Conanti Corona Issue 7

CONANTI CORONA

Issue 7 | Semester 1, 2023

Acknowledgement of Country

St Mary’s College respectfully acknowledges and pays respects to the traditional custodians of this land, the Giabal and Jarowair peoples of the Western Wakka Wakka Nation who long before us, live and learned, loved and raised their children on this land.

Let us sense the land beneath our feet, acknowledge to whom it belongs, and pay our respects to the Elders past and present.

For we too are one in land, one spirit, one in faith united in God’s love.

In the words of the Wakka Wakka language,

“Yah-naan-day gum-bah ngay” Let us all strive for the crown

From the Principal

Welcome everyone to the Conanti Corona Magazine for 2023.

This year, we launched our new Strategic Plan for 2023 - 2025 titled Today’s Boys, Men for Tomorrow. It outlines our vision for the future of St Mary’s College.

We are, proudly, a Catholic boys school in the Edmund Rice tradition, founded in 1899. The social landscape that Edmund found in Ireland when he arrived in Waterford was unjust where many lived in poverty and social structures deeply oppressed the majority of the population. In 1802, he set up a free school for boys living in poverty. His aim was to recognise the dignity of each individual and to liberate them by providing an outstanding education where boys could become whatever they imagined for their future. We hope that you see the echoes of Edmund’s work at St Mary’s College today.

What is the reality of 2023 at St Mary’s College? What would you see if you walked the halls here? Hopefully, Conanti Corona will show that our boys are all at once funny and serious, playful and a little lazy, honest and truly forgiving human beings, connected and disconnected - all wrapped up in a fascinating 1.2-1.9 metre package of testosterone. They are fiercely loyal to the College and to each other. They are diverse - our boys come from the most broken and detached family circumstances to the most affluent, engaged families in the Darling Downs - and from around the world - and we are proud of this. St Mary’s boys are academic achievers, take the lead roles in our school musicals and choirs, help the community in the name of justice, take on the strongest sporting competition SEQ has to offer and care for each other in the name of brotherhood.

Therefore, our role together is to form Men of Tomorrow - young, gentlemen who understand the modern world and to embrace it - with its technology, disruption, and endless possibilities. My hope is that our young men aim for their best lifewhether this be in Toowoomba, other parts of Australia, or beyond. We understand the “working-class” roots of this school, but we want them to truly accept that they are highly intelligent and skilful individuals, ready to take on the world. The most obvious example right now is our 2023 membership of Gateway to Industry - Aerospace, and our partnership with Boeing Defence Australia. We are well-placed on the doorstep of the Wellcamp Airport development for our young men to take advantage of this opportunity.

Conanti Corona 2023 provides a window into the story that is St Mary’s College, Toowoomba. My sincere thanks to our Director of Marketing and Communications, Tyhla Roper, for the publication. As you absorb the stories and pictures within, we hope that you feel part of the journey towards developing our Men for Tomorrow.

Looking Forward

In 2018, St Mary’s College enacted a Strategic Plan focusing on the six strategic initiatives of:

• Mission & Identity

• Teaching & Learning

• Co-Curricular Activities

• Well-being

• Continual Renewal

• Sustainable Resourcing & Stewardship

A review of the outcomes of this plan revealed that much has been achieved in a short period of time.

Looking forward to the future, the foundations of the initial plan have provided a baseline for a new Strategic Plan which is informed by the Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) Touchstones of:

• Liberating Education

• Gospel Spirituality

• Inclusive Community

• Justice and Solidarity

The new Strategic Plan will provide direction for work at the College for the period of 2023 - 2025.

At St Mary’s College, our vision is to equip Today’s Boys with skills required to become Men for Tomorrow.

Our mission is to provide Catholic education in the Edmund Rice tradition, empowering our students to be men of faith, integrity, action and excellence.

With consideration to the past, the present and the future, the strategic initiatives for the 2023 - 2025 are:

• Learning for Life

• Forming Our People

• Nurturing Well-being

• Pursuing Partnerships

• Ensuring Sustainability

This three-year Strategic Plan outlines a clear path for a new vision for the College. There are many great opportunities ahead of us and the purpose of the 2023 - 2025 Strategic Plan is to enable the College to meet the needs of current students, while continuing to build on St Mary’s College’s achievements into the future.

Strategic Initiatives Learning For Life

St Mary’s College will champion lifelong learning through quality teaching and learning; empowering boys to take responsibility for their own learning and realise their potential.

Forming Our People

St Mary’s College will continue to invest in the formation of people through on-going professional development of leaders, particularly middle leaders and teachers, and through building capacity of teachers and support staff.

Nurturing Well-being

St Mary’s College will continue to nurture the wellbeing of students and staff and maintain a learning environment that is safe, ensuring that every student is challenged to learn, grow and develop.

Pursuing Partnerships

St Mary’s College will pursue partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance the quality of our teaching, learning and pathway options for our boys.

Ensuring Sustainability

St Mary’s College will deliver future sustainability through robust financial management, ongoing development of facilities and responsible use of resources.

Leading the Way

Twenty-four young men have taken the opportunity to represent St Mary’s College in leadership roles.

St Mary’s College is proud of the fine young men who have taken the leadership positions in their stride and accepted the responsibility of ensuring that the spirit and direction of the College is maintained and strengthened in 2023.

College Captain, Daryll Quijas has attended St Mary’s College since Year 7 and is grateful to the College for helping him to become a genuine and presentable young man.

“St Mary’s College has provided me with opportunities to help the community and gain perspective outside of my personal experiences,” said Daryll.

