Celebrating 30 Years

With Fr Dennis Handley appointed as the inaugural principal, the College opened its doors to 83 Year 8 students at the Gawler Belt Campus. Despite limited facilities, including relocatable classrooms and a temporary administration building, the community embraced the Salesian tradition, focusing on education through kindness, reason, and faith. The College’s opening laid the foundation for significant growth, marking the beginning of a transformative educational journey.

Their dedication to establishing a school rooted in the Salesian tradition helped shape a thriving community that has continually expanded and evolved. Through perseverance and collaboration, they laid the foundation for a school where students are encouraged to grow holistically, not only academically but also in their faith, leadership, and character, ensuring Xavier College remains a place of unity, growth, and learning.

Can you spot the two faces who are still with us at the College today?

…In some ways, starting high school can be fun, new, and exciting and since you haven’t spent much time at the school, everything is totally different from your last primary school. Many possibilities, subjects and new facilities exist making the future look bright and pleasing. The first day of high school is also one of the most disorganised, weird, confusing days you’ve ever had in all your life so far. You start off not knowing where to go and when to go to a certain place; you don’t know or remember any of the teachers’ or students’ names and basically you have a full day of meeting new people, discovering new places, and playing games to help you remember everyone’s names. After one of the most odd, yet exciting days of your life you come home and don’t seem to remember any names, except for the teachers (I wonder why?). After having such a flat out day, you then wake up in the morning eager, yet in some ways holding back, wanting to begin your second day of hell, heaven, exciting, weird day of high school’ – Year 8 student Darren Kempster (1996).

In 1996, the College expanded its infrastructure with the addition of a new music room, home economics complex, chapel, art and technology complex, and upgraded staff facilities. The growing student body, which swelled by 120 new students that year, reflected the College’s rising reputation. By the new millennia, the College’s enrolment had reached 760 students. This expansion was supported by the recruitment of new staff, contributing to the College’s development into a thriving educational community.

These inaugural Year 8 students faced unique challenges, being the only year group in the school with no older role models. The early years lacked the structure found in more established schools, with students spending most of their time together as a single cohort. Despite these challenges, the pioneering students helped shape the spirit and community of the College, graduating as the first cohort to complete their secondary education, paving the way for future generations.

One of the most memorable moments in Xavier College’s early history was the celebration of the Great Jubilee in 2000. This event, which marked the Catholic Church’s celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth, God’s mercy, and the forgiveness of sins, became a defining experience for both students and staff. Under the guidance of Principal Fr Dennis Handley, a train was specially arranged to take the school community on a journey that started on a forgotten track near the College. Students and staff boarded at a makeshift platform made from scaffolding that was erected a few days prior, marking ‘Handley Station’. Everyone travelled together into Adelaide’s CBD, on a track that hadn’t been in use for years, where they attended the Jubilee Mass. It was an unforgettable day that not only celebrated faith but also deepened the sense of unity and purpose at Xavier College.

‘This was my first time I had ever travelled on a train. The train ride from Gawler took about 45 minutes to an hour. I really enjoyed the new experience. The ride did not seem to go too long as I chatted with my friends the whole way. There was a rush of excitement amongst students when we arrived at the event. Archbishop Leonard Faulkner led the mass, which involved the celebration of the Eucharist, singing, dancing and ceremony. At the end, we were all very tired but had certainly taken part in a most memorable and special event’ – Xavier College student Daphne Georgaras (2000).

Being celebrated for the first time in 2001, Xavier Day, dedicated to thanking God for the past, celebrating the present, and praying for the future, brought the entire school community together for the first time. It was a joyous occasion to reflect on the College’s identity, its achievements, and the shared values that unite everyone.

‘A great day was had by all, starting with a whole school Mass, where we got to sit on chairs (!) and see a slide show of the school’s growth. This was followed by various activities such as cooking, monopoly and several sporting events. The day was a huge success and will be hard to top next year’ – Year 10 student Clare Murdoch on the first Xavier Day (2001).

‘Among the striking images and memories of 2001, Xavier Day stands out as a spectacular celebration of who we are as a school and what we stand for. We celebrated our belief, our heritage and our thankfulness. In many ways it summarised Xavier College, a school that strives to develop a fresh exciting approach to learning, believing and living. I am sure that this first-time event in 2001 was a highlight for all students, and an event much looked forward to in future years’ – Principal Fr Dennis Handley on the first Xavier Day (2001).

Reflecting on his tenure, Fr Handley described it as a ‘magnificent privilege’ to lead the College from its inception. Under his guidance, Xavier College evolved from a ‘dusty paddock’ into one of South Australia’s premier secondary education campuses.

However, Fr Handley’s legacy extended far beyond the physical structures he helped establish. ‘A real school is a place of people, and Xavier College is a place of people and for people,’ he said. His dedication to educating in the Salesian Tradition, fostering good Christians and honest citizens, continues to inspire the College today.

Lynn looked to continue growing the College and building on the strong foundations established by Fr Handley while embracing new opportunities for progress. His impact was immeadiately felt, building supportive and authentic relationships with students and staff. Emphasising a ‘team effort’ in everything he did, the College continued to work towards academic excellence, community engagement, and the deepening of Salesian values under his guidance.

