St Joseph’s College Kildare Campus Official Opening & Blessing

Wed 9 October 2024

St Joseph’s College Echuca staged an official opening and blessing ceremony of its new Kildare Campus today, marking a transformative milestone in the school’s 138-year history.

Students and staff from across the College attended the special event, along with dignitaries from Kildare Ministries, Diocese of Sandhurst and the wider Catholic Education community.

Kildare Campus architects Clarke Hopkins Clarke, building company Fairbrother Construction, MP Peter Walsh and guests from neighbouring Catholic schools and other community groups also attended.

The celebration included a smoking ceremony, campus blessing, official speeches, tours of the new facilities and an afternoon tea.

St Joseph’s College Principal Anne Marie Cairns said the occasion was a poignant moment in the school’s proud and rich history.

“Our expansion to a multi campus school is a pivotal chapter for St Joseph’s College, and our wider community,” Ms Cairns said.

“Today’s event has been a wonderful opportunity to honour our school’s enduring legacy and commitment to excellence and growth, while embracing the possibilities of the future.

“The official opening of our new campus symbolises our dedication to providing a comprehensive and forward-thinking Catholic education for students that prepares them for success in an ever-changing world.” 

Ms Cairns said the Kildare Campus site on Mt Terrick Rd bridged the school’s rich heritage with the Brigidine Sisters and the innovative future of the St Joseph’s College educational community. 

“While this may be a new campus, the design and purpose of this facility are deeply rooted in the history and values of our 138 year old Dickson Street campus,” she said. 

“Through thoughtful architectural details and intentional symbolic elements we honour our historic past and pave the way for our ongoing future.”

Ms Cairns said the new campus was a physical embodiment of the school’s commitment to continuing the Brigidine tradition. 

“Throughout the campus, the arches, roof peaks, and other design elements have been reinterpreted from our historic buildings, reinforcing the continuity of our story as a Catholic school of the future.

“At the heart of Kildare Campus lies the Central Plaza, a space designed to be both a physical and symbolic centre of our community. This plaza is more than just a gathering place; it is a living reminder of our commitment to stewardship and care for our environment.”

Ms Cairns said a notable feature of the new campus was the acorn trees which had been cultivated from the original acorn tree at the Brigidine Campus in Dickson Street. 

“These trees symbolise growth and the nurturing of our identity as a multi-campus learning community. They remind us that while we are expanding and evolving, our roots remain deeply embedded in our shared history.”

Ms Cairns also spoke of the school’s rich Indigenous heritage and its commitment to the ongoing journey of reconciliation.