Padua College Archives - Kedron Today

Padua College Calls Its Community Home for 70th Anniversary

Padua College is calling its community back to Kedron this October, inviting generations of former students, staff, and families to reunite as the school celebrates its 70th anniversary.

Read: New Classrooms and Gym Planned for Padua College’s Kedron Campus

The Padua Family Reunion will bring together people whose connections to Padua span different generations, with live music, a walk through the school’s history, a short liturgy, food and refreshments planned for the evening.

The event invites former students and the wider Padua community to return to the school, reconnect with old friends and celebrate the people who have shaped its history.

An Invitation to Come Home

Organisers are encouraging Old Boys, current and former parents, staff members, Friars, grandparents, friends and supporters to attend the reunion.

The event draws on a sentiment attributed to Fr Alban Mitchell, who is credited with saying, “there’s no such thing as an ex-Paduan”. The phrase reflects the college’s invitation to people whose lives have been connected with Padua to take part in the celebration.

Photo credit: Facebook/Padua College Kedron (Official)

Former students will have an opportunity to catch up with classmates they may not have seen for years. Others can return to campus to reconnect with family members and former colleagues and reminisce about their time at the college.

Padua College has also used social media to encourage attendance, sharing photographs of familiar faces from the 1990s and asking followers to tag people they recognise or former classmates they have lost touch with. The message is simple: spread the word, find old friends and make plans to come home together.

Music, Memories, and Milestones

The evening will feature live music spanning several decades, including a performance by Padua Old Boy Oscar Lowe. A walk through Padua’s history and a short liturgy will also form part of the programme.

Food and refreshments will be available, with time set aside for guests to catch up and reconnect. The reunion places personal connections alongside the celebration of the college’s history. Padua College Rector Bruce McPhee has described the anniversary as an opportunity to recognise the people and relationships behind the institution’s 70-year history.

From Early Classes to a Lasting Community

Padua College’s Old Boys’ Association began in 1964, the year after the first senior class completed its studies in 1963 with 14 students. The association started with RJ McCart as president, helping establish an organised connection between former students and the school.

By 1965, the association had 40 financial members, which the college’s historical account describes as a good effort given the small number of junior and senior classes that had passed through the school. Activities included helping clear Gibson Park for a fourth oval and holding an Autumn Fair.

Looking Back and Ahead

The 70th anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the individual stories that make up Padua’s history. Former students, staff and families have experienced the college at different times, contributing to its wider community history.

The reunion offers an opportunity to renew those connections and celebrate the wider Padua community. Organisers are encouraging attendees to contact former classmates and friends, particularly those who may not yet have heard about the event.

The Padua Family Reunion will take place on Thursday, 15 October 2026, from 5pm to 8pm at Padua College, 80 Turner Road, Kedron.

Read: Harris Andrews, the Latest Legend from Padua College

After seven decades, the invitation extends to the wider Padua community: return to the Hill, reconnect with old friends, and celebrate the memories that link generations of Paduans.

Published 9-October-2026

Two Kedron Colleges Included in Catholic Schools Vote on Reproductive Leave

Two major Catholic colleges in Kedron are among the Queensland school employers covered by a proposed workplace agreement that has drawn union opposition over reproductive health leave, salaries and working conditions. Padua College and Mount Alvernia College are participating in the same statewide bargaining process, which will determine the next set of employment conditions for their eligible staff.

The proposed agreement was released to employees on 8 October 2026, ahead of an online ballot running from 19 to 29 October. Both colleges appear on the Catholic Education Queensland employer list for the Religious Institute Schools agreement, which is separate from the agreement covering diocesan Catholic schools.

Separate colleges, common employment agreement

Padua College and Mount Alvernia College operate independently, but their inclusion in the Religious Institute bargaining group places eligible employees under the same proposed industrial instrument. Teachers and non-teaching staff covered by the agreement will vote on a package addressing salaries, leave and other workplace conditions.

The Independent Education Union has opposed the employers’ proposal, arguing that its reproductive health leave provisions are more restrictive than those available to Queensland public-sector employees. Its objections extend to teacher workloads, school officer wages and conditions for specialist and leadership staff.

