$226,852
day, the Centenary Class of 1991. In recognition of their outstanding collective support, their alumni year will be permanently etched into the new Flats Precinct, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to see. Bringing the visual story of the day to life was equally essential. A special thank you goes to filmmaker Jacob Richardson (NCOB 2010), whose generous sponsorship and creative talent captured the heart of the community so beautifully, reminding everyone of what makes the College so special.
While the tally on the screen was inspiring, the true magic of the day belonged to the students. Ensuring the boys were actively involved was a central priority. Giving Day is fundamentally about the students, and seeing them embrace the day with such enthusiasm was a highlight for all involved.
In the Junior School, the future of the College took centre stage with an art competition. The boys let their imaginations run wild, drawing and painting their creative visions of what Nudgee College will look like in the years to come. Their creativity was a perfect reminder of the core purpose behind this campaign: to build a bright future for the young men in the
Highest grossing Giving Day in Nudgee history! +89%
College’s care. A special mention goes to the competition winner, Sawyer Pugh (Year 6).
Across the campus, gratitude was put into action during a student thanka-thon, where our Junior boys took the time to personally thank the donors who supported their journey. The energy peaked at lunchtime with the Big Brother vs Little Brother football match. This was a wonderful display of camaraderie, fun, and the unique, lifelong bonds that tie Nudgee College students together across year levels.
From the technical backend and catering to the promotion in assemblies and the bustling energy of the operations room, the day was a triumph of collaboration. To every single person who volunteered, shared a post, or made a donation: thank you. The success of this campaign leaves the College with a profound sense of pride and a deeply renewed faith in what can be achieved when the community works as one. Thank you for standing with Nudgee College, investing in the boys, and showing the world the true depth of the Nudgee Spirit.
With gratitude,
Ms Erina Hitchings Head of Philanthropy
Increase over the 2024 baseline 584 Donors participated Future Philanthropy Student-led support pitching ‘The Flats’
7 Match donors provided a critical matching pool
Bigger... Smaller... Just Right
Most students walk through the gates each morning without a second thought about the journey their uniform has taken to get there. But behind every perfectly fitted blazer, every last-minute tie replacement, and every quiet moment of reassurance stands a team whose work shapes how students feel as they begin their day.
The Locker Room team are the unseen heartbeat of the College, creating confidence, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
Each morning at Nudgee College begins before the bell rings, and for the team, it often starts before the doors even open. Online orders placed overnight are picked, checked, and neatly arranged. The shop is cleaned, restocked, and prepared for the day ahead. By 8.00am, there is often a line at the door, students and parents waiting for the blinds to lift and the open sign to appear. The team can often tell exactly what someone needs before a word is spoken: shoes in hand mean socks, no belt means a belt, a winter uniform without a tie usually means a replacement is urgently required. For many families, the Locker Room is the very first stop on their Nudgee journey, and first impressions matter. New students arrive with excitement, nerves, and anticipation. Some are stepping into a large school environment for the first time, others are coming from far away. The Locker Room offers more than uniforms: it offers familiarity, warmth, and reassurance. It is a place of calm amid the unknown.
Few moments capture the impact of this team quite like a student trying on their Nudgee uniform for the first time. The transformation is instant. Younger boys stand a little taller. When they put on the blazer, they become Nudgee Men. Parents take photos. Sometimes there are tears. The team shares in that moment, encouraging, celebrating, and quietly witnessing a rite of passage that marks the beginning of something bigger.
The first and last hours of the school day are the busiest, with students, parents, and staff moving through the space at pace. During peak periods, particularly at the start of the year or during seasonal uniform changes, the flow becomes constant. Yet the team remains one of the few uniform shops open five days a week, quietly meeting the needs of the entire Nudgee community.
Their work extends far beyond standard uniform sales. Every cocurricular activity, from arts tours to sporting clubs, passes through their hands, along with honour pockets for blazers, a point of pride for students in Years 10-12. Each pocket represents hours of careful planning, embroidery, and coordination, ensuring blazers are returned in time for the next term or special event. With only a small
team behind the counter, efficiency is essential. Most of the staff are past or current Nudgee mums, some also serving as Boarding House Mums, bringing not only professional skill, but lived understanding of students’ needs, and family rhythms. What makes them truly special though is not the stock or the sales, but the spirit. It is a welcoming, nurturing environment, a safe haven for students who may initially find the scale of the College overwhelming.
The Locker Room is more than a uniform shop, it is a place where confidence is built, traditions are upheld, and students quietly step into who they are becoming. Through patience, care, and countless hours, this team leaves a lasting imprint on the College, one uniform, one student, and one moment at a time.
REIMAGINING THE FLATS PRECINCT
For more than a century, The Flats have been one of the most recognisable and well-loved places on the St Joseph’s Nudgee College campus.
Generations of students have gathered there not only for sport, but for the everyday moments that shape friendships, confidence, and community.
The walk to the changing room facilities after class, the chatter as boys prepare for training, the families talking along the fence line, the Old Boys who return to watch the next group grow up. The Flats have always been a meeting ground where people connect across ages, interests, and eras.
Although the memories remain vivid, the facilities themselves now need significant renewal. The current changing rooms have served the College faithfully for decades, but their
age is unmistakable. The demands of a contemporary school community have evolved, and our spaces must evolve with them. This is why Nudgee College has launched Out of the Mud, Into the Future
This year, the College is undertaking a major upgrade of the entire Flats precinct, with completion of Phase 1 expected in June 2027. The project will deliver a welcoming, inclusive, and functional environment for students, visiting teams, families, volunteers, and staff. The vision goes well beyond
a simple renovation. It aims to create a community space that reflects the spirit of Nudgee College today while honouring the generations who came before. This marks only the beginning and Phase 1 of the project. With the ongoing support of our community, we hope to accelerate Phase 2, which will expand the precinct to include a modern tuckshop and meeting facilities, and most excitingly a grandstand, further enhancing the experience for all who use the College’s Flats precinct.
The renewed facility will feature modernised changing rooms for students, staff, and guests, using durable materials and prioritising safety and accessibility. New amenities will offer comfortable spaces for students of all abilities, together with dedicated areas for referees, coaches, and medical staff. Enhanced circulation and storage will support the efficient delivery of weekend activities and major College events. The design also incorporates convenient access to water bubblers throughout the precinct and strategically planned landscaping and shaded areas to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for all users. Overall, the facility embraces an inclusive, contemporary approach that meets the needs of today’s school communities and positions Nudgee College to support growing participation across a wide range of programs.
The Flats remain a place where boys learn teamwork, resilience, humility, and confidence by being part of something larger than themselves. They remain a place where families gather, sometimes for the first time, and instantly feel part of the Nudgee College story. By renewing the facilities, we are strengthening a community space that supports identity, connection, and shared experience.
The early stages of the project will soon be underway and sod turning is due to commence in late Term 4. We invite every member of the Nudgee College family to play a part, whether through sharing stories, championing the project in your networks, or supporting the fundraising efforts that will help bring the new facilities to life. Out of the Mud, Into the Future is a reminder that Nudgee College grows strongest when its community comes together.
As the campaign begins, Nudgee College is grateful for the generosity already emerging within the community. One standout example is the support of award-winning filmmaker, Jacob Richardson (NCOB 2010) from Film Focus Productions, who has come on board as a full sponsor for the campaign’s feature video. His contribution allows the story of the Flats to be told with care, authenticity, and cinematic craft, weaving together archival material and present-day scenes to honour every generation that has experienced the Flats. This partnership will ensure the community sees not only the need for renewal, but the deeper narrative of connection that this project represents.
Your collective contribution to our Giving Day was a wonderful example of community and generosity. Thank you to everyone for your support.
The Flats have shaped the experiences of thousands of young men. This project will help shape the experiences of thousands more. As we honour the past and look to the future, we are building a renewed place for community, connection, and pride.
Together, with your support, we are ensuring that every boy who walks the flats, feels the same sense of belonging, pride, and possibility that has defined generations before him. Be part of this journey to shape a future where the Nudgee Spirit continues to thrive for generations to come.
Mr Scott Thomson Principal
Scan the QR Code to learn more.
Brave, Bold, Unafraid
Theatresports is part of our Performing Arts offerings but also supports the Drama curriculum. It offers the students the opportunity to explore their creative pursuits in a fun and energetic environment.
