Current Edition | Term 2, Week 7

National Reconciliation Week holds an important place in the life of St Laurence’s College, providing an opportunity for our community to deepen our understanding of Australia’s shared history and to strengthen our commitment to walking together in the spirit of reconciliation. Throughout the week, our students and staff engaged in a range of meaningful experiences that encouraged reflection, learning and action. Through classroom conversations, prayer, liturgy and awareness activities, our young men were challenged to listen to the stories and experiences of First Nations peoples and to consider their role in building a more just and inclusive future. As a school in the Edmund Rice Tradition, we are called to stand in solidarity with those whose voices have too often been unheard and to work towards relationships grounded in respect, truth and understanding. Highlights of the week included our Reconciliation Week Assembly, discussing the life of Aunty Ruth Hegarty and our Smoke Ceremony with Uncle Marlon Riley (College Old Boy). 

No two days are ever the same at St Laurence’s College. This sentiment was highlighted last Friday night when I had the pleasure of standing in ERPAC and thanking Richie Benaud, Russell Coight, Bluey and the entire music department for their contributions to the 2026 Cabaret Concert. I was also able to congratulate the many Robert Irwins, Kath and Kims, Ned Kellys and the occasional Raygun, for both their individual, vocal and orchestral performances. This year’s theme of 'Aussie Aussie Aussie' was certainly a winner with the audience, with the opening rendition of The Man from Snowy River setting the tone for the evening. I must congratulate the Music Department on their creativity, Ms Grace Visser for hosting the evening and thank the SLC Music Supporters Group for their support of what was a fantastic celebration of Laurie’s music.

In a fortnight highlighted by events outside of the classroom, it was pleasing to note the success of the College Cross Country Team at this Years AIC Cross Country Championships. With a successful result of fourth overall, the College celebrated wins in the 12 Years and 14 Years age groups, with special mention to Hugh JS for finishing second in the Open Division race. I applaud the effort of the entire team and thanks the work of Mr Beattie and all of the Cross-Country coaching staff. 

Lauries on the Lawn

It gives me great pleasure to announce that on Saturday 5 September, the College will host the first ever ‘Lauries on the Lawn’ event at the Runcorn Sporting Fields. Incorporating the newly renovated Runcorn complex, the scoreboard and surrounds, the College is excited to welcome guests to Crawford Oval from 1pm to 5pm for a day of socialising and celebrating all things Laurie’s. Further information about this event will be available through social channels in the near future, including ticket booking options and transport possibilities from Runcorn.

It should be noted that due to organisational complexities, this year's Lauries on the Lawn will replace the scheduled Sunset Soiree planned for Saturday 12 September. 

Report Card Update

Families are asked to please note that, due to updates in College reporting systems in Term 2, the reporting timeline has been adjusted to ensure all data is accurate and up to date. Consequently, reports will be released to the College community by Wednesday 1 July.

Last Weeks of Term 2

As we enter the final two weeks of Term, a great discussion starter at home is the importance of finishing the term strongly. These last weeks of Term 2 are not simply about reaching the holidays; they are an opportunity to consolidate learning, continue positive habits and to demonstrate the resilience and discipline that underpin success. This is especially true for our Year 10 students as they prepare for their upcoming assessment block. 

Consistent attendance, organised study habits, effective use of time and healthy sleep patterns all have a significant impact on both individual academic performance and wellbeing. Educational research consistently highlights the importance of routine and self-management, with studies showing a strong positive relationship between students’ ability to manage themselves effectively and their academic achievement. 

Over the coming fortnight, I encourage our young men to focus on the controllables: establish good routines, seek support when needed, remain committed to their studies and finish the term with purpose and pride. 

Best wishes to all those competing against Iona College this weekend in the last home round for Term 2, 2026.