Current Edition | Term 3, Week 3

If you have read a newsletter or received communication from the College this year, it is likely that you are aware that it’s the 110 Year Anniversary of the foundation of St Laurence’s College. An event that we have celebrated, and will continue to celebrate in our community, over the course of the 2025. Despite our 110 Year longevity, history would show that Lauries was not the original Christian Brothers school in Brisbane.

The Christian Brothers first began their educational presence in Brisbane in 1875, with the establishment of a school in St Stephen's Chapel on 5 July by three Irish Brothers. This school, initially located in the old St Stephen's Church, was the first Christian Brothers school in Queensland. The Brothers soon relocated to a new building on Gregory Terrace, which became St Joseph's College. Over the coming years, the vision and inspiration of the Brothers lead to the establishment of many other Christian Brother schools across the region. Local to us, you would know St Patrick’s College, St James College, St Joseph’s College (Gregory Terrace and Nudgee) and St Edmund’s College.

In 2007, the Christian Brothers Schools in Australia underwent a significant governance change. Responsibility for the administration and governance of all schools owned or operated by the Christian Brothers was transferred to Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA). This shift was a result of the Christian Brothers International Congregation Chapter of 2002, which acknowledged the importance of the Christian Brothers' mission in education and other ministries. A series of internal governance alterations have occurred since this point, allowing us to arrive at where we are today, with St Laurence’s being a part of the Edmund Rice Education Australia Colleges Network. 

Yet, despite these changes, the charism of Edmund Rice has remained strong and constant in our schools, with the values of the founding Brothers providing inspiration for the Touchstones that guide and shape our communities today. Our connection with the Christian Brothers remains strong and the presence of good men, such as Brother Damien Price, help form our Catholic identity. 

On Thursday of this week, over 45 vocalists, 10 staff and a number of student representatives helped the Christian Brothers celebrate their 150-year presence in Queensland education at a mass said by Archbishop Mark Coleridge at St Stephen’s Cathedral. With our choir as a feature, the mass was a respectful celebration and a testament to the vision of founders Edmund Rice, Ambrose Treacy and Archbishop Duhig.

On Thursday evening, the College also opened its doors at our annual Open Day. The night was an incredible reflection of the St Laurence’s College Community and most importantly, the good people within that community. Over the course of the evening, we were able to meet hundreds of future Laurie’s families, as they took the first step on their Laurie’s Journey and enjoyed the amazing displays and hospitality demonstrated by staff. I sincerely thank all staff who gave of their time to open our doors. It was certainly an evening to be proud of.

On Monday night, in collaboration with The Lauries Community Committee and under the organisation of Ms Vanessa Bell (Dean of Engagement and Wellbeing), the College welcomes Dr Justin Coulson who is a leading voice in adolescence and parenting. You may have seen Dr Coulson on Channel Nine, listened to his Happy Families podcast, accessed his happyfamilies.com.au site, followed him on socials or read one of the nine books he has published. Justin will be presenting to the community on the topic of; “Cultivating Confidence and Character in Your Teenage Son”, in ERPAC from 6:00pm. All parents are most welcome to attend. 

In the last few weeks, Stage 1 of the Runcorn fields and facilities upgrade has begun and is currently on track to be completed for the start of the 2026 school year. With this in mind, I am pleased to be able to confirm that the 2025 Sports Day planning has also been finalised. 

Both the College Operations Team and the College Sports Team have been working to ensure a successful community day for all families, with the centre of activity to occur on Field 7. Communication regarding the day will be sent via the College App in the coming week and will include parking plans and areas for parent tents. 

After the event cancellation in 2024, we are praying for a rain free day and a great community atmosphere. 

Wishing all those competing for the College this weekend in AIC Basketball, Rugby League or Tennis the best of luck against St Patrick’s College.