Annually, we compete in the Brisbane Youth Theatresports Schools Competition in the quest to win the much sought after trophy. Theatresports supports students in developing their confidence, emotional intelligence, teamwork and problem solving. The skills required are endless, and the students are put under much pressure, when having to perform spontaneously within a time limit after receiving their ‘offer’ or ‘idea’ immediately. It is certainly entertaining and keeps the audience on the edge of their seat.
Below is some insight shared by some of our Junior and Senior Team competitors on their experience of Theatresports. Jack Williams and Freddie Orr only discovered it in Year 7, 2025, whilst Cooper Ramsay and Oliver Soberon have been competing since Year 9, and are now our leading Year 12s, who inspire our younger boys.
“Up until coming to Nudgee in Year 5, I had no idea of Theatresports. However, after only competing in the sport for one year it has already become one of my favourite activities at Nudgee. Theatresports is very interesting in the sense that there are barely any rules or restrictions. It is not an all-out brawl but a captivating and witty game. The entire sport is built on improvisation.
Nothing performed or said is scripted or rehearsed. Truly encapsulating the essence of what it means to be able to think on your feet. Although with quick thinking you also need to be creative. Judges love interesting references accents and unique references. Although I have only been participating in Theatresports for a single year of my Nudgee journey it has been one of the highlights; from my first ever training session. To almost win the state finals has been a wonderful experience that I encourage anyone interested to join”.
Jack Williams (Year 8 Junior TeamState Finalist in 2025)
“Theatresports drew me in because of the excitement of performing it brings, without knowing what will happen next. It is spontaneous and has the challenge of thinking on the spot to turn things around. Improvisation is about creating scenes with characters and dialogue without any preparation beforehand, forcing you to think quickly, work closely with teammates, and be highly creative.
The most rewarding thing about Theatresports is having the same idea and letting the scene flow with multiple offers and supporting each other’s ideas. This helped my confidence by acting out in front of people and being myself, while it encourages trusting your instincts, taking risks and being
way more expressive”. Cooper Ramsay (Year 12, Performing Arts Captain, Senior A Team - State Finalists 2025)
“Theatresports is based on improvisation games where teams perform scenes based on a given topic and get scored on how well they do. In teams of four to six, we work together to create scenes, build on each other’s ideas, and react in the moment to whatever comes up. The goal is to entertain the audience through quick thinking, teamwork, and a strong stage presence. I actively participate in Theatresports and enjoy being part of the performances. I like working with others and thinking quickly as the scene develops. It helps me feel more confident on stage and better at responding in the moment”. Oliver Soberon (Year 12, Senior A TeamState Finalist 2025)
“I joined the Junior Theatresports team when I was in Year 7. I was drawn to Theatresports because I had a general love of performing. It was a space where I could use my imagination to create a wild and completely imaginative scene. Through participating in Theatresports, I learnt to build my improvisation skills helping me to speak off the cuff and think quickly. It is a challenging activity as scenes don’t always work, can get messy, and you can lose your train of thought. However, this teaches you to keep trying because the more you practice, the better you get. You learn how to work not only in a team but with a team and how your ideas can come together to form a great idea. It improves your creativity drastically as it teaches you to use your thoughts and fosters a ‘yes’ mindset where all ideas are welcome and can be used. Performing with a team, your friends, and your peers, helps to boost your confidence. You learn to project your voice, speak to a crowd, and engage with an audience. My personal experience with Theatersports has been extremely positive.
I have learnt so many new skills and found an amazing area where I can perform and allow my thoughts to come to life”. Freddie Orr (Year 8, Junior Team - State Finalist 2025)
The 2026 season is certainly underway and the teams are busy extending their knowledge of the games and continuing to build their skills. The heats took place during Term 2, with the semi-finals and grand final occurring throughout Term 3 and 4. Looking forward to another exciting season of Theatresports.
Ms Alison Kilgour
Head of The Arts, Theatresports Co-Ordinator and Musical Director
The
QUIET POWER of PRESENCE
In those first moments when a student enters the counsellor’s office, what they usually need most is a calm, attentive person. This is known as presence and while it might sound simple, it is deeply powerful and grounded in science.
Our brains are constantly reading the emotional cues of others through a process linked to mirror neurons. Without conscious effort, we begin to match facial expressions, tone, posture, and even breathing. In this way, emotions can be contagious.
This is why presence matters so much. A dysregulated environment can quickly escalate stress, but a calm, grounded person can shift the entire emotional tone. We don’t just respond to what people say, we respond to how they are.
This becomes even more evident during adolescence. The teenage brain is still under construction, particularly in areas responsible for
emotional regulation and decisionmaking. Young people rely more heavily on the brain’s emotional centre, which can make their experiences feel more intense and, at times, overwhelming. When a young person feels genuinely listened to, without interruption, judgement, or immediate problem-solving, their brain begins to settle. The individual can begin to make sense of their thoughts and feelings rather than being overwhelmed by them.
This is known as co-regulation. Adolescents are still developing their internal capacity to manage emotions, so they often need to “borrow” calm from a trusted adult. Over time, these
repeated experiences help strengthen their own ability to regulate themselves.
Presence, neuroscience, and emotional development are all connected. The calm we bring influences how a young person feels; how they feel influences how their brain functions; and how their brain functions shapes their ability to cope, learn, and grow.
At Nudgee, we strive to create psychological safety so that students can learn in an environment where they feel respected, trusted, and able to speak openly. This does not mean removing challenges or lowering expectations. Rather, it means ensuring that students feel secure enough to engage honestly, take risks in their learning, and seek support when they need it.
Each of us, staff, students, and parents play a role in shaping this environment.
We can strengthen it by:
• Listening to understand, not to fix. Feeling heard is often more regulating than receiving advice.
• Naming emotions. Simple reflections such as, “It sounds like you’re frustrated,” can help organise overwhelming feelings.
• Being aware of our own state. Our emotional tone influences others more than we might realise.
The teenage brain is still under construction, particularly in areas responsible for emotional regulation and decision-making.
• Modeling coping. Sharing how we manage stress shows that emotions are normal and manageable.
Students can learn to take ownership of their own emotional wellbeing by pausing to notice and name a feeling, for example “I’m anxious right now, but this will pass”. When emotions are recognised rather than resisted, they tend to resolve more easily.
In a world that often prioritises quick solutions, it is worth remembering that meaningful change often begins with connection. When we offer a steady, respectful presence, we help calm the nervous system, strengthen a developing brain, and create the conditions for growth.
One of the most powerful things we can do is simply be there.
Ms Emma Gawthorne School Counsellor and Clinical Psychologist
NC EVENTS
SENIOR INVESTITURE
The 2026 school year began with a meaningful milestone, our Senior Investiture. This occasion signals the beginning of the final chapter for the Class of 2026 and their journey at the College.
At sunset on Thursday 29 January, Year 12 students and their families gathered in the Treacy Precinct to celebrate their leadership roles and formally commence their final year of schooling. Each student received their Prefect, Senior and House badges, which were proudly pinned to their blazers by their families.
College Captain Ethan Andrews then shared the Senior motto for the year, ‘Be True to the Blue’, which will guide the cohort throughout 2026.
Ethan captured the spirit of the motto in his speech, saying that “If we choose to be true to the blue through integrity, respect, and gratitude, in the small things, we will create an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and proud to be part of this community. It is not just a motto for assemblies or banners, it is a standard we choose to live by everyday. A commitment to uphold the values of this college, to look after one another and to leave Nudgee stronger than we found it”
COMMENCEMENT MASS
To mark the start of the new school year, the College community came together at the Christian Brothers’ Conference Centre for the Commencement Mass. The liturgy was united by a shared focus on how we care for, support, and relate to one another as a community.
The Mass concluded with reflection from Principal, Mr Scott Thomson who shared the following words: “The beauty of the Nudgee community, so unique, is not in the achievements of the many great old boys who have strutted across the world for the last 135 years, but our strength of character as a community comes from small things that occur each day. You enhance our name, our reputation, our connected community simply by how you treat your Nudgee brothers and the staff and volunteers who help you each day. Great things are achieved by a series of small things together.”
LADIES’ AUXILIARY CELEBRATION
Our Ladies’ Auxiliary hosted their annual welcome event on Saturday 21 March. The Christian Brothers’ Conference Centre was lit up and set up to welcome hundreds of past mothers, current mothers, caregivers, and mother-like figures. A French Flair & Fashion theme was the perfect start to kick off the Ladies Auxiliary events for 2026.