“My favourite thing about my school is that the staff are very open and willing to change for a better and more suitable learning experience for students,” he said.

Daryll says the best advice he can give to aspiring leaders is to be fearless and courageous.

“Throughout your journey there will be times when your personal growth and leadership is tested,” said Daryll.

“Strive to be fearless in the presence of others who aim to belittle you and to be courageous in your ability to voice your opinions,” he said.

College Vice-Captain, Bart Steffen commenced his journey at St Mary’s College in 2016 as a Year 5 student and is proud to be a part of the brotherhood within the school community.

“It was evident from day dot that the bond and memories shared between St Mary’s College students are priceless,” said Bart.

Year 12 Leaders (L-R): Angus Goddard, Charlie Nielsen, Misha Marushchak, Alexander Eddie, Matthew Kuhnemann, Tom Campomayor, Lucas Brooking, Daryll Quijas, Bart Steffen, Harry Eyers, Ronan Delaney, Lachlan Thompson, Tyler Madden, Mitchell Prior, Ryan Coleman, Jacob Lasserre Absent: Brandon Forrest

As the College Vice-Captain, Bart believes it is important for him to lead and represent the entire College community to the best of his ability.

“I strive to be involved in as much as possible and be actively present within the school community.”

“Demonstrating leadership qualities of being a role model to others, inspiring those around me to strive for excellence in all aspects of their schooling life and communicating effectively are all important attributes to becoming a successful leader,” he said.

Primary Captain, James Ottobrino moved to St Mary’s College in Year 5 in 2022.

“Being the Primary School Captain means a lot to me,” said James.

“My two older brothers were school captains of a different school, and I always liked hearing about the things they were doing to support students, teachers, and the school.”

James acts as a great role model to other students.

“I encourage all students to be the best person they can possibly be, try hard in all areas of school life and do something to push them out of their comfort zone each day, beacause I believe every time you do this, you become a stronger person,” he said.

College Captain – Daryll Quijas

College Vice-Captain – Bart Steffen

Academic Leader – Alexander Eddie

Cultural Leader – Misha Maruschchak

Identity Leader – Ryan Coleman

Mission Leader – Jacob Lasserre

Sport Leader – Tyler Madden

Bowdler Captains – Matthew Kuhnemann & Brandon Forrest

McGoldrick Captains – Tom Campomayor & Lucas Brooking

Purcell Captains – Ronan Delaney & Lachlan Thompson

Waterford Captains – Mitchell Prior & Harry Eyers

Prefects – Angus Goddard & Charlie Nielsen

Primary Captain – James Ottobrino

Primary Vice-Captain (Mission, Identity & Student Voice) – Hamish Siebenhausen

Primary Vice-Captain (Academic, Cultural & Student Voice) – Xavier Bowdler

Bowdler House Leader – Louis Choyce

McGoldrick House Leader – Riley Betros

Purcell House Leader – Chase Moy

Waterford House Leader – Thomas Smith

Introducing the Student Voice

St Mary’s College Student Voice concerns itself with a variety of matters related to College life including service, curriculum matters, student wellbeing issues, College facilities and the organisation of a vary of social curricula activities. Students meet regularly during breaks to discuss issues as they arise.

We would like to recognise the following students: Ethan Payne, Sebastian Seeto, Nathan Ottobrino, Yanojan Navaneethan, Henry Goodall, Nicholas Jewell, Jeramy Skeels, Hayden Beckett, Lucas Norton, Caiden Bridger, Sam Monk, Sean Fischer, Lucas Taylor, Uriel Meneses, Benjamin Otto, Joshua Newman, Elijah Hopper, Hamish Siebenhausen and Xavier Bowdler.

Primary Leaders (L-R): Louis Choyce, Xavier Bowdler, James Ottobrino, Hamish Siebenhausen, Riley Betros, Chase Moy Absent: Thomas Smith

Back Row (L-R): Lucas Taylor, Sebastian Seeto, Hayden Beckett, Nicholas Jewell, Nathan Ottobrino, Henry Goodall

Middle Row (L-R): Jeramy Skeels, Uriel Meneses, Lucas Norton, Sean Fischer, Joshua Newman

Front Row (L-R): Xavier Bowdler, Hamish Siebenhausen, Yanojan Navaneethan

The Senior Class of 2022

The 2022 Year 12 graduates of St Mary’s College should be extremely proud of their fantastic achievements.

A true inspiration to many students, Zayne Gauhar was awarded the College Dux after achieving an ATAR on 98.30.

Zayne attributes his success to the guidance he received from his teachers throughout senior school and a supportive friendship group who all worked hard to achieve academically, pushing him to perform his best.

Holding great significance for Zayne is the St Mary’s College motto “Conanti Corona – a crown to the one who strives”. Zayne says he has always strived to achieve the best results in his pursuit of academic excellence.

St Mary’s College Principal, Mr Brendan Stewart says Zayne’s exceptional results are a testament to his dedication, perseverance and hard work.

Zayne aspires to study medicine or physiotherapy at the University of Queensland in 2023.

St Mary’s College was proud to learn Jaisal Narsey received a score of 97.95, Bailey Fry received a score of 96.15 and Riley White received a score of 96!

All senior students are to be commended for their exceptional effort, with 100% of students achieving their QCE, 10% of students achieving an ATAR of 95 or above and 52% of students receiving a score of 80 or above.

94 students graduated with a completed certificate qualification and a further 18 students converted their school-based apprenticeships into full-time trade apprenticeships.

