From the Dean of Identity and Community
Year 7 Retreat
Our Year 7 Retreat, centered around the theme of growth, explored the journey of self-discovery and development under the charism of Edmund Rice. The retreat featured guest speaker John Hanley from MNDandME, who shared his powerful story of resilience and growth despite facing the challenges of motor neurone disease. Through his experiences, students learnt about perseverance, the importance of community, and how to grow through adversity. Various symbols and icons of their Year 7 journey were discussed and placed into ‘House Shoebox Time Capsules’ which will travel with the cohort as they participate in future retreats, and will be opened at the closing of their Lauries Journey in Year 12. This retreat aimed to inspire and motivate students to embrace their own growth and potential in life both at Laurie’s and beyond. I thank our incredible workshop facilitators who planned excellent and engaging experiences for our young men:
1. The Touchstones: Zach Hillas
An introduction of the EREA Touchstones and how they are present at the College.
2. From Little Things, Big things Grow: Michelle Guerrero
Exploring what it is to be a Lauries Gentlemen, the distinctive qualities they possess, and how each student uses these.
3. Navigating the Lauries Journey: James Mendoza
An interactive session that challenges the students how they navigate their journey with resilience.
4. Formed on the Hill: Anthony Samios
A tour of the College with stories from the past. This is designed for students to break open the idea that they stand on the shoulders of those who built the legacy before them.
5. Planting on Fertile Soil: Nataleen Kilburn
Taking place in the Urban Farm this puts the parable of The Sower into a lived reality. Students learn that for anything to grow it must be nurtured.
Year 10 Student Development
Our Student Development Program for 2025 has officially launched, with 91 students and 10 staff enthusiastically volunteering their time to support and contribute to our local community through the Faith in Action Program. This initiative offers students the opportunity to actively engage in service, putting their faith into action by assisting various organisations and schools in need. Through these experiences, students will deepen their understanding of compassion, community, and the importance of making a positive impact in the lives of others.
AIC Ecumenical Mass
On Thursday our College Captain Luca Ellero, Faith in Action Prefects Aidan Savy, Atticus Lynch and Hugh Morley, and Spirit and School Pride Prefects Finn Cavallaro, Jack Ehler and Fletcher Karger-Hall joined our Principal Mr Ben Lowrie, Executive Assistant to the Principal Ms Jayne Millar, and Head of Sport Mr Pat Byron and I at the AIC Ecumenical Mass. This was a wonderful faith celebration, encompassing all AIC schools and delegates, as we prepare for the AIC season of sport ahead. The theme was around celebrating our diversity, whilst coming together as one community plated in faith.
Year 12 Mass
We had a strong attendance from our Year 12 cohort this week at their Year 12 Mass, marking a significant moment in their Laurie’s Journey. This heartfelt occasion allowed them to reflect on their time at school, celebrate their faith, and come together as a year group before their final year ahead. This was followed by a light breakfast and opportunity for connection.
MR LACHLAN HESHUSIUS
Dean of Identity and Community (Acting)