BOARDING FORMAL DINNER
Earlier this year, our boarding community gathered for the annual Boarding Formal Dinner, bringing together students, staff and invited guests for an evening of connection and celebration. The event remains a highlight of the year, providing a special opportunity to reflect on shared experiences and strengthen the sense of community within the Boarding House.
This year’s dinner was made even more memorable with the return of Luke O’Sullivan (NCOB 2022), whose presence added a meaningful touch to the occasion and inspired our current boarders.
WELCOME TO NUDGEE
Earlier this year, the Nudgee College Foundation welcomed new families to the College through its annual Welcome to Nudgee event, an evening created to immerse them in the story, tradition, and character of our community.
Families journey through significant spaces including the Treacy Heritage Precinct, the Chapel, Old Boys’ Mall and the College Museum, gaining insight into the College’s legacy. Along the way, students brought each location to life through engaging performances and presentations that highlighted the spirit and history of the College.
We sincerely thank our parents for their warm participation and commend our students for representing the College with such pride and professionalism.
ANZAC DAY
Nudgee College gathered in solemn reflection on Ross Oval to commemorate Anzac Day, an occasion of deep significance to our community. Students, staff, Old Boys, past and current parents, and members of the wider community came together to honour the service and sacrifice of those who have served.
The ceremony commenced with the Drumline leading a procession of special guests, including former servicemen, onto the Oval. The Anzac flame was lit, poppies were laid, and wreaths were placed by representatives from across the College to pay tribute to the fallen.
During WWI, over 250 Nudgee College Old Boys enlisted, and 55 of our brothers did not return. Over the next four years, the deaths of 55 Nudgee Old Boys were felt immensely in this tightly knit community.
ANZAC Day is a time for Australians and New Zealanders to pause and remember, thanking God for the generosity and sacrifice of those who have gone before us.
On Thursday 23 April, we paused to remember our Nudgee brothers who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the thousands of men and women who have fought for the liberty which Australians enjoy today. Lest we forget.
PAST MOTHERS’ EVENT
We were delighted to welcome members of our Past Mothers’ community back to the College in Term 1 for a beautifully hosted High Tea, coordinated by the Past Mothers’ Association. The occasion provided a wonderful opportunity for guests to reconnect with one another and with the College, in an atmosphere that was both warm and inviting.
For many, it was a chance to reflect on their connection to the College and the role they have played in shaping its community over the years.
The gathering served as a meaningful reminder of the lasting bonds formed through a shared Nudgee experience, and the important role our Past Mothers’ continue to play in the life of the College.
EVENING ON THE GREEN
Evening on the Green is one of the highlights of our College calendar, offering a wonderful opportunity for families, boarding students and staff to gather and enjoy time together outside the school day. Set against the backdrop of our campus, the night created a warm and relaxed setting, where friendships are strengthened and connections flourish.
We are incredibly thankful to the many families, from Brisbane and beyond, who entrust their sons to Nudgee College. Occasions like this capture the genuine sense of community, shared purpose and belonging that make our College so distinctive.
MOTHER SON LUNCHEON
On Sunday 3 May, the cherished tradition of the Year 12 Mother and Son Luncheon brought together hundreds of senior students and their mothers for a day of celebration and connection. The occasion began with a beautiful Mass at the Cathedral of St Stephen, before guests made their way to Brisbane City Hall for a memorable afternoon. College Captain, Ethan Andrews, offered a heartfelt address to all mothers in attendance, reflecting, “It becomes normal having someone there who backs you no matter what, who makes things easier for you without you even realising it”.
OPEN DAY
On Saturday 9 May, Nudgee College welcomed a record number of prospective families for its annual Open Day. Across the campus, visitors experienced a vibrant program of activities, from interactive displays and live music to a photo booth and children’s games, alongside GPS Football and Tennis fixtures against Anglican Church Grammar School. Student-led tours provided an authentic insight into daily life at the College, while a Q&A session with the College Leadership Team and College Captain offered families the opportunity to hear directly from those shaping the Nudgee experience.
NATIONAL BOARDING WEEK
In Week 4 of Term 2, the Nudgee College community came together with boarding schools near and far to celebrate National Boarding Week. Reflections and celebrations centred around the theme, “Echoes of Home.” It was a poignant time to acknowledge both the sacrifices and the profound courage of our boys, who navigate the unique challenge of being far from their families. Yet, just as strongly, the week served as a vibrant celebration of the beauty of our community by honouring the incredible opportunities boarding affords our young men and the immense richness they bring to the College.
The Boarding Village was alive with energy, connection, and joy through a series of memorable events. The boys gathered for an all-village BBQ, shared a highenergy singing practice where a rendition of Kryptonite was an absolute hit, and our prefects enjoyed a productive Boarding Leadership Forum. In a beautiful display of gratitude, the boarders also welcomed day staff into the village for breakfast, opening the gates to show their deep appreciation for the teachers who support them every day.
Healthy rivalry took centre stage during the Bathersby Cup. In a thrilling finish, O’Brien House claimed the trophy, proving once and for all that it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog. Creativity was also on full display during the annual boarding photo competition, which captured the essence of the theme, Echoes of Home. A huge congratulations goes to Fred Carrigan for winning the 2026 competition, as well as runners-up Eddie Ball, and Henry Truss for their outstanding entries.
While we celebrate our boarders every single day at Nudgee, this past week provided a truly beautiful moment of collective gratitude, acknowledgement, and joy. Thank you to everyone who makes our boarding community a home away from home.
LONG LUNCH
The atmosphere was buzzing from start to finish at this year’s Nudgee College Long Lunch. With over 1,400 guests in attendance, it once again proved why it’s a premier highlight on the College Calendar. From the live entertainment to a packed dance floor, it was an unforgettable afternoon of community spirit. Thank you to our amazing community of past and present families, staff, and Old Boys for making it such a memorable event.
PERF RMING ARTS
CHESS
Nudgee Chess has had a great start to 2026. We’ve had some very talented new boys join the chess team and had some great competition results in Term 1. At Somerville House invitational the team of Archie Spurr, Hugo Elliot, Michael Cusack and Griffin Thomas finished 2nd in the Open Division. While in the Novice Division, our younger team of Niki Bhuimbar, Alex Charaneka, Elliot Cockburn and Oscar Lewis finished 3rd.
At the Term 1 North Brisbane Secondary Inter-School Competition, the team of Ethan Jillela, Finn Carton, Myles Thomas and Cary Clifford finished 4th in their division. They were equal 3rd on points but finished 4th on a close tiebreak.
147 students from all-over South-East Queensland competed in our Term 1 Nudgee Chess Competition in the Christian Brothers Conference Centre. Some of our newest players had their chance to shine. In the Open Division,
Year 5 John Stanton received a merit ribbon. John was equal 3rd but missed out on a trophy by tiebreak after winning 4/6. In the Novice Division, Year 5 Jack Blumer finished 3rd on 6/7. While Year 9 Griffin Thomas won 5/7 and Year 7 Cary Clifford won 4.5/7. Both boys received merit ribbons for their efforts.
The popularity of Chess at Nudgee was perhaps best witnessed at the Performing Arts Launch in Term 1. From 3.30pm-7.00pm there was never more than a few seconds that our Chess boards weren’t in use and surrounded by big crowds. It was great having several of our Chess Old Boys coming in to play and share their knowledge and skills with current students, and competing in some exhibition matches for the Launch.
Term 2 will see our Chess team continue to train and practice to make sure we’re in top condition for the GPS season in Term 3.
GPS MUSIC SHOWCASE
The GPS Music Showcase 2026 delivered an unforgettable evening, uniting more than 350 gifted students from across the nine GPS schools in a powerful celebration of music. Held at The Southport School (TSS), the program featured standout performances by the combined Choir, Big Band, Concert Band and Symphony Orchestra, reflecting the commitment and talent of all involved.
Nudgee College was proudly represented, with our musicians performing alongside peers in a spirit of excellence and collaboration. Several Nudgee students were highlighted throughout the night, delivering outstanding solo performances within their ensembles. The event offered students the chance to perform at an elite level, further develop their skills, and build connections across the GPS network. The evening concluded with a strong sense of pride in the talent, commitment, and collaboration shown by students across the GPS community, making it a truly memorable celebration of music and performance.