10% of students achieved an ATAR above 90 100% of students achieved a Queensland Certificate of Education

2022 Year 12 Dux of Subjects

• Alex Jones

Study of Religion

• Anthony Lemin Science in Practice

• Bailey Fry

Literature

• Brock Peters Hospitality Practices

• Caleb Allen

Drama

• Cruz Williamson Building & Construction Skills

• Jai Purser Essential English

• Jaisal Narsey Specialist Mathematics

• Jerome’ Jooste

Industrial Technology Skills

• Jesse Deem Social & Community Studies

• Joshua Somerfield Study of Religion, General Mathematics

• Kobey Timms

Physical Education

• Marcus Loader

Certificate III Business, General Mathematics

• Matthew Morgan Music

• Matthew Simpkin Essential Mathematics

• Michael Dew Economics, Japanese, Legal Studies, Modern History

• Mitchell Lewis Certificate II Engineering Pathways

• Nash Thomas Drama in Practice

• Noah Smith Design & Film, TV & New Media, General Mathematics

• Riley White Biology, Chemistry, English

• Robert Hales Religion & Ethics

• Tyler Smith Certificate III Fitness

• Zachary Adams Digital Solutions

• Zackary Lyons Visual Art, Visual Art in Practice

• Zayne Gauhar Mathematical Methods, Physics

Academic Awards

Congratulations to all boys who were awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze Academic Pins in recognition of their academic achievements in 2022. To receive a pin, students must achieve highly in both semesters of the year, with results culminating for the qualification of either a Gold, Silver or Bronze level pin.

The academic efforts and the example the students demonstrate to other boys at the College are admired. In particular, we congratulate the Gold Award recipients listed below.

Primary recipients: Asher Miller, Noah Betros, Jasper Eagleson, Lane Madden and Hamish Tomlinson.

Secondary recipients: Ryan Ch’ng, Luke Ebenestelli, Nate Fry, Jett Beutel, Rylan Borger, Luther Drew, James Geddert, Aengus GrahamSmith, Jayden Hintz, Jack Macbeth, Jack Mauger, Ryan Reeves, Jasper Rixon, Dulan Urala Gamage, Conor Ward, Ben Wightman, Jackson Winnett, Hayden Beckett, Caiden Bridger, Sean Fischer, Connor Leeson, Sam Monk, Andrew Dennis, Ned Murry, Matthew Pillar and Sebastian Seeto.

High Achievers & Commitment to Learning

Students at St Mary’s College, who demonstrated dedication towards their studies in Term 1, have been recognised at the High Achievers’ Morning Tea. The event recognised students who achieved high results and demonstrated aptitude towards their learning. Specifically, in order to receive the High Achiever Award, students must receive a minimum of four As in their report and all ‘Good’, or ‘Very Good’ for their learning attributes. Congratulations to the following students:

Aaron Convery, Aengus Graham-Smith, Alex Burke, Alex Ebenestelli, Alexander Eddie, Archer Thurn, Asher Miller, Bart Steffen, Ben Forknall, Ben Wightman, Brynn Fishbourne, Caiden Bridger, Charlie Nielsen, Connor Leeson, Connor Walsh, Conor Ward, Cooper Kunkel, Declan Parle, Dexter Freeth, Dilo Alazeez, Dulan Urala Gamage, Elijah Entwistle, Elijah Hopper, Ethan Payne, Frankie Webster, Gabe Clarke, George Joseph, George Yeo, Hamish Tomlinson, Harrison Parsons, Harry Hales, Hayden Beckett, Heath Monk, Hudson Strong, Huey Geran, Isaac Palmer, Jack Wilson, Jackson Winnett, Jaidyn Page, James Geddert, James Ottobrino, Jayden Hintz, Jeramy Skeels, Jeremy Collins, Jett Beutel, Jhett Bubb, Jonah Greenaway, Josh Forknall, Lachlan Gooding, Lachlan Ottobrino, Leroy Marsh, Logan Timbrell, Lucas Norton, Luke Ebenestelli, Luther Drew, Marcus Kelderman, Marty Collins, Matthew Pillar, Max Murphy, Nate Fry, Nathan Ottobrino, Nathanael Jorgenson, Ned Murry, Nick Jewell, Noah Betros, Noel Binto, Oliver Cameron, Oliver See, Parker Orford, Riley Betros, Ryan Coleman, Ryan Reeves, Rylan Borger, Sam Monk, Samuel Chapman, Tyler Grosser, Will Lemin, Xavier Bowdler, Zayne Chapman and Zeke Drew.

In addition to the High Achievers’ Morning Tea, we also held a Commitment to Learning Morning Tea for students at St Mary’s College who consistently recieve only ‘Good’ or ‘Very Good’ on their reports and a minimum of 95% attendance. We would like to congratulate the following students:

