A.B. Paterson College proudly celebrated 35 years of academic excellence and character-driven leadership during our 2025 Founders Day Assembly.
We also had the honour of recognising staff members who received Service Awards for their dedicated service and contribution to this community- a heartfelt thank you for the years you have poured into our community.
10 Years' Service Awards
Hope Foster - Science Teacher
Timothy Grosser - Director of Operations & Planning
Tanya Mehra - Mathematics Teacher
Kylie Schumacher - Year 3 Teacher
Louise Spiteri - Learning Enhancement Learning Assistant
15 Years' Service Awards
Timothy Collins - Year 4 Teacher
Susan Kelly - Uniform Shop Convenor
Alison Ward - Head of Lawson House
20 Years' Service Award
Terri Wagstaff - Year 4 Learning Assistant
Together, we build more than just futures - we build legacy.
This Founders Day, Principal Joanne Sheehy reflects on the founding vision of A.B. Paterson College - and how we continue to live those values, every day.
Alongside her, Year 4 Learning Assistant, Terri Wagstaff shares what 20 years in the classroom has taught her about purpose, growth, and community.
Celebrating Excellence at the Academic Awards Assembly
Emelia Wedemeyer
On Wednesday, 21 May, the Secondary School gathered in a spirit of celebration and recognition at our Academic Awards Assembly. This special occasion highlighted the outstanding dedication and scholarly achievements of our students across Years 7–12, underscoring the values of learning, care, and a commitment to excellence.
Academic Achievement Awards are presented to students in the top 15% of their Cohort based on their Weighted Grade Point Average for their studies in Semester 1, 2025. Weighting is based on the amount of time students spend in each subject area per week.
Outstanding Work Habits Awards are presented to students that have demonstrated diligent work habits across their subjects for Semester 1, 2025. These habits include responsibility, organisation, perseverance and self-regulation. Work habits enable students to set goals, grow and work towards their personal best.
Students in Years 8–12 were honoured with Outstanding Work Habits Awards, a testament to their diligence and disciplined approach to learning. Meanwhile, our students in Years 8–10 received Academic Achievement Awards in recognition of their exceptional performance in Semester 1, 2025. We also welcomed Year 7 students to the stage as they received Academic Achievement and Outstanding Work Habits Awards, acknowledging their impressive efforts in Year 6, Semester Two 2024.
As we celebrated their successes, the assembly also served as a moment of reflection for all students. It was a reminder that growth is not solely measured by achievements but also by our ability to learn from challenges, adapt with resilience, and push forward with unwavering determination. As I encouraged every student in attendance: acknowledge your strengths, embrace your progress, and continue striving for excellence in all that you do.
Adding to the sense of pride in our school community, we also recognised Emelia Wedemeyer, recipient of the prestigious Lions Youth of the Year Award, a remarkable achievement that highlights her leadership and dedication. Furthermore, the assembly witnessed an exciting milestone with the launch of the new Year 12 initiative, ABTV. Students were treated to a sneak peek of the first episode and were encouraged to engage with and contribute to future productions.
Congratulations to all our award recipients, and indeed to every student who continues to dedicate themselves to their academic journey at the College. May Semester 2 bring even greater achievements and deeper learning experiences for every member of our school community.
Stephanie Andronikos | Head of Secondary School
2025 BUHMUN Conference
The 2025 Bond University High School Model United Nations (BUHMUN) Conference took place on Tuesday 7 May and Wednesday 8 May, welcoming over 250 students from schools across Queensland and New South Wales. A.B. Paterson College proudly sent a delegation of seven students to participate in this engaging and inspiring event. Now in its eighth year, BUHMUN is Australia’s first university-run High School Model United Nations, and this marks the sixth time our College has participated.
This year’s conference theme focused on two of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4 – Quality Education and SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. These global goals framed committee discussions around access to education, the preservation of justice, and the strengthening of institutions in the face of growing global challenges.
The conference commenced with a keynote address by Chloe Burns, Coordinator at The Decisive Point, who shared her experience facilitating discussions between global Defence Forces. Her insights helped set a compelling tone for the sessions that followed.
Throughout the two-day conference, our students explored complex global issues, collaborated with peers to draft resolutions, and honed their skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and public speaking. The final resolutions will be compiled and sent to the United Nations General Assembly for consideration.
BUHMUN 2025 was a powerful learning experience, especially in light of the increasing global focus on educational access and institutional integrity. Delegates grappled with the real-world implications of global inequality, conflict, and governance—issues that continue to affect vulnerable populations worldwide. Our students emerged from the experience with a deeper understanding of international affairs and a renewed commitment to global citizenship.
This year was another highly successful year for the A.B. Paterson College delegation, who were awarded the Secretary-General’s Best Small Delegation Award.
