Last Friday, 24 April, was a significant anniversary in our sesquicentennial year. 

On 24 April 1876, the Foundation Sisters opened St Aloysius Select School in a wooden schoolhouse behind the convent in Barkly Street. The first school enrolled both primary and secondary students, boys and girls, with the first student listed as Miss K Abberton of Bridge Street (see image of first enrolment register). By the end of 1876, 100 children were enrolled.

Catherine McAuley College Bendigo would not exist, nor have the identity that we are so proud of, without the resilience and fortitude of the founding Sisters. The Mercy Sisters were the foundation of schools and parishes across Bendigo. They were fundamental to the establishment of Catholic education across Bendigo and had the vision and trust to empower the laity to maintain the legacy and grow. In partnership with the Marist Brothers, who arrived in the 1890s, they developed and sustained Catholic Education in central Victoria for decades, continuously opening or assuming schools to ensure that Catholic education thrived.

New Board Chair for Mercy Education Limited

Congratulations to Ms Audrey Brown who has recently been appointed as Board Chair of Mercy Education Limited. Many will be familiar with Audrey, she is a Bendigo person and an outstanding appointment, bringing extensive experience in Catholic education, governance and ministry leadership, together with a deep commitment to the Mercy charism and the mission of Catholic education in Australia.

'Back To' Day, Saturday 2 May - all welcome!

I extend a warm welcome to our community to attend a special celebration this Saturday, a traditional ‘Back To’ Day at St Mary’s Campus (11am-3pm). The celebrations will commence with Mass in the historic Chapel, celebrated by Fr Jake Mudge with con-celebrant Fr Jackson Saunders (both alumni of the College), followed by the launch of a commemorative book, music performed by students, an exhibition of memorabilia, the opening of the Jubilee Art Show, and student-led tours of the campus. All past and current students, parents and staff are invited to attend. (Find out more or RSVP)

Anzac Day Liturgies

It was good to see the reverence shown by students at the Anzac Liturgies held at Coolock and St Mary’s last week. Well done to the students and musicians who led these and thank you to Mrs Suzie Kemp and our college captains who represented CMCB at the Anzac Day Morning Service. (Read more)