FAB’s Father’s Day Breakfast was packed with fun, food, and family vibes - and we loved seeing our A.B. Dads join in the celebration with their kids!
From sizzling bacon & egg rolls and BBQ brekkie to inflatable games, choir and band performances, lucky door prizes, meat trays, and the iconic potato sack race - it was a morning full of energy and connection.
A massive shoutout to the FAB team for hosting this much-loved annual event, and to all the volunteers who helped make it happen.
Watch the video below as Joanna Duggan, Chair of the FAB Committee, shares how these events bring joy and connection.
Want to help create moments like this? Join our FAB Committee - fab@abpat.qld.edu.au
Staff Community Service Day: A Powerful Celebration of Compassion, Connection, and Community
On Friday, 5 September, the College participated in something truly special: a vibrant and heartfelt Staff Community Service Day that brought together 200 staff members in a collective effort to give back, connect, and care. The day was filled with meaningful acts of service that rippled across our community, leaving behind not just tangible contributions, but a renewed sense of unity and purpose.
The Staff Community Service Day is more than a calendar event, it is a living expression of the College’s values. Staff members rolled up their sleeves and dove into a wide range of activities, each one with the aim of making a real difference:
20 Clothing Boxes donated to Baby Give Back, supporting vulnerable families with essential items for their little ones.
24 Joey Pouches sewn, offering comfort and care to orphaned and injured wildlife.
85 cards and gifts created for the Star Appeal, spreading joy to children facing serious illness.
2.5 litres of blood donated - a life-saving act that will benefit up to 15 individuals in need.
Multiple bags of rubbish removed from local beaches, helping restore the natural beauty of our coastline.
Countless animals cuddled and cared for at the local shelter, reminding us of the healing power of kindness.
90 meals donated to a community cause, ensuring nourishment and dignity for those doing it tough.
Busy Bees Garden and Gumnut Garden rejuvenated and replanted, breathing new life into cherished green spaces.
A College mural painted, strengthening ties with Winton and celebrating our rich Australian heritage.
Beyond the physical impact, Staff Community Service Day was a celebration of connection, between colleagues, with the community, and within ourselves. The act of serving side by side fostered camaraderie and deepened relationships across departments and roles. The mural, in particular, became a symbol of shared identity and pride, linking the College to the broader story of Australia.
And what better way to conclude the activities that by gathering together? Up to 200 staff shared a meal, reflecting on the day’s efforts, exchanging stories, and simply enjoying each other’s company. It was a moment of warmth and gratitude, a reminder that service not only helps others, it nourishes us too.
In a world that often feels fast-paced and fragmented, taking time to serve is a radical act of care. This day reminded us that giving back is a privilege, it is how we build bridges, foster empathy, and create a culture where everyone feels seen and supported. Whether planting gardens, painting murals, or supporting our local shelter, each act of service was a thread in a larger tapestry of compassion. And together, those threads wove a powerful message: that when we come together with purpose and heart, we can transform not just our surroundings, but ourselves. Thank you to all staff who contributed to the day.
Charlotte Brook | Deputy Principal
Recognition at the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards
Each year, students from across the College are invited to enter into the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry competition, inspiring them to express their thoughts and feelings through the medium of poetry. This year, we entered almost 30 poems written by students in Prep to Year 9. Students could use the optional theme 'All the Beautiful Things' to inspire their writing.
On Friday 5 September, the results were announced, and I am pleased to share that out of nearly 8,500 poems from over 5,800 students from 660 schools, three of our students were recognised for their exceptional talent in poetry.
Sophie Magee, Year 8: Shortlisted for "I am no whole without their ache."
Shobika Rajesh, Year 3: Commended for "Harmony."
Pasanya Abeyratne, Year 9: Highly Commended for "A craving for freedom."
These students will have their work published in the annual anthology later in the year. Congratulations!
Thank you to everyone who entered, and to the teachers and families who supported your writing.
Kelly Whiteway | Head of Library Services
2025 Year 6 Outback Safari – A Journey Through the Heart of Queensland
This term, our Year 6 students swapped classroom walls for wide open skies as they embarked on the 2025 Outback Safari. Over nine unforgettable days, they explored the landscapes, culture, and stories that make regional Queensland so unique.
The adventure kicked off with a long journey to Emerald, where students rolled out their swags for the first of many communal overnight stays. From there, the group travelled through Rubyvale, Longreach and Winton, immersing themselves in history, science, and Aussie bush life along the way.