Five days of leave under restricted conditions

Clause 8.19 of the proposed Catholic school agreements provides up to five days of paid reproductive health leave each calendar year for eligible employees. The entitlement would not accumulate annually, with part-time and term-time staff receiving a proportionate allowance and casual employees excluded.

Eligibility would require an employee to be absent because of chronic symptoms associated with at least one of eight listed conditions or procedures: endometriosis, adenomyosis, dysmenorrhoea, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hysterectomy, menopause, perimenopause or prostate disease.

A further restriction applies to accumulated personal or carer’s leave. Full-time employees must have fewer than 10 days remaining, while part-time and term-time staff must have less than a proportionately adjusted balance. Employees would also need to meet the agreement’s notification and evidence requirements.

IVF included in public-sector leave provisions

Queensland public-sector employees have had access to up to 10 working days of paid reproductive health leave annually since 30 September 2024. The entitlement includes fertility treatment such as IVF, chronic reproductive health conditions, preventative screening and specified medical procedures, without requiring employees to exhaust other types of leave first.

The Catholic school proposals do not expressly include IVF among the qualifying reasons for the new reproductive leave entitlement. Other existing leave arrangements may remain available for medical treatment or appointments, depending on the circumstances. The proposed agreements also provide for accumulated personal or carer’s leave to be used for preventative medical advice or treatment, including reproductive health screening.

Union raises pay gaps and workload concerns

The Independent Education Union Queensland and Northern Territory has sought reproductive health leave comparable to the public-sector entitlement, alongside improvements in wages and working conditions. Its bargaining claims also cover teacher workloads, school officer classifications and recognition of specialist and leadership roles.

The union says some Queensland Catholic school classroom assistants earn between 10 and 25 per cent less than workers performing comparable jobs in New South Wales Catholic schools. It also argues that the proposed agreement does not adequately address increasing teaching workloads or the working conditions of specialist staff.

Catholic school employers have proposed teacher wage increases of four per cent in 2026, followed by 3.5 per cent in both 2027 and 2028. Their package also includes changes to certain school officer and services staff classifications, along with proposed improvements to leave arrangements. The union maintains that the offer does not sufficiently address its outstanding claims.

More than 22,000 employees covered by ballot

According to Catholic Education Queensland, the bargaining arrangements cover more than 22,000 employees across 313 schools. Separate proposed agreements apply to schools operated by diocesan Catholic education authorities and those under Religious Institutes or Ministerial Public Juridic Persons.

The online ballot will run from 19 to 29 October 2026, with eligible employees able to vote whether or not they belong to a union. An agreement must receive majority support from employees casting valid votes and subsequently obtain approval from the Fair Work Commission before taking effect.

Backpay remains contested as vote approaches

Employers say approval during the October ballot would secure their proposed retrospective wage payments, including backpay from 1 July 2026 for teachers. If the agreement is rejected, existing employment conditions would continue while a replacement is pursued.

Under the employers’ stated approach, backpay following a later successful ballot would begin from the first day of the month in which that vote occurs. The union has criticised the condition, arguing that retrospective wages should remain part of further negotiations rather than depend on approval of the current offer.

Published 9-Oct-2026

New Classrooms and Gym Planned for Padua College’s Kedron Campus

Photo Credit: DA/A007059398

Padua College is planning the next stage of its La Cordelle redevelopment, with a three-level extension proposed to add more learning and sporting space at its Kedron campus.

The Stage 2 plans would expand the existing La Cordelle Building at the college’s Assisi Campus, building on the first stage completed last year. New classrooms, multi-purpose rooms and sporting facilities form the centre of the proposal, alongside covered outdoor areas and supporting campus infrastructure.

BCC records show Padua College Limited submitted the application on 2 July 2026, with Planning Initiatives listed as consultant. The proposal covers an extension to the existing educational establishment at 100 Turner Road.

Brisbane school — Photo Credit: DA/A007059398

More Room For Learning And Sport

The proposed extension would sit immediately west of the existing La Cordelle Building, over the site of a basketball court. Plans include a gymnasium, sports office, change rooms, amenities and a covered outdoor area on the lower level. Five general learning areas are proposed above, while the upper floor would contain two multi-purpose rooms and a kitchenette.