DEBATING
The Nudgee College Debating program has commenced 2026 with energy, purpose, and a strong sense of momentum. Across GPS and Queensland Debating Union (QDU) competitions, students from Years 5 to 12 have continued to develop their critical thinking, teamwork, confidence, and oratory skills, while contributing to a proud and growing culture of Debating at the College. This semester, debaters participated in a targeted Senior Development Day with a focus on advanced argumentation, case preparation, and debate structure. Our Year 5-7 students also participated in junior development and training afternoons, building foundational skills in debate structure, rebuttal, and delivery before entering the GPS season. This year also saw the introduction of a formal Debating induction for new families, providing clarity around expectations, key dates, and how best to support students across the season.
The GPS season was one of persistence, growth, and moments of genuine excellence. Congratulations
to Nudgee College on finishing 4th overall in this year’s GPS Debating season, behind Brisbane State High School, Anglican Church Grammar School and Brisbane Grammar School in equal second. Throughout the season, our teams secured important wins across multiple year levels, with strong performances from across the board. Congratulations to our Senior A team, comprising Troy Li (Captain), Samuel Chambers, Michael Cusack, and Ryan Khatmi, who consistently represented the College with composure, intellectual rigour, and pride.
A highlight of the semester was the growing culture of support around Debating. Whether at home in Tierney Auditorium or away at opposition schools, it was wonderful to see Nudgee Spirit on display, as students, staff, and the Spirit Committee turned up to support our teams. One of the most memorable moments of the season came after the Senior A debate at St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace, where our students gathered to sing the College song in support of their
peers. It was a powerful reminder that Debating at Nudgee is not only about results, but about unity, courage, and belonging.
Beyond GPS, our students have also continued to perform strongly in the QDU competition, with teams across Years 7-12 achieving impressive results throughout the semester. QDU continues to provide an important extension opportunity for our debaters, allowing them to refine their skills against a broad range of schools across Brisbane. We look forward to watching the competition continue into Semester 2.
The semester also included a successful showcase debate against St Rita’s College Senior A at the inaugural Performing Arts Launch, as well as continued hosting of QDU debates and Debating BBQ fundraisers in partnership with the Mission & Identity team team. These opportunities have strengthened the profile of Debating within the College and helped build a broader sense of community around the program.
ESPORTS
The Esports program at Nudgee College continues to sharpen its focus, evolving from a growing initiative into a dynamic and established part of the College’s Performing Arts landscape. This semester has seen the program strengthen its structures, refine its training approach, and build momentum through both participation and performance as it looks ahead to continued success.
With a strong student leadership team guiding the program, we remain grounded in the values of Respect, Integrity, and Fairness. Special thanks to Charles Eats (Captain), Ben Somers (Vice Captain), and Jacob Webb (Vice Captain), for their leadership in shaping both our weekly sessions and broader program direction.
This semester has been marked by a more strategic approach to competition preparation, with targeted training in the lead-up to
key events. This was reflected in our performances at the FUSE Cup, where Nudgee achieved 1st place in the Middle Years Rocket League division, 3rd place in the Junior division, and a Top 8 finish in the Senior division (from 24 teams). In addition, students secured 3rd place in the FUSE PC Masters Competition. As a result of their success, our Middle Years team has progressed to the State Finals in November, where they will represent the College against leading schools across Queensland.
Beyond competition, the program has continued to expand opportunities for student engagement and development. Weekly sessions have maintained strong attendance, providing a positive environment for students to build teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking skills. The continuation of social lunchtime sessions has further broadened participation, with our
Year 10 students - Liam Kent, Jake Linde, Darcy Livet, Tom Stanford, and Daniyal Yi - playing a significant role in mentoring younger students.
Students have also engaged in a Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros masterclass, with Mr Darcy Franklin (NCOB 2023) and showcased their talents at the Performing Arts Launch and Open Day, where interactive stations drew strong interest from the College community. Internally, our Junior Inter-house Competition highlighted the growing depth of the program.
This semester has also seen key developments in infrastructure and communication, including the launch of the new Esports at Nudgee website and the introduction of additional equipment such as a Virtual Reality headset, Nintendo Switch, and display technology, enhancing both training and recreation.
WRITERS’ CIRCLE
The Writers’ Circle has engaged in a range of opportunities to develop their voice, refine their craft, and contribute to a growing culture of storytelling within the College. Guided by a range of writing stimuli and supported through Write That Essay modules, students produced thoughtful and imaginative works that reflect both skill development and personal growth. These pieces were captured in our quarterly Writers’ Circle Booklet publication, showcasing the breadth and quality of writing across the program.
A significant initiative this semester was the introduction of the Year 10 Mentor Program. Hugo Bourke, Jake Linde, Darcy Livet, Charlie Malkin, Harry Orr, Rahul Padmanabhan, and Thomas Stanford played an important role in supporting younger writers during weekly sessions.
Our partnership with Where the Wild Things Are Bookshop enriched the program through authentic engagement with the literary community. This was highlighted by an author visit from Emma
Holland, who delivered an engaging workshop on storytelling. Her insights into character, voice, and narrative structure challenged students to extend their thinking and refine their own creative work.
Students also engaged in a range of writing experiences beyond weekly sessions. At the Performing Arts Launch, the Writers’ Circle facilitated a creative writing workshop, where students responded to stimulus-based prompts and reflected on their goals within the program. Our ongoing visits to Viridian Aged Care continued to provide a meaningful opportunity for students to share their writing with residents.
This semester also saw the introduction of new opportunities for our writers. Nudgee College participated in the National Young Authors’ Fair (NYAF) Australia 2026, providing students with the opportunity to become published authors and gain broader recognition for their work. In addition, access to Tristan Bancks ’Young Writers’ StorySchool supported students in
developing their narrative skills and preparing for competitions.
A key milestone this year has been the relaunch of the Maggie Shaw Creative Writing Competition as a Collegewide initiative. The 2026 judging panel included Ms Bec Timmis (Year 5-6), Mr Mark Cusack and Ms Ainsley Pavey (Year 7), Mr Michael Daley and Ms Maya Linnell (Years 8-9), and The Honourable Mr Tim Carmody AM KC, Dr Maria Boulton, and Mr Paul Taylor AM (Years 10-12). This distinguished panel brought significant academic rigour and professional authenticity to the competition, further strengthening its standing within the College. Winners will be announced in Term 3.
Thank you to all staff, students, and community partners who have supported the Writers’ Circle this semester. The program continues to grow as a space where creativity is valued, student voice is celebrated, and writing is recognised as a powerful means of expression.
NC SP RT
CATTLE CLUB
Semester one for the Cattle Club has been a rewarding time. We commenced the year with new stock from existing stakeholders while excitedly also bringing on the Olives renowned brahmans. Our four calves from last year have continued to grow, while one heifer is turning out to be quite a show stopper. Our current hopes for the national droughtmaster bull sale rest on Nudgee Earl and he continues to grow into the expectations we have for him.
The Cattle Club students vigorously jumped into our first show in March which was held in Bell. This was a great training ground for new students and cattle alike. We saw many successes here, notably our cow and calf taking home champion while Lachlan Pattison’s success saw him qualify for the regional subchamber competition. From Bell, we moved south to Warwick which proved a lively show with great competition across the board. From there, we moved west to Roma which was a cracking success for our students with Bill Brandenburg and Lachlan Pattison placing first in their age classes for paraders. Furthermore, Ethan Oertel placed in the top five here and Lachlan also went on to win his age class in young judges. Overall, the team has been a cohesive, educational and exciting place to be for all. We excitedly look forward to all the EKKA will hold for us this year.
Planning ahead, we hope to reap the rewards of our very intentional and diverse breeding season which has resulted in three natural conceptions, two embryo transfers, and two artificial inseminations.
CRICKET
The cricket season began in impressive fashion. The opening round against Toowoomba Grammar School (TGS) set a confident tone with strong results recorded across multiple year levels. The 1st XI secured a composed six wicket win after restricting TGS to 230, highlighted by a four-wicket haul from debutant Sidney Bates, and a superb unbeaten 123 from Abhay Dhaliwal to anchor the chase.
Round 2 saw the program shift firmly into gear, recording 27 wins from 33 matches in a commanding display of depth and consistency against Ipswich Grammar School (IGS).
