Enews - 19 March 2025

When Australian writer Tim Winton wrote The Shepherd’s Hut, the story of Jaxie Clackton—a neglected, abused teenage boy on the run—he drew on his understanding of a particularly Australian version of masculinity gone wrong. Winton is not a judgmental observer of human behaviour. His writing is deeply sympathetic to his flawed characters, yet he also writes out of frustration with the narrow models of masculinity that some boys inherit or absorb.

Like Winton, we believe there is so much more that we can offer our boys as they navigate their journey to manhood. We want them to grow into kind, generous men—men who contribute to their communities and thrive as individuals. Over the past four years, we have undertaken a thorough review of how our College fosters a culture of respectful relationships. We have conducted audits, surveys, and focus groups with students, old boys, staff and parents, seeking to understand how we can continue to shape an environment where boys learn what it means to respect themselves and others.

The term ‘toxic masculinity’ is often used in public discourse. While many of us can think of examples that fit this description, I believe the term itself is problematic. It risks painting masculinity as something inherently flawed, rather than recognising that the issue lies in unhealthy behaviours, not in being male. Few boys or men will respond well to the suggestion that something inside them is toxic. Rather than engaging them in meaningful reflection, the term can alienate the very people we want to influence.

I am well aware of the harm caused by some men, but when I hear ‘toxic masculinity’ being loosely applied, my thoughts turn to the many decent men in our Marist community. They are committed to their families, their work, and their communities. They are excellent fathers, and, as far as I can tell, imperfect but loving husbands. I also think of the thousands of boys I have encountered over 37 years in boys’ education. The vast majority are sensitive, kind, and well-rounded. They care for their mates, and they treat women with respect. Of course, they are still learning—they sometimes say or do foolish things. But they are on a journey of becoming good, respectful men.

Our role as a Catholic, all-boys’ school in the Marist tradition is to guide them on that journey. Boys thrive when they are placed in environments that provide strong role models, clear expectations, and a culture that nurtures their potential. They do not need to be told that their masculinity is a problem; they need to be shown, through example and experience, what true manhood looks like.

Matthew Hutchison 
Headmaster

In 2026, we will embark on a school improvement program as part of the renewal of our strategic plan. To help prepare for this, we are undertaking the Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) survey this year.

This survey is an important opportunity for parents, students and staff to reflect on and shape the Catholic identity of our College. It will help us understand how faith is lived out in our school and guide us in strengthening our mission in an increasingly secular world.

What does the survey measure?

The ECSI survey explores several key aspects of Catholic identity, including:

• Liturgical and Prayer Life – The role of prayer, liturgy, and sacramental life in our school.
• Religious Education and Faith Formation – How well we integrate Catholic teachings into learning and daily life.
• Gospel Values and Social Justice – Our commitment to compassion, service, and justice.
• Engagement with Contemporary Culture – How we balance Catholic tradition with the realities of today’s world.
• Community and Belonging – How we foster a sense of faith-filled connection and inclusion.

The survey, developed by the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, has been used globally since 2007 to help Catholic schools reflect on their identity and mission. By participating, you will help shape the future direction of faith and formation at Marist College.

Why your voice matters.

We strongly encourage all parents to take part in this survey. Your perspectives will help us strengthen the Catholic ethos of our College and ensure we continue to nurture faith, values, and learning for our students.

Please take the time to complete the survey—it is a valuable investment in the future of our College.

Further details on how to participate will be shared shortly.

Thank you for being part of this important journey.

Matthew Hutchison 
Headmaster

Get inspired and share your talents in the 2025 Creative Competition exploring the theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope – Look Beyond’. Simply create a photograph, artwork (drawing/painting/sculpture/digital art) or short film (90sec max) that captures the 2025 theme and submit by Wednesday 30 April 2025.

Prizes:

• $200 JBHIFI voucher
• Canteen Vouchers

Divisions:

• Junior (4-6)
• High (7-10)
• Senior (11-12)
• Adult (staff and parents)

Submissions:

• 1 entry per category per person
• Photography – digital submission 1x original digital file (.jpg less than 10mb) to mission@mcc.act.edu.au
• Art – bring to Oratory
• Film – upload here:  2025 Creative Competition

You can find these details and more on MyMarist portal. 

