Today, we concluded our celebration of the ATC Learning Pillar with the third of our Academic Assemblies. It was a joy to witness the outcomes of dedication and engagement across the Junior, Middle, and Senior Schools. These assemblies were a true community celebration, with many parents and caregivers joining us to acknowledge student achievement. With a growth mindset in Semester Two, every student has the potential to aim high and achieve their personal best. Congratulations to all award recipients—I hope to see even more students on stage next time!
Awardee congratulated by Mr Chris Ryan
Feast Day of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop
On Tuesday, we will celebrate the Feast Day of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop with special Masses. As Australia’s first canonised saint, Mary MacKillop was an ordinary woman who lived an extraordinary life. Her faith, courage, and hope helped her overcome many challenges, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire. Like Ambrose Treacy, Mary was a pioneer in education, especially for the poor in Australia. As Catholic Education Week concludes, we honour the remarkable individuals who laid the foundations for the wonderful schools we enjoy today. Learn more about Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop.
Year 5 Highlights
It’s a big week for our Year 5 students. On Monday, they’ll head off on their Eureka Gold Rush excursion, and on Friday, they’ll participate in their Mass and Retreat. No doubt they’ll be ready for a rest by the weekend. A big thank you to the staff preparing these enriching experiences for the boys.
Japanese Exchange Visit
Starting next Thursday, we will warmly welcome 31 students and staff from Tokyo to Ambrose Treacy College. They’ll spend just over a week with us, aiming to improve their English and experience everyday high school life in Australia.
Each day, they’ll take English lessons, shadow their homestay buddies in class, and enjoy cultural and off-site activities. Thank you to our host families for opening their homes and hearts to provide a rich, immersive experience. I encourage all ATC students to extend a hand of friendship and make our guests feel as welcome as our students were during their recent trip to Japan. Let’s ensure their stay is memorable and positive.
Staffing Update
Next week, we welcome Mr Adam Perkins as a teacher and Year 9 Case Manager. Over the next two weeks, he will transition into the role as Ms Jeanne Bowry begins her year of parental leave. We wish Ms Bowry all the best and look forward to working with Mr Perkins as he joins the ATC community. As always there are loads of things happening around the College next week. Be sure to keep across the ATC App for details and Parent Lounge for acceptance of events and excursions.
KEY DATES
Saturday 2 August | P&F Trivia Night 5.30pm NJ Hal
Monday 4 August | Year 5 Gold Rush excursion 8.15am departure
Tuesday 5 August | Mary of the Cross Feast Day Mass
Wednesday 6 August | Signum Fidei Breakfast
Thursday 7 August | Year 8 Bodkin & Conn Geography Excursion
Thursday 7 August | Year 4 and 5 Hearing screening with UQ
Friday 8 August | Year 5 Mass and Retreat
Friday 8 August | Year 8 to 10 2026 Subject Selections Close
Friday 8 August | 2nd Hand Uniform shop open 6.45 to 8.30am
Friday 8 August | Years 11 to 12 Volleyball Schools Cup
UPCOMING EVENTS
Monday 11 - 15 August | Science Week
Wednesday 13 August | PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Thursday 14 - Sunday 17 August | QCMF
Saturday 16 August | P&F Father's Day Function
Book Week 15 - 22 August Mt Sion Library
PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE WEEK
Connecting through faith, hope and love our community this week celebrated Catholic Education Week began and Mr Ryan invited families into the many celebrations at ATC. CLICK HERE TO READ.
LEARNING NEWS
The annual ATC and Brigidine Junior School Mathematics Team Challenge was a vibrant celebration of problem-solving, collaboration, and the enduring partnership between our two schools. Students worked in teams to tackle a series of challenging mathematical tasks, demonstrating not only sharp thinking but also the power of teamwork under pressure. The final relay event brought the energy to a thrilling crescendo, requiring speed, precision, and seamless coordination. In a dramatic and close finish, ATC Team 6—Taaj, Adrian, Bernie, Joshua, Charlie and Thomas, —claimed victory. A huge congratulations to all teams for their determination, perseverance, and good spirit throughout the day. The event was a resounding success and a powerful reminder that mathematics is as much about curiosity and connection as it is about calculations. We look forward to the 2026 Maths Teams Challenge Day!
