Significant moment in the history of St Augustine’s College
Last week marked a significant moment in the history of St Augustine’s College as we honoured and farewelled the Marist Brothers, whose remarkable 96 years of steadfast dedication and presence at the College will soon draw to a close.
Their unwavering commitment has been celebrated through a commemorative Mass in Lennon Hall and formal gatherings, offering all a chance to reflect on the profound legacy of the 192 Marist Brothers that have served the St Augustine’s College community over the course of the last 96 years. Since the Marist Brothers first arrived in the Cairns diocese in 1928 and officially opened St Augustine’s in 1930, their influence has been nothing short of transformative. Each consecutive Marist Principal since then, including the last – Br Darren Burge (2013 – 2018) who was recently appointed as the Provincial of the Marist Brothers’ Star of the Sea Province and who formally addressed the gathering to officially farewell the community – has shaped the community with integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose.
The Marist Brothers’ dedication to Catholic education in our diocese has truly been immense. Their charism and values are woven into the fabric of St Augustine’s and Good Counsel College, Innisfail, and their story—engrained in the vision of Blessed Marcellin Champagnat—continues to inspire both students and staff to seek Christ through Mary’s example. Their commitment extended far beyond the classroom, reaching communities across Far North Qld and providing invaluable pathways for students to access Marist education. Through their service, the Brothers have supported generations of families, modelling the Marist pillars of simplicity, presence, love of family, hard work, and devotion to Mary.
As we bid farewell to the Marist Brothers’ formal presence at St Augustine’s, we do so with deep gratitude and assurance that their connection will remain strong. Their ongoing involvement in spiritual and faith formation will continue to enrich both St Augustine’s and Good Counsel College for years to come. The enduring charism of Blessed Marcellin Champagnat will keep shaping these schools, reminding us all to “educate the heart before training the mind.” Their legacy stands as a beacon of inspiration for future teachers and leaders in Catholic education across Cairns, urging us to serve with the same devotion, humility, and love that has defined the Marist way for nearly a century in the Cairns diocese.
With heartfelt thanks, we honour the Marist Brothers for their extraordinary impact and lifelong commitment to Catholic education in our diocese. Their example will continue to guide and inspire us as we nurture the next generation of educators and leaders in the Marist tradition.