We were even fortunate enough to run into Charlotte Squire, A.B. alumnus and International Relations/ Law student, at the conference where she was chairing a committee!
I am extremely proud to present this award to Ms. Sheehy on behalf of this wonderful 2025 delegation.
Information on the event is available at the link below:
Year 11–12 Legal Studies Students Shine in SCU Gold Coast Mock Trial
Our senior Legal Studies students recently had the opportunity to participate in the prestigious Southern Cross University Gold Coast Mock Trial, representing our school as the prosecution team in a simulated criminal trial.
Held at SCU’s Gold Coast campus, the event brought together schools from across the region to experience firsthand the challenges and intricacies of the legal process. Students were immersed in the role of barristers, solicitors, and witnesses, arguing their case before a panel of university professors and legal experts.
Our team impressed the adjudicators with a strong and well-reasoned case presentation. The prosecutorial team received commendations for their clarity, courtroom etiquette, and deep understanding of legal principles. The lecturers praised the students’ ability to construct persuasive arguments and respond thoughtfully to objections raised during proceedings.
Despite our excellent performance, the defence team ultimately prevailed, with a case that was more defensible under Queensland law. The experience provided a valuable learning opportunity for our students to engage with real-world legal reasoning, test their advocacy skills, and reflect on the complexity of justice in action.
We congratulate all students involved for their hard work, professionalism, and team spirit. Their participation reflects the high calibre of legal thinking and commitment to excellence that characterises our senior Legal Studies program.
Congratulations to Finlay Canavan (Senior Counsel), Matilda Grant (Junior Counsel), Louise Lee (Solicitor), Kaleb Beattie (Witness/ Victim) and Eva Ziukelis (Witness) for participating so well!
AJ Chetter | Head of HASS Faculty
Dennis House Sleepout & Lawson House Talent Show
You came for the games, stayed for the talent, and left with the best memories.
From sunset fun to spotlight vibes, the Dennis House Sleepout and Lawson House Talent Show was a whole mood.
Shot by the students themselves, the reel below gives you a front-row seat to all the fun and talent from the night.
Peter Brookes | Head of Dennis House Alison Ward | Head of Lawson House
Vicki Wilson Netball Championships
It was great to see our A.B. Brumbies taking to the court at the annual Vicki Wilson Netball Championships as part of the North South Coast region held at Pimpama Sports Hub last week.
Our Vicki Wilson Cup team competition featured 12 schools from the North Coast district, and the Brumbies made a fantastic start, winning their first two matches convincingly against Trinity College Beenleigh and Upper Coomera State School. Despite battling the pouring rain, the girls put up a strong performance against Canterbury College but were ultimately defeated by the number one ranked team and back-to-back Vicki Wilson Cup winners. In a heartbreaking loss to Southport State School by just one goal, the Brumbies were ruled out of semifinal contention. However, they finished the day on a high note, securing a win over Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School, placing third in Pool B.
The Year 7–9 Vicki Wilson Shield Team exhibited commendable performances during their round matches of the Vicki Wilson competition, facing off against some formidable opposition—including the eventual tournament winners. Demonstrating exemplary teamwork and resilience, the team navigated a rigorous schedule of five matches, progressively refining their gameplay throughout the day to secure a dominant win over Upper Coomera State College. Their collective achievements reflect not only individual skill but also a deep dedication to representing the Brumbies with pride.
The competition provided valuable experience for both teams, allowing them to face off against schools outside the APS system. A massive thank you must go to the Ms Lauren Brake, Mrs Samantha Wheeler and Jodie Fewkes for all their hard work and effort in they have put into developing our teams.
Sara Eade | Head of Co-Curricular Sport
Student Achievement - Mackenzie Fenton
Congratulations to Mackenzie Fenton (Year 10) for her exceptional performance representing the 16–19 Girls South Coast Football Team at the recent School Sport Queensland State Carnival!
Her skill and commitment shone throughout the tournament, playing a key role in securing a bronze medal in their final match.
Sara Eade | Head of Co-Curricular Sport
National Simultaneous Storytime
On Wednesday 21 May, students from all around Australia joined together to read The Truck Cat by Deborah Frenkel and illustrated by Danny Snell for National Simultaneous Storytime.
This event celebrates stories, literacy and connection, and by taking part we promote the value of reading and affirm our commitment to literacy and learning.
Students from Prep to Year 6 read The Truck Cat together in their classes and reflected on its messages about family, belonging and home. The Prep teachers even dressed up as truck drivers in honour of one of the story's main character, Yacoub.
In Banjo and Friends, a visit from a truck was a special way to celebrate the day.
The Lilly Pilly Learning Centre is also featuring photographs of our students reading to their pets in celebration of the strong bonds we have with animals.
