Bishop Michael McKenna officiated at the Mass where the school’s long history, including it’s ‘moments of darkness’ were acknowledged.

Founded by the Bishop of Bathurst, Matthew Quinn in 1867, the college had humble beginnings, with just 14 students, but rapidly established itself as a centre of educational excellence.

This year’s head prefect, Dominic McCrossin, gave the official welcome at Sunday’s Mass, highlighting some of the historically significant events linked to the college, including the first medical X-ray in Australia, taken by he school’s science teacher, Father Joseph Slattery.

Dominic also spoke about old boys who 100 years ago, fought on the Western Front during WW 1, Sir Donald Bradman’s visit to the Number One Oval, where he played against Stannies XI, and old boy Damien Parer, who won an  Academy Award, for his wartime documentary Kokoda Front Line.

Head of College, Dr Anne Wenham, said Sunday’s Mass, which was led by Bishop Michael McKenna, was a fitting way to commence not only the school year, but the school’s sesquicentenary celebrations.

She said it was decided to have the mass on a Sunday so students teachers, old boys and families could come together and celebrate as a community, and that they did.

“I’m delighted to see the PAC [Performing Arts Centre] filled to capacity, “ she said.

Dr Wenham also welcomed 18 visiting students, and their teachers from St Louis High, Surabaya, another Vincentian school, who travelled to Bathurst specifically to be part of the school’s 150 year celebrations.

The group were billeted out by Stannies’ families, joining in class lessons and learning about the school during their visit.

They also had an official role in Sunday’s celebrations performing two traditional dances at the conclusion of the Mass.

After the official ceremonies ended, a family day of celebration followed on with guests enjoying Devonshire tea, a BBQ and picnic lunch.

There were also guided tours of the school followed by family games and activities in the afternoon.