Aden Smith, Aiden Gorton, Alasdair Harms, Alex Maddison, Alex Wilson, Andrew Burke, Andrew Dennis, Andy Morris, Archer Brownsdon, Archer Townsing, Ayce Barron, Beckett Duce, Ben Clarke, Ben Moore, Blayze Hintz, Bodie Land, Brandon Forrest, Brock Markey, Callum Lemin, Cayden McKim, Cayleb O’Neil, Chase Moy, Christon John, Clayton Elgayar, Connor Kelly, Connor Steinhardt, Danny Booth, Daryll Quijas, Dominic Kuhn, Drew Wilkes, Eli Sharpe, Ethan Langley, Finnian Butel, Fletcher Wuersching, Gian Bautista, Harrison Zammit, Harvey Steffen, Hunter Knap, Hurley Steinberg, Ilyas Alazeez, Jace Walker, Jack Bidgood, Jack Leeson, Jack Morrison, Jackson Reis, Jacob Lasserre, Jam Acquisto, Joey Booth, Johnny O’Mochain, Josh Booth, Joshua Pearson, Koen Wilson, Lachie Spence, Lachlan Davies, Lachlan Hanna, Lachlan Watt, Lawson Fishbourne, Liam Sanson, Lincoln Charles, Louis Duce, Luca Harrington, Lucas Menzies, Matthew Thom, Mikey Kisiel, Nixon Deme, Noah Taylor, Noah Van Heerden, Oliver Hartshorn, Oliver Johnston, Oliver Yamanaka, Parker Kleidon, Pat Waters, Raad Alazeez, Rainer McKim, Riley Gibson, Rusty O’Neill, Ryder Donpon, Sam Goodall, Sam Yaxley, Samir Kheder, Sankamesh Chinnannan, Saxon Tevelein, Ty Alfereti, Will Cook, William Hombsch, William Pillar, Xander Driscoll, Xavier Clarke and Zarlo Larkin.

Teaching & Learning

Ethics Olympiad

A group of Year 11 and 12 students particpated in the 2023 QLD Senior School Ethics Olympiad in May. The Year 12 team finished 6th in the state, and both teams received honourable mentions from the judges.

Congratulations to the following students:

• Andrew Dennis

• Alexander Eddie

• Samuel Chapman

• Ethan Payne

• Ryan Coleman

• Jacob Lasserre

• Ned Murry

• Sebastian Seeto

• Nathan Ottobrino

99 Club

In Term 1, St Mary’s College introduced the 99 Club. The 99 Club supports academically high performing students to achieve their maximum ATAR. The group gathers regularly to discuss progress, challenges and goals. The following students have met the minimum entry requirements. Well done to the following students:

• Connor Walsh

• Jared Fry

• Andrew Dennis

• Matthew Pillar

• Ethan Payne

• Ned Murry

• Sebastian Seeto

• Nathan Ottobrino

Dominating the Sharemarket

Business, Accounting and Economics students competed in the ASX School’s Sharemarket Game. This is a National Competition run by the Australian Stock Exchange that encourages students to explore the concept of investing in the sharemarket. The following students excelled:

• Angus Goddard (5th in QLD & 10th in Australia)

• Ameen Adam (50th in QLD)

• Henry Ellison (74th in QLD)

Taking Flight

In Term 1, St Mary’s College joined the Gateway to Industry - Aerospace program.

College Principal, Mr Brendan Stewart, was very excited to share this news with the Darling Downs community.

“We would like to thank Boeing Defence Australia, who have come on board as our industry partner for the project,” said Mr Stewart.

“Being on the doorstep of Wellcamp Airport is an obvious advantage for our school.”

“This partnership will provide enormous opportunities for the boys at St Mary’s College for work and experience in the aerospace industry now and in the future.”

“Being a Gateway to Industry school for Aerospace means more job opportunities.”

“Potentially local, national and global aviation opportunities will form part of the choices for our young men,” he said.

This is outstanding news for St Mary’s College and the Toowoomba community.

Lest We Forget

On Monday 24th April 2023, St Mary’s College staff, students, parents and distinguished guests gathered on the oval for the annual Anzac Ceremony.

Together, the College community stood in silence to honour the sacrifice of those who have served our nation.

The event concluded with special guests walking across the oval towards the College through a guard of honour formed by the staff and students.

Edmund Rice Day

Edmund Rice Day was held on Friday 19th May 2023. Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice was a Roman Catholic missionary and educator. He was the founder of Christian Brothers schools across the world.

The annual day of celebration was full of fun activities, delicious food and a whole College Mass.

Students and staff raised a total of $9,312.20 for Caritas Project Compassion and the Waterford Fund, helping those who are disadvantaged in our community.

At St Mary’s College, we are inspired by Blessed Edmund, and strive to educate in his vision every day.

Giving Back

At the end of Term 2, St Mary’s College students and staff dropped off a donation of warm winter clothing and nonperishable food items to Vinnies QLD.

Thank you to all families who helped gather these items for people in need in our community.

In the Community

In Term 1, Year 12 students studying Religion and Ethics participated in a number of activities as part of the Religious Citizenship Exploration unit. They visited Sychar House of Prayer and Spirituality for a guided mediation session and participated in a group Tai Chi session in Laurel Bank Park.

Global Connections

Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders (EREBB) is an international network of Catholic schools educating young people from many different faiths and cultures. EREBB is inspired by the teachings of Jesus, Gospel values and the spirit of Edmund Rice. In over 25 countries they endeavour to promote global solidarity and offer a transformational education for justice and liberation.

St Mary’s College now has a formal partnership with St John’s College in Cape Town as part of EREBB. St John’s is a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition from South Africa! We look forward to developing this partnership and the opportunities ahead for students and staff.

National Careers Week

St Mary’s College celebrated National Careers Week by offering students opportunities to learn from industry professionals. Boys heard from Old Boy, Councillor James O’Shea on Assembly, the Queensland Police Service, UniSQ and attended an AG excursion!

Future of Health

On Friday 12th May 2023, St Mary’s College hosted a Health Industry Showcase with Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise.

More than 70 students from seven schools in the region attended the event and heard from guest speaker Shirley-Anne Gardiner, Executive Director of Toowoomba Hospital and Adjunct Associate Professor of the Rural Clinical School at University of Queensland.

