2025 has continued the trend of growth and excellence for A.B. Paterson College Brumbies Athletics. Across three days of high-level competition at Somerset College, more than 150 students proudly represented the College at the APS Athletics Carnivals — the pinnacle event of the APS athletics season and the official district trial for regional and state qualification.

Following our successful Inter-House Carnivals earlier this year, selected students took on the opportunity to attend targeted training sessions both on campus and at the Gold Coast Performance Centre over the holidays. The commitment and consistency shown by our athletes in preparing for these events was evident, with many achieving personal bests and securing places at the upcoming South Coast trials.

Day One featured javelin, the 1500m, hurdles, and several field events. The Brumbies made an immediate impact, finishing the day in a solid second place overall — just one point behind Kings Christian College. A number of students collected blue ribbons, with several standout performances setting the tone for the remainder of the competition.

Day Two marked the second day of the Senior Carnival, with the majority of track events contested. Our senior athletes continued to perform strongly, demonstrating grit and determination. While we missed out on maintaining our second-place team position, the spirit, effort, and individual excellence on display were positive to see.

Day Three saw our Junior School athletes take the stage. Their enthusiasm and commitment throughout the season shone brightly, and it was encouraging to see their efforts rewarded with strong performances and plenty of team spirit on display. Overall, the Girls were runners-up, and we had three age champions and two age winners.

Individual Successes

We acknowledge and congratulate the following athletes on their outstanding individual achievements:

• Ayami Paguti – Age Champion, 10 Years Girls
• Madeline Driscoll – 3rd Place, 10 Years Girls
• Caitlin Papworth – 3rd Place, 12 Years Girls
• Catey Brookes – Runner-Up Age Champion, 15 Years Girls
• Toby Rayner – Runner-Up Age Champion, Open Boys
• Ruby Hasted – Record-Breaking Performance, 16 Years Girls Javelin

A special mention goes to our 10-year girls, 12-year girls and Open Boys team, who were crowned Age Champions in their division.

Please see the below for a summary of students who placed in the top three across the two days.

Special thanks go to our coaches; without their support we would not be able to offer the great training opportunities for our students. Collectively they offered 15 training sessions per week and facilitated our best athletics training attendance on record. Special thanks to Mrs Mitchell, Ms Preiszlerova, Mr Steve Jackson, Mr Ryan Sydenham, Ms Emelia Surch, Ms Sally Gordon and Mr Brett Green.

The impact of these coaches was evident at the APS Carnivals, where those who committed to regular training exhibited not only great technique but also a confidence that facilitated their success. As we reflect on this great year of track and field, we are reminded that our coaches have played a major role in the development of the athletes, and the program.

As we move forward in the Athletics Program, we look to supporting students progressing in the School Sport and Queensland Athletics pathways while continuing to develop our athletes for long-term success. Our athletics training program operates year-round, ensuring consistent development across all event groups.

While our program is ideal for aspiring athletes, its benefits extend far beyond the track. Sprinting past opponents, jumping higher for a crucial rebound, or delivering accurate passes are just a few examples of how the skills developed through athletics enhance performance in team sports.

For ongoing updates and further information, please see the ‘Athletics Program’ group on A.B. Connect.

Matt Stopel | Acting Director of Co-Curricular Activities & Head of Athletics