The school welcomed former students to celebrate the milestone reunions, bringing together around 50 alumni from the graduating classes of 2006, 1996 and 1986.
The past students were guided through their old Brigidine campus, exploring the current facilities and reminiscing about the good old days, with their tour followed by afternoon tea provided by the college.
Then it was muck up time/party time all over again as the ageing alumni were released onto the Echuca-Moama community for ‘private’ evening celebrations to reconnect further.
The school has been educating the region’s children for the past 140 years and for some the connection runs deep.
Including former student and current teacher Vanessa Mahoney, who helped organise the 30-year reunion for the class of 1996.
“Our reunion came about when a few of us ― who are living here today ― got together to chat about options,” Vanessa said.
“And we rebooted our Facebook group and got people excited by saving a date and locking in a venue.
“St Joe's leadership were very cooperative by confirming tour dates and times so we based our evening gathering on this.”
Vanessa reflected on the evolution of the school throughout the years ― both significant updates and cherished traditions.
“The college has changed significantly ― yet there are those things that will always be the same,” she said.
“More subjects on offer, more students and teachers, overseas tours, academies ― but the year 8 ball, the year 10 careers camp, and the beautiful old hall, these haven’t changed a bit.”
To Venessa, St Joe’s is also a legacy that has spanned generations ― as well as life long friendships.
“Four generations of our family attended the college, including my grandmother, who was a boarder in her younger years," she said.
“Many of us in our cohort have remained close over the years, friendships which have become woven into our lives in a way which goes far beyond our school days.
“St Joe’s means a great deal to me.”
As St Joseph’s celebrates its 140th anniversary in 2026, it continues to strengthen ties with former students and staff.
A dedicated alumni Facebook group has recently been established to share updates, celebrate achievements, and keep past students informed about upcoming events.
“We also acknowledged the students who are no longer with us, which has brought sadness and grief,” Venessa said.
“And this has made us want to have more frequent reunions.”
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