LIBRARY NEWS
Book Fair
As part of our Book Week celebrations, the Junior School Scholastic Book Fair will run in Mt Sion Library from Friday 15 to Thursday 21 August during lunch breaks and parents and caregivers are invited to join us on Monday 18 August from 7:30am in Mt Sion Library to browse the books and literary items for sale. Book Fairs help schools enrich student learning by increasing access to a wider variety of books. With more choice, children are empowered to find the stories that speak to them—igniting a lifelong love of reading. When families foster a reading culture at home, it nurtures curiosity, builds imagination, and opens minds to new ideas.
ATC Book Week Twilight Event
We invite Dads and important male figures to join their sons for ‘An Evening with Richard Yaxley’ - a twilight event on Tuesday 19 August from 6.00pm-7.00pm in Westcourt Library, with pizza and drinks from 5.30pm on Westcourt Deck. Novelist Richard Yaxley (Harmony, This Is My Song and Drink In The Air) will present an hour of literary power! Richard will speak about his career and offer personal insights and practical strategies to encourage our boys to engage in reading and writing, for pleasure. It promises to be an invaluable evening for students, highlighting the significant role that men have in modelling and encouraging a genuine love of books and reading. Numbers are limited. Registration is via Parent Lounge and tickets are only $15 per person – includes pizza and soft drinks, juice and water. Parking is available in the Kate Street carpark. Please access the College via the main stairway from Duhig Drive and follow the signs to Westcourt Library. Tickets are non‐refundable. Sales close 9am Friday 15 August sharp!
Book Week Parade Reminder
The much-loved Book Week Parade will take place during the Junior School Assembly on Friday 22 August. This year’s CBCA theme, “Book an Adventure,” invites boys to dress up as their favourite book characters and proudly parade their literary creativity. Get your outfits ready!
EXCURSIONS
Year 5 Gold Rush Excursion
On Monday 4 August, Year 5 students will participate in an immersive ‘Goldfields’ learning experience which will send the boys back to the year 1854 as part of our curriculum studies. The aim of the activity is for students to develop an appreciation of what life was like on the Victorian goldfields and begin to understand the events that led up to the Eureka Stockade. Buses will take the boys to Beenleigh leavingschool at 8:15am and return to school by 3:00pm. Students are to wear fully enclosed shoes suitable for bush walking. Students are also encouraged to dress in costume for life on the goldfields in the 1850’s. (Ie. miner, baker, newspaper editor) Please see further details on the ATC App of items to bring on the day.
Year 8 Bodkin & Conn and the 8 Lynch and Treacy Geography Excursions
Geography students in Year 8 Bodkin and Conn will be participating in an excursion to Palm Beach Gold Coast on Thursday 7 August and Geography students in Year 8 Lynch and Treacy will travel on Friday 8 August. Students must arrive at school at 7.15am for bus departure at 7.30am from Middle Drop Off Zone. Return bus time is by 3pm. Students must bring a water Bottle (2 litres or 2 x water bottles) – with water, a daypack with sunscreen, morning tea, Lunch and Afternoon Tea, 2 lead pencils, an eraser, and a clipboard. Please wear the ATC House Shirt/PE Uniform and Jumper plus runners and ATC wide brimmed school hat or cap. Parents/Caregivers are requested to access Parent Lounge to accept the event to show their son is attending. Also please ensure your sons’ medical and emergency contact details are correct prior to the excursion. Please ensure at least one emergency contact is available for the duration of the excursion.
Year 9 and 10 Japanese Dinner
On Tuesday 5 August, we will be attending a Japanese Sukiyaki dinner at Oshin Restaurant for the Year 9/10 Japanese language and cultural program. Departure is from Student Reception, arrive by 3,45pm. College return time is 7.30pm at the Lower Bus Pick up zone. (Students cannot travel to and from the venue unaccompanied unless prior arrangements have been discussed with the teacher in charge) Cost is $25.00 and Parents must go to Parent Lounge to pay the $25.00 and accept the invitation for their son to attend. This is essential prior to the event. Extra requirements: Students should bring money for their return train trip or ensure their GoCard is topped up.