Along the journey, students:
Ventured underground at Rubyvale’s Miner’s Heritage Walk-In Mine and fossicked for their own sapphires
Stood beneath the iconic Tree of Knowledge in Barcaldine
Rode aboard the Great Darr River Rail Run for billy tea, damper and bush tales
Explored aviation history at the Qantas Founders Museum and stepped into the past at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame
Fed pigs, cracked whips and toured Camden Park Station with Outback Dan and the Walker family
Took in the spectacular night sky at the Gondwana Observatory
Discovered prehistoric giants at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs
Walked in Banjo Paterson’s footsteps at the Waltzing Matilda Centre
Made music at Winton’s famous Musical Fence, posed at the Winton sign and admired Arno’s Wall
Connected with the community at Barty’s Place Open Day, performing proudly for locals and enjoying poetry from Gregory North
Relaxed with friends at Winton’s outdoor cinema under the stars watching Paper Planes.
Whether they were pitching tents, preparing meals at sunrise, or strolling through outback town centres, our students embraced each moment with curiosity, resilience, and teamwork. Even when some students were resting due to illness, their spirit and positivity shone through, while the rest of the group continued with enthusiasm and energy.
The journey wrapped up with a shared evening of reflection under the outback sky – a fitting end to an adventure filled with laughter, discovery, and personal growth.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff, parent volunteers and community members who helped make this outback experience possible.
Tiffany Henry, Alyssa Arenson, Diane Harris, Sarah Finch and Christel Radisavlyevic | Year 6 Team
Year 5 Bornhoffen Camp
The students have had a wonderful first day at Bornhoffen Camp! The journey went smoothly and spirits are high.
After enjoying some morning tea, the students have started settling into their cabins, unpacking their bags and exploring their new “home away from home. ”The buzz of excitement is already in the air as everyone looks forward to the adventure ahead.
This afternoon, students will begin their first camp activities and we can’t wait to see them challenge themselves, work together, and make some wonderful memories.
After a big first day, students enjoyed a relaxed evening together. Cabins were filled with plenty of night-time chats and laughter before everyone eventually settled in for a good night’s sleep.
On Thursday morning they were up bright and early, fuelled by a big breakfast and ready to launch into the day’s adventures. Each group rotated through two more of their camp activities, from water watching and creeking, to orienteering, crate stacking, and initiatives. Some students also explored the trails on a hike, while others enjoyed the bush experience of damper making over the fire.
A definite highlight was the pizza lunch, which gave everyone a chance to recharge before heading back out for more fun.
It has been fantastic to see the energy, teamwork and positivity of our Year 5s shining through as they embrace every part of the Bornhoffen experience.
Our students have completed their last activities and are happily packing up after another successful night at Bornhoffen. They are enjoying some delicious burgers for lunch before boarding the buses.
Meg Leach | Deputy Head of Junior School
Junior School Poetry Competition
From traditional Australian poetry to contemporary works and original verses, our Junior School Poetry Competition was filled with passion and creativity.
Huge congratulations to our winners – and to every student who shared their voice with courage and heart.
A.B. Choirs - Winners at GC Eisteddfod
Following outstanding success at the 2025 Gold Coast Eisteddfod, A.B. Paterson College has been announced as the winner of the Most Outstanding Primary School and also the winner of the Most Outstanding Secondary School across the Choral Sections at the Gold Coast Eisteddfod!
Congratulations to all our singers from Prep all the way to Year 12 – you have done the College proud!
A huge thank-you to our amazing Choral team of Miss Rachel Newcombe, Mrs Nadia MacKenzie, Mrs Madison Sharp and Mr Jonathan Albertini, our fabulous accompanists Mrs Lexene Marquenie and Mrs Marie Nicholson and the incredible support team of Faculty assistants, Learning assistants, Junior school and Performing Arts teachers who helped our students to shine!
Student Achievements - Performing Arts
Aidan McIntyre
We are delighted to share the recent achievements of Year 9 student Aidan McIntyre, at the Gold Coast Eisteddfod, where his talent and dedication to the performing arts were recognised across multiple categories.
Aidan received 2nd Place in the Musical Theatre – 14 Years category for his powerful and emotive performance of "Electricity" from Billy Elliot.
He also earned 2nd Place in the Song from an Animated Movie – 14 Years category with his heartfelt rendition of "Proud of Your Boy" from Aladdin, showcasing his vocal control and expressive storytelling.
