- Formation and community engagement
- Secondary school
28 Jul 2026
This Catholic Education Week (26 July to 1 August), Mt Maria College, Petrie marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for its faith-filled learning community, announcing the new logo and its transition to St Marcellin Catholic College in January 2027.
For Mt Maria College, the transition offers something powerful, a distinctive identity that honours its reputation for its deep commitment to student-centred learning and responsive approach to student pathways, including its strong connection to the Marist tradition.
Mt Maria College Principal, Kerry Maher said the new look better reflects the future direction of our College, shaped through extensive community consultation and grounded in a clear commitment to excellence in learning and teaching.
“Our College is known for its high-quality learning and teaching, and commitment to the holistic development of our students, she said.
“This next chapter gives us the opportunity to express clearly who we are, a College that knows its students well, and nurtures young people to grow with confidence, purpose and hope.”
At the heart of the new name is St Marcellin Champagnat, founder of the Marist Brothers, dedicated to the education of young people worldwide.
Kerry said for the community, the new identity signalled the shaping of a new future.
“St Marcellin Champagnat envisioned an education that was personal, compassionate and grounded in faith,” she said.
“He championed values that continue to guide us as we look ahead, family spirit, simplicity, presence, love of work, and a commitment to those who need it most.
“These values are not new to our College, but they will play an even greater role in shaping our future.
“The new name reflects our commitment to building on this foundation as we grow and evolve.
“It clearly expresses the Marist identity that will continue to guide our direction in the years to come.”
Unveiling the St Marcellin Catholic College logo
The College motto, ‘Lead by Example,’ featured at the bottom of the logo, reminds students that true leadership is shown most powerfully through action. Inspired by 1 Timothy 4:12, students are encouraged to set an example in the way they live, speak and serve, regardless of their age.
The surrounding crest honours the College’s history, the cross symbolising the heart of the College identity, Jesus Christ.
The symbols inside the crest also hold significant meaning:
The heart shows that the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary hold a cherished and reverent place in the life of the College,
The M A, known as the Auspice Maria, symbolises Mary's protection,
The Indigenous Bunya Pine is deeply connected to the history and heritage of the local Gubbi Gubbi people,
The lantern symbolises our call to be a light for the world.
Responding to community sentiment
Kerry adds that the transition occurred alongside the College community.
“We wanted the name to reflect our whole College community,” she said.
“Across 2024 and 2025, there was a series of consultations with parents, students, and staff, who all contributed to the conversation about our College’s name change.
“It’s a name we chose together, and something our whole community can see themselves in, not only honouring where we’ve come from but also where we are heading as a community.
“With new signage, a new logo, and an updated uniform on the way, there is a sense of real excitement across our community right now.”
Reflecting on the past to grow the future
Kerry said the history of Mt Maria College and former Kolbe College will not be lost in the transition to St Marcellin Catholic College.
“Instead, our College history will be honoured and shared,” she said.
“This Catholic Education Week, Mt Maria College shared an important part of their school history with Brisbane Catholic Education, a yearbook from Kolbe College’s foundation year. A 25-year celebration publication was also shared, featuring both the Kolbe College and Mt Maria College logos side by side.”
Opportunities for every student
Kerry said the heart of the College and the dedication of staff will remain unchanged.
"Every student will continue to be known by name, valued for the gifts they bring, and challenged to achieve their personal best through flexible learning pathways and opportunities available," Kerry said.
"Our commitment to excellence in learning and teaching is future-focused, inspiring students and unlocking their potential through pathways to university, industry, employment and further training."
Students at Mt Maria College Petrie are supported to explore their strengths, interests and aspirations through a range of pathway programs. Whether preparing for university studies through the Scholar pathway, pursuing vocational education and industry experiences as an Industry Recruit, or accessing mixed pathway options, every student is empowered to build the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for success beyond school.
"Our College will continue to offer comprehensive sporting opportunities, including swimming, athletics, cross-country and a variety of team sports at both College and regional representative levels, Kerry adds.
"Our Marist Game Changers program and Student Representative Council will also continue to provide students with opportunities to serve their community, develop leadership capability and make a positive difference.
"For students passionate about the arts, our College Band, Vocal Group, Instrumental Music Program, Dance Troupe and Luminaire Art Extension Program will continue to provide meaningful opportunities to develop creativity, talent and self-expression.
"Students will also continue to participate in year-level camps, retreats, subject excursions, work experience opportunities and industry visits that enrich learning beyond the classroom. These experiences encourage students to explore their interests, build confidence, strengthen connections and grow socially, emotionally, physically and academically."
For more information about Mt Maria College, Petrie or to enrol click here.
Did you know?
Catholic education has been part of the Moreton Bay community for almost a century. Find a school in the Moreton Bay today, click here.
Find a school near you today, click here.
About Catholic Education Week (CEW) 2026
CEW (26 July to 1 August) celebrations will centre around a new theme, ‘Share your light, inspire others.’ Calling for students, staff and school communities to recognise their gifts and share them generously.
It captures both the personal and communal dimension of Catholic education: nurturing individual talents and faith, and inspiring others through service, compassion and example.
Image caption 1: Mt Maria College, Petrie students in front of their current College logo. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Mt Maria College, Petrie (2026).
Image caption 2: The St Marcellin Catholic College logo. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Mt Maria College, Petrie (2026).
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