The building would rise to about 15 metres and would also include circulation areas, plant infrastructure, landscaping and six additional car spaces. Padua College has put forward the extension for its existing student population rather than as part of an increase of 100 student places. The former Franciscan Friary and the heritage fence are not proposed for demolition under the current plans.

The new stage follows the earlier La Cordelle works, which had been under construction for just over 12 months by July 2025. At that point, Padua College was preparing to open new construction workshops, design classrooms, clean technology spaces and a covered outdoor area for students.

The first stage also expanded the college hall by 50 per cent and added air-conditioning. Padua College said the upgraded learning areas would support courses including ATAR Engineering for Year 11 students from 2026.

Stage 2 Moves Through Assessment

The current proposal remains under assessment, with BCC listing application A007059398 as in progress. The application became properly made on 16 July 2026, and BCC issued an information request on 6 August. No decision notice has yet been recorded.

Council lists 16 Jardine Street and 31 Wayland Street as associated properties alongside the main Turner Road site. If approved, Stage 2 would continue the recent expansion of La Cordelle with a mix of general learning, multi-purpose and sporting spaces brought together in one new three-level addition to the Kedron campus.

Updated 29-September-2026

Kedron School Precinct Plan Still In Design Beyond Expected Release

Transport improvements surrounding a cluster of northern Brisbane schools remain in the planning phase, months after Brisbane had expected to release a precinct plan. The Kedron Safer School Precinct covers Padua College, St Anthony’s Primary School and Mount Alvernia College, which have a combined enrolment of about 3,080 students.

Padua College accounts for about 1,460 students, Mount Alvernia College about 950 and St Anthony’s Primary School about 670.

Consultation Highlights Widespread Congestion Concerns

Community engagement conducted in late 2024 generated 311 survey submissions and 11,826 individual feedback points, alongside 385 location markers placed on an interactive map.

Survey results showed 42.7 per cent of respondents rated their overall movement through the area as poor or very poor, while more than 80 per cent gave the same rating to traffic congestion.

Unsafe driver behaviour, extended queues during school drop-off and pick-up periods, limited access into and out of the precinct, and motorists using local streets to avoid major roads were identified among the main perceived contributors to congestion around Turner Road.

Infrastructure and Public Transport Under Scrutiny

Feedback gathered during consultation highlighted pedestrian crossings, footpath upgrades and changes to traffic flow as areas for consideration. Public transport performance also featured prominently, with respondents pointing to low service frequency, unreliable arrival times and limited destination coverage as the main barriers to greater bus use.

Council is using the feedback alongside technical guidelines to assess potential measures including traffic-calming treatments and bus-stop improvements.

Earlier State Funding Targeted Three Crossings

Transport investment around the Kedron schools predates the current Council initiative.

Queensland parliamentary records show $479,000 was secured in 2024 for two projects affecting Mount Alvernia College, Padua College and St Anthony’s Primary School. The planned works involved replacing three existing zebra crossings with raised pedestrian crossings, commonly known as wombat crossings.

Published materails also identified the Turner Road precinct as receiving funding through the School Transport Infrastructure Program. The earlier crossing projects were narrower in scope than Council’s current Safer School Precinct program, which covers a broader range of transport issues across the three-school area.

“We expect to be able to share the precinct plan with the community in early 2026, depending on design progress,” the project page stated, as of press time.

Published 16-Sept-2026

The Epitome of a Maroon : Lindsay Collins

Photo Credit: NRL

For a bloke that relishes the state of his dental work, one thing you really don’t want to see is Lindsay Collins galloping towards you with his high knee lift and contorted face IN A MAROONS JERSEY.

His dental work are now featured on a Channel 9 advert where a local neighbourhood topiary features his gapped front teeth, with Cam Munster commenting, “Nice Choppers, Lindsay.”

Lindsay Collins, Padua College alumni, epitomises the Maroon jersey.

