People travelled far and wide to attend St Joseph’s Catholic College’s 30th Birthday celebrations on the weekend.
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Nicole Francais travelled from Darwin with her family to attend the anniversary.
“I was at the school for years five, six and seven, so from 1987-89,” Ms Francais said.
“For me it is like looking back in time, it is really wonderful, I did not realise so many photos were taken back then.”
Glenda Rooks and her husband Tony travelled from Cairns QLD so they could be a part of the occasion.
“We were one of the first families at the school, my husband Tony was the first P and F president,” Mrs Rooks said.
“We were only at the school for the first and second year then we moved away, but Katherine has had a lasting impact on us.
“We have come back to Katherine for the 10th and 20th anniversaries as well and to catch up with our old friends.”
Mrs Rooks said the school had undergone some transformations since they lived in town.
“The school is just beautiful, it is an oasis and it is a real credit to the school,” she said.
Guests took part in a liturgy led by Bishop Eugene Hurley, listened to principal Denis Graham talk of the 30 year journey and watched Katherine MLA Sandra Nelson officially open some of the college’s new refurbishments.
After the opening ceremony, guests were free to roam some of the classrooms, explore a memorabilia display in the library and share some stories over a cup of tea.
“The first year with Sister Patricia as principal, was quite significant, she was a power house,” one of the original students Colleen McTaggart said.
“I will never forget her running with her veil flying in the wind.
“The school was opened in the wet season and there was red bull dust mud everywhere, luckily they dd not carpet the classrooms that first year,” she said.