Padua College Archives - Kedron Today

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

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

For decades, Padua College in Kedron has been shaping the futures of young men, producing a remarkable line-up of high achievers across various fields.

Read: Padua College Kedron Breaks into Queensland’s Top 150 Schools for 2023

This independent Catholic boys’ school, conducted by the Franciscan Friars, has recently been included in Queensland’s Top 150 Schools for 2023 and became the first boys-only school in Australia to be recognised as a Middle Years School of Excellence. But beyond these accolades, Padua College’s true legacy lies in the remarkable achievements of its alumni across various fields.

Sports

Photo credit: Padua College Kedron (Official)/Facebook

Padua College has earned a reputation as a breeding ground for athletic talent, particularly in rugby league. The school’s halls have seen the likes of Rohan Ahern, David Bouveng, Paul McCabe, Shane Perry, David Shillington, David Stagg, and Dane Carlaw pass through on their way to professional careers. Paul Vautin, another rugby league star, went on to become a famous commentator, further cementing the school’s influence in the sport.

The school’s sporting legacy extends beyond rugby league. Dominic Macquire represented Australia in rugby union, while Jacob Allison, Harris Andrews, Oskar Baker, and William Martyn made their mark in Australian rules football. Jamie Young has also found success as a professional footballer.

Padua’s Olympic legacy is equally impressive. Peter Nowill, a long-distance runner, competed in the 2004 Summer Olympics, while Peter Dale represented Australia in two events at the 1984 Summer Olympics. The school honours Nowill’s achievements with the annual Padua Dash, named the Peter Nowill Shield.

Entertainment and the Arts

In the world of entertainment, Padua College has produced notable talents. Damien Garvey, a 1982 graduate, has made a name for himself as an actor and former musician.

The music scene has also been influenced by Padua alumni, with Marty O’Brien (drummer) and Danny Procopis (lead guitarist) of the band Small Mercies both calling the school their alma mater. The band later known as Seventh Avenue also included Padua graduates Simon O’Connor and Shaun Spooner.

Medical Excellence

Prof Darren Walters- Structural Interventional Cardiologist/Google Maps

Professor Darren Walters stands out in the medical field as one of Australia’s leading heart surgeons. As the Executive Director of both The Prince Charles and the Royal Brisbane Hospitals, Walters exemplifies the school’s commitment to producing leaders in crucial sectors.

Business and Technology

In the business world, Eddy Groves, founder and former CEO of ABC Learning, once led one of Australia’s largest companies and one of the world’s biggest childcare providers. Craig Steven Wright, a computer scientist and businessman, has made waves in the technology sector, working with companies like OzEmail, Kmart, and the Australian Securities Exchange.

A Legacy of Excellence

Padua College’s impact on its students extends far beyond their school years. From the sports fields to operating theatres, from concert stages to boardrooms, Padua alumni continue to make their mark on the world. As the school continues to break new ground in education, one can only imagine the future achievements of its current and upcoming students.

Read: Padua College Students Brave the Shave for Leukaemia Research

The diverse accomplishments of Padua College’s alumni not only reflect the school’s commitment to holistic education but also serve as an inspiration to current students. As Padua College continues to evolve and excel, it remains a testament to the power of education in shaping leaders across all walks of life.

Published 28-September-2024

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

Harris Andrew, now considered the backbone of the Brisbane Lions’ defence, has risen to become a driving force behind their back-to-back grand final appearances. On Saturday, 28 September, the distinguished Old Boy of Padua College in Kedron returns, ready to seize his second shot at premiership glory.

Read: Padua College Students Brave the Shave for Leukaemia Research

Moving to Brisbane’s northern suburbs at just four years old, Andrews began his football journey with the Auskick program at Aspley before progressing to junior football for the Aspley Hornets a year later.

In 2014, the Lions selected Andrews with Pick 61 in the national draft, marking the beginning of his professional AFL career.

All-Australian snub?

