Principals Report

St Brendan’s Turns 30 – A Joyful Celebration of Community and Faith

On Thursday 5th June, our St Brendan’s school community came together in a truly special way to celebrate 30 wonderful years of faith, learning, and growth.

We were honoured to welcome Bishop Tony Ireland, Father Michael Miles; former Parish Priest of St Brendan’s and our Parish Priest, Father Shymon, along with representatives from Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools and representatives from our other Westernport Parish schools. Joining them were our three former principals: Mr Des O’Callaghan, Mr Des Noack and Mrs Corrie Hearn, past teachers and past learning support staff, School Advisory Council members, parishioners, and many past parents all of whom have helped shape the vibrant community we cherish today.

Together with our current students, families and staff, we shared a deeply inspirational and moving Mass - a true highlight of the celebration. The occasion also marked the launch of our new school song, brought to life by our gifted Religious Education Leader and Performing Arts teacher, Emma Chapple, and our school choir. They were joined by the amazing Gen Bryant and her band, whose joyful music lifted hearts and spirits. Gen and her band worked with St Brendan’s students across the day and we thank her and her team for engaging so positively and vibrantly with all students from Foundation to Year 6.

Opening the St Brendan's time capsule was a moment of great interest as we uncovered the everyday items selected by the students and staff from thirty years ago. Inside, we found handwritten class made books, the school logo, classroom artifacts, and even some outdated basketball cards; each item offering a glimpse into the lives, hopes, and humor of a past generation. Most captivating were the beautiful photographs and handmade prayer cloths donated by Mary Wise; one of St Brendan’s first teachers. These artefacts help to document  the transformation of our school, capturing its journey from an empty plot of land into the vibrant learning community it is today. The images certainly add to the powerful story of vision, dedication and growth, reminding us of how far we've come and the legacy we continue to build.

The day was a celebration of everything that makes St Brendan’s so special: our resilience, our gratitude, our dedication to learning, and the deep pride we share in our beautiful school. Here’s to 30 years of a wonderful learning community and to the exciting future to come.

Have a great week.

Sue Carr