It is called "Marian" in honour of Mary, the Mother of God, patron of the Sisters of Mercy and Marist Brothers who founded the college.

The school features 2 fully renovated kitchens for food technology and hospitality, a large enclosed hall used for indoor sports and gatherings and two computer rooms, and further computers in the school's library and classrooms.

On 17 June 2009, it was announced that PowerSauce had won the nationwide competition, earning them a prize of Ashton Music equipment and a performance by Australian musician Jessica Mauboy.

Marian Catholic College hosts annual swimming, cross country and athletics carnivals.

The four sporting houses of McAuley, Patrick, Marcellin and Brendan are named after the founders of the school.