St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School Celebrates Milestone With Stage 4 & 5 Opening

Last Friday, St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School in the Mackay Northern Beaches officially opened and blessed its Stage 4 and 5 developments in a heartfelt ceremony attended by dignitaries, community members, and proud families.

The event marked a major milestone in the school’s journey, which will celebrate its tenth anniversary in 2025. Since opening in 2015, St Brendan’s has grown more than fourfold and is now well on its way to becoming a three-stream school.

Principal Karla Falzon addressed the gathering, saying, “I feel deeply honoured to deliver the heart of this address on behalf of the St Brendan’s school community.

“First and foremost, we give thanks to God for bringing us together today and for the blessings that continue to sustain and guide us. It is through God’s grace that we have been able to celebrate this special occasion.”

The new facilities include a purpose-built classroom block for Year 5 and 6 students and a modern library. The upgrades are designed to accommodate the school’s rapid growth and provide state-of-the-art learning environments.

The ceremony included blessings by Diocese of Rockhampton Bishop Michael McCarthy, who said, "Thank you for your support and prayers – for your commitment to Catholic education, which lies at the heart of our mission."

Minister for Education Jason Clare acknowledged the federal contribution to the development.

“The Australian Government has contributed $1.8 million under the Capital Grants Program to support the development of new general learning areas and student amenities,” he said.

“This program represents an enormous opportunity for students in schools.”

“Education is the most powerful cause for good,” he added, noting that the new facilities will help students at their school to become anything they want.

“I would also like to personally thank the teachers and staff for everything you do to help your students be kind and work harding.

“I look forward to continuing to work with you in the future.”

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox also praised the school community.

“I was honoured to take part in the opening and blessing of stages 4 and 5 at St Brendan's Catholic Primary School Mackay Northern Beaches this morning.”

He commended the school captains and students for their warm welcome and tour of the new facilities.

Mayor Greg Williamson noted that, “This important milestone marks another step forward for the school community, with new facilities helping to support growth, learning and opportunity for students now and into the future.

“Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing these stages to life – your commitment to education and the community is something to be proud of.”

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St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School celebrated the official opening and blessing of its Stage 4 and 5 developments last Friday, marking a significant milestone ahead of its tenth anniversary in 2025. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The new facilities at St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School reflect a bold vision for 21st-century learning, designed to empower students and support the school’s continued growth into the future. Photo source: St Brendan's Catholic Primary School Mackay Northern Beaches

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