Thursday, December 4, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

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St. Patrick’s Class Of 1975 Celebrates 50 Years

Reminiscing and reflecting on their school days from over 50 years ago was at the heart of a recent School Reunion in Mackay. The event celebrated the 50-year milestone of the Grade 12 Class of 1975 from the then St. Patrick’s Christian Brothers College, now St. Patrick’s College on River Street.

Of the 23 students who graduated in 1975, 16 travelled from across Australia to attend the reunion. A highlight was a “back to school” event hosted by current Principal Janelle Agius. Reunion organiser Andrew Gibbs said it was special to revisit their classrooms, sharing memories and stories, both good and bad, from their school days through to graduation.

“Today’s education facilities and curriculum are certainly a big step ahead of what we had back then,” he said.

The reunion concluded with a formal dinner on Friday, 21 November. School Captain Bill Martin welcomed classmates and their partners to a memorable evening of catching up and reminiscing. Fellow organiser Paul Schembri said that while a 100-year reunion might be a stretch, the hope is to plan a 60-year celebration, or possibly sooner.

Contributed by Andrew Gibbs

The 1975 classmates sitting in their old classroom, listening attentively to current Principal Janelle Agius
Group photo, taken at the formal dinner on Friday night

1975 classmates: Back row – Paul Stanbrough, David Power, Paul Schembri, Allan Ruming, Bill Martin, Ian Muller, Shane Regan, Stephen Robinson, Terry Murphy, Gerald Ritchie, Michael Delaney. Front row – Andrew Gibbs, Paul Patteson, Phillip Deane, Michael Power, Wayne Cassidy. Photos supplied

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