Marist College Canberra is providing a brighter future to the students of St Joseph’s Tenaru through the 2025 Lenten Appeal. We encourage families to support the following activities:

• Friday 21 March:​ Mufti Day and BBQ​ (Years 4 - 12)
• Wednesday 2 April​: Years 9 and 10 Trivia Night ​

Click here to learn more or below to donate.

The College is hosting a Year 9 and 10 Trivia Night on Wednesday 2 April to raise funds for the 2025 AMS Lenten Appeal, supporting St Joseph’s College Tenaru in the Solomon Islands. The $15 ticket includes a sausage sandwich from the BBQ and a drink.

Click here to register.  

Click here to find out more about AMS or click here to donate today.

Palm Sunday Rally

Join Catholic groups to support refugees at the annual Palm Sunday Rally for Refugees, organised by the Canberra Refugee Action Campaign on Sunday 13 April 2025 1.00-3.00pm in Garema Place.

Dear Junior School Parents and Guardians,

As we move through the term, we continue to witness the dedication and enthusiasm of our students in their academic and co-curricular pursuits.

We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to our Year 5 boys for their excellent efforts in the recent NAPLAN assessments. Their dedication, perseverance, and willingness to take on challenges have been commendable.

In true Marist spirit, our Year 5 boys approached the tests with a growth mindset, focusing on doing their best. Thank you to our wonderful Year 5 teachers and Mrs Darcy for organising the testing, guiding and encouraging the boys and teachers every step of the way!

2026 Enrolments Now Open

We are excited to announce that our enrolment applications for 2026 are now open. If you have younger sons ready to start their learning journey with us in Year 4 or know families considering Marist Junior School, we encourage early applications as we have large numbers apply each year. Please visit our college website for more details and registration.

Upcoming Open Evening

We warmly invite all prospective families for 2026 to our College Open Evening on Friday 4 April. Please register your attendance here. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore our school, meet our dedicated teachers, and learn about our rich Marist traditions and educational programs. Current families are also encouraged to spread the word and invite friends who may be interested in joining our school community.

Co-Curricular Opportunities in the Junior School

Beyond the classroom, we continue to encourage our boys to explore new interests and develop their talents through our many co-curricular programs. While many of our students are actively engaged in our comprehensive sports program, we are pleased to also have the following opportunities for students to immerse themselves in enriching activities.

• Library Novel Bunch – For our enthusiastic readers, the Novel Bunch meets weekly every Friday at Lunch (after eating) with Mrs Simpson in the Library to discuss new literature and share recommendations. This is a wonderful way to foster a lifelong love of reading. Interested students should speak to Mrs. Simpson in the library.
• Dance Club – Creativity takes center stage in our Junior School Dance Club, where students develop their confidence through improvisation, playwriting, and performance. This term, the clubs run at lunch times on Thursdays with Miss Schilg being the dance teacher. Miss Schilg was the choreographer for the Canberra Philharmonic recent production of the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, that closed on Saturday with rave reviews. Expressions of interest can be made through this link. Please note that participation numbers are limited, you will be notified if a place is available.
• Chess Club – Strategy and critical thinking are at the heart of the Chess Club, where students of all skill levels are welcome. Weekly sessions include friendly matches, with Mr Merkel leading the club on Wednesdays at lunch time in his classroom. Expressions of interest can be made here; students may also sign up themselves with Mr Merkel at school. Please note that participation numbers are capped each session. 
• Junior School Computer Club – The Computer Club has already started this year; the boys meet with Mr Albuquerque after school on Tuesday during Term 1. Mr Albuquerque has extensive knowledge in this area, having previously worked in the industry before making the move to teaching. Expressions of interest can be made through this link. Please note that participation numbers are limited, you will be notified if a place is available. 
• Junior School Homework Club – Creating positive homework routines in the early years is important. Miss Kwong and Mr Pezzella lead our Junior School homework club that runs on Tuesdays after school. Places are capped, with class teachers nominating students to attend for a variety of reasons. Homework club offers a quiet, regulated space for the boys to work on their homework, with the added benefit of being able to ask for assistance from the teachers. Should you feel, your son would benefit from being considered for Homework Club, please contact your son's classroom teacher to discuss.
• Junior School Defence Club – Meet Tuesdays at recess, please contact Mrs Pfeiffer.
• Junior School Bands – All Stars Band and Premiers Band. please contact Performing Arts for further information. 
• Song Club – Friday after school, please contact Performing Arts for further information. 
• Drama - Little Brothers Production 2025 – Mr Palfreman is directing our Little Brothers production, involving Junior School students, of Bugsy Malone in September. The audition process will be held between weeks 5 and 7. If your son is interested in joining the production, please click here. 

