From the Principal
Over the past few weeks, we have celebrated and shared in a number of significant events that speak to the spirit and tradition of St Laurence’s College. These moments remind us that we are a community shaped by history, animated by faith and driven by the aspirations of our young men. A timely reminder in our 110th Anniversary year of the College.
110 Year Anniversary Gala Ball
On Saturday evening, close to 800 members of the Lauries community gathered for the 110 Year Anniversary Gala Ball, a night of joy, elegance and connection. From the moment the first guests arrived, there was a palpable sense of pride in being part of a College that has stood “110 Years Strong” in Catholic education.
The evening was filled with music, shared memories and a deep acknowledgment of those who came before us—the Christian Brothers, Archbishop Duhig, the generations of families who have entrusted their sons to Lauries. The Ball was not only a celebration of our history but also a declaration of our confidence in the future. Social media lit up with photos of the evening, a testament to the enduring affection our community holds for this great College. I acknowledge the work of both the staff organising committee and thank The Star Brisbane as our host venue for the evening.
I also acknowledge the work of the Old Boys Foundation who, under the leadership of Chairman Professor Alan Layton, was able to announce a cumulative total of $1 million dollars of donations to the College to assist families in need.
Year 11 Leadership Camp & Mass – Camp Laurence
On Tuesday evening, against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Moogerah, our Year 11 students attended their annual Leadership Camp at Camp Laurence. The camp is a formative step in their journey towards becoming the senior leaders of the College in 2026. Central to the camp was the celebration of Mass, where boys reflected on the responsibility of servant leadership through the lens of our EREA Touchstones.
In prayer and conversation, they were reminded that leadership at Lauries is not about privilege or title, but about the commitment to act with courage, humility and inclusion. The Mass was a powerful reminder that the legacy of our College depends on young men who lead with both heart and conviction.
The highlight of the rituals around the mass was the involvement of visiting families and the ceremonial senior tie offering before the community dinner. I thank all staff who enabled this occasion to occur and especially thank Father Will and all families for travelling out and making the night such a special occasion.
Year 12 Exam Trials
In recent weeks, our Year 12 students have completed their trial examinations, a vital milestone as they prepare for the external assessments that will begin next month. Staff have been deeply impressed by the seriousness with which our seniors have approached these exams.
We continue to encourage our young men to combine disciplined study with balance, rest and routine in their own preparation. Consistent messages around the 20-mile march and like concepts reinforce that success is rarely the product of last-minute effort, but of consistent commitment to the standards they set for themselves. Parents and families play a key role in supporting these young men during this demanding season and I thank you for the encouragement you continue to provide at home.
St Laurence’s College Basketball Gala Day
St Laurence’s College was proud to host the Basketball Gala Day, bringing together schools from across our local community for a day filled with teamwork, sportsmanship and fun.
It was a wonderful experience for all involved, and we are especially grateful to have welcomed Saint Thomas Catholic Primary, St Martin’s Catholic Primary School, St Joseph's Primary School and Sts Peter and Paul's School to our courts.
We extend a special thank you to the Brisbane Bullets, who attended through our valued partnership and inspired our young athletes with their presence.
Finally, we would like to acknowledge and thank our Year 10 students who generously volunteered their time to ensure the day ran smoothly – a true example of our College spirit in action and our commitment to supporting the local community.
Conclusion of AIC Trimester Sport
Last week saw the close of another spirited year of Trimester sport at Lauries. With only AIC Athletics, All Schools Touch Football and Water Polo to go, the majority of sports have now concluded.
I wish to congratulate all of our AIC Tennis, Basketball and Ruby League players for their dynamic seasons.
Looking Ahead – LCC AGM
Finally, I would like to draw your attention to the forthcoming Lauries Community Committee (LCC) Annual General Meeting, to be held on Monday 13 October. A regular meeting will be followed by the 2025 AGM and is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the year, to thank those who have served so generously and to chart the next steps for our community engagement.
I encourage all members of our parent body to consider attending, to listen, to contribute and to see firsthand the collaborative spirit that underpins the success of our College.
The evening will be followed by refreshments and nibbles, in celebration of many of the fantastic volunteers who give of their time to serve our community.
For those interested in attending, please follow the link below to RSVP:
In Closing
From leadership formation and milestone celebrations to academic preparation and community governance, these weeks have been a vivid reminder of what it means to belong to St Laurence’s College. We are grateful for the contributions of staff, families, Old Boys and friends who continue to shape this vibrant community.
As the Term draws to a close today, I wish all our staff, students and families a restful break. For those remaining working at the College, I thank you for maintaining the function of our College and look forward to seeing all students return in Term 4.
MR BEN LOWRIE
College Principal