The College proudly celebrated the exceptional academic and co-curricular achievements of our Years 4–12 students during the 35th Annual Speech Night Awards, held on the evening of Wednesday, 19 November 2025. 

This year’s Speech Night felt bigger than ever, as our students stepped into the spotlight and showed what dedication can achieve.

Congratulations to all award winners and major prize recipients!

The 35th Annual Speech Night Major Prizes were:

• The RJ Nicholls Shield - Champion House - Wright House
• The Ian Taylor Award - Finlay Proverbs
• Thomas Halloran Leadership Award - Allyah Luman
• The Daniel Bennett Award - Samantha Smithers
• The Principal’s Award (Junior Sportsperson) - Marcus Riez
• The HOTA Future Creative Award - Natalie Albertini
• The HOTA Future Cultural Leadership Award - Brock Drinkwater
• The Friends of A.B. Paterson College Award - Louis Robertson & Riley Grimmer
• The Rachel Newcombe Award - Jayden Huang
• The Commonwealth Bank of Australia Award - Sunny Liu & Addison Selby
• The Coomera Valley Rotary Club Cup - Emelia Wedemeyer
• The “Butch” Lenton Memorial Award - Hudson Thiel
• The Michael D Veivers Cup - Harlie Bolger
• The Special Principal’s Award - Preston Williams
• The Principal’s Leadership Award - Ellie Sinclair & Nevindu Dammannagoda
• The A.B. Paterson College Vocational Educational Student of the Year Award - Chilli Fitzgerald
• Dux Proxime Accessit Award - Finlay Proverbs
• The Kelvin Hutchinson Award - Dux of the College - Matilda Grant
• The Banjo Paterson Cup - Matilda Grant
• The Alan Rickard Scholarship - Charli Corkill

Thank you to our Choirs and Bands for amazing performances.

Congratulations to every award recipient. Your determination shapes the spirit of our College community.

35th Annual Speech Night Program

SHE WON!! Principal Joanne Sheehy has won the Woman of the Year award!

Winning the Champions of Education award at the Gold Coast Bulletin’s Women of the Year Awards.

In front of more than 500 guests at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Joanne was recognised for her innovation and impact as one of the most prominent educational leaders on the Gold Coast.

An honour for Joanne, but also a wonderful acknowledgement of the talent, leadership, and strength within our College community.

Congratulations Jo - we couldn’t be prouder.

As part of Market Day 2025, our youngest learners had the exciting opportunity to visit the Year 10 Business stalls and their enthusiasm was contagious. One stall in particular captured the hearts of the Preppies: FTB – For the Brain, a student-run enterprise designing and manufacturing fidget spinners using the College’s very own 3D printers.

With wide eyes and big smiles, the Prep students were mesmerised as Year 10 students proudly demonstrated how their products were created. The interaction was a wonderful example of authentic, student-led learning in action. It not only showcased the innovation happening in our Business classrooms but also highlighted the power of older students serving as role models.

Inspired by the buzz of excitement, and with the support of Ms Joanne Sheehy, both Mrs Julie Ashton-Lucy and Mr Trent Davis purchased 40 fidget spinners for Prep (10 for each class) as well as a selection for Year 1 and Year 2. These will be used to support focus, calm and fine-motor development across the early years.

What made the experience truly special was the warm, positive interaction between our youngest and older students. Moments like these strengthen the connection between our Junior and Secondary Schools, demonstrating the value of cross-campus collaboration and fostering a strong sense of community.

Market Day 2025 was not only a celebration of entrepreneurial thinking but it was a celebration of relationships, mentorship, and the joy of learning together.

Trent Davis | Curriculum & Wellbeing Coordinator - Prep-Year 2

At the start of this year, we asked several of our Year 12 students to record a message to their future selves. The goal was to capture their thoughts, hopes, and expectations as they stepped into their final year of school. This week, we filmed their reactions as they watched those messages back.

Ellie, our 2025 College Captain, is the first to feature in a series we shared this week on social media.

As Senior Sport Captain, Jessica had a powerful message for herself back in Term 1. Here’s how she felt hearing those words again now.

Nevindu had no idea what to expect when he first came to A.B. Paterson College. Our 2025 College Captain reflects on the goals he set for himself at the start of the year and how far he has come.

For Phoebe, Year 12 was a moment she had been working toward for as long as she could remember. Now, as she enters her final week of school, she shares how she sees herself today.

For Preston, 2025 was always going to be an extra special year. He explains why.

Sarah has been part of our College since Prep. She opens up about the hardest part of saying goodbye to the place that has felt like home.

As Term 4 draws to a close, our Year 6 students have been actively preparing for the exciting leap into Secondary School. Through a series of thoughtfully designed transition activities, they have had the opportunity to explore their future learning environment, connect with new faces, and begin embracing the responsibilities that come with this next chapter.

