More than 300 people of all ages came together to reminisce and commemorate what has been a significant aspect of Catholic education in the Diocese of Geraldton.
With 2015 being the year that saw an end to Catholic boarding in Geraldton, a reunion was organised in October to give those who spent time in the many boarding houses one last chance to say goodbye.
Many of those who attended spent the morning touring Nagle Catholic College, St Patrick’s College and St Francis Xavier Cathedral to re-acquaint themselves with the buildings that played an important part in their lives and education, before gathering at the old St Patrick’s College campus in the afternoon for the ceremonies.
A large display of photographs and memorabilia in the hall at St Patrick’s depicted the history of boarding at the four different entities that have served the families of the Geraldton Diocese and beyond for more than 120 years – Stella Maris College (1891-1993), Christian Brothers College (1925-1948), St Patrick’s College (1949-1993) and Nagle Catholic College (1994-2015).
The MC for the day, Mr John Roff, introduced several speakers who shared their memories of boarding days. Representing the Christian Brothers was Brother Max McAppion, while Sister Christine Clarke represented the Presentation Sisters.
Bishop Justin Bianchini also addressed the group, along with the principal of Nagle Catholic College, Mr Rob Crothers.
At the conclusion of the official proceedings, representatives of the four boarding facilities cut a cake decorated with their respective emblems. The so-called “Nagle cake” was cut by the youngest current boarder, Chloe Henville.
Former boarder at Stella Maris College, Pat Mills recently recounted some of the memories at the college, emphasising how fortunate she felt to have been taught by the Presentation Sisters.
“I attended Stella Maris College from 1948 to 1951 and have many fond memories of that time. One of these was coming home to the college in the bus from a picnic and singing Stella Maris at the top of our voices,” Ms Mills said.
“It was a lovely bonding time, and I was really proud to belong there. The older I become, the more I realise just how lucky we were to have the Presentation Sisters teach and nurture us.
“They had left their families and the beautiful green of Ireland as young girls and gave their lives for us. In many cases, in the Wheatbelt and northern areas, enduring very harsh conditions. I cannot thank them enough,” she concluded.