Since joining the Lions, Andrews has cemented himself as one of the AFL’s premier defenders. He boasts an impressive resume: two-time All-Australian, Merrett-Murray Medalist, four-time winner of the Lions’ Most Professional Player Award, and in 2023, named co-captain of the Brisbane Lions alongside Lachie Neale.

This season, the 27-year-old dominated the AFL with his defensive prowess as the league’s intercept king during the regular season. Despite this outstanding performance, he was surprisingly omitted from the All-Australian team, a decision that sparked debate among fans and analysts.

Great player, better leader

Not only has Andrews cemented himself as a defensive powerhouse, but his leadership off the field has also taken centre stage. Now in his second year as co-captain, Andrews has led the Lions to consecutive grand final appearances.

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His leadership style emphasises team success over individual accolades. Reflecting on his All-Australian omission, Andrews remarks that he’s “not really too concerned about it.”

“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.”

Harris Andrews extends until 2029

Last week, Harris reaffirmed his commitment to the club that raised and supported him. The defender signed a four-year contract extension, securing his place with the Lions until at least the end of the 2029 season, when he will be 32 years old.

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This extension not only ensures Andrews’ future but solidifies the Lions’ defensive core as they continue building towards sustained success.

Read: Ferny Grove State School Embraces Digital Future with Ellendale Grant

As Andrews looks ahead to 2029 and beyond, the goal remains unchanged: lead the Lions to premiership glory, proving his worth not only as a defender but as a true Lion at heart.

Published 24-September-2024

Padua College Kedron Breaks into Queensland’s Top 150 Schools for 2023

Did you know that Padua College in Kedron is now one of Queensland’s top 150 schools for Years 7-10, debuting in the rankings as one of two schools who have made it to the Top 50 for the first time?

Read: Padua College Looks to Extend Facilities at Assisi Campus

The other school with a similar distinction as a first-timer on the list is Brisbane South Secondary College in Dutton Park.

According to data from the independent specialist schools website Better Education, Padua College boasts a State Overall Score of 98 percent, underscoring its academic excellence.

The school’s Better Education percentile stands at an impressive 94%, reflecting its top-tier performance relative to other schools across the state. This notable accomplishment is particularly significant given that Padua College did not make the cut in the previous year’s rankings.

Padua College: A Centre for Excellence

Padua College, an independent Catholic boys’ day school conducted by the Franciscan Friars, serves approximately 1,510 students from Year 5 to Year 12. With a Socio-Economic Status (SES) index of 95, the school offers a supportive and enriching environment that fosters academic and personal growth.

Further cementing its reputation for excellence, the school was recently named the first boys-only school in Australia to be recognised as a Middle Years School of Excellence by Adolescent Success. This prestigious honour highlights the school’s dedicated approach to the education, development, and growth of young adolescents aged 10 to 15 years.

On their social media page, the school expressed immense pride in this recognition, attributing the achievement to the hard work and dedication of their talented staff and the enthusiastic engagement of their students, fondly referred to as the “Good Men of Padua.”

Comprehensive Educational Approach

Padua College’s success can be attributed to its holistic and intentional approach to education. The school’s mission is not only to achieve academic excellence but also to cater to the diverse needs, interests, and achievements of its students. This is evident in the range of co-curricular activities offered, including music, choir, performance, debating, public speaking, chess, and community service.

Situated in Kedron, with additional facilities in Banyo and an Outdoor Education Facility in the Noosa Hinterland, the school provides a comprehensive environment for young men to thrive academically, socially, and personally. The school’s affiliation with the Franciscan Order further enriches its educational philosophy, instilling values of community, service, and personal integrity.

Understanding the Rankings

Better Education’s rankings are based on the Overall Academic Performance Rating or State Overall Score, which ranges from 60 to 100. A score of 100 indicates the highest level of academic achievement. Padua College’s score of 98 places it firmly within the top echelons of Queensland schools, translating to a top 6% percentile ranking.

Looking Ahead

With its recent accolades and rising academic standing, the school is poised for continued success. The school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals and its emphasis on both academic and personal excellence set a strong foundation for future achievements. As Padua College continues to grow and evolve, it remains a beacon of quality education and a testament to the power of dedicated teaching and community support.