Thank you staff, students and families for supporting this wonderful event.
Kelly Whiteway | Head of Library Services
Speech and Drama - P-12 Concert Dates
Our Speech and Drama Concert will be held over three days in Term 2.
Prep to Year 2: Wednesday, 28 May at 3:15pm to 4:30pm
Year 3: Thursday, 29 May at 3:15pm to 4:30pm
Year 4 and above: Tuesday, 3 June at 3:30pm to 4:30pm
These concerts will be held in LPAC. No costumes required.
Please let me know as soon as possible if your child is unable to attend as in the younger grades this affects the Group Mime.
Students are learning lines enthusiastically and with great expression. The concert provides a supportive environment to develop confidence. I look forward to seeing you there.
Sue Howell | Speech and Drama Tutor
Premier's Reading Challenge 2025
The Premier's Reading Challenge (PRC) is an annual statewide initiative for Queensland students that aims to improve literacy and encourage children to read for pleasure and learning. Students from Prep to Year 9 can track the number of books they read from May until August, and receive a certificate of achievement for their efforts. This year, we will also be running in-school competitions, including prizes for the class and teacher with the most readers!
The following activities can be counted towards the challenge:
reading independently
shared reading
being read to (Prep – Year 2 for books written in English; and all year levels for additional languages).
The following literature forms can be counted towards the challenge:
printed books
e-books, virtual books and digital publications
graphic novels and comic books
audio and braille books
newspapers, magazines and recipe books
books in additional languages (other than English).
Opera Queensland presents "Are You Lonesome Tonight"
From contemporary beats to country harmonies, Opera Queensland continues to bring transformative arts experiences to our students.
After last year’s powerful performance of Do We Need Another Hero - a fusion of opera and contemporary music- students at A.B. Paterson College are once again preparing to welcome world-class performers.
This year’s Opera Queensland production, Are You Lonesome Tonight, arrives on 30 May, blending the soulful spirit of country with the vocal power of opera. The excitement is already building after their inspiring workshops with Opera Queensland’s professional artists last year.
We are proud to host this extraordinary event and champion the cultural growth of Queensland’s next generation of performers.
Date: Friday 30 May Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm Venue: Dawn Lang Performing Arts Centre
Are You Lonesome Tonight is Opera Queensland’s most ambitious regional tour in its 40-year history, visiting more than 30 communities and travelling some 8,000 kilometres across Queensland in 2021.
With a cast of young Australian singers including Gabrielle Diaz, Marcus Corowa and Jonathon Hickey, Are You Lonesome Tonight features arias and songs by composers such as Puccini, Verdi, Slim Dusty and Dolly Parton, to name just a few.
Tickets are $50 each, with all proceeds from this event will go towards the A.B. Paterson College Foundation, so this is a fantastic way to support our College community and enjoy an unforgettable show from a nationally renowned cast.
Join us for this year's A.B. Paterson College Foundation Gala Ball and help make a difference! All proceeds will support new seating at the College pool, giving students upgraded facilities for events like the Swimming Carnival and more.
We are excited to welcome our College community to The Star Gold Coast on Saturday August 9, 2025! Guests will indulge in a gourmet three-course meal with a 4-hour drinks package, complemented by live entertainment and exciting live and silent auctions.
For all event enquiries, please contact Community Engagement Officer, Maddi Wilesmith, at mwilesmith@abpat.qld.edu.au
Time: 5:30pm - 10:00pm
Venue: The Star Gold Coast
Are you interested in becoming a Gala Ball Sponsor? For more information about sponsorship, please contact our Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships, Sean Tobin, on stobin@abpat.qld.edu.au
Showcase your business in the 2025–2026 Inspire Business Directory!
Our bookings for the 2025–2026 Inspire Business Directory have officially commenced — and slots are filling up fast!
This is the perfect chance to showcase your business to the A.B. Paterson College community, which includes over 1,600 students, 1,100 families, and a digital audience of more than 33,000 each month.
Advertising Packages:
Full-page: $350 + GST
Double-page spread: $496 + GST
Plus, $100 from every booking supports the A.B. Paterson College Foundation.
Let’s work together to grow your business while giving back to our College community!
Support the FAB Committee’s 2025 Donation Drive
The FAB Committee is seeking prize donations for their upcoming 2025 fundraising events!
Every contribution, big or small, will help in this year's joint efforts to raise funds for new seating at the College pool, giving students upgraded facilities for events like the Swimming Carnival and more.
By donating a prize, you will not only be supporting a fantastic cause but also gain recognition. All donations will be acknowledged at respective 2025 FAB events.
If you or your business would like to contribute, they would love to hear from you! Please contact fab@abpat.qld.edu.au for more information, or to make a donation.
Your generosity will make a real difference in enhancing the experience for our students and community.