We encourage all students to consider being involved in at least one co-curricular activity, sport or group, making the most of the opportunities available to them. Developing new skills, making friendships, and finding passions outside the classroom are all essential parts of the holistic education we provide at Marist College.

Winter Uniform Reminder

As Term 2 approaches and the weather begins to cool, we remind all families that students are required to wear the full winter uniform from the start of next term. This includes the school blazer, which is a compulsory item for all students Years 4 – 12.

We also remind families that sports uniform items should not be mixed and matched with the formal uniform. On non HAPE lesson days, Junior School students must wear their full formal winter uniform, including the appropriate black leather, lace up school shoes and school tie. If you require any additional uniform items, please ensure you visit the uniform shop before the end of Term 1.

LENTEN Appeal reminders:

• Friday 21 March – Mufti Day - Harmony Day Years 4-12
  The mufti day will have an orange colour theme – representing Harmony Day and the Shirt colour of St Joseph’s Tenaru, Solomon Islands. Gold coin donations for the boys on the day.
• Friday 4 April – Support your Team Casual Clothes Day - Junior School Only Event
  Gold coin donation for boys to support their favourite team. No singlets or open toed shoes on the day please.
  

Kirsty Bell
Head of Junior School 

On Moderation Day, Junior School Staff completed training that explored the theory and practice of Reading Fluency. Through engaging discussions and hands-on activities, teachers deepened their understanding of how to develop students’ accuracy, expression, and reading rate through modelled, guided and partner reading sessions. Staff explored evidence-based strategies to support young readers, specifically investigating the correlation between fluency and comprehension.

With these new insights, our staff are excited to implement fresh approaches in the classroom, as well as implementing new assessment screeners to monitor the progress of reading fluency across Years 4-6.

Emma Darcy 
Head of Learning and Teaching - Junior School

Junior School Swim Carnival Results

Swimming Age Champions

The Junior School Swim Squad was announced last week. These boys will compete at the South Weston Swimming Carnival on Friday, Week 9, April 4. Please watch out for an email.

Ged Galvin 
Junior School PE Teacher

Year 7 camp was an unforgettable adventure filled with exploration, excitement, and valuable lessons. From beach fishing to coastal hikes, surfing to snorkelling, and an enlightening session on indigenous culture, our boys had an enriching experience.

Surf’s Up!
Year 7 camp wouldn’t be complete without hitting the waves and experiencing the thrill of surfing. From beginners to seasoned riders, our boys embraced the challenge, honed their skills, and conquered the surf. Meanwhile, snorkelling adventures offered a glimpse into the underwater world, where vibrant marine life and colourful coral reefs captivated their senses. Beach fishing wasn’t just about catching fish; it was about patience, teamwork, and connecting with nature. As our boys reeled in their catches, they learned the importance of perseverance and respect for the marine environment. Guided by knowledgeable instructors, our boys embarked on a coastal exploration hike that unveiled the beauty of our natural surroundings.

Lessons in Brotherhood
Les left an indelible mark on the boys with his insightful words and teachings. During a poignant moment, he emphasised, "You may not be friends at school, but now you are all brothers." He guided the boys through the bush, teaching them to walk in line from youngest to oldest, emphasising the importance of silence to hear the snake and the assurance that their big brother always has their back.

On the last day, a morning ceremony welcomed Grandfather Sun. The boys took the opportunity to express gratitude and thankfulness for the experiences and connections made during the camp. It was a beautiful moment that fostered a sense of unity and appreciation among the students.