Students also had the opportunity to speak with 20 health professionals from a variety of fields, including paramedics, exercise physiologists, nurses and more.

School-Based Apprenticeships & Traineeships

Congratulations to the many students who have commenced a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship in Term 1 and 2, 2023.

We look forward to watching you excel in your chosen career path!

Cameron Kleidon with Chris Horne of Black Truck and Ag

Cooper Dolley with Paul Dolley of Dolley Concreting

Patrick Muir with Emma Thorncroft of The Fit Lab

George Jerrard with Will Matchett of Matchett Constructions

Bart Steffen with Sophie Stocker of NRG Services

Lachlan Lee with Brenden Seawright of Pizza Hut Oakey

Work Experience

At the end of Term 2, Year 10 students attended Work Experience at various workplaces throughout Toowoomba, in several different industries.

Work Experience provides students with a valuable opportunity to experience industries in which they have initial interest. Great work, gentlemen!

A Series of Important Lessons

With the holistic development and formation of each student being a key mission of the College, it is important to cover content that broaches significant issues facing adolescents, in addition to the day-to-day academic timetable.

As part of the Student Engagement program, the College regularly invites expert guest speakers to provide important lessons that cover serious topics beyond the curriculum. This semester featured several of these presentations for both students and their parents, including:

• Raising Teenage Boys by Powerhouse Programs

• Cultural Change and Societel Transformation by Collective Shout

• Drug and Alcohol Presentation by Paul Dillon from Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia

• Well-being and Leadership Workshop by Unleashing Personal Potential

• Relationships and Personal Identity by Real Talk Australia

• RACQ Cash IQ Financial Wellness Program (Cut the Cord and The Money Whisperer)

• Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth Workshop (P.A.R.T.Y) at Toowoomba Hospital

• Safe Partying by Red Frogs

• QLD Fire and Rescue

SMC SAYS TO BULLYING

Taking a Stand

In Term 1, the Student Engagement team delivered an Anti-Bullying campaign across the College. The team delivered important messages to the students each week on assembly, re-inforced messages about reporting bullying and being an upstander not a bystander. They also gave students temporary tattoos with the messaging “SMC Says No Way to Bullying”.

Old Boy, Ben Loxley spoke on assembly about being bullied, being a bully and witnessing bullying, before all the students enjoyed a sausage sizzle lunch together.

St Mary’s College is an inclusive community and bullying has no place here!

Top Blokes

In Term 2, a select group of Year 7 and 9 students participated in the “Top Blokes” program.

At St Mary’s College, we are aware of the mixed messages that boys receive, as well as the pressures they face, throughout their schooling.

We are always looking for programs to support their needs and we discovered “Top Bokes”.

The team have developed an education and awareness program to support young men. They address issues such as violence, relationships, anger management, healthy minds, masculinity and peer pressure.

Student Voice

In Term 2, the Student Voice attended the Queensland Philanthropy Awards at the Brisbane City Hall.

The Philanthropy Awards raise awarenss of philanthropy in Queensland, honour community members and organisations who make outstanding philanthropic contributions and encourage support for charities and community organisations operating in Queensland.

To top off a great day, the students were very excited to meet St Mary’s College Old Boy and football legend, Jonathan Thurston!

Push for Mental Health

In June, St Mary’s College students and staff took part in The Push Up Challenge!

The Push Up Challenge helps shine a spotlight on the number of lives lost to suicide and raise awareness of mental health.

The team recorded more than 21,000 push ups and raised in excess of $3,000.

Thank you to College Counsellor, Mrs Renee O’Sullivan for driving this campaign.

Reeling in the Applause - ‘Big Fish’ Takes the Stage

The incredibily talented students from St Mary’s College, St Saviour’s College and St Ursula’s College took the stage in April to present the musical ‘Big Fish - School Edition’.

The students performed three shows in the Edmund Rice Cultural Centre, after many months of rehearsals.

Congratulations to the cast and crew on a spectacular show, it was a swimming success!

Believe in the Arts

In June, 90 St Mary’s College students participated in the Toowoomba Catholic Schools Arts Fest! We are very proud of the boys who represented the College over the three days in 12 events and workshops.

Students performed in the Combined Orchestra, Primary Music Theatre Performance “The Little Mermaid, Secondary Music Theatre Performance “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” as well as the Sing for Joy Sacred Choral Concert. Additionally, our students artworks were featured in the Student Art Show.

An incredible effort from all involved. Thank you Toowoomba Catholic Schools for organising and showcasing the many talents of our students.

Strokes of Victory

Earlier this year, St Mary’s College entered artworks in to the Toowoomba Art Show.

Year 12 student, Riley Neighbour won the Champion Secondary School Two-dimensional Art category.

Congratulations to the following students:

• Zeke Drew

• James Anderson

• Eri Byiza

• Meerain Asif

• Liam Fitzpatrick

Winner!

• Beau Dickerson

• Mitchell Willett

• Joseph Cullen

• Nicholas Bielbly

• Christon John

Harmonising through Time

• Liam Woodward

• Jason Bautista

• Tyler Ashley

Congratulations to the St Mary’s College Past and Present Choir who won third place in the Contemporary Community Choir section at the Toowoomba Eisteddfod in May.

Thank you to Ms Cherie Runciman, and all who gave up their time to rehearse and participate!

Primary Ensembles Concert

In Term Two, the Year 5 and 6 students performed in the Primary Ensembles Concert.

The concert featured all primary instrumental groups, as well as the junior ensembles - Momentum, Dunne’s Voices and Junior Drumline.