UQ Hearing Screening Day
UQ Health and Rehabilitation Clinics are offering a hearing screening test scheduled on Thursday 7 August 2025 to all Year 4 and 5 students at ATC. The team of audiologists will arrive from 9:15am and will be conducting these tests in one of the classrooms with support of ATC staff. If you choose to have your son involved in this testing, he will only be absent from class for up to 15 minutes during the day. Please complete and return the consent form and questionnaire that you can find on the ATC App under YEAR LEVELS.
FAITH & MISSION NEWS
Year 5 Mass and Retreat
Year 5 Mass and Retreat Day is on Friday 8 August. Students will commence their day in homeroom, and then proceed to our onsite Chapel of St Joseph to celebrate Mass. Following Mass, the Year 5 students will participate in an onsite retreat. The retreat is facilitated by the Dean of Faith and Mission, Head of Year, and Year 5 Class Teachers. The students will work through a series of rotations on the day in their house groups. The purpose of the retreat is to provide students with a meaningful opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Ambrose Treacy College story and their connection to place and their shared responsibility for caring for our environment and each other. Students need to bring sunscreen, Water Bottle, Morning Tea. For Lunch we will serve a sausage sizzle and a Zooper Dooper. Students are to Wear House Shirt and PE Shorts, ATC cap or ATC wide brimmed hat with runners.
Year 11 Global youth leadership program
Year 11 students are invited to express interest in participating in our Inaugural Edmund Rice Global Youth Leadership Program hosted by ATC and in partnership with Edmund Rice Beyond Borders (EREBB) from Thursday 18 September until Wednesday 24 September. We are proud to be joined by students and staff from Edmund Rice schools from: CBC St Johns - Cape Town, South Africa, Stella Maris College - Montevideo, Uruguay, St Vincent’s High School – Asansol, India. Additionally, we will be connecting with other local Edmund Rice schools who will join us for specific components of the program. Please refer to the program on the ATC App. In forming courageous young people of character, compassion and integrity we are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for students and staff to deepen their understanding of local and global justice issues, to stand in solidarity with others as part of a shared humanity, and to take action in pursuit of justice. This program will play a vital role in empowering this mission and developing leadership in our students. NEXT STEPS Please complete the Expression of Interest form by 9.00am Monday 4 August - Expression of Interest FormParent Information Night is via Teams and being held at 6.00pm Monday 4 August. More details are on the ATC App. Join the meeting here Meeting ID: 469 054 011 367 1 Passcode: Xp9KX3zv
At times our students attend International immersion programs to gain the opportunity to expand their understanding. This program is designed to be a powerful immersive experience right here without having to leave home. We have ten places available for the weeklong program. ATC students return home at the end of each day in the evenings. In addition, Years 11 students are encouraged to nominate to take an active role in the first couple of days of the program whilst our visitors are welcomed and experience the very best of our ATC community.
St Mary MacKillop Feast Day Mass
On Tuesday 5 August, the College will honour the life and legacy of Saint Mary MacKillop with two Masses held in the St Francis Xavier Centre. These celebrations will offer us, as a Catholic community, a moment to reflect on the values Mary lived by and how they continue to shape our mission. Through prayer, scripture and song, we will bring the spirit of Jesus alive in our school. All students and staff will take part in this special occasion. Students are to wear their Formal Uniform (suitcoat and tie). Further details are available on the ATC App
The Breakfast Series
Parents and Caregivers are invited to our special event "The Breakfast Series"celebrating 150 Years of Christian Brothers Service Ministries in the Edmund Rice Tradition. Join us on Wednesday 20 August at 7am as we present a reflection led by an amazing Guest Speaker Roby Curtis, from Emmanuel City Mission. Where: Waterford Auditorium ATC from 7.00 am for Breakfast and mingle followed by the presentation at 7.25am. The morning concludes at 8.15 am. Tickets are $15 per person and available by CLICKING HERE. Please RSVP by 8 August.