The 1st XI produced a disciplined performance away from home, restricting their opponents to 185 through sharp fielding and a standout spell of 4/20 from Finn Vikionkorpi, along with Corey Stroud’s composed half-century guiding Nudgee to a bonus-point victory.
Round 3 was heavily impacted by wet weather, creating challenging conditions across the program. The 1st XI had their run chase abandoned, taking three points after a disciplined effort with the ball. Standout performances included centuries from Sanjot Dhaliwal and Isaac Lovell in the 7As, and a five-wicket haul from Cooper Stahmer in the 2nd XI.
Round 4 provided a valuable bye before a highly successful Round 5 against Brisbane Grammar School (BGS), with Nudgee winning 25 of 32 matches across the program.
The 1st XI secured an emphatic victory at Ross Oval, defending 170 by bowling Brisbane Grammar School out for 86, highlighted by a collective bowling effort. Centuries to Cooper Stahmer (2nd XI) and Isaac Lovell (7A).
Round 6 represented a busy day against Brisbane State High School (BSHS). Nudgee recorded 21 wins from 28 games, including strong results from multiple teams. The 1st XI posted 8/171 before rain intervened. BSHS ultimately secured the win. Diljot Brar’s unbeaten 113 highlighted another productive day with the bat across the program.
Round 7 proved to be an outstanding day for Nudgee College cricket, with strong performances across all year levels highlighting the depth and strength of the program. The clean sweep by the Year 5, 6 and 7 teams were a standout achievement, while the 1st XI’s narrow threerun loss showed great fight and determination.
Round 8 delivered a competitive day against St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace (GT), with 33 matches played and Nudgee securing 18 wins. The 1st XI produced a professional chase of 160 at Tennyson, led by Sidney Bates’ outstanding 5/23 and a patient 56 from Nate Smith. Highlights included Hugo Jobber’s dramatic final-over heroics in the 10A match, along with impressive centuries from Os Van Velthuizen and Ollie Ransby across the program.
Round 9 provided the perfect finish to an outstanding season, with Nudgee delivering a dominant performance across the program. The 1st XI led the way with a clinical nine-wicket victory. Across all teams, Nudgee recorded 24 wins from 26 matches, reflecting exceptional depth and consistency. The 1st XI concluded the GPS season in a hard-fought third position with 40 points.
CROSS COUNTRY
The GPS Cross Country Championships at Limestone Park on Thursday 21 May, were held in nearperfect conditions, with sunshine, strong support and an outstanding atmosphere creating a memorable day for all involved. From the opening races through to the final events of the afternoon, there was a genuine sense of energy and excitement around the course, reflecting the commitment, growth and hard work our boys have shown throughout the season.
The vast majority of runners delivered some of their strongest performances of the year. Limestone Park once again presented its trademark challenges, with the infamous Heartbreak Hill testing every competitor, but our boys approached the course with courage, resilience and determination. As the day progressed and temperatures climbed, our Under 16 and Open runners were also forced to contend with the heat, adding another layer of difficulty to an already demanding championship course.
One of the defining features of the day was the incredible support shown for our runners. The encouragement from students, staff and families created a special atmosphere across the venue, with our Year 11 and 12 students in particular bringing enormous energy and enthusiasm to the sidelines.
A significant highlight for the program was the return of our Junior Team to the podium, securing an outstanding 3rd Place overall finish behind Ipswich Grammar School in 1st and Brisbane Grammar School in 2nd. It was a terrific reward for the effort and consistency shown by the group throughout the season. In the overall standings for the prestigious Jack E. Ross Memorial Trophy, Nudgee finished 5th overall, reflecting the collective effort and contribution across all age groups throughout the championships. Congratulations also to Brisbane State High School for claiming the Jack E. Ross Memorial Trophy, ahead of Brisbane Boys’ College in 2nd and Brisbane Grammar School in 3rd.
FOOTBALL
Round 1 of the GPS Football season began under challenging circumstances with a Friday fixture and shortened preparation. Our staff did an amazing job, coordinating 650 players across 40 teams. The 1st XI secured a gritty 1-0 win despite key absences. It was a special game for five players who made their 1st XI Debuts along with our Year 5s who competed in their first ever GPS Football match.
A strong home round fixture against Ipswich Grammar School, highlighted by all Opens teams playing on Ross Oval. The 1st XI secured a memorable win, with Charles Warr scoring a superb winner on debut, alongside another debut for Cruz Collins. Across the program, standout moments, sportsmanship and strong attendance reflected the strength of Nudgee Football this season.
Round 3 saw all 40 Nudgee Football teams play at home during Open Day, creating a fantastic atmosphere across the College. Highlights included the 1st XI’s hard-fought 1-1 draw, Zachary Harrison scoring on debut, and outstanding sportsmanship across multiple teams. Strong performances from the 7 Gold, 7 Blue and 9A teams reflected the depth, continuing to build throughout the program.
Following the Round 4 bye, Round 5 showcased the resilience, commitment and spirit across the Nudgee Football program. Highlights included the 1st XI scoring twice in the final five minutes to secure a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory, the 3rd XI’s energetic 2-1 win, and the 7 Silver side continuing their remarkable form. The 6A team’s performance against a strong Brisbane Grammar School outfit also reflected the growth and development continuing across the program.
Round 6 had everything, a venue change, competitive matches across the board and, for once, some sunshine. The 1st XI claimed an impressive win over a strong Brisbane State High School side, with Lachie Cook making his debut. The 10As
secured a thrilling last-minute victory, the 10Ds continued their strong form with a commanding 7-0 win and clean sheet, while the 9Cs responded well with an impressive bounce-back performance.
In round 7, the 1st XI once again found a way, displaying tremendous resilience and team spirit in the face of adversity, winning 2-1 against The Southport School. The 9Cs showed great composure to overturn a 1-0 deficit and win 3-1, while the 8 Blues impressed with a dominant 9-0 victory.
The 1st XI delivered a resilient performance to come from 1-0 down and secure a crucial 2-1 victory over St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace, setting up a thrilling finalround showdown with Brisbane Boys College. Across the program, senior players were recognised in their final home matches, while memorable moments included outstanding goalkeeping efforts and spectacular long-range goals. The Year 7 cohort also impressed once again, showcasing their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the season.
A season of resilient performances culminated in a final round clash against Brisbane Boys College (BBC), with a chance to secure the outright Football Premiership. A tense and engrossing game ultimately ended in a heartbreaking final minute, 0-1 loss for Nudgee. However, a share of the GPS Football Premiership with BBC delivered our fourth premiership in five seasons and rewarded a squad defined by grit and self-belief.
ROWING
Held on Saturday 14 March, the GPS Head of the River provided a fitting finale to the season and proved to be a positive and encouraging day for Nudgee College. A total of 124 students from Years 9-12 proudly represented the College at the Championship regatta.
At the conclusion of the regatta, Nudgee finished 5th in the overall points score, one position higher than in 2025 but more significantly with a substantially improved points tally, reflecting the strong progress made across multiple year levels throughout the season.
The most dominant performances came from the Year 9 cohort, who delivered an exceptional showing and produced three Head of the River Champion crews:
• Year 9 7ths VIII
• Year 9 4ths VIII
• Year 9 2nds VIII
In addition, the Year 9 3rds VIII and 1sts VIII both finished second, narrowly missing further victories in tightly contested races. Across the entire age group, the Year 9 squad accumulated enough points to tie with The Southport School (TSS) as the strongest Year 9 program on the day.
The Year 10 crews also had a strong season overall, consistently
performing at a high level throughout the regatta series. Unfortunately, the rough conditions on Saturday impacted several of their races. Despite this, the group still managed to secure 3rd place on the overall Year 10 points score, with particularly tight second-place finishes in both the 1st Quad and 5th Quad events.
The Senior crews continued their steady progress, with both the 3rd VIII and 1st VIII finishing 2nd in their respective races, outstanding performances against strong competition.
The 1st VIII capped off their season with their best performance of the year on the biggest stage, finishing 5th overall. In doing so, they defeated both St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace and Brisbane State High School, who finished 4th and 3rd respectively at the regatta in 2025. The crew finished just two seconds off the podium and recorded their closest margin to reigning champions TSS, demonstrating how much the crew has developed throughout the season.
Across the board, the regatta reflected the commitment, resilience and growth of the NC Rowing program. With strong performances from the junior cohorts and continued progress at the senior level, the future of rowing at Nudgee College looks extremely promising.