A Thank You to Our Teachers
The success of the Year 7 Camp wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated teachers who supported the boys throughout the week. Their commitment, guidance, and enthusiasm created an environment where the students could grow, learn, and form lasting connections. A heartfelt thank you to all the teachers involved for their unwavering support.

Naomi Whitehead 
Year 7 and 8 Coordinator

From Friday 14 March - Sunday 16 March 2025, students from the Senior Concert Band and Vox Choir took part in the biennial Marist Music Camp at Birrigai Outdoor School. The weekend was filled with rehearsals, workshops, and performances, allowing students to refine their musical skills alongside guest presenters. Through ensemble coaching, conducting tasks, and dynamic group music-making, students made significant progress in their preparation for upcoming performances, including the College Open Evening on Friday 4 April. 

Beyond the music, the camp focused on teamwork and leadership development. Senior students and Flynn leaders took on mentoring roles, guiding their peers and strengthening the group’s sense of community. Students also participated in a crate-building challenge, testing their problem-solving and communication skills, and enjoyed a fun-filled kazoo karaoke session, which brought plenty of laughter and energy to the weekend.

A key highlight of the camp was the bushwalk to the Birrigai rock shelter, where students learned about the rich Ngunnawal history of the area. This experience deepened their understanding and appreciation of the land’s cultural significance.

The Music Camp was a fantastic opportunity for students to grow as musicians, leaders, and team players. We look forward to seeing them showcase their hard work at the College Open Evening on Friday, 4 April—we hope to see you there!

Lenore Studdert
Senior School Teacher

Students and staff have been busily rehearsing for our upcoming Big Brothers production of Shakespeare in Love. 

Performances will take place in the Veritas Theatre in Week 10 of this term on 8, 9, 10 and 11 April. The play is suitable for all ages.

Shakespeare in Love is a wildly playful, funny, and romantic work of historical fiction. It is a sophisticated look at the power of art in society and an exploration of timeless human emotion. We look forward to welcoming you to the Veritas Theatre soon!

Tickets are now on sale - click below to get yours today. 

Harry is a vibrant and resilient four-year-old who loves Spiderman and Mario, riding his bike, and playing with his big sister Emily and little brother Louis. Harry is the son of Rebecca Buckland, one of our Junior School teachers and Tom a Marist Old Boy (2008). Recently, Harry was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer that develops in nerve tissue, most commonly affecting children under five. His treatment has been incredibly challenging, involving multiple invasive procedures, chemotherapy, and extended hospital stays. So far, Harry has required six bags of donated blood and two bags of platelets—both of which have been essential in helping his body recover from intensive treatments. In Australia, one in three people will need blood in their lifetime, yet only one in 30 donates. Blood and platelet donations are critical for children like Harry, as they help replenish vital cells lost during treatment and support recovery. To help give back and ensure supplies remain available for those in need, Harry’s family has started a Lifeblood team called Harry B’s Heroes, where donations can be made in his name. 

If you are eligible to donate, we encourage you to consider joining the team and making a life-saving difference.

Have you ever wondered what blood donations are used for? Treatments for cancer and blood diseases make up the highest percentage of blood products. It's why Lifeblood needs donors to keep donating, because the need for blood never stops.

Join our Marist College Canberra Harry B’s Heroes Lifeblood Team and book a donation today.
1, 2, 3, Give!

1. Register a blood donor account lifeblood.com.au, if you don’t already have one.
2. Make it count! Join our Lifeblood Team - go to ‘Teams’, choose ‘My Teams’ and search for 'Marist College Canberra Harry B's Heroes'.
3. Give life - Make an appointment here, on the Donate Blood app, or by calling 13 14 95.

Now your donations will count towards our tally, and we can see how many lives we’re changing every day!

2025 College Open Day

The 2025 College Open Day will be held on Friday 4 April over two sessions between 4.30pm to 7.00pm. This is a great opportunity for families to meet our teaching staff, speak with our co-curricular club coordinators, learn about the importance of service within our community, and meet current students to hear about their personal Marist journey.