SERVICE NEWS
Mission Possible – Sleep Rough Challenge
We invite all students to take part in the Mission Possible Challenge — an opportunity to experience one night of “sleeping rough” in solidarity with those who do not have a warm bed or a safe place to call home. This challenge helps raise awareness and empathy for people experiencing homelessness, while supporting our mission to make a difference. When: Sleep Rough between Tuesday 22 July to Tuesday 19 August. Please use the registration link on the ATC App by Thursday 14 August. Donation Items to be delivered to Faith and Mission office by 19 August. Further details are in the flyer available on the ATC App. [Year Levels tag] PLEASE SEND YOUR PHOTOS OF SLEEPING ROUGH TO signumfidei@atc.qld.edu.au
Holding Tight Project
Year 10 Geography Students who have indicated that they will study Geography in Year 11 are participating in the Holding Tight Revegetation Project in the Numinbah Valley on 31 July. Parents and Caregivers are asked to log into Parent Lounge, read the letter which contains further information about this opportunity and accept the invitation by 5.00pm Monday 28 July.
FORMATION NEWS
Year 9 Formation ThinkUKnow Program
The ThinkUKnow program will be presented to Year 9 students on Friday 1 August during cohort assembly. This program includes presentations and resources that have been developed by the Australian Federal Police to prevent online child sexual exploitation. Educational resources are informed by reports to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation, to ensure content delivered is addressing and responding to current trends seen by law enforcement. The presentation will be delivered by representatives from the Inner West Crime Prevention Unit. Further information and links to helpful websites are available on the ATC App Year 9 tag.
Year 11 SociABLE
The Year 11 SociABLE is an important formative event for our Year 11 students. It will be held on Thursday 4 September at Victoria Park from 7:00pm - 10:00pm. The event is held in the Ballroom with doors open from 6:30 pm. A reminder that ticket sales close on 22 August, so please go to Trybooking and secure yours now: https://www.trybooking.com/1414561
SPORT NEWS
Good luck to all of our Basketball, Rugby League, and Tennis teams as they head into another big round of fixtures this weekend. We’ve seen some great performances across all sports so far this term, and we’re looking forward to seeing how each team continues to develop throughout the season.
Looking ahead to next week, Track & Field training will officially commence on Monday 4th August. With the Athletics Carnival now behind us, we’re focused on building a strong squad for the upcoming championship season. All students from Year 4 to Year 12 are encouraged to attend. There are a wide range of events on offer, from sprints and middle distance to throws and jumps, so there’s an opportunity for everyone to get involved and contribute. We’re aiming for a bigger and better season, and it starts with strong numbers on the training track.
AIC Rugby League vs St Laurence's
Rugby League
Our second season of AIC Rugby League at ATC is officially underway! After a strong showing in last week’s trial matches against St Laurence’s College, our teams carried that momentum into Round 1 against St Patrick’s College, delivering some fantastic performances across the board. It’s been awesome to see the growth in our Rugby League program since 2024 - with increased numbers and greater depth, and a strong sense of pride in the jersey starting to develop. The energy around the program is undeniable, and our players continue to embrace every opportunity to learn, compete and represent ATC with courage and commitment. Preparations are in full swing as we turn our attention to the exciting opportunity that Round 2 presents - Marist College Ashgrove on Saturday. Bring it on! C'mon ATC!
Basketball
All Australian team announcement! Congratulations to Aiden A who captained the 16 Years QLD team at the recent Australian Basketball Schools Championships. The team took home the Bronze medal and Aiden was also selected as a member of the All Australian Team!