SWIMMING
The 2026 GPS Swimming season was one of the most memorable in recent years, highlighted by an incredible championship night and a team effort that showcased the depth, commitment and spirit of the Nudgee swimmers.
The season began strongly at the first pre-meet at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre in Chandler, where more than 70 boys competed. It was particularly encouraging to see a record number of Year 5 students stepping up to race, with many enthusiastically competing across all four 50m events. These early meets set the tone for a season built on enthusiasm, improvement and strong team culture.
Preparation intensified with the GPS Swim Camp at Currimundi Sports Centre from 20-22 February. More than 60 swimmers attended, completing four swim sessions focused on race skills, speed endurance and relay changeovers, along with two dryland sessions designed to build fitness and teamwork. The camp helped strengthen connections within the squad ahead of the GPS Championships.
The final qualifying meet carried strong anticipation, with limited places remaining on the GPS team. Competition was fierce, highlighted by a thrilling 50m butterfly race between Year 11 swimmers Michael Donovan and Luca Fox,
who went stroke for stroke as they chased a place in the medley relay, with Luca touching first in a dramatic finish.
All of this preparation culminated in one of the closest GPS Swimming Championships in memory. With the overall scores level heading into the final event, it ultimately took a GPS record to separate the teams, with Nudgee finishing just two points behind the winners, Brisbane Grammar School.
Nudgee recorded seven firstplace finishes, five seconds and twelve thirds, while seven of the ten relay teams placed in the top three, highlighting the depth and determination of the squad.
Outstanding performances included wins from Levi Thorley (Backstroke), Hugo Wheeler (Freestyle), Campbell Smith (Backstroke), and Linc Lauder, who was the team’s highest points scorer with two wins and a second place. In the Open division, Dan Van Luik delivered an extraordinary performance, winning both the 400m and 200m Freestyle, with his 200m time more than 2.5 seconds faster than any previous Nudgee swimmer.
The Junior team also delivered a strong showing, finishing fourth overall. The season would not have been possible without the dedication of the coaching and support staff, whose commitment helped guide the swimmers throughout the year.
TENNIS
Round 1 marked an outstanding start for Nudgee Tennis, recording 21 wins from 25 matches against a strong Toowoomba Grammar School outfit.
The day at Nudgee was vibrant, with multiple year groups competing and strong support from players, parents and coaches. The 1st IV set the tone early, travelling Thursday and securing an impressive 4-2 win away.
A strong day on the courts against Ipswich Grammar School, with challenging weather conditions testing all teams. We recorded 15 wins from 20 matches, alongside additional fixtures and internal play.
The 1st IV secured a solid 4-2 victory, with extra effort and positivity, backed by a large, vocal senior squad proving the difference.
In round 3 we faced strong competition from Anglican Church Grammar School, with several tightly contested matches. The program recorded 11 team wins, highlighted by dominant performances from the 1st IV, 3rd IV, 4th IV, 11A, 10C, 9A and 5C teams. The 1st IV continued their undefeated start to the season with a commanding 6-0 victory. Several fixtures were decided by only a handful of games.
Round 5 presented one of the toughest challenges of the season so far, with Nudgee Tennis taking on a strong Brisbane Grammar School outfit.
The 1st IV continued their outstanding undefeated season with a composed 5-1 victory, while the 9As also maintained their unbeaten run.
Despite facing a school with clear tennis specialists, the effort, resilience and sportsmanship shown from Nudgee was clearly evident across the program.
The 1st IV maintained their unbeaten start to the season in round 6 with a strong 5-1 victory. Winning both doubles matches provided the perfect platform, before the boys secured three of the four single contests to cap off an impressive performance. The 9As also remain undefeated, continuing their excellent form. Across the program, it was a highly successful day where we recorded 22 wins and 8 losses against Brisbane State High School and St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace.
Round 7 was another strong outing for Nudgee Tennis, recording 18 wins and 8 losses against a quality The Southport School program. The 1st IV maintained their unbeaten record with a hardfought 5-1 victory, improving to 6-0 for the season and remaining on top of the GPS ladder. The Southport School entered the round as one of the competition’s strongest teams, making the result even more impressive.
The 1st IV continued their strong season with an impressive 3-1 victory over St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace. Across the program, players demonstrated resilience, sportsmanship and a commitment to representing Nudgee with pride. An incredible 7-0 start to the season culminated in a final round winnertakes-all clash against Brisbane Boys College. The 1st IV had a battle on their hands against one of the tournament favourites and were pushed all the way in a tense and cagey affair.
The match concluded in a 2-4 loss for Nudgee, marking the team’s first defeat of the season. Despite a strong and competitive performance, the result saw the side finish the year in second place, rounding out an otherwise outstanding campaign defined by consistency, effort, and high-level execution, finishing the season with an outstanding seven wins and one loss, making it the program’s most successful season since 1994.
VOLLEYBALL
The GPS Volleyball season began with an exciting opening round as we fielded a record 48 teams and recorded an outstanding 19 wins from 20 matches against Toowoomba Grammar School. The 1st VI delivered a dominant 3-0 victory, cheered on by a passionate crowd, while the College’s newest Year 5 players proudly represented Nudgee for the first time.
Round 2 continued the strong momentum, with all 48 teams taking the court for the first time this season and Nudgee securing 20 wins from 25 matches against Ipswich Grammar School, including a clean sweep across the senior teams. The 1st VI once again impressed with a commanding 3-0 victory, featuring debut performances from Year 10 students Daniyal Yi and Liam Walker.
Round 3 was one of the biggest fixtures this season with 41 Nudgee and Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie) teams going head-tohead. The 1st VI showed tremendous composure and grit to overcome a highlight skilled Churchie outfit in an electric atmosphere. Another standout moment in round 3 was when Alfie Pybus ignited the 7As with a clutch serving run to turn an 18-22 deficit into a memorable win.
After a welcome round 4 bye, the players returned energised for a highly anticipated round 5 clash with BGS. Nudgee secured 19 of 34 matches, highlighted by wins in the 5A, 7A, 9A, 10A, 2nds and 1sts, as well as a clean sweep of the Year 5 fixtures.
The 1st VI produced a stunning 27-25 third-set comeback to complete a commanding 3-0 victory and maintain their unbeaten run.
Round 6 saw us continue our strong momentum as the season slowly approached its decisive final weeks. Hayden Brown produced a remarkable 20-point serving streak for the 7As, while Duke Tupi guided the 8Bs to a gritty 2-1 win. The 1st VI delivered another commanding performance, recording 16 aces in a 3-0 victory.
Round 7 saw Nudgee face The Southport School on the volleyball court for the first time, with our A teams delivering impressive performances. The 7A, 8A, 11A and 1st VI all secured strong wins, while Years 5-8 competed in supplementary matches.
Round 8 delivered one of the most thrilling contests of the season as we faced St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace (GT). We enjoyed a strong overall performance, winning 70% of the matches, highlighted by standout individual efforts and an electric
atmosphere at GT. Despite a valiant effort in a five-set thriller, the 1sts suffered their first loss.
Round 9 brought the 2026 GPS Volleyball season to a fitting close with a strong showing against Brisbane Boys College (BBC). The 1st VI displayed resilience and composure in a gruelling five-set battle, emerging victorious to secure an outstanding second-place finish. Across the program, performances remained consistently strong, with the 7A, 9A, 10A and 2nds completing undefeated seasons. The final round reflected the depth, determination and growth of the group, capping off a highly successful campaign.
To keep up to date on all our sport and activities news, follow
78 NC ALMA MATER
Semester 1 has been an honour and a privilege for me.
My Nudgee College journey began as a mother, a role I am incredibly proud to have held. Transitioning to staff opened my eyes to just how deeply invested our staff are in the growth and development of each student. It offered me a new perspective, one I am grateful to now be part of. Stepping into my role as Alumni and Community Manager feels like coming home. I understand, now more than ever, the strength of the Nudgee community, both past and present. There is something truly special about a place where we are all working toward a shared purpose. At the heart of it all are the boys. They connect us for life, whether through the classroom, on the playing
fields or out in the wider community. Wherever we meet, there is a shared sense of belonging.
Our community is brought to life through a number of key events across the term, each one strengthening connections and celebrating what it means to be part of Nudgee community.