The ridiculous bunker decision in Origin 2 to not pay out the Captain’s Challenge on a loose carry by Collins when it was clearly a shoulder charge, as well as noggin on noggin with no arms wrapped, could have been vital.

At the time the Maroons were in the ascendency but soon after the bunker’s decision, Mark Nawaqanitawase went over to put the Blues back in with a shout.

The last laugh was with Collins, who barnstormed through from a beautiful Harry Grant break and well-timed pass, to dive over the white chalk for the Maroons try that put them well out of reach, and setup a thriller at Suncorp on July 8.

“The genes of a speed machine with the physique of a warrior and the bravery of a lion.”

*Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons – flickr/naparazzi*

Lindsay’s grandfather, Lionel Williamson, was known as the “Innisfail Flyer,” a speed machine on the wing representing the Innisfail club, 50 years before Billy Slater scorched the Innisfail touchlines.

For a massive unit, Lindsay can create some serious heat off the back fence.

Williamson went on to play first grade for the Newtown Jets in Sydney and represented Queensland and Australia, including scoring two tries in the 1968 World Cup final win over France.

Padua College in Kedron has developed several State of Origin players, including Paul Vautin, Dave Shillington, Dane Carlaw, David Stagg and Paul McCabe as well as other NRL players, including Rohan Ahern, David Bouveng, Shane Perry and Brad Watts.

Harris Andrews, co-captain at the Lions was also a Padua boy, as was Qld Red and Wallaby, Dominic Maguire.

A Broncos junior, Collins played for the under-20s before heading south to the Roosters, though an ACL injury in 2021 forced him to learn how to run again.

Who can forget him outjumping his Roosters teammate, James Tedesco to create a crucial Maroons try in Origin 2023?

Lindsay’s appearance at Suncorp on July 8 barring injury for Origin 3, the decider, is surely guaranteed — because when you x-ray his entire body, it is maroon.

Published 18-June-2026

Padua’s New-Look Side Delivers Early Statement With Shutout Win

Padua College’s next generation didn’t just take the field — they made a statement. After unveiling a First XV featuring 11 debutants to open the 2026 AIC rugby season, Padua has followed it up with a commanding 45-0 win over St Edmund’s in Ipswich, underlining the potential of its reshaped squad.

The result was built on control and discipline. Padua matched St Edmund’s physicality early before pulling away through strong execution, with the young side showing composure beyond its experience level.

The forward pack, a focal point of the pre-season reset, delivered immediately. Hooker Andy Mercer and flanker Will Maitland were influential, helping set the tone through the middle as Padua’s pack began to assert itself.

That group — including Sam Heritage, Mercer, Leon Lane, Max Walsh, Remy Carlaw, Maitland, Diezel Jimmink and Felix Styman-Bailey — combined effectively, with Heritage crossing twice and Lane adding another as the visitors built scoreboard pressure.

By the time rain set in during the second half, the result was already beyond doubt. Padua’s defensive structure held firm, closing out the match with a clean sheet and reinforcing the identity the side is beginning to form.

In the backline, fullback Rueben Smith loomed as a key attacking threat, while captain Will Kreis provided leadership and stability through the centres.

Coach Andrew Clyne pointed to the side’s defensive resolve and energy as defining features of the performance, particularly in the closing stages where the group maintained intensity despite the conditions. He also noted the contribution across the squad, including a strong impact from the bench.

For St Edmund’s, there were bright spots despite the result. Flanker Noah Ingham stood out on debut, making his presence felt at the breakdown and across the field, while lock Joel Rutherford also impressed.

For Padua, the takeaway is clear. A new-look side, tested immediately, has delivered a result that reinforces belief — and sets a platform for what comes next in the 2026 campaign.

Published 2-May-2026

New-Look Padua Unleashes Next Generation With 11 Debuts in Season Opener

Padua College has unveiled a new-look First XV to open the 2026 AIC rugby season, with a significant wave of fresh faces set to shape its campaign.

The side heads into Round 1 with 11 debutants, signalling a clear transition year as the college leans on emerging talent to begin a new chapter.

Padua’s intake of new players is one of the largest in the competition this season, with the forward pack and backline both undergoing notable change.