In addition, Aidan was awarded a Highly Commended in the Duo, Trio or Quartet – 20 Years and under category, for his vibrant performance of "You Can’t Stop the Beat."
Congratulations to Aidan on these fantastic results! We look forward to seeing his continued growth and success in the performing arts.
We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of three of our young musicians - Rocky Liu (Year 8), Lucas Liu (Year 8), and Calvin Liu (Year 9) at the 2025 Gold Coast Eisteddfod.
Clarinet Duet (Rocky & Lucas) – 1st Place, Gold Medal in the Wind/Brass Duet (15 Years & Under) section
Trio Performance (Rocky, Lucas & Calvin) – 1st Place Trophy in the Strings/Wind/Brass Trio/Quartet (Up to Year 9) section
Congratulations Rocky, Lucas, and Calvin on your hard work, musicianship, and success!
Sharlene Chen
We are delighted to share the musical accomplishments of Year 5 student Sharlene Chen, whose talents continue to shine both within and beyond the school community.
Sharlene is a dedicated harpist and recently earned a Blue Ribbon at the Somerset Festival. In addition, she competed in the Queensland Harp Society Competition in the 10–12 years age section, where she was awarded Second Place for her beautiful performance.
These wonderful achievements reflect Sharlene’s passion for music and her growing artistry on the harp.
Yulia Wei
We are thrilled to celebrate the talents of Year 7 student, Yulia Wei, who recently earned top honours in competitions hosted by the Harp Society of Queensland.
Yulia participated in the Solo Harp Video Competition, entering the 10–13 years section. Her expressive and technically refined performance earned her 1st Place, a remarkable accomplishment that highlights her dedication and musical maturity.
Continuing her success, Yulia competed in the Solo & Ensemble Competition, again in the Solo 10–12 years section, where she was once again awarded 1st Place.
Yulia’s achievements are a source of pride for our school community, and we look forward to seeing her continued growth and success in the years ahead.
Congratulations, Yulia!
Ayan Singh
We are thrilled to celebrate the talents of Ayan Singh (Year 5T) who achieved a Very Highly Commendable in the Speech and Drama Humorous or Light Poetry 10 Year section at the Gold Coast Eisteddfod.
Ayan projected his humorous poem with precise comedic timing and entertained the audience with his expressive face and voice.
Congratulations Ayan!
Sharyn Walker-Joyce | Head of The Arts
'Comedy For A Cause' Presented by FAB
Get ready for an evening of big laughs and good vibes, all in support of a meaningful initiative, a new shade infrastructure at the College pool. Presented by our FAB Committee, Comedy for a Cause promises a relaxed and entertaining night at the LPAC Theatre, featuring a lineup of talented comedians (to be announced soon).
Venue: Dawn Lang Performing Arts Centre
Date: Thursday, 9 October
Doors Open: 6:15pm
Show Starts: 7:00pm
Tickets: $40 each or 4 for $130
Audience: 18+ only – strictly no students
Enjoy a professional comedy show with friends, colleagues, and community members, while contributing to a project that will benefit our students for years to come.
The A.B. Paterson College Foundation is delighted to invite alumni from the graduating classes of 2015, 2005, and 1995 to a special evening of reconnection and celebration.
Event Details
Date: Friday, 3 October 2025
Time: 6:00pm – 10:00pm
Venue: Aviary Rooftop Bar, Southport Sharks
Enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable evening featuring a two-hour drinks package, complemented by pizza and antipasto platters.
Ticket Information: Alumni: $30 and Guests: $50
This is a strictly 18+ event
Smart casual dress code applies
Partners are welcome to attend without requiring a guest ticket if accompanying an alumnus
RSVP by Friday, 26 September 2025 to secure your place HERE.
We look forward to welcoming you back to celebrate memories, milestones, and friendships with fellow classmates.
Is Your Family Relocating?
If your family is relocating at the end of this year, written notification of student departure should be provided to the College by the first day of Term 4, Tuesday 7 October, as agreed to in the Contract of Enrolment signed on acceptance of an enrolment place. Where this notice is not provided, the College may charge one term’s fees in lieu of notice, as budgets are prepared on student numbers.
Please email Head of Admissions, Karen Milburn at KMilburn@abpat.qld.edu.au if your family will not be at the College for the start of the 2026 school year.