Past Staff Event
Our past staff gathering was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with those who have played such an important role in shaping the College. The warmth in the room was evident, with shared stories, laughter and a deep appreciation for the enduring impact of their contribution to Nudgee College.
Alma Mater Business Series
Our first Business Series event for the year, Building Brisbane 2032 –Opportunities for Local Business, was a great success. The panel brought together a wealth of experience and insight, and guests left feeling informed, inspired and eager to engage with the opportunities ahead of Brisbane 2032. It was a strong reminder of the depth of expertise within our community and the value of coming together to share it.
Past Mothers’ Welcome
The Past Mothers‘ Welcome was a beautiful gathering, filled with warmth and connection. It was a joy to see past mothers come together, reconnect and celebrate their shared connection to the College. The sense of community and belonging was evident throughout the afternoon.
Our community extends well beyond these moments. We actively support one another, including the many Nudgee-connected businesses within our network. Whether you are an Old Boy, a current or past parent, or a valued supporter of our sporting programs, there is a strong culture of backing each other. We look forward to the next Business Series event on Friday 20 November 2026, where the focus will shift to practical ways to get involved, moving from conversation to action.
These moments matter. They strengthen our connections and reinforce what makes this community so unique. We are one, we are connected, and we are all kicking for the same goals.
Penny Roost Alumni and Community Manager
Ms
Past Staff event.
Alma Mater Business Series.
Past Mothers’ Association
On Saturday 28 March, over 70 Past Mothers gathered in the beautifully presented Callan Centre in the heritage listed Treacy Building for our annual Term 1 afternoon tea. As Nudgee College celebrates 135 years, the strong attendance was a wonderful reflection of what our College does so well, building community, honouring tradition, while continuing to move forward with purpose for the development of our young men.
Guests enjoyed a raffle with more than 12 prizes generously donated by our Past Mothers community. These contributions support the Year 9 Immersion program, helping provide opportunities for students who may otherwise be unable to participate.
Events such as this are only possible through the support of many. We extend our sincere thanks to the Nudgee Events team. We are incredibly fortunate to have Ms Penny Roost, not only as a Past Mother but also as Alumni and Community Manager, whose time, attention to detail and flexibility are greatly valued. We also thank Mr Mark Anthony, Mr Steve Lutter, Mr Alfonso Navarro and their catering team, Mr Raoul Carmody, Mr John Sayer for arranging access to the museum, and Mr Brody Grogan for capturing the afternoon so beautifully after a full day of Nudgee sport.
We were honoured to welcome our Principal, Mr Scott Thomson, who spent time connecting with Past
Mothers and sharing in the spirit of the day. We also acknowledge the ongoing support of the Ladies Auxiliary, and thank Ms Annie Bourke, Ms Cathy Conroy and their team for their generosity in providing the beautiful staging and strengthening the connection between Nudgee mums, past and present. We also congratulate the Ladies Auxiliary on their recent fashion parade, with Past Mother Ms Rosemary Rogers in attendance, showcasing items from the Nudgee Locker Room, and featuring contributions from Active Truth and Extend Circular, led by Ms Debby White and supported by Ms Judy Hatch.
A highlight of the afternoon was honouring two Past Mothers, both former staff and now proud Nudgee grandparents. While Ms Maree Ganley was unable to join us, we were delighted to welcome Ms Monica Molloy, who addressed the gathering. Monica’s speech was engaging, heartfelt and full of insight, and it is fair to say we could have listened to her all afternoon.
As we reflect on an afternoon filled with friendship, laughter and shared stories, we give thanks for 135 years of rich history at this wonderful College. We pray that the spirit of community continues to inspire and sustain us, our families and our young Nudgee men for generations to come.
Our annual Winter Warmer took place on 20 June at The Story Bridge Hotel. From the lively conversations to the shared laughter, the energy in the room perfectly complemented the cosy backdrop of the iconic hotel. It was fantastic to see so many familiar and new faces coming together to connect, unwind, and brave the winter chill in the best possible company.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the afternoon such a memorable success. We already can’t wait for the next one!
Ms Jo Curran President, Past Mothers’
Association
SIGNUM FIDEI RECIPIENTS
Faith in Action
The award of Signum Fidei was instituted by the Christian Brothers to commemorate the Centenary of St Joseph’s Nudgee College in 1991.
Signum Fidei is the highest honour which can be awarded by the College to a Nudgee College Old Boy.
The Nudgee College Old Boys’ Association was invited by the Brothers to nominate each year Old Boys of the College - usually two (2), upon whom the Award may be conferred.
A Nominee may be from any field of endeavour eg. Priest, Religious, Commercial, Trade, Professional, Rural, Music, Arts, etc.
To be awarded Signum Fidei an Old Boy exhibits:
Success in his chosen field of endeavour, his support of Nudgee
College and of the Nudgee Old Boys’ Association and, who by his example is a ‘Sign of Faith’
What this looks like in practice can be seen in the lives of our 2026 recipients. Their journeys reflect not only success in their fields, but a deep commitment to others and to the Nudgee community.
Bob Ingham-Myers
Robert “Bob” Ingham-Myers arrived at Nudgee College in 1961 as a Year 11 boarder from Cairns, quickly earning a reputation as an engaging storyteller and natural entertainer among his peers.
After graduating in 1962, Bob began studying pharmacy at the University of Queensland before ultimately pursuing a career in law. Following his Articles of Clerkship, he joined the Royal Australian Air Force as a legal officer, serving in Penang, Malaysia, and continuing a distinguished career as a reservist, retiring as a Wing Commander in 1995.
In 1974, Bob established Australia’s first legal aid office in Ipswich on behalf of the Commonwealth Government. He later became a barrister, building a respected practice in personal injury and commercial
law. Known for taking on complex and challenging cases, Bob was a champion for the underdog and appeared twice before the Privy Council in London in the final years of Australian appeals.
One of his most significant cases, heard in the Queensland Supreme Court, helped expose historic institutional abuse and contributed to legislative change, ensuring greater protection for children and pathways for compensation. The case later inspired the book and film Don’t Tell, with Jack Thompson portraying Bob’s role.
A devoted family man, Bob and his wife Trish educated their children through Nudgee College and Stuartholme, while Bob also served the College as a member and Chair of the Advisory Council. Across decades, he has quietly supported countless Old Boys in times of need, offering legal guidance and advocacy without expectation of return.
It is this lifelong commitment to others, given generously and without recognition, that makes Bob a most deserving recipient of the Signum Fidei Award.
Will Howard
Will Howard’s journey at Nudgee College began in 2019 as a Year 9 boarder. A talented rugby player, he was known early on for his fiery nature, both on the field and in the classroom.
During his time at the College, Will formed a close friendship with fellow boarder Luke O’Sullivan. Through shared experiences in boarding, rugby and adolescence, their bond grew strong, with Luke’s influence helping Will mature into a respected and loyal member of the community. While never a formal leader, Will became known for his authenticity and quiet reliability.
Shortly after graduation, the two were involved in a serious car accident. Will sustained minor injuries, but Luke was left a quadriplegic. In the months that followed, Will remained a constant presence during Luke’s hospitalisation, offering support and companionship during an incredibly difficult time.
When Luke returned home to his family property near Collinsville, Will chose to stand beside him, working with the family and becoming affectionately known as “Brother Will.” During periods when carers were unavailable, he undertook training and provided full-time care, offering deeply personal support with humility and unwavering commitment.
Will’s actions reflect the values of faith, courage, loyalty and selflessness that define the Nudgee community. His quiet dedication to his mate stands as a powerful and genuine expression of Signum Fidei.
Ms Penny Roost Alumni and Community Manager
Everyday Sacrifice, Extraordinary Friendship
Will Howard’s life shifted in an instant shortly after leaving school three years ago. His best mate, Luke, was left paralysed and Will walked away mostly unscathed. In the aftermath, like so many young people finding their feet, he felt a little lost.
He tried diesel fitting and figured he might end up in the family panel beating business in Brisbane, steady, predictable, safe.
Then Luke called about work on his property. Will packed up and went, planning to stay six months.
A typical day begins before sunrise, breakfast, lunch packed, then over to the shed. By 6.30am they are loading bikes to muster cattle, draft and separate stock, fix fences, repair troughs and sort machinery. It is physical and constant work shaped by weather and livestock.
“It just depends on what needs to be done,” Will says.