One of the highlights has been the weekly visits to Secondary School homerooms, where students met some of their teachers whom they will be working with next year. These sessions offered a glimpse into the routines, expectations, and learning styles that await them—building familiarity and confidence in a space that will soon become their own.

Another 2025 new initiative that has been met with enthusiasm is the 'Push Up Lunch' on Wednesdays. This program allows Year 6 students to spend lunchtime in the Secondary School precinct, interacting with older students, enjoying the facilities, and experiencing the social dynamics of their future peer group. It has been a fantastic way to foster independence and build relationships across year levels.

"I was nervous at first,” said Angela, Year 6. “But after meeting the teachers and hanging out at Push Up Lunch, I feel way more excited about next year. It is not as scary as I thought!"

Students are also looking forward to the symbolic changes that come with moving up—most notably, the different Secondary School uniforms. There is a great sense of pride and anticipation as they prepare to wear the next stage of their school journey, a visible marker of their growth and readiness.

Week 9 will bring another exciting milestone: welcoming new students who will be joining the cohort in Year 7. Our current Year 6 students are eager to meet their future classmates and show them the ropes, demonstrating the leadership and empathy they have been cultivating all year.

"It has been wonderful to see our Year 6 students step into leadership roles and take ownership of their transition,” said Mr Albertini, Head of Wright House. “They’re asking great questions, showing resilience, and really embracing the opportunity to grow."

As they prepare to leave behind their primary years, Year 6 is not just moving forward—they are moving up, ready to take on the opportunities and adventures that Secondary School will bring.

Tiffany Henry, Alyssa Arenson, Diane Harris & Dean West | Year 6 Teachers

Chess Club attended a much-anticipated annual tournament on Tuesday, bringing together enthusiasts of all ages for an exciting day of strategy, concentration and camaraderie. The last event of the year saw a fantastic turnout, with close to 300 students attending from various schools, all eager to showcase their skills on the board.

The tournament featured seven rounds, ensuring that every participant had multiple opportunities to play and learn. Highlights of the Day:

Top Performers:

Congratulations to Oliver Model (2S) for securing first place in the 2018 age group with an impressive unbeaten streak!

Christopher Hou (3K) in the 2017 age group, William Zhang (6D) in the 2014 age group and Benjamin Jiao (6H) in the 2013 age group also demonstrated exceptional skill, earning a well-deserved merit ribbon for their efforts.

Rising Stars:

Special mention goes to our youngest representative, Lucas Korneev (1B), who displayed remarkable talent and sportsmanship throughout the event.

Community Spirit:

Beyond the competition, the tournament was a celebration of friendship and learning. Players exchanged tips, analysed games and shared their passion for chess.

Chess Club extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, staff and supporters who made this event possible. We are already looking forward to attending more tournaments next year, with even more challenges and opportunities for everyone to grow and enjoy the game!

Lena White | Chess Club Co-Ordinator

My 2026 Enrolments are now open for Prep-12.
I would appreciate your early return. If your child is on the waiting list already, there will be a definite place.

Our Prep-3 Concert was an amazing success.
The confidence students build going on stage to perform will last a lifetime. I am so proud of their fabulous effort. They are all STARS!! And they really shone brightly.

ASCA Exams. On Tuesday, 23 students sat their Australian Speech Communication Exams as either a solo, duo or group. I am extremely proud to announce these excellent results.

• Miles Chen - High Distinction
• Ashlyn Wang - High Distinction
• Miles Fisher - High Distinction
• Aurella Riley - High Distinction
• Adam Wilkinson - Distinction
• Alfie Yan - Distinction
• Anushka Khosla - High Distinction
• Aidan McIntyre - High Distinction
• Saavi Gaikwad - High Distinction
• Sammy O'Donoghue, Mya Exelby, Savannah Murray, Scarlett Zhong - High Distinction
• Akshay Pillai, Zac Joy, Sephora Thompson, Charli Slaski - High Distinction
• Annika Khosla, Amanda Chen, Anika Bajaj - High Distinction
• Harry Noonan, Heath Kachel, Aarav Vig - High Distinction

Congratulations on your amazing results.

I wish you all a fabulous Christmas and a safe and happy holiday. 

Warmest regards
Sue Howell | Speech & Drama Tutor

Congratulations to Daniel Azzi (Year 4) who has recently been invited to attend a two-week football training camp in the UK with Liverpool, Robbie Fowler and Everton Academy in January 2026.

Comments from his trainer, Jason Buchanan of FC9:

“After being introduced to Daniel Azzi, 6 months ago, I identified a young footballer with massive potential and a particular dedication that that is rare in 9-year-olds. Since then, I have been working with him on a weekly basis to help him continually improve certain aspects of his game. Additionally, I have invited Daniel to take part in our Emerging Player Tour to the UK in January 2026. On this Tour, Daniel will take part in football training hosted by The Robbie Fowler Academy and also include training sessions at Liverpool FC and Everton FC. He will also attend Anfield Stadium Tour. He has also been invited to train with Dubai Irish a prestigious football academy in Dubai upon his return from England. My own testing with Daniel recently ranked him in the top 3 out of 30,000 players internationally in his age group which is an incredible achievement.”