As spaces are limited, please encourage any friends or family to register as soon as possible.

Open Day - Session 1 - 4 April 2025 4.30pm

Open Day - Session 2 - 4 April 2025 5:30pm

Enrolments now open

Applications are now being accepted from current families who may be considering enrolling their son/s not already at the College into Years 4 – 12.

A reminder that applications for Years 4, 5, 6, and 7 need to be received no later than Friday 31 May 2025 to be considered for enrolment starting in 2026. We would also encourage current families to let any friends who may be interested in enrolment know that they can now apply online.

If you have any questions about enrolment, please read our FAQ's and timeline or email the College Registrar.

Important reminder for Year 6 and Year 10 families

A reminder that families with sons currently in Years 6 and 10 at the College do not need to re-enrol their son into Year 7 or Year 11.

Our expectation is that once a student is enrolled at the College, their enrolment will continue until the completion of their studies in Year 12.

Recently, our Year 12 Captains went to Canberra Girls Grammar to compete in our Annual Netball Competition. The boys had a slow start to the game but eventually got into the rhythm and started gelling and scoring points.

The match was competitive from the start, with both teams showing strong defense and quick ball movement. Canberra Girls Grammar put up a challenge, but Marist gradually built momentum, making the most of their opportunities in attack.

Having great chemistry and constant shooting helped Marist push ahead finishing with a well-earned victory. Mrs Mahar praised the boys for all their effort, highlighting their focus and determination throughout the game.

Both teams displayed great sportsmanship, making the match another enjoyable and competitive fixture. Congratulations to the Boys on winning 25-7 and well done to both teams for a great game!

Ronin Gilmour
Year 12

Due to a shift in how shoppers spend and the way banks are transacting, Alinta has made the decision to become a cashless company. Cash will no longer be accepted in store as of 1 June 2025. For more information, please click here. 

We apologise for any inconvenience this causes.

Alinta Management

Please see below regarding the Transport Canberra timetable improvements, which will commence on 28 April 2025.

An improved timetable featuring more peak and school services will begin from the start of school term two on Monday 28 April 2025.

The improved timetable will deliver 94 additional services per weekday and will align with the opening of the new bus depot in Woden which is nearing completion.

Integrating the Woden bus depot into our bus network will help to improve the efficiency and reliability of services.

Buses will now be able to operate out of Woden and service the region, instead of driving from depots in Belconnen and Tuggeranong. This reduces out of service run time and allows us to improve our services such as providing more weekday peak services for Rapid buses and better school services.

School improvements

• Refinements to school service 2047 to better cover Forrest for students at Marist College

Students and families will be encouraged to check their school packs and timetables ahead for the new school term.

Further information for the improved bus timetable will be released in the coming weeks ahead of the school term that begins on Monday 28 April 2025.

Further changes:

Weekdays:

• Additional Rapid 2 services between Belconnen and the city including 10 extra services in AM peak and 4 extra services in PM peak
• Additional Rapid 4 services between Woden and the city including 4 extra services in AM peak and 3 extra services in PM peak
• Additional Rapid 10 services between Molonglo and the city including 3 extra services in AM peak and extending 15-minute frequency to all day
• Additional Rapid 3 late-night frequency from the Canberra Airport
• Additional route 47 services between Molonglo and Belconnen including 6 extra trips across AM and PM peaks
• Additional route 66 services between Woden and Molonglo

Weekends:

• Additional Saturday route 47 services between Molonglo and Belconnen including 1 extra service in AM and 2 extra services in PM
• An additional Saturday route 46 service between Kippax and Belconnen in PM

There will be no changes to the light rail frequencies.

More details can be found on the Transport Canberra website with further information released in the coming weeks ahead of the beginning of Term 2.

Marist Basketball Results Semi Finals Summer 2024/2025

2025 WINTER BASKETBALL REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

Players should register here.

Everyone is welcome at Marist Basketball and we have spaces available for boys at all skills levels. Basketball is all about having fun and working as a team, as well as improving technical basketball skills.

The 2025 Winter Basketball season starts 10 May and will continue until the end of September.

Further information can be found on our website.

Wishing all teams luck in the semi finals this weekend.