The senior ensembles, Concert Band and the Vernados also performed.

The students performed exceptionally well and should be very proud of their efforts this semester.

The Right Moves

Chess is more than the movement of pieces around a board. The ancient game offers opportunities for camaraderie, connection and the development of critical thinking skills.

Through chess, students learn to concentrate, understand consequences and the need to plan ahead. They develop problem solving skills, become better logical, lateral and creative thinkers, and they learn a game that is known throughout the world.

St Mary’s College proudly supports opportunities for students to learn, play and to represent the school at inter-school chess competitions.

In Term Two, we celebrated the success of seven primary students who participated in the inaugural Toowoomba Catholic Schools Inter-School Chess Tournament. The tournament had St Mary’s students showcasing their chess skills, with Thomas Smith (Year 6) taking first place with only one loss, and Asher Miller (Year 6) awarded third place with five wins and a draw. It was a strong representation from St Mary’s, with four of the seven students finishing in the top ten placings.

High school students were again offered chess as an option for Wednesday afternoon sport. With 25 registered, the boys extended their skills, were challenged with alternate chess games, and sharpened their competitiveness through tournament rounds.

Chess is an option for all students at St Mary’s College in Term 3 with free sessions before school on Thursdays. Students may also register for chess for Wednesday afternoon sport (secondary) and Friday afternoon sport (primary).

Debating

St Mary’s College dominates in debating!

Congratulations to all students involved in debating this semester.

After the fourth and last round of the debating competition against other Toowoomba schools, both of the senior teams walked away victorious.

The Year 12 team is undefeated and the Year 11 team won three out of their four debates.

Additionally, the Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 teams recorded many wins.

All students should be extremely proud of their efforts.

Well done, gentlemen.

Celebrating NAIDOC Week

In Term Two we held a NAIDOC Day for Year 7 students led by our Senior Indigenous students and Indigenous Old Boys, who were excited to share their pride and leadership for their culture with the younger boys.

All Year 7 students participated in four cultural workshops, focusing on traditional dance, art in the form or painting and beading, as well as traditional games.

Thank you to Mrs Ashleigh Sowter, our First Nations and Multicultural Coordinator at the College for organising these activities.

Bowie Ingram Touch Football

Drew Weller Cattle Showing

Kaidan Sack Swimming

Caelan Williams & Ben Moore Orienteering

Sam Hinton Futsal SMC Year 7 & 8 Team Basketball

Andy Kisiel Boxing

16-18 Years Touch Football

Hunter Corney Motorcycling

Sidney Geran Bullriding

Bodhi Sharpley Rugby League

Darcy Shelton Indoor Cricket

Nazarlo Larkin Touch Football

Alex Maddison Hockey

Golden Gloves Softball

Hudson Davies Futsal

Sam Sheppard Touch Football

Nicholas Brehaut Football

Sporting Success

St Mary’s College prides itself on providing students with a well-rounded and balanced education, focusing on boys’ academic, physical, social, spiritual and recreation needs. Sport is integral to that mission. At St Mary’s, sport prepares boys to be fit for life. It develops character, integrity and resilience, qualities boys need to make a positive contribution to society. It shows them how to cope with adversity and behave with dignity when they win.

We would like to recognise the following students for qualifying for representative teams in various school sports, such as Rugby League, Touch Football, Football, Futsal, Rugby Union, AFL, Swimming, Cross Country, Baseball, Cricket, Golf, Hockey, Orienteering, Softball and Tennis.

Darling Downs

Adrian Young, Aguot Kur, Aidan Brettell, Ajak Arok, Alastair MacLachlan, Alexander Maddison, Aloysius Va’a, Archer Woods, Ashtyn Messenger, Benjamin Moore, Billy Keogh, Bodhi Sharpley, Bowie Ingram, Braithen Scott, Caelan Williams, Callum Gordon, Charles Suey, Charlie Barnes, Charlie McDonald, Chevy Ryan, Cody Soderquist, Cohen Stockwell, Cooper Robinson, Frankie Webster, Graidy Tomlinson, Harry Eyers, Harry Green, Harry Smith, Harry Williams, Hayden Delaney, Hayden Macready, Jack Macbeth, Jackson Reis, Jackson Winnet, Jai Dwyer, Jake Durie, James Dennis, James Ottobrino, Jared Fry, Jasper Eagleson, Jett Day, Joshua Hillman, Kag Kag, Kaidan Sack, Kingston Mua, Lachlan Hillman, Lane Madden, Leo Ellison, Leroy Marsh, Liam Marshall, Lucas Brooking, Lucas Paynter, Max Murphy, Michael Pfingst, Nazarlo Larkin, Nicholas Brehaut, Oliver Nicol, Parker Kleidon, Patrick Sanderson, Patrick Waters, Rahkye Ryan, Riley Brown, Ronan Delaney, Sam Sheppard, Shaun Elara, Tait Cameron, Taj Singh, Tarrant Whittingham, Tyler Madden, Tyler Robinson, Willem Carlson, William Paynter, Xander Driscoll, Xavier Newton and Zac Garner.

Queensland

Adrian Young, Aguot Kur, Billy Keogh, Callum Gordon, Chevy Ryan, Harry Green, Harry Smith, Jake Durie, Kaidan Sack, Max Murphy, Naten Suey, Nathaniel Thompson, Nazarlo Larkin, Sam Shepphard, Tait Cameron and Tarrant Whittingham.

Grand Final Win 43

St Mary’s College recently won the Regional Cricket Grand Final! The team finished top of the table after defeating Centenary Heights State School, Lockyer District State School, and Concordia Lutheran College on the day.

