25 JULY 2025

From Our Executive Principal

Update from Abergowrie – A Message from Rob Corboy

I have now arrived in Abergowrie and have begun settling into the rhythm of the school. Over the next six months, my role is to support and facilitate the transition of St Teresa’s College Abergowrie to the governance of EREA Colleges, which is scheduled to commence in 2026. A dedicated team at EREA Colleges is working tirelessly to manage the many facets involved in making this exciting opportunity a reality. My focus is to assist in coordinating and progressing this process on the ground here at the College.

This new arrangement is currently pending the final step of canonical approval. The plan is that from 2026, I will remain based at Abergowrie for the first half of the year to help embed the transition. Over the next 12 months, I will continue to be actively involved with St Brendan’s College on a daily basis, travelling back to Yeppoon as needed. Then, from mid-2026, the arrangement will reverse—I'll be based once again at St Brendan’s while maintaining regular connection and support for Abergowrie.

As shared in previous communications, the opportunities that this partnership offers for St Brendan’s are limited only by our imagination. It presents exciting possibilities not only for our students but also for staff through collaboration, innovation, and shared mission.

I remain in daily communication with Mr Paul Horan, the current Acting Principal at the College, and continue to engage with the St Brendan’s College Leadership Team via weekly TEAMS meetings. I also participate in the weekly leadership meetings at St Brendan’s and maintain regular correspondence through email. I look forward to continuing to connect with the many support groups that make our community so vibrant and strong—this includes the College Advisory Council, the Finance and Building Committees, and the Parent Connect Group.

Finally, I want to thank all the staff who have stepped into acting roles over the coming year. Their leadership, commitment, and professionalism are deeply appreciated. Our community is stronger for the depth of talent we are fortunate to have at St Brendan’s.

External Reviews – Music and Learning Enrichment

As part of our ongoing commitment to school improvement, the College will be conducting two external reviews this term. Each year, we undertake focused reviews of specific areas to ensure we continue to provide the highest quality educational experience for our students.

This term, we will be reviewing two key areas of our community: our outstanding Music Program and our dedicated Learning Enrichment Department. These reviews are an important opportunity to celebrate what we do well and identify areas for future growth.

We encourage students and families to participate in the review process and provide feedback on these central aspects of College life. Further information about how to get involved will be shared in the coming weeks.

ACARA NAPLAN Trial

Earlier this year, the College was selected to participate in a NAPLAN trial. As a result, we recently received a letter from ACARA (Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority) acknowledging our involvement.
We extend our thanks to the staff and students who contributed to this important process. Their participation supports the ongoing improvement and national consistency of student assessment in Australia.

On behalf of ACARA, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to you and your school community for participating in the 2025 ACARA Item Trial.
Your students were part of a significant group of around 20,000 Year 3, 5, 7, and 9 students from 400 government, catholic, and independent schools across all states and territories who participated in the assessment this past May.
The ACARA Item Trial is a crucial part of the National Assessment Program, which runs annually, designed to evaluate and validate potential test items (questions) that are under consideration for inclusion in future NAPLAN tests.
Your school’s involvement plays a key role in maintaining the quality of NAPLAN tests, ensuring that NAPLAN tests deliver accurate and reliable results which helps determine whether young Australians are meeting important literacy and numeracy benchmarks, providing valuable insights for students, schools, and educational systems.
We are truly grateful for the time and effort that your teachers and your students have dedicated to this testing event. Thank you once again for your invaluable contribution to the 2025 ACARA Item Trial.

Warmest regards,
Rob Corboy
Executive Principal

From Our Campus Principal

The statement, “we take for granted the things we see every day”, has been a catch cry of philosophers since the time of Plato.  We seldom reflect, or look long enough on our surroundings, to really appreciate what is right on our doorstep. I was reminded of this recently when I took my brother, sister-in-law and nephew on a tour of the College.  My nephew, Oliver, has decided to join SBC and wanted to get his bearings before commencing on day one of Term Three.

