Anniversary Celebrations around the Ministries
This year has been a momentous one for several of our Ministries, each celebrating significant milestones. Kilbreda College marks its 120th anniversary, Brigidine College St. Ives celebrates 70 years, and Wellsprings for Women proudly reaches its 30th anniversary. These milestones are a testament to the dedication and contributions of many over the years. Read on to discover how each Ministry is commemorating these remarkable achievements and to honour the individuals who have played a part in their ongoing success.
120 Years of Kilbreda College
On Wednesday, 7 August, the Kilbreda College community came together to celebrate a significant milestone—our 120th anniversary. The day began with a beautiful Eucharistic celebration at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where students, staff, parents and special guests came together to honour our rich history and the enduring values that have guided us for over a century. The Mass, celebrated by the Archbishop of Melbourne, the Most Reverend Peter Comensoli, alongside long-time college chaplain, Father Peter Matheson, offered a profound reflection on our faith and the evolving story of Kilbreda.
One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was the entrance procession, a powerful symbol of Kilbreda’s journey from its founding by the Brigidine Sisters—who for over 200 years have dedicated themselves to living the Brigidine way and nurturing its faith-filled mission—to the significant role that Kildare Ministries has played in guiding us over the past decade. It was deeply moving to witness Sister Louise Cleary, Congregational Leader, and the Brigidine Sisters leading the procession, carrying Brigid’s Cross into the Cathedral. Equally inspiring was the sight of Kathy McEvoy and Rosemary Copeland bringing forward the Kildare Ministries Cross, a poignant reminder of the spirit of "Encounter, Dream, Do," which has empowered our community to embrace new opportunities and continue our mission with renewed energy and purpose.
From the stirring rendition of our school hymn to St. Brigid to the sight of our students proudly adorned with white ribbons, every moment was filled with the spirit and pride that define Kilbreda College. This celebration was not only a tribute to our past but also a reflection of the shared commitment among students, staff, parents and past pupils to carry forward the legacy that has guided our school for 120 years.
The High Tea that followed the Mass was a wonderful celebration of community, bringing together past and present members of Kilbreda College to reflect on the incredible legacy that continues to shape our future. As we shared stories and memories, alumni offered heartfelt reflections on their school days, expressing both gratitude for the formative role Kilbreda played in their lives and hope for what lies ahead. This gathering was more than just a celebration of our 120th anniversary—it was a reaffirmation of the strength and unity that have always defined us. The spirit of our founders lives on in each of us, inspiring us to dream boldly and to continue building a future grounded in courage, compassion, and a deep commitment to learning. As we move forward, we carry the lessons and legacy of this day, confident that the golden thread of our shared mission will continue to weave a vibrant and inspiring story for generations to come.
70 years of Brigidine College St. Ives
What a wonderful trip down memory lane we had on Saturday 15 June celebrating our 70th Anniversary with our Alumni community.
Over 200 past students, staff and Principals joined us for the opening of our new Alumni Garden. The garden is a celebration of the strong and gentle women who have walked through the College gates since 1954 and of the staff who have guided them. It also remembers those who are no longer with us but have their place in our history.
It sits embraced by the original Convent building and is at the heart of today's campus. A large tree provides shade and several benches have been positioned to allow quiet contemplation or a place to catch up with friends. On visiting the garden, you will also find a wonderful timeline curated by our College Archivist, Jackie Rossington, which provides a snapshot of the seven decades of Brigidine St Ives.
Michelle Dixon, College Board Chair, performed the cutting of the ribbon as she spoke about the history of the College Board. A beautiful bronze statue was unveiled by Sr Maree Marsh and Natasha Townley, College Captain and Indie Smith, College Vice-Captain, marking the significant contribution of our Alumni in the history and heritage of the College. Sr Maree spoke on behalf of the Brigidines who founded the College 70 years ago.
“Today we remember the women and men who have shaped Brigidine College over these seventy years – Brigidines may have been the first teachers here but the stories of assistance from those early families cannot go without recognition nor can the stories of each successive generation of boards, principals, staff and students. All have contributed to making Brigidine College the special place it is today.”
Many of our Alumni and some current parents have chosen to be part of the garden and to remember their school days or those of their daughters with a commemorative paver. These have been positioned close to the statue.
We were delighted to acknowledge the Class of 1964 who this year reached the milestone of 60 years since graduation and welcomed the Class of 1974 to the group fondly known as the ‘Golden Girls’ as they reached 50 years since graduation.
Our panel, ‘An afternoon of memories’ was hosted by Ms Di McDonald, Head of Drama. She chatted to Ann Lomas, Class of 1959, Dr Kerry-Ann O’Sullivan, Class of 1976, Meagan McGrath, Class of 1991 and Annalisse Cornell Class of 2005, as they shared recollections of their school days with us. Each one with a unique memory or anecdote of their time as a student.
Thank you to all those who were involved in making the day such a wonderful event including our Hospitality students and our string ensemble.
30 Years of Wellsprings for Women
Wellsprings for Women is proud to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year. Founded in 1994 by Presentation Sister Ann Halpin, Wellsprings began as a small initiative, offering a weekly check-in for isolated women in Dandenong. Over the years, it has grown into a dynamic community-based organization that serves thousands of women from migrant and refugee backgrounds across Melbourne's Southeast.
From humble beginnings, Wellsprings now provides a wide range of services, including education pathways, family violence support, Gender equality, housing assistance, settlement services, and community programs. Our mission has always been centered on empowering women to shape their own lives, and over the past three decades, we've remained dedicated to their wellbeing, mental health, and social inclusion.
Wellsprings are holding several fundraising celebrations to mark the occasion.
The 30th Anniversary Fundraising High Tea was a phenomenal success! We reached out to our community for support in continuing our services for refugee and migrant women, and we were overwhelmed by your generosity. Thanks to the kindness of those in attendance, Wellsprings raised over $10,000 AUD, which will directly fund women’s education. A special thanks to Gabrielle Williams MP, Lee Tarlamis MP, Lana Formoso, Mayor of Greater Dandeonong, our Chair Janet, our dedicated Board Members, Killester College for hosting this amazing afternoon, and to all our esteemed guests who made the event even more special.
The 30th Anniversary Fundraising Dinner will take place on Friday, 18th October 2024, at Springvale City Hall. This year’s event is extra special as we celebrate three decades of supporting refugee and migrant women to build new lives in Australia. You are invited to join Wellsprings for an evening filled with entertainment, a silent auction, raffle prizes, and a mouth-watering cultural dinner prepared by our talented cooks, showcasing the rich diversity of our community. You can help Wellsprings mark this significant milestone and raise essential funds to continue offering our vital educational and community programs. You can book your tickets on Humanitix by scanning the QR Code on the invitation, or visiting this link.
As we mark this milestone, we thank all those who have been part of our journey and look forward to continuing our work in supporting and empowering women for many years to come.