The player of the competition was Sam Magee Doogan for his high scoring efforts in each match.

The team will now go on to play in Brisbane in Term 4. They will verse the winner of the Brisbane Conference to declare a South Queensland Winner. Congratulations, gentlemen!

New to Town

Congratulations to the St Mary’s College Netball team who competed in the Vicki Wilson Cup in June.

The team comprised of boys in Years 10 to 12. All students worked extremely well together and displayed exceptional team spirit.

The boys finished 6th overall, with four wins and five losses. A special mention must go to the captain of the team, Caiden Bridger who led the boys admirably throughout the day.

The best player of the day was Hayden Beckett who was calm under pressure and made himself free to score a number of goals in every game.

Netball is a new sport offering at St Mary’s College and the boys have embraced the opportunity. Well done, gentlemen!

Confraternity Shield 2023

Well done to the Opens Rugby League team who competed in the 2023 Confraternity Shield in Brisbane in June.

Our boys played in Division 1 and performed exceptionally well in the pool rounds, finishing equal first on points. With two wins, and only one narrow loss, they showed great determination, resilience and skill on the field.

Congratulations to Braithen Scott, who was named St Mary’s College Best and Fairest, as well as Bodhi Sharpley who was awarded the Spirit of the Carnival Award.

Daryll QUIJAS

Student Profile

Q. What does it mean to you to be in the role of College Captain in 2023?

To me, being the College Captain at St Mary’s College means that I must be a leader and a positive role model who represents all the College has to offer. This role to me is important, as my presence and interactions amongst other students and my peers can have a lasting impact, an impact that I would hope benefits the students and the image of the College.

Q. What are your goals for the rest of the year?

My goals for the end of the year include, winning the championships in all the remaining basketball tournaments, achieving good results in my subjects, getting accepted into the university I desire, as well as continuing to improve my skills with the guitar.

Q. What does 2024 look like for you?

In 2024 I will be a university student living in Brisbane. I will hopefully be attending classes for the Bachelor of Dental Science at the University of Queensland.

Q. What piece of advice would you give to other St Mary’s College students?

A piece of advice I would give to other St Mary’s College students is to always be curious. “Curiosity is the engine of achievement” – Ken Robinson. Curiosity serves as the engine that will propel students to the pursuit knowledge, growth, and achievement. It is the starting point for progressive learning. I believe this advice will help students become more active learners.

Student Profile

Q. What does it mean to you to be in the role of College Vice-Captain in 2023?

To be appointed the St Mary’s College Vice-Captain for 2023 is such a privilege and honor to extend on the legacies and memories past leaders have left, something I don’t take lightly. From the very start, I knew I had very big shoes to fill in this position and wanted to make my mark and difference on the College. Particularly, it means a lot to me to be able to have the chance to use my leadership skills to make a positive impact on the school community. I feel honored to represent the school and be a role model to the other students and make a positive impact on their schooling life.

Q. What are your goals for the rest of the year?

For the rest that 2023 brings, I aspire to drive my goals and aspirations for the graduating class home by finishing the year off strong with each other. Initially, I strived to bring back more co-curricular activities within the College community and immerse myself in the school culture and spirit. By the end of the year, I want to feel a sense of accomplishment that I made a difference to the College community by extending the brotherhood and relationships throughout the grounds, to make school as enjoyable as possible.

Bart STEFFEN

Q. What does 2024 look like for you?

Throughout 2024, I intend on continuing my apprenticeship as an electrician full-time by working as much as I can. For the future, I aspire to gain years of experience in the industry and obtain extended qualifications in the electrical and mechanical industry to become a versatile and knowledgeable tradesman. As St Mary’s College has taught me, I want to continue to grab every opportunity that life presents me and always strive for the crown.

Q. What piece of advice would you give to other St Mary’s College students?

To the other St Mary’s College students, I would encourage them to get involved in the culture, spirit, and day-to-day life of the College. Everywhere you look, there are always several opportunities. I would encourage the boys to jump at these opportunities and make lasting memories. By simply getting involved in as many things as you can, schooling will be a much more enjoyable experience and teach you many valuable skills.

Our Furry Friend

Mid-way through last year, the Enhanced Learning Department welcomed a very furry staff member, Winston - the College support dog.

Winston spends his days at school socialising with students in the Hub and classrooms, sidling up to students who he senses are feeling a little unsettled or anxious and seeking out the best snack and nap spots.

Winston has become quite a celebrity around the college but always makes time for his many St Mary’s College fans, who love spending time with him.

Celebrating Success

Congratulations to Year 11 student, Ethan Payne who has been recently selected as the Queensland representative for the National Student Voice.

At the College, Ethan has been elected as the Premier of the Student Voice Council. As Premier, Ethan encourages a range of students from different year levels and cultural backgrounds to join and share their ideas.

Ethan is also a proud member of the Toowoomba Regional Council’s Youth Leaders, which he joined in September 2022. The Toowoomba Regional Council Youth Leaders role is to listen to community concerns and think of actionable solutions to address these concerns. A recent focus for Ethan and another Youth Leader is to bring a neurosurgeon to Toowoomba.

Ethan is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for students at St Mary’s College. Well done!

Primary Movie Night

In Term 2, St Mary’s College held a movie night for all Year 4, 5 and 6 students attending Toowoomba Catholic Schools. New students attending St Mary’s College in 2024 were also invited.

The boys enjoyed a fun evening watching the movie Sing, eating popcorn from the cinema and getting to know one another.