Read: Padua College’s 6th State of Origin Representative Didn’t Let His Grandfather Down

The school’s debut in Queensland’s top 50 schools marks a significant milestone in its journey towards educational excellence. The school’s recent recognition as a Middle Years School of Excellence and its strong academic performance underscore its role as a leading institution dedicated to the holistic development of young men.

Published 9-June-2024

Kedron Included in Proposal for Safer School Precincts in Brisbane

Plans have been unveiled to enhance safety around schools by expanding 40km/h zones around 21 schools so that kids can walk, bike or ride a scooter to school under the proposed Safer School Precincts initiative. The program will cover seven parts of Brisbane, including Kedron.

The proposed Safer School Precincts program is expected to have an upgrade to existing funding of approximately $10 million. This initiative is designed to encourage more parents to walk, ride a scooter, or bike with their children to school, thereby reducing reliance on automobiles.

The initial phase of the plan involves four separate areas encompassing 12 schools and approximately 10,000 students. Subsequently, three additional areas comprising nine schools would be considered for implementation, pending the successful execution of the initial phase. Each proposed area will undergo detailed planning, with potential measures including new pedestrian crossings, widened footpaths, and the introduction of school zone gateways to delineate safe walking routes for children.

The immediate earmarked areas for the Safer School Precincts include Mansfield, Wynnum Manly, Indooroopilly, and Kedron. Notable schools in the Kedron precinct include Padua College, Mount Alvernia College, and St Anthony’s Primary School.

Future areas under consideration for the program include Enoggera, Bardon, and Forest Lake, with respective schools such as Our Lady of the Assumption Primary School, Bardon State School, and St John’s Anglican College.

Community consultation and planning will precede any modifications to existing 40km/h zones, ensuring alignment with Department of Transport and Main Roads guidelines.

Concerns have been raised regarding the proposal’s timing, with calls for increased investment in suburban road projects to address existing safety issues.

The Safer School Precincts initiative marks a significant endeavour to prioritise the safety of Brisbane’s schoolchildren and foster a more sustainable approach to transportation in the city.

Published 4-March-2024

Padua College Looks to Extend Facilities at Assisi Campus

Padua College in Kedron has submitted development plans to the Brisbane City Council to build an extension of its current building at its Assisi campus.

Read: Teacher Recruitment a Growing Concern for Brisbane Schools

The proposal, designed by the award-winning firm M3 Architecture, calls for the partial demolition of the existing La Cordelle building. It also includes earthworks to facilitate the rear extension of the current structure.

The La Cordelle hall, constructed back 2004, houses a covered recreation and sports hall/court as well as accompanying amenities.

Artist’s visualisation for the building (Photo credit: M3 Architecture)

The multi-purpose hall will be expanded and air conditioned whilst the new layout will feature additional technical and design classrooms. Details of the planned development include:

Level 1: 1 construction workshop and associated outdoor covered area
Level 2: 2 design labs, 1 engineering lab, 1 clean tech workshop, and an outdoor breakout space
Level 3: Hall extension and storage
Level 4: Roof extension and plant deck

Proposed site plan (Photo credit: M3 Architecture)

According to planning documents submitted by the college, the extension will improve facilities for current students by expanding the campus within the existing education precinct. The proposal results in no loss of residential land in the area.

The planners stated that the proposal would give Padua College a chance to develop extra teaching areas and amenities for its present students in a coordinated way. They said this integrated approach would help increase and enhance the school’s existing educational facilities.

“The proposal is considered to provide a maintain the existing residential amenity of the locale on the basis that the proposed education facilities primarily consists of non-residential sensitive uses, which has limited potential to adversely impact the surrounding residential Neighbourhoods,” said planners from Planning Initiatives.

Read: Kedron Football Club Aims to Reduce Energy Usage Through Community Grant

To learn more about Padua College’s proposal, visit Council’s PD Online with the reference A006335398.

