Mt Maria College has revealed the crest that will represent the Petrie school when it becomes St Marcellin Catholic College. The new identity marks the next stage of a transition announced by the college, following two years of consultation with students, parents and staff.
The college announced in April that it will formally adopt the St Marcellin Catholic College name in January 2027. Planning will continue throughout the remainder of 2026.
New signage, branding and uniforms will form part of the transition. The college previously said uniform changes would be phased in to avoid extra costs for families. It also indicated that the existing college colours would remain largely unchanged.
Principal Kerry Maher said the identity would support the college’s future direction while retaining values already established within the school community.
New name strengthens Marist identity
St Marcellin Catholic College will take its name from St Marcellin Champagnat, founder of the Marist Brothers. His approach to education centred on young people, faith, compassion and personal relationships, and those principles already shape its work with students.
Maher said the new name gives the school a clearer identity and expresses its Marist character more directly. She also linked the change to student growth, wellbeing and strong learning outcomes.
The school’s Marist values include family spirit, simplicity, presence, love of work and care for people who need support. Those values would play a greater role in shaping the school’s future.
Crest links faith, heritage and place
The new crest places a cross at the centre of the design, representing Jesus Christ and the school’s Catholic identity. A heart represents the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, while the Auspice Maria symbolises Mary’s protection. The emblem also reflects the college’s Marist identity.
An Indigenous Bunya Pine acknowledges the history and heritage of the local Gubbi Gubbi people. The symbol gives the crest a clear connection to the Petrie area.
A lantern represents the call for members of the school community to bring light to others through their actions.
The motto, “Lead by Example”, appears beneath the crest. It draws on 1 Timothy 4:12 and encourages students to show leadership through the way they speak, live and serve.
Mt Maria and Kolbe histories will remain
The transition will not erase the school’s earlier identities. The school will continue to recognise the history of Mt Maria College and the former Kolbe College. Both names form part of the college community’s history in Petrie.
During Catholic Education Week, the college shared material from Kolbe College’s foundation year with Brisbane Catholic Education. It also shared a 25-year celebration publication featuring the Kolbe College and Mt Maria College logos together.
Student programs set to continue
The college has also emphasised that its central work with students will remain unchanged. It will continue to offer academic and vocational pathways for different interests and post-school goals. These include university preparation, industry experience and mixed learning options.
Programs named by the college include the Scholars Program, Industry Recruits, STEM Innovators, Inquiry Learning and the Integrated Learning and Pathways Program.
Career education will continue across Years 7 to 12. Sport, instrumental music, student leadership and pastoral programs will also remain.
The school also plans to retain camps, retreats, work experience, excursions and industry visits. Arts opportunities include the college band, vocal group, dance troupe and the Luminaire Art Extension Program. Students will also continue to take part in representative sport and community service initiatives.
The school said its staff would keep focusing on knowing students individually and helping them build confidence, skills and purpose.
Consultation shaped the decision
Parents, students and staff took part in consultations during 2024 and 2025. According to the college, participants wanted continued improvement, a strong sense of purpose and an identity that would support students into the future. The feedback also showed support for high expectations in learning and a strong focus on student wellbeing.
Published 30-July-2026
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