In our sojourn around the College, they commented numerous times about the appearance of the grounds, the condition of the buildings, the quality of the classrooms and the facilities.  Being a teenage boy, Oliver’s statements were invariably succinct.  He noted, “I’m just glad to see a tree”. That comment alone, is not uncommon, and it really distinguishes what we have, from other schools.  We are not concrete bound, or brick enclosed, and this brings a unique feel to our environment.

On our tour I also mentioned the things we specifically practice to cater for the needs of boys.  The standard timetable, the one-hour lessons, the pedagogical framework with the focus on active learning strategies, the free movement during lunch breaks, the breadth of subject offerings, and the staff professional development – “running the room”.  Again, a simple observation from Oliver – “you have bag racks”! This limits the lost time which occurs when boys travel backward and forward to lockers, between lessons.

To summarise, I was proud to show my family, the College of which I am now the Principal.  I was proud of the efforts of our ground staff, to keep the place in such condition.  I was proud of the maintenance boys who are forever, replacing, repairing or changing something, for the benefit of the boys.  I was proud of our curriculum processes and the teachers who implement that curriculum in their classrooms.

When I called my brother at the end of the week, to find out how Ollie had gone, my pride swelled.  He said he had a great week.  His teachers were good, and the boys were interested in learning who he was. Interestingly, he sensed what I have come to call, “The intangible brotherhood of SBC”.  He said, “it just feels different – better – calmer – I can’t put my finger on it”.  Maybe Michael Carron will be put his finger on it when he finishes his longitudinal study of ‘What makes Brendan’s boys different’.  His hitherto described “Spirit Project”.

While I’m on the topic of pride, I’d like to point out a few other things that puffed out my chest. In no particular order:

• The words of Elgin Jarrett, Genamai Bourne, Boongarra Walker and Walai Hatfield describing the importance of NAIDOC celebrations to their culture.
• The leadership of Max Bowman Conlon, LeBron Bartlett, Jackson Wyman and Jimmie Narasi in leading the indigenous dancers at the NAIDOC Assembly
• The Rotary Quiz team of Gus Peters, Jack Robertson and Cooper Leisch who finished second from 10 competing schools.
• The comments from the “White Course” provider who described our Year 11’s as the best group of young men he has delivered to
• The positive parent feedback from the “Sunset Tour”.
• The humility and dignity of the First 13 at the recent confraternity.

Kind regards,
Paul Horan
Campus Principal

Experience the POWER OF ROCK at SBC!

Get ready to stomp your feet and sing along as the smash-hit musical We Will Rock You comes alive on stage at SBC! Set in a dystopian future where live music is banned and individuality is crushed, this electrifying show follows a group of rebels as they fight to bring back rock and roll. Featuring 24 of Queen’s greatest hits—including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” and, of course, “We Will Rock You”—this musical is a high-energy celebration of freedom, identity, and the timeless power of music.

Over 70 students are involved in this production, working tirelessly behind the scenes and in the spotlight—running the lights, sound, and, of course, delivering powerful performances on stage through singing and acting. Plus, the show features a live band made up of SBC’s incredible music students, bringing Queen’s legendary sound to life with raw energy and talent. With stunning costumes, jaw-dropping vocals, and unforgettable rock anthems, this is more than just a musical—it’s a full-blown celebration of youth, creativity, and live performance. Don’t miss your chance to feel the beat and join the revolution at SBC!

Sport

Welcome back for another term of sport at SBC, which will be dominated by Rugby League having approximately 300 students playing in the Rockhampton District Interschool Competition and another 200 students taking the field for bragging rights in our Interhouse rugby league comp.

CONFRATERNITY SHIELD WRAP

The Confraternity Shield began back in 1980, originally with six schools competing. St. Brendan’s College joined the Confraternity in 1982, winning the Shield in our first year of competition and backing that win up in 1983 as hosts.  Since that time, we have competed in 43 consecutive carnivals and proudly have the record of being the most successful school with 14 shield victories.