Well done, Daniel!

Matt Stopel | Acting Head of Co-Curricular Activities

Last year’s fundraising event was an unforgettable explosion of colour, community, and celebration—and this year promises to be even bigger, brighter, and bolder! As we gear up for the end of the school year, what better way to celebrate than with the return of our legendary Colour Run. 

This semester Mackellar and Wright House fundraising event will be fundraising for our combined charities of Orange Sky Laundry, Young Care, Salvation Army and our Winton Service Learning program with a Monty’s Colour Fun Run supported by Australian Fundraising!

If you would like your child to participate in the Colour Fun Run, please accept the Terms and Conditions via Parent Lounge and create your child’s online profile page to start fundraising.

The Mackellar & Wright House fundraising event will be on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, from 1:30 pm to 3:20 pm.

• Entry fee of $15
• Students will be given free sunglasses and a rainbow headband for the event.
• Please make sure students wear a WHITE t-shirt and closed in shoes.
• Students will be covered in non-toxic, biodegradable colour powder from head to toe.
• Colour Powder is made of high-quality corn starch and permitted food colours. Safety data sheet is available upon request.
• Some families may recall that previously we have run this event as a Colour Run. Unfortunately, even though the powder used in the event is non-toxic, biodegradable and environmentally friendly, we found that in some instances, the coloured powder stained clothing and hair. Please ensure that all clothing items worn during the event, including shoes can get dirty.

How Do We Fundraise?

Fundraising for our Colour Fun Run is entirely online. Follow the instructions in your child’s sponsorship booklet to create a cybersafe, online profile page at www.australianfundraising.com.au or follow the instructions on the attached registration PDF file. At the end of the fundraiser, students receive a prize for their fundraising efforts by simply raising $10 online! At the end of the fundraiser, students can mix and match up to a total of five prizes based on their fundraising total and golden coins.

Please note: Participation in the fundraising event is optional. The fundraising portal opens on Friday, 5 September. All cash donations must be converted to online donations before Tuesday, 15 November. We cannot accept any cash donations for this fundraiser.

For further information, please contact the team:

• Michael Culverwell HOH Mackellar via mculverwell@abpat.qld.edu.au or 07 5561 4165.
• Jonothan Albertini HOH Wright via jalbertini@abpat.qld.edu.au or 07 5561 4159.

How to Create a Profile Page

Information Sheet Fun Run 2025

Join us for our Annual Christmas Carols Concert as we come together to celebrate the season with this year’s theme: Joy, Peace and Love. 

Enjoy a festive evening filled with beautiful performances from our Junior and Secondary School choirs, and bring the whole family for a night of music, community spirit, and Christmas cheer.

Date: Friday 28 November 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
(Food trucks from 4:00 PM)
Location: DMPC

A reminder to RSVP by Wednesday 26 November 2025.

RSVP HERE

Some seating will be available on a first-in basis, so we encourage families to bring a picnic blanket. Additional chairs will be available at the back of the hall for those who need seating.

Feel free to dress in your favourite Christmas-themed outfit and embrace the festive spirit! 

Please note this is an alcohol-free event. We can’t wait to share an evening of joy, peace, and love with our College community!

We look forward to celebrating an evening of joy, peace, and love with our College community.

If your son or daughter is entering into Years 7, 10 or 11 in 2027, s/he is eligible to sit the ACER Scholarship test for the A.B. Paterson College Scholarship Program for academic or music scholarships.

Make sure you download the Scholarship Candidate Information Form from our College Webpage located at A.B. Paterson College | Scholarship Overview (abpat.qld.edu.au).

If you would like your child to sit the ACER Scholarship test on Saturday, 14 February 2026, please register online at https://scholarships.acer.org/intro/3410

This page will allow you to access the ACER website where you can make your registration. More information about the College’s Scholarship Program is also available on the College website.

Registration will close on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, at 4pm. Registrations cannot be accepted after this date and time.

Karen Milburn | Head of Admissions

A.B. Paterson College has had an amazing response from the community for this year’s edition. The Inspire Business Directory allows the College to support parents, caregivers, and members of the broader school community, with the opportunity to promote their business.

Please take the time to have a look, you might be pleasantly surprised with some special discount offers, or the opportunity to find a new service provider from within the College community.

A big thank you to all of the family businesses who have supported the A.B. Paterson College Foundation and advertised in this year’s edition. We look forward to supporting you and your families.

Click here to view the 2025/2026 Inspire Business Directory. 

Each week we will be promoting a College family business in our 'Business Spotlight of the Week'. This week the business spotlight is on Newport Custom Shutters - view the slide below.

Maddi Wilesmith | Community Engagement Officer