We look forward to holding this event again in the future!

Years of Service

In March, St Mary’s College held a morning tea and unveiled our ‘Years of Service Wall’ to recognise staff members who have been employed at the College for more than 20 years.

We recognised the following staff:

• Mr Rodney Logan (1980 - 2022)

• Mr Tony Buckle (1987 - Continuing)

• Mr Alwyn Rix (1983 - Continuing)

• Mr Frank Strachotta (1999 - Continuing)

• Mrs Samantha Parle (1993 - Continuing)

• Mrs Sheryl Pilkington (2000 - Continuing)

We will continue to recognise staff for their years of service and outstanding commitment to the College.

P&F Race Day

On Saturday 10th June 2023, the St Mary’s College Parents and Friends Association held a Winter Race Day.

In total, 185 guests attended the event and helped to raise for the College!

$12,002.76

Thank you to the P&F Association for making this day a huge success. A special thank you to Tracy Dann, Secretary of the P&F Association, for all the hard work behind the scenes.

We would also like to thank our valued sponsors: Born and Bread Bakery, Oakey Pharmacy, Liebke Tyres, DJL Building Group, Ben Liesch Ray White Toowoomba, Prime Thoroughbreds, HVAC Solutuions and the St Mary’s College Old Boys Association.

Around the grounds!

Goodbye Margaret Baker

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Camp

Old Boy Liam Burton Art

Buroinjin Cup

Cross Country Age Champions

Swimming Carnival

State of Origin in the Tuckshop

West Zone Primary Cross Country

Peak2Park

Anzac Day

Old Boys

Save the Date!

The St Mary’s College Old Boys Association is excited to once again host the Old Boys Ball on Saturday 7th October, 2023 in the St Mary’s College Edmund Rice Cultural Centre on Hill Street in Toowoomba.

This event is an opportunity to plan your reunion, catch up with mates and reminisce on old times! Delicious food, great entertainment and exceptional company; we hope to see you there.

Tickets will be available to anyone who would like to join us. Sponsorship packages are also available. To join the mailing list to ensure you don’t miss out, please email smc-marketing@stmaryscollege.com

Lincoln Walk 53

We have just heard news that St Mary’s College Old Boy, Lincoln Walk (2014-2019) has just returned home from Argentina where he played in the Australian U23 Men’s Softball team.

The team won gold and became World Champions! Congratulations to Lincoln, and all the best for your future.

Full Steam Ahead

A St Mary’s College Old Boy and UniSQ graduate is on the track to success, having won two national awards for his rail-based honours thesis.

Thomas Murphy attended Melbourne for the Conference on Railway Excellence to receive the Railway Technical Society of Australasia Undergraduate Thesis Award for his work on railway sleeps.

This comes after Mr Murphy was awarded the winner of the Futures Challenge by the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia, after presenting his thesis at the annual Queensland conference in October 2022.

During his time at UniSQ completing a Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Honours), Mr Murphy said it had been a natural decision to pursue a railway-related topic for his honours thesis project. Well done, Thomas!

Words from the wise at Confro

Old Boy, Dan McErlean visited the Opens Rugby League team at the Confraternity Shield in Brisbane in June.

Dan was a student at St Mary’s College from 1939 to 1947. He extended words of encouragement to the team and shared a few stories of times gone by.

Thank you for attending the competition, Dan. We appreciate all your support and knowledge, that you so willing offer.

Old Boys

Five Generations

Pictured from left to right: James Peter Gilbert, Huey Geran, Peter Gilbert, Sidney Geran, Xander Gilbert Johnston, Ethan Gilbert Johnson and Zane Gilbert Johnson.

Peter is the grandson of Les Gilbert, who was a first day student at St Mary’s College. The second generation was John Peter Gilbert.

The third generation to attend St Mary’s College, was Peter and his brothers Mickael, Raymond, Burnard and Thomas.

Fourth generation was James (Peter’s son) and Mark Mahony. Mark is the son of Elizabeth (Peter’s sister) and Barry Mahoney, also a student of St Mary’s College.

Peter’s grandsons are the fifth generation to attend St Mary’s College: Zane Gilbert Johnston, Xander Gilbert Johnson, Ethan Gilbert Johnston, Huey Geran and Sidney Geran. Huey and Sidney are present day students, and their younger brother Archie will join them next year.

Old Friends Reunite

Earlier this year, a group of St Mary’s College Old Boys reunited in Toowoomba.

Pictured from left to right: Barry McErlean (‘87), Matthew Clinton (‘86), John Card (‘87), Chris McMahon (‘87), Sunil Pillay (‘87), Brendan Hohn (‘87), Craig Hobbins (‘87) and Ross Hobbins (‘90).

Celebrating 125 Years of St Mary’s

St Mary’s College was established in 1899. In 2024, we celebrate 125 years as a College.

We have started to make plans for our 125 year celebrations. Stay tuned over the coming months to find out more information.

From the Archives

Do you have photographs, memorabilia or stories you would like to share with us from your time at St Mary’s College? Please email smc-marketing@stmaryscollege.com or phone Director of Marketing and Communications, Mrs Tyhla Roper on 07 4631 7333. We would love to hear from you!

Bro. Purcell meets the Pope John Paul in 1986

Science in 2008

Staff on Edmund Rice Day in 2007

School leaders in 2008

Old St Mary’s College bell

Pink Day in 2010

Students doing gym work in 1974

Twins attending St Mary’s College in 1937

New library & admin block in 1971

Senior class of 1915

Class of 1900

Choir in 1936