Published 18-August-2023

Padua College’s 6th State of Origin Representative Didn’t Let His Grandfather Down

Origin 1 was on a knife edge. The Maroons had lost the lead to a controversial try (surely it was a knock-on) then wrestled it back when “The Hammer” was put away by the mercurial Cam Munster. Only 12 men on the field with tiring legs, then as they say, “cometh the hour cometh the man.” Step forward the prop, Padua College, Kedron’s Lindsay Collins.

It was a moment of utter brilliance! Daly Cherry-Evans launched a speculator. James “Teddy” Tedesco went up in the challenge with Lindsay but Collins launched himself and attacked the dipping ball as if there was only one outcome and the quick offload to the genius that is Cam Munster,
sealed yet another extraordinary chapter in the Maroons’ Origin Legacy.

It was no surprise that the whole Maroons team ran to Collins after the try. Munster had created room for Hamisa Tabuai-Fidow a few minutes earlier to put the Maroons back in front but the sheer effort of Collins to put Munster over was iconic.

Read: Mount Alvernia College Kedron Students Compete in ESU Public Speaking Competition Finals

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.

The Innisfail Flyer in action
Photo Credit: https://www.roosters.com.au/news

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.

Lionel Williamson
Photo Credit: https://www.qrl.com.au/

Lindsay himself, as a Padua College youngster, represented Queensland in Rugby Union as a flanker and played AFL as a ruckman. This led to him being invited to a Brisbane Lions rookie camp, though his junior Rugby League club, Brothers, fed his passion.

A stint at the Broncos began whilst still at Padua in year 11, but he continued to play Union for Padua which led to selection for the National Gold Squad with the ARU.

Lindsay Collins training in training with the Roosters.
Photo Credit: https://www.roosters.com.au/news/2022/10/18/kangaroo-collins-following-footsteps-of-famous-grandfather/

The Sydney Roosters saw his potential and signed him in November of 2016, slipping through the Broncos’ fingers, the team he had always supported.

Collins was considered one of the standouts of Origin 2022. In Adelaide, the Padua boy took his reputation to a new level and delivered a boost to the extraordinary reputation Padua College has built, becoming their 6th graduate to play State of Origin.

Origin 2 kicks off at 8.05 p.m. on Wednesday, June 21 at Suncorp stadium.

Published 6 June 2023

Police Officers’ Fundraising Event At Padua College A Success

Photo credit: mypolice.qld.gov.au

The Padua College at Kedron welcomed police and Police Liaison Officers from the North Brisbane District, the Mounted Unit and the Police Pipes and Drums for ‘Give Brain Cancer the Boot’ on 15 July 2021.

Read: This New Vegan Cafe In Stafford Heights Will Reward Your Eco-friendly Coffee Habit

‘Give Brain Cancer the Boot’ is a shoe-shining fundraising event, which aims to raise awareness and donations for brain cancer and its research. Padua students have their shoes shined by attending police, ARMY, sporting stars, college staff and senior students at the cost of a donation to the cause.

Acting Chief Superintendent Christopher Stream was only required to shine one set of shoes, but he tirelessly continued to polish a number of other students shoes of his volition.

Acting Superintendent Christopher Stream in action (Photo credit: mypolice.qld.gov.au)

Padua Student’s getting ready to play Horsey Soccer (Photo credit: mypolice.qld.gov.au)

During the event, the Police Pipes and Drums played their incredible tunes and provided an uplifting atmosphere to the event. The Police Mounted Officers and their two police horses, Geronimo and Felix, also played soccer with the students.

The event came to fruition through the dedication of Kerri McKinless, who is the wife of serving The Gap Station police officer, Senior Constable Brendan McKinless, who was sadly diagnosed with brain cancer (Oligodendroglioma) approximately three years ago. He went through three separate surgeries, extensive chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

All donations raised during the event will go to Carrie’s Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation which aims to raise funds towards research into brain cancer. It was founded by journalist and Gold Logie award-winning television and radio presenter Carrie Bickmore, whose husband Greg passed away in 2010 after a decade-long battle with brain cancer.