This year was an opportunity to compete in the largest ever competition with 52 teams, hosted by The Cathedral College, Rockhampton.  The team was drawn in Pool A of division one which meant we had pool games against Ignatius Park College Townsville, Marish Ashgrove and Aquinas College, Gold Coast.  The first game was against Ignatius Park, traditional rivals and a team we are more accustomed to playing on the last day of the carnival, not the first.  In a rarely seen event, the game ended in a nil all scoreline.  Although there was no score it was a highly entertaining game with physical intensity and incredible, last-ditch defence the order of the day.

In the afternoon game we played Marist Ashgrove and managed to complete a 26 to 8 victory, where our offence was more on display.  It was a solid all-round performance that set the team up well for day 2.

On Tuesday morning the team met Aquinas College and dominated from the very beginning, running away with a 44-to-nil victory which ensured that the team finished first in the pool and would meet Shalom College, Bundaberg in an afternoon quarter final.  That game ended in a 12-nil victory to SBC, meaning that the team would feature in a semi-final on Thursday afternoon. 

In the semi-final, the team would play Padua College, Brisbane.  The game was a close encounter with SBC dominating much of the first half and Padua enjoying periods of ascendency in the second half – both teams making the most of a strong wind at their back.  Unfortunately, the game ended in heartbreak for the SBC side with Padua being awarded a penalty right on full-time, kicking the goal to win the game 16 to 14.  The team possibly didn’t get their share of the 50/50 calls but that is Rugby League, and the result meant that the final day of the carnival would be a play-off against hosts, The Cathedral College for third and fourth position. 

On the final day of the carnival the side comprehensively outplayed TCC, 26 to 10 and finished 3^rd overall.  Co-Captain, Lachlan Anderson was named in the honorary Qld side chosen from the carnival, a reward for outstanding leadership and play for the week.  The side can be proud of their efforts and with 15 members of the team in year 11, lessons were learnt that will make the 2026 side a force to be reckoned with.  The boys finished the week, having played 6 games and only conceding 5 tries – an incredible defensive effort that could well be a carnival record.

A big thanks to all the coaching staff and the whole school community who supported the boys and allowed us to stay here at school for the carnival in surroundings that met our every need.  A final thanks you to the Year 12s for their service to the school on the Rugby League field, knowing that they are now themselves a part of a special fraternity of men that have donned the Green Jersey with the Gold Shorts and Socks.

Rod Peckett
Director of Rugby League (Acting)

Term 3 Rugby League Information

Term 3 rugby league season has kicked off with some very strong results across all age divisions. As we move into Week 2 of the competition, I have included some timely information to assist with navigating the rugby league season.

Communication

During the season information regarding training game times, and bus departures can be found in two spots. Firstly, the Sports Noticeboard. Students have access to the sports noticeboard throughout the day. Here they will find an up to date copy of the Sports Update with all relevant fixture information. The other place this information can be found each week is on the College App. This is our number one communication tool when it comes to Sport. If there are any late changes to fixtures due to weather or forfeits etc. it is communicated via this platform. I would like to encourage all parents to download it. It can be found on both Google play and the App Store on Apple devices.

Uniform

When taking the field to play rugby league for the college, all players are expected to be wearing the college rugby league shorts and socks. These can be purchased from the uniform shop. The uniform shop is open as per the days and times listed below;

• Monday and Friday, 7:30am – 11:30am
• Wednesday, 1:00pm – 5:30pm

The training shorts that have been provided with as a part of registration are for training purposes only, they are not to be worn during games.

Behaviour

The behavioural standards expected throughout the season are no different to what is expected in the classroom. All players are to treat the officials with respect regardless of how wrong you think their decision is. Any poor behaviour directed at officials will not be tolerated. Our mantra is humble in victory, gracious in defeat. This means that if we are winning, we celebrate, but we keep going about our business as usual. If we lose, we congratulate our opponents and work harder to improve before our next game.

