Dean of Identity | Mr Charles Brauer

Three Stories Worth Celebrating

150 Years of Edmund Rice Education in Australia

January 12, 1868. The day Australia was connected to the mission of Edmund Rice. Br Ambrose Treacy, Br Fursey Bodkin, Br Barnibas Lynch and Br James Nolan stepped off the Donald Mackay and onto the docks of Melbourne determined to invite others into the mission of Edmund Rice. 20 years and 27 schools later, Edmund Rice education spanned Australia and crossed the Tasman Sea to New Zealand. Fast forward another 130 years and today 1632 Terracians proudly wear the ‘Red and Black’, proud men of faith and learning.

Our Terrace Family is deeply connected to the stories of Edmund Rice and Ambrose Treacy. We were the first Edmund Rice school to open in Queensland and the site of Ambrose Treacy’s passing. This is worthy of celebrating each and every day. With 150 years of Edmund Rice education residing firmly in Australia, our Edmund Rice Feast Day Mass on 8 May will see our College community make an extra special point of celebrating this wonderful story that continues to unfold.

National Reconciliation Week - 27 May – 3 June

National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. The dates of National Reconciliation Week commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey— the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively.

Don’t Keep History a Mystery - This year, all Australians are invited to Learn, Share, and Grow – by exploring our country’s Indigenous past, learning more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, and developing a deeper understanding of our national story. 

Reconciliation must live in the hearts, minds and actions of all Australians as we move forward, creating a nation strengthened by respectful relationships between the wider Australian community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Timor Week at Terrace – 21 – 26 May

This term we will celebrate the ongoing commitment of the Christian Brothers' Oceania Province, the Terrace Timor Network and the work that began with Gregory Terrace Old Boy, Br Dan Courtney, 18 years ago, continuing to evolve and prosper. 

We continue to stand in solidarity with the Timorese, joining with them in liberating their country beyond the struggle and sacrifice towards hope and happiness. Never underestimate the role each of us play in this collective friendship. Whether it be through a cup of Kolega (‘friend’ in Tetum) coffee, a conversation about Timor-Leste with your son, a Bro Band around your wrist or the giving of a Timor gift card, you are part of a wonderful friendship. A friendship we cherish.