Among those stepping into the First XV for the first time are front-rowers Sam Heritage and Andy Mercer, while locks Max Walsh and Remy Carlaw add size to the engine room. The loose forward trio will also feature new combinations, with Will Maitland, Diezel Jimmink, and Felix Styman-Bailey all earning their debuts.

In the halves, Callum Youngson and Lucas Humphrys take on key playmaking roles, with Humphrys continuing a family link to the program as the younger brother of former premiership-winning No.10 Damon Humphrys.

Out wide, Addison Harker and Archie Laloata round out a backline that blends new energy with a smaller group of returning players.

The scale of change points to a fresh start, but also an opportunity. With a large share of the starting side experiencing First XV rugby for the first time, early cohesion will be critical as the season unfolds.

Padua opens its campaign against St Edmund’s, with the new group tasked with quickly finding rhythm in the competitive AIC schoolboy rugby environment. The challenge is immediate, but so is the chance to establish a new identity from the outset.

Published 30-April-2026

From Carrots To Chords: Padua College Showcases Music And Gardening At Open Day

Photo Credit: Padua College Kedron/Facebook

Padua College in Brisbane’s northside suburb of Kedron is inviting families to explore its campuses and programs at the annual Open Day on Sunday, 25 May. Running from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the event offers student-led tours, classroom displays, live performances and the chance to meet staff and students.

Music That Starts In Year 5

Music is part of the foundation at Padua College, with every Year 5 student joining a Music Immersion Program that includes learning an instrument. This early start has led to strong outcomes, including several perfect scores in Music Extension over the past two years.

*Photo Credit: Padua College Kedron/Facebook*

Padua leads the Franciscan Colleges Instrumental Program, partnering with Mount Alvernia College and St Anthony’s School to offer shared lessons, ensembles and concerts that support musical growth across all three communities.

A School Garden With Purpose

Behind the classrooms, a sustainable garden grows carrots, lemons and snow peas, reflecting Padua College’s Franciscan heritage and its focus on caring for the environment.

Gardening Club students help grow produce and care for the space, building life skills and a sense of responsibility through hands-on, community-focused learning.

A Tour Led By Students

Open Day visitors will tour the Greccio and Assisi campuses with current students, gaining insight into daily life at Padua. Displays in science, the arts and humanities will offer a hands-on look at classroom learning.

The event will feature music and drama performances, showcasing Padua’s co-curricular programs. Staff and College Rector Peter Elmore will be on hand to discuss the school’s mission and values.

Enrolling With Values In Mind

Padua College’s focus goes beyond academics, aiming to develop the whole person. Its “Developing Good Men” approach is reflected in programs that support leadership, wellbeing and service.

Families can explore more about Padua College by attending the Open Day. For enquiries, email enrolments@padua.qld.edu.au or call (07) 3857 9915. Those unable to attend can book a Rector’s Tour, available throughout the year.

Published 13-May-2025

Padua College in Kedron Prepares for AIC Rugby Title Defence

Photo Credit: Queensland Rugby

Reigning premiers Padua College from Kedron are preparing to defend their title with key players ready for action as the highly anticipated Associated Independent Colleges (AIC) First XV rugby union competition begins.

The competition starts this Saturday with four exciting matches scheduled for the opening round. St Laurence’s College will play Villanova College at Runcorn, while Padua College hosts St Edmund’s College at their Banyo fields.

In other games, Marist College Ashgrove will play rival Iona College at home, and St Peters Lutheran College will face St Patrick’s College at Indooroopilly.

Season Expectations

Excitement is building for what promises to be a competitive season. St Laurence’s College will be eager to reclaim the premiership after their impressive unbeaten streak, which lasted from late 2019 until June 2024, ended.

They face a tough challenge from Padua College, last year’s champions, who are expected to show significant skill and determination under coach Andrew Clynes as they aim for back-to-back titles.

Other schools are also expected to feature strongly. Marist College Ashgrove, guided by coach Richard Graham, is anticipated to be well-prepared for the season’s challenges. St Edmund’s College is tipped to be a competitive force, while Iona College is known for bringing skill alongside their players’ characteristic toughness.