Tennis
5A & 6A Tennis teams are on fire! Competitive matches, thrilling wins (like last weekend's 5-3 set victory over Villanova!) and serious skills on display. But what sets them apart? Hard work at training sessions! Smiles all around - these boys know how to have fun while dominating the court #ATCSport
The countdown is on! In under 3 weeks, our talented musicians and singers will take the stage at the Queensland Catholic Schools & Colleges Music Festival (QCMF). Rehearsal attendance and home practise are crucial as we refine our performances and get ready to shine. We can’t wait to be part of this special event! Tickets are now on sale – come support ATC and enjoy the music! www.qcmf.com.au
Ticket sales are open! Ladies get ready to dress in pink! Current and past ATC mothers are invited to join us at the Annual ATC P&F Ladies Spring Lunch on Friday 24 October, 12pm to 4pm at Marquee, Victoria Park Function Centre. It will be a delightful afternoon of celebration of elegance, connection, and a cause close to our hearts. This year, we are thrilled to welcome Rebecca Sparrow as our guest speaker. Rebecca is a teen educator, author, and host of ABC’s Parental As Anything: Teens podcast. She empowers young people to build strong friendships and healthy boundaries. Bec also co-hosts Birds of a Feather, Australia’s most popular online book club, and is an ambassador for The Lady Musgrave Trust. Her latest book, Out Of The Box, co-authored with Madonna King, explores neurodivergence. Rebecca will be interviewed by former broadcast journalist and ATC mum, Kim Skubris. Tickets are $105 which includes lunch, dessert, glass of bubbles & entertainment. And of course we have a fabulous Raffle. Tickets are 3 for $10, 8 for $20 or 20 tickets for $50 All are available via the ticket booking platform HERE.
Dress Code is a splash of PINK! Seating is arranged by your son’s Year Level at ATC. If you'd like to sit at a specific Year Level table, please indicate this when booking.Don't forget to note any dietary requirements when you buy your ticket.
Seats are limited so book early to avoid disappointment. Seating will be arranged by your son’s Year Level at ATC. If you'd like to sit at a specific Year Level table, please indicate this when booking. All queries are to Mel Kuflik melkuflik@hotmail.com CLICK HERE TO BOOK
2025 Meeting Dates
Please join the P&F Executive at the next meeting on Tuesday 2 September for the Annual General Meeting where nominations are called for key vacant roles. We will meet in the Waterford Lecture Theatre, Senior School precinct at 6.30pm. Hear the latest updates on College events and planning. (See the College Map - 17. Waterford) Can you also join us on the dates below? We look forward to meeting you! Further Meeting dates for Term 3 and 4 are: Tuesday 14 October for the 2026 Planning Meeting at 6.30pm and last meeting for the year is Tuesday 25 November. For any queries, or to express your interest in an Executive role on the P&F, please email the P&F Secretary pandf@atc.qld.edu.au
2nd Hand Uniform Shop
Please remember to send your donations of old uniforms to the College Reception so the P&F can sell them at the second-hand Uniform Shop in Term Three. We are in need of any ATC uniform items in all sizes. Uniforms must be in wearable condition.
Dates and Shop Hours
Friday 8 August. The P&F Second Hand Uniform Outlet shop will be open from 6:45am – 8:30am. Parents are invited to come by, say hello, and pick up some great second-hand uniform items!
The uniform shop is coordinated by P&F volunteers Mel and Sasha, and is located on Brothers Oval, near the tennis courts. Please note: This is a shop filled with donated uniforms so not all sizes and styles of uniforms are available. Thank you for your understanding.
PAST STUDENTS NEWS
Reunion for 2020 Past Students
ATC 2020 Past Students are invited to a reunion on Saturday 11 October from 4pm – 6pm at The Waterford Building to mark five years since graduation. Join us for snacks, snags and drinks and a catch-up with friends. Tickets are $15 and include food and your first drink. Beer and soft drinks will be available for purchase at the bar. Contact Tom Perissinotto, Harry Ebinger or Raph Barcelon with any queries. CLICK HERE for tickets and further details.
Enjoy your weekend and we will see you for an exciting Week 4!
Jason Sepetauc
Deputy Principal
College Tour
If you know a family who are thinking of joining ATC, please share this information with them regarding our upcoming afternoon tour. We will show them through our teaching spaces, music rehearsal rooms, science labs and tech hubs on Thursday 18 September at 4pm They will also meet staff and chat with our friendly volunteer students about their journey at ATC. Registration link: https://www.atc.qld.edu.au/enrolments/book-a-tour
