Marist Brother Noel Hickey has last month celebrated his 100th birthday marking a century defined by unwavering dedication to education, faith, and service.
Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB visited Br Noel at Little Sisters of the Poor Glendalough to mark the occasion with morning tea.
On the cusp of his 100th birthday, Marists publication The Star Post sat down with Br Noel to reflect on his remarkable journey, his love for teaching, and his hopes for the future of the Marist mission
Over the past ten decades, Br Noel, the cousin of Perth Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey, was born in 1925, has witnessed history unfold – from the hardships and turmoil of the World Wars to the rapid technological advancements of the digital age.
On 8 February, he made history himself in turning 100, becoming only the second Marist Brother, after Br Vincent Shekleton, in the Star of the Province to reach this milestone.
Early Life and Calling
Born in 1925 in Fimiston, Western Australia, during the Great Depression, Noel’s early years were shaped by resilience and adaptability.
In 1929, the Hickey family relocated to Perth, settling in McKenzie Street, Wembley.
His earliest recollection, he shares, is from 1929. “My father helped build our house in Wembley. I was there when it was built. That’s my first real memory from childhood.”
Family was at the heart of Br Noel’s upbringing, though it wasn’t without its share of sorrow. “We were 12 siblings,” he says. “The first child died as an infant – I don’t even know how old she was. And another passed away from appendicitis at just three years old.” He was the fifth of the surviving siblings.
Noel’s academic and athletic prowess emerged during his time at St Ildephonsus’ College in New Norcia, where he attended on a Lord Abbot Scholarship. There, he set a state record in the under-16 880-yard race at the inaugural State Schoolboys’ Athletic Carnival in 1940.
In January 1942, at just 17, Noel embarked on a five-day train journey from Perth to Sydney to join the Marist Brothers.
He received the religious habit at Mittagong, New South Wales, amidst the backdrop of World War II.
By July 1944, he commenced his teaching career at Parramatta Marist, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to education.
A Distinguished Teaching Career
Brother Noel’s teaching journey took him across Victoria and Western Australia, where he became renowned for his dedication to students and his ability to inspire both academically and spiritually.
His commitment to continuous learning saw him earn a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Australia, notably receiving the Lady Hackett-Moulden prize for Latin I.
In 1983, Brother Noel expanded his mission to the Pacific, dedicating 18 years to teaching and administrative roles in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
During times of civil unrest and ethnic tensions, he remained steadfast in his commitment to providing education, embodying the Marist values of presence and simplicity.
Contributions Beyond the Classroom
Returning to Australia in 2002, Brother Noel continued his service through volunteer work. He spent a decade visiting patients at the Head Trauma Unit in Shenton Park, offering companionship and support. At Newman College, he engaged with students in the Education Support program, demonstrating his enduring passion for nurturing young minds.
An avid historian, Brother Noel meticulously documented events for the Marist archives, preserving the rich history of the order. His interests also encompassed classical music and daily crossword puzzles, reflecting a sharp and inquisitive mind.
Reflections on a Century
As he reached his centenary, Brother Noel remained humble about his achievements. “I always tried to give my best,” he reflected.
His advice to younger generations emphasized honesty and open communication: “Discuss everything openly – don’t hide anything. Everyone faces difficulties, but it’s important to talk about them.”