In winter, when the paddocks are closed and the temperature is kind, Luke heads out in the buggy.
In summer, the heat can make that harder. Most afternoons, once the edge has gone from the day, they wander down to the arena. Luke positions himself in the middle of the horse’s circle. “He just yells at me if I’m doing it wrong,” Will grins. “But it’s good.”
The banter is relentless. They still argue over who is funnier. They still recycle the same old jokes. Whatever has changed, that has not.
When carers are rostered off, Will steps in. In the early days, the responsibility was confronting, lifting, positioning,
making sure everything was done safely. “You can get injured so easily,” he says. “At the start I was nervous.” Confidence came with time. Now the caring fits around the work, woven into the week when needed.
Evenings are shared, dinner together, cards or half an hour of television, always conversation. Sometimes, on a Friday night, they drive to the local pub, where someone nods, someone calls your name, someone asks about your week. For a selfdescribed city boy, that sense of belonging has been unexpected.
Earlier this year, he received the phone call that he had been awarded the Signum Fidei Award by the Nudgee College Old Boys Association, the highest honour given to an Old Boy. He was standing on top of a truck searching for phone reception when the call came through and admits he thought it was a scam. The award recognises commitment and quiet leadership. Will shrugs it off. “It’s just what I do.”
The award did not change anything, the next morning. The alarm still went off at 5.30am. There are hard days, things break, plans shift. You dig a little deeper. But mostly it is simple: wake up, work hard, laugh a lot, repeat.
He went to the station for six months. He has stayed for 2 years, because loyalty, like most things that matter, is built in the everyday.
Ms Penny Roost Alumni and Community Manager
The banter is relentless. They still argue over who is funnier. They still recycle the same old jokes. Whatever has changed, that has not.
NC BA
I would like to begin by sincerely thanking Mr Andrew McNamara for his four years as President of the Nudgee College Old Boys Association.
I would also like to extend my thanks to Mr Brendan Williams for his time as Vice President, and I look forward to their continued involvement with the Association into the future. It is a privilege and honour to serve such a proud and longstanding Old Boys community, particularly in a year that marks 100 years and four generations of my family’s association with Nudgee College.
I would also like to congratulate Mr Bob Ingham-Myers and Mr Will Howard on being awarded the Signum Fidei Awards, a significant achievement and a true reflection of their character and contribution.
Looking ahead, we have a number of important and enjoyable events on the calendar, including the Reunion Weekend on 18 July, and
the Senior Old Boys Reunion on 15 August, along with other opportunities throughout the year to reconnect. We recently enjoyed welcoming the Class of 2025 for drinks at the Normanby Hotel, with strong representation from our younger Old Boys.
The recent Sydney Reunion on Friday was an absolutely fantastic event, filled with laughter, deep nostalgia, and a vibrant sense of community.
Even for those living outside of Brisbane, the evening served as a powerful reminder that distance is no barrier, every interstate Old Boy remains a vital part of this community, and their place within the 10,000 Brothers is as strong as ever.
The night was made even more special with Principal Scott Thomson traveling down to personally welcome everyone. He spoke passionately about the vital
relationship between the College and the Old Boys, emphasizing his absolute commitment to ensuring this connection always remains a top priority.
As we move forward, a key priority is encouraging greater involvement from our younger Old Boys. Their energy, ideas and perspectives are vital to the continued growth and relevance of the Association, and I strongly encourage them to attend events, share their views and take an active role in shaping our future.
Thank you again to everyone who contributes their time and support. I look forward to working together to build on the strong foundations already in place.
Follow the QR Code to update your details or to register.
Mr Steve Ware
NCOBA President (NCOB 1989)
Scan the code to follow the NCOBA oN Linkedin
NCOBA Snapshot
1. Congratulations to Old Boy and Dux of 2025, Lucian De Wet, recognised as a Distinguished Academic Achiever.
2. Jacob Elordi (NCOB 2015) has had an outstanding year. Winning the Critics’ Choice Movie Award for best supporting actor and nominations for both an Oscar and a BAFTA.
3. Will Duffield (NCOB 2023) was named as Rising Star of the Year by The Educator.
A Nudgee Old Boy, and now a valued member of our Performing Arts team, Will brings energy, purpose, and deep care to every space he leads, from Debating and Esports to Writers’ Circle. This recognition reflects not only Will’s dedication, but the continued impact of Performing Arts at Nudgee College.
4. Congratulations to Angus McLeod (NCOB 2016) for winning the Media Planner/Buyer and Strategy categories at the B&T 30 Under 30 Awards. Angus has also been supported by the Dylan Alcott Foundation in 2026.
5. A significant First! Since 2019, our Year 12 Seniors have unveiled their Motto, proudly painted along the fence at Wilkes Oval. Each one reflects what that cohort strives for, not only in their final year, but as they carry those values beyond the Nudgee gates.
As space becomes limited, these Mottoes are now being respectfully replaced, with each one honoured in a permanent plaque for future generations to appreciate. Presented to 2019 College Captain, Hayden Bygott.
6. Vice President of the NCOBA, Brian Guthrie (NCOB 1990), laying a wreath in honour of all Nudgee Old Boys who have served. Accompanied by many Old Boy Veterans, we remember their contribution and sacrifice. Lest we forget.
7. An ex traordinary lifetime of dedication to Nudgee and Catholic education.
At the remarkable age of 88, Terry Oberg (NCOB 1955), stepped back from tutoring at the College, bringing to a close an association spanning more than 80 years. From Nudgee junior and Nudgee senior as a student, to Christian Brother, teacher and tutor.
Across generations of students, his commitment to education, guidance and service has left a lasting impact on the Nudgee community. Few people can claim such a lifelong connection and contribution.
8. Tom Balkin (NCOB 2021) began his BBL career.
9. N icholas Conway (NCOB 2024) selected to play for the Reds and Australia.
10. Fraser Masin (NCOB 2018) signed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats to a two-year contract playing in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
11. Luka Moore (NCOB 2024) awarded a baseball scholarship to Midland College in Texas!
12. Blake Schoupp (NCOB 2016). Re-signed with Rugby Australia and the Brumbies through to 2029.
13. Tom Shaw (NCOB 2022) and his team winning the prestigious King’s Cup at the Australian Rowing Championships.
14. Pat Long (NCOB 2019) selected in the Rowing Australia squad.
15. Noah McFadyen (NCOB 2020) secured a full-time contract with South Australia.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Support the Future of St Joseph’s Nudgee College
TESTIMONIAL
“At 13 years old, I rode my bike to the local post office in Central Queensland to mail a letter asking for a chance to attend Nudgee College. I was the fortunate recipient of a bursary, and that life-changing gift provided me with an education and a Nudgee College experience that shaped my life profoundly. Today, working for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in Vienna, I still aim to promote the Edmund Rice values, including justice and solidarity. Nudgee College truly fosters “mates for life” and instils principles that stay with you long after you leave. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities the bursary provides, ensuring that every student has the chance to thrive and succeed at Nudgee.” - Sam O’Neill (NCOB 2014), College Captain
Your generosity ensures that we continue to provide world-class facilities and accessible education to the next generation of leaders. Please select the fund you wish to support.
My Gift Details
I would like to make a gift of (please tick):
Please direct my support to (please tick):
The Building Fund
Other: $
Investing in the physical evolution of our campus, from state-of-the-art learning areas to creative arts spaces.
The Jack Ross Bursary
Providing life-changing opportunities and financial support to students who embody the spirit of our College.
Donor Information
Name: Email:
Address:
Cit y: State: Postcode:
I am an Alumnus (Class of ).
I wish for my gift to remain anonymous.
Payment Method
Option A: Give Online (Recommended)
Scan the QR code below to donate securely via our website. It’s fast, secure, and saves paper!
Option B: Cheque
Please make cheques payable to: “St Joseph’s Nudgee College Foundation. Care of Head of Philanthropy.” Mail alongside this form to: PO Box 130, Virginia, QLD, 4014
Tax & Recognition
• Tax Deductibility: All donations over $2.00 to the Building Fund and Jack Ross Bursary are tax-deductible.
• Receipts: A receipt will be sent to your nominated email address.
• B equests: Please send me information about including the College in my Will.
Thank you for your enduring support of our community.
Contact:
Ms Erina Hitchings, Head of Philanthropy T: +61 7 3865 0313 E: foundation@nudgee.qld.edu.au
