Founded in 1886 by the Brigidine Sisters, the college has long been a stalwart of faith and learning in Echuca-Moama, nurturing generations of students in the Brigidine tradition of strength and kindness.
Since foundation, the college has grown from a small community of eight students and four nuns to a thriving, contemporary school with 1200 students and 200 staff across two campuses.
As the college prepares for its milestone year, principal Anne Marie Cairns said the anniversary would be an important chance to reflect on a remarkable journey.
“This historic occasion provides a meaningful opportunity to honour the legacy of the Brigidine Sisters in Australia, celebrate our vibrant community, and reflect on the enduring impact of our college over an incredible 140 years,” she said.
“As well as a celebration of the past, our anniversary will be a time of renewal and outreach for the future.”
The school’s official birthday is on Sunday, March 22 next year, and a slew of festivities are planned for the following weekend.
A student celebration at the Brigidine Campus, guided heritage tours, a luncheon, a formal anniversary dinner, and a special mass are among itinerary highlights.
“These events will unite Brigidine Sisters, Kildare Ministries, alumni, staff, students, families and the wider community to honour the past and celebrate the future,” Ms Cairns said.
The college is also offering one lucky student the chance to receive a full year of tuition for free next year thanks to a fundraising scheme.
Open to everyone, community members can purchase a ticket for the giveaway for a student in their family or of their choosing.
Online ticket sales close on Wednesday, December 3, with the winner announced the following day at the college’s end-of-year awards night.
Ms Cairns said the initiative served as both a symbolic gesture of ‘giving back’ and a practical support for a family.
“Our 140th anniversary will be more than a commemoration: it is a recommitment to mission, education and community,” she said.
“We invite all community members to join in ― as sponsors, participants, supporters or witnesses ― to celebrate legacy and to look to the future with hope and excitement.”
For full event details, ticketing information for the tuition fees giveaway, and sponsorship packages, visit www.sje.vic.edu.au/celebrating-140-years
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