From the Archives: 80 Years Maurice Albert McCartin (1924-2010) was a foundation pupil at St Joseph’s College, Geelong in 1935. He was a student at the College over the next 5 years until 1939 when he completed his secondary education and his family moved to Melbourne. Maurice McCartin was very proud of his connection with and attendance at St Joseph’s College and frequently told many amusing stories of his childhood and school days in Geelong. He attended St Mary’s Primary School for his early childhood education before St Joseph’s College opened for day students in 1935. He commenced his years at St Joseph’s College in the Fourth Standard with his friend Kevin Lynch. One of Maurice’s most amusing stories, repeated often, was about a special event listed in the novelty races at the annual St Joseph’s sport’s carnival. Not being blessed with athletic abilities, his great claim to fame was winning the ‘Slow Bicycle’ race at the Sports Carnival. Brother Brophy was the ‘Starter’ on the day and the idea for the participants was not to start in the race quickly, or indeed at all, in order to win the ‘race’. Maurice managed to balance on his bike seat and not commence pedalling for what seemed like an endless period. Other boys were encouraged to move by the Brother who was no doubt becoming Female Staff impatient at the reluctance of the riders to move. Group - 1950s Somehow Maurice’s irrepressible nature won the ‘Slow Bike’ race by defying the Starter and not moving hence being the slowest rider in the event! - Information provided by Maurice McCartin’s Daughter, Ann Hickey Reflecting on the last 21 years of my life since my arrival at St Joseph’s in 1995, there is so much of that time which is memorable. The school has changed dramatically over that time but good schools are more about culture and people
Students at the College front gate - 1950s
rather than the buildings. Two outstanding people who I have admired greatly because of their generosity, work ethic and care of others would be Russell Zampatti, and my personal assistant for the past 16 years Mrs Maureen Bryant. Both are outstanding example of compassion, innovation and integrity, the qualities which identify our College as special and different. People of that calibre lead those around them and for me that is why the College has been so successful over the past two decades. Paul Tobias, Principal 2000 - Present Secondary school is a turbulent time in any person’s life. It is filled with growth, development and challenges that help shape the people we will become. For the boys of St Joseph’s College, this is no different. Bullying, peer pressure, academic stress and inner struggles are something that students face every day. It is through the friendships we forge and the experiences we share that we can find refuge in such tumultuous times in our lives. Daniel Belluzzo - SJC Class of 2009 There’s a unique togetherness that comes from spending five or so years with the same collective group of people. High school can be tricky at the best of times but knowing that you’re surrounded by your mates who are all in the same boat turned potentially awkward teenage years into some of my fondest memories. I got married earlier this year, ten years after graduating. All four of my groomsmen are mates from SJC who I still see regularly. Lifelong friends may sound cliché, but that’s what these guys are and will continue to be. Lachy Porter - SJC Class of 2005
Brothers with Polly Farmer - 1963
Cadets at ANZAC Day - 1968
Swimming Sports - 1940s Front Entrance - 1970s
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