Term 3 is an exciting time in the college, lets all ensure its an enjoyable one by conducting ourselves in a manner that reflects who we are as a college.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

16-18yrs Capricornia AFL

During the last week of Term 2, 5 members of our Senior AFL team travelled to Cairns to represent the Capricornia region at the U18 State AFL titles. These students were Malakai Mackie, Isaac Durdin, Tyler Johnson, Jesse McWhinney and Zac Whitehead. Their team played well recording 2 wins throughout the course of the carnival. Well done boys! After a great carnival Tyler Johnson was rewarded with selection in the U18 Queensland AFL team. Congratulations Tyler!

CQ Bushrangers

Over the holiday break we also had some of our rugby stars take to the field at the Queensland Country titles where they were representing the CQ Bushrangers. These students included Tyler Slater, Cooper Herbener, Lachlan Basham and Harlan Oberhardt in the U14 age group and Isaac Thomas, Tama Doyle, Cayleb Beath, Raui Olliver, Cooper Newton, Bronson Toby, Vanama Kilaverave and Jayden Jackson in the U16 age group. The boys competed hard and played well in their respective divisions. Well done to all. After performing consistently through the carnival both Cooper Herbener and Bronson Toby were selected in the Queensland Country Team for their respective age groups. Special mention also to Lachlan Basham and Raui Olliver who were named as shadow players. Congratulations boys! 

Kind regards,
Damien McLuskie
Director of Sport

Careers

SBC CAREERS NEWSFEED

SBC Careers Newsfeed

For the latest local and regional career opportunities (apprenticeships, traineeships, casual and holiday work included), work experience opportunities, school-based career information sessions, updates from Queensland Universities, QTAC, school-based university programs, industry trends information, events, and the world of work, subscribe to the SBC newsfeed.

St Brendan's College (sbccareers.com.au)

Careers Newsfeed

CAREER RESOURCES

If you are looking for resources and information, make sure you visit our SBC careers website.

Click here to visit the SBC Careers website

CAREER MEETINGS

If you, or your son would like further information or would like to meet with me to discuss career pathways, please send an email to Rebecca Lang with your available times and we will arrange a meeting langr@sbc.qld.edu.au or use the "Book an Appointment" link on the SBC Careers Website. 

Regards,
Rebecca Lang
Director of Pathways

From the Library

BOOK WEEK IS NEARLY HERE!!

Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book Week is on this term in Week 6.

The annual Book of the Year Awards aim to promote quality literature for young Australians, support and encourage Australian writers and illustrators of children’s books and celebrate contributions to Australian children’s literature.
You can check out the Children's Book Council of Australia's shortlist titles below...

COME AND CHECK OUT THE LIBRARY WEEK 6 FOR BOOK WEEK 2025 - AUG 18 - 22

Author & Illustrator, Jess McGeachin designed this year's artwork.

Jess McGeachin, "has captured this adventurous spirit in his artwork, which features a whimsical map filled with imaginary characters inviting readers to embark on fantastical journeys, inspiring them to travel through the worlds that books open up.  Imagine, explore, and create your own adventure”.

BOOK WEEK ACTIVITIES AT THE LIBRARY

Come and play a life-sized board game!!

Contact the library if you have any questions.

Elizabeth Varley
Librarian

Rodeo

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS

Regional Visits

We are coming to ROMA, CHARLEVILLE AND QUILPIE!! We would love to catch up with you there!

Learning Support

Tuckshop

College App

Android download is available by CLICKING HERE.

Apple user download is available by CLICKING HERE.

Timetable

Study Groups & Clubs

Term 3 Date Claimers

The 2025 College calendar is available to support your planning.

Access it through Parent Lounge or via the website using the following link:

Old Boys Foundation

Community

Valued Sponsors