Villanova College teams are noted for their fighting spirit, and talent often emerges from St Peters Lutheran College and St Patrick’s College, who meet in the first round.

Kedron’s Key Talents

Padua College enters the season with several noteworthy players expected to make a big impact.

Flyhalf Damon Humphrys, now in Year 12, was influential even as a Year 10 student during Padua’s 2023 campaign. Known for his tactical kicking and reliable goalkicking, Humphrys played a key role in securing the 2024 premiership, the school’s first since 2016, setting up the deciding try in a crucial win over Ashgrove. His experience in important matches will be valuable for Padua this year.

In the forwards, Will Ross adds considerable strength to Padua’s tight five. Recognised within the Queensland Reds pathway programs at under-16 and under-18 levels, Ross is known for his hard work, particularly in securing lineout possession. His physicality, awareness on the field, and determined attitude are important assets for Padua’s premiership hopes.

Nate Clark, a tall and determined outside centre, adds talent to the backline. Also, in Year 12, Clark has kept match-fit by playing rugby league for Norths Devils’ under-19 team. He was a vital part of Padua’s successful 2024 team and is expected to be a key figure again this season, contributing significantly in both attack and defence.

The opening round promises intense clashes as teams quest for the AIC First XV premiership honours.

Published Date 29-April-2025

Harris Andrews, the Latest Legend from Padua College

Photo Credit: AFL/Instagram

Padua College produces another Brisbane legend.

Not content with holding the record of the school that has produced the most State of Origin players, another mighty feather in a large cap appeared on Saturday when former pupil Harris Andrews, co-captained the mighty Brisbane Lions to a rout of major proportions in the Telstra AFL Grand Final at the MCG in front of 100,013.

Read: From Kedron to Greatness: Padua College’s Hall of Fame

A rout at the MCG

Andrews was magnificent at the MCG. Easily the best defender on the ground. The Lions played out of their skins against a Swans team that Sam Newman wants the AFL to investigate as non-triers!

Brisbane edged ahead in the first quarter 27-19, but the blowout came in the second quarter as the Lions piled on a five-goal spree over only 19 kicks, leading them to a 46 point buffer at half-time, 11.7 (73) to 4.3 (27).

The Lions extended that lead to 16.11 (107) to 5.4 (34) in the third quarter and strolled home to secure the 18.12 (120) to 9.6 (60) win to bring the trophy back to Brisbane for the first time in 21 years.

Harris finished with 16 disposals, 12 kicks, 4 handballs, 10 marks and was on the field for 92% of the game, second in time on ground for the Lions behind big Joe who didn’t go off.

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He led from the front, an enormous presence in defence and contributing heavily into many counter attacks.

The dominant forward-line in the regular season that the Swans had built totally crumbled in front of Andrews.

He shut down Tom Papley, Luke Parker, and neutralised Joel Amartey and Hayden McLean.

The opportunity to receive the trophy with Lachie Neale and Dayne Zorko will never be forgotten and Padua College in Kedron, really do have plenty to brag about!

The Harris Andrews Story

• Moved to the Northern Suburbs at four years old
• Played Auskick at Aspley
• Played for Aspley Hornets juniors
• Graduated from Padua College in 2014
• He was 61st pick in the AFL draft, selected by the Lions in 2014
• Two-time All Australian, Merrett-Murray Medallist
• Signed a four-year contract until 2029 for Brisbane

“The reward I’ve gotten internally is what I really value, and I feel like my teammates and the coaches are really confident in my ability each week, so it is what it is.”

This selfless approach defines his leadership both on and off the field. “At the end of the day, we’re not here for the individual accolades. We’re here for team success,” Andrews remarked.

“After 10 years of playing footy, all I’m chasing is a premiership.”

Read: Lionhearted: Padua College’s Harris Andrews Leads Brisbane’s Second Shot at Premiership Glory

Brisbane Lions general manager Danny Daly praised Andrews, saying, “Harris is everything you want in a person, player and leader, which is why we are extremely fortunate to have him at the Lions.”

Read more about the Lions rout of the Swans on Coorparoo News here.

Published 29-September-2024