College has so much to celebrated after 40 years

Principal Philip Cox said it was a huge milestone for the school, which was established in 1958 as St Philip Regional High School for Boys.

It was then amalgamated with the site next door, now St Kieran Catholic Primary School, and was where nuns educated the girls of the region.

‘Given the proximity of the two schools it was only natural that they shared resources and facilities and at times even teachers and classes,’ Mr Cox said.

‘From these close ties it was only a small step to the decision to enrol girls at St Philips Boys School.’

Mr Cox said to recognise that new era of education the name of the school was changed to the present Servite College.

To commemorate the 40th anniversary four women representing each of the last four decades were present at a Mass held earlier this year.

Denise Brown, a student at Servite in the 70s, presented a college blazer and girls hat to the community.

Nerida Williams, a student from the 80s and now a staff member, brought forward one of the honour boards that records the names of parents and staff who played a significant role in the growth of the college in that period.

Lauren Giuffre, a student from the 90s, brought one of the priory flags, and Miss Tina Buri, a student from the first decade of this century, presented a framed photograph of the original college crest that was salvaged from the original school building, which was demolished recently.

Mr Cox said the secret of the school’s success was the result of the presence of the Servite Friars in the school.

‘The sense of community and belonging is very strong,’ Mr Cox said.

‘The Servite Friars and Brothers have created a wonderful environment here and continue to be involved in the continuing evolution of the college.’

Anniversary celebrations are set to continue throughout the year.