New Norcia Centenary Celebrations

Last weekend’s (18-20th Oct) Old Boys’ reunion was the culmination of the 2013 celebrations for the Centenary of the opening of St Ildephonsus’ College, New Norcia, WA. On the Sunday, about 150 ex-students, some with their families, crowded the College chapel for the Mass celebrated by Abbot John Herbert. Concelebrating were the Benedictine priests and ex-student Fr Pat Rooney of Manjimup.

Churchlands Brothers present were Brs Matthew Clarke, Terry Orrell, Noel Hickey, Nello Facci and Max Middleton. Br Richard Spain sent an apology. Former staff member Br Bill Dillon of North Fitzroy enjoyed catching up with his former students of the 50s.

In the afternoon, after lunch in the College, participants gathered at the front of the building. Abbot John blessed and dedicated the commemorative plaque in front of the statue of St Marcellin Champagnat.

One of the Benedictine priests is Fr Anscar McPhee, an ex-student of Marcellin College, Bulleen Vic. Abbot John is an ex-student of Preston, Vic. A very dedicated committee of Marist Old Boys, headed by Ambrose Depiazzi, has been responsible for the efficient organisation of the Australia Day Mass and Barbecue, the Centenary Mass in St Mary’s Cathedral, Perth, a Dinner at Observation City, Scarborough, and this final Centenary Reunion.

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Br Noel Hickey