The students competed fiercely, showcasing their athleticism and school pride. After a day of exciting races and team challenges, Mackillop House emerged victorious, winning the first-ever swimming carnival. The event not only highlighted the students’ sporting abilities but also fostered a sense of community and House pride that would continue to grow in the years to come.

‘The walk of shame was labelled when you fell over and had to walk back up the slope to gather your skis and poles. Adrian Costa had to complete this walk a number of times early in the week to the cheers and laughter of the ‘professionals’ but he got his own back later in the week as his skiing had improved so much that he was usually leading others down the mountain’ – Dan Searle, Ski Trip Coordinator.

Adrian may have to break out some of those skills and join the next group of students on this year’s ski trip!

The students competed fiercely, showcasing their athleticism and school pride. After a day of exciting races and team challenges, Mackillop House emerged victorious, winning the first-ever swimming carnival. The event not only highlighted the students’ sporting abilities but also fostered a sense of community and House pride that would continue to grow in the years to come.

1st: Mackillop – 445 Points (Occhiena)

2nd: McCormack – 398 Points (Mazzarello)

3rd: Bosco – 328 Points (de Sales)

4th: Polding – 326 Points (Handley)

This change honoured the legacy of the Salesian charism, with St John Bosco becoming the College patron and inspiring a fresh sense of identity and purpose within the school community. The four Houses were renamed to honour figures whose lives exemplify the Salesian spirit:

• Bosco House became de Sales House, named after St Francis de Sales, the Patron of the Salesian Order, celebrated for his wisdom, humility, and unwavering faith.
• Mackillop House became Occhiena House, named after the Venerable Margaret Occhiena, St John Bosco’s mother and co-founder of the Salesian Preventive System of Education, whose nurturing care and dedication helped shape the Salesian ethos.
• McCormack House became Mazzarello House, named after St Maria Mazzarello, co-founder of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters), whose leadership and passion for education left a lasting legacy.
• Polding House became Handley House, named in honour of Fr Dennis Handley, the founding principal of Xavier College and a Salesian priest whose vision and faith laid the foundation for the College’s success.

This initiative sought to inspire students to excel not only in their studies and physical pursuits but also in their contributions to the College community and their embodiment of the Salesian values of kindness, faith, and service. The Bosco Cup is awarded annually to the House that accumulates the highest number of points through a combination of individual student achievements and performance in House-based activities. Each dimension—Christian Citizenship, Academia, and Sport—is allocated a series of points, fostering a healthy sense of competition while promoting holistic development among students.

The inaugural Bosco Cup in 2009 was a closely contested event, reflecting the enthusiasm and dedication of the College community. With Mazzarello taking the first cup, the final standings were:

1st Place: Mazzarello House with 37 points

2nd Place: Occhiena House with 36 points

3rd Place: Handley House with 26 points

4th Place: de Sales House with 21 points

The term ‘RUAH’, a Hebrew word meaning the ‘Spirit of God’, symbolises the divine presence that inspires these values, aligning them with the Salesian charism of kindness, faith, and joy. The introduction of RUAH followed a pivotal conference in 2009, attended by Mark Flaherty and Gareth Watson, where they were inspired by a presentation by Fr O’Malley. These values were embraced as a way to foster a culture of inclusion, mutual respect, and genuine care within the College. RUAH has profoundly shaped the ethos of the College, providing a framework for relationships and community life.

Respect emphasises the dignity of each individual.

Understanding encourages empathy and connection.

Affection promotes a spirit of kindness and care.

Humour fosters joy and positivity in daily interactions.

Together, these values reflect the College’s commitment to holistic education, rooted in the Salesian tradition.

The impact of RUAH extends far beyond its initial implementation. It continues to inspire students to approach challenges with empathy, build meaningful relationships, and cultivate a supportive and joyful environment. By embodying these values, the College community affirms its mission to nurture individuals who live with integrity, faith, and a spirit of service, making a positive difference in the world.

Named in honour of Fr Dennis Handley, the principal of St Mark’s College from 1988 to 1994, founding principal of Xavier College in 1995 and a dedicated Salesian priest, the Cup celebrates the shared heritage and values of these two Catholic secondary schools in the Salesian tradition. The competition was inspired by Fr Handley’s deep love for sport and his belief in the power of athletic competition to bring people together, fostering teamwork, respect, and community spirit.

The Fr Dennis Handley SDB Cup fosters friendly competition across a variety of sports, including football, netball, and soccer, with students from both schools showcasing their athletic talents and school pride. Beyond the games, the event serves as a platform for building camaraderie and strengthening bonds between the two communities. What began as a simple sporting exchange has grown into a significant cultural event, marked by its vibrant spirit, enthusiastic participation, and embodiment of the Salesian charism.

The success of the Fr Dennis Handley SDB Cup highlights the enduring influence of the Salesian ethos, fostering not only athletic excellence but also a sense of unity and mutual respect. It stands as a testament to the legacy of Fr Dennis Handley and the commitment of Xavier College and St Mark’s College to living out their shared mission of education through faith, community, and service.

As scaffolding and fences were removed, students were finally able to see into the interior of the Chapel for the first time. This moment marked the realisation of a dedicated space for prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth within the College community. Shortly after, the Chapel’s symbolic leadlight windows were installed, adding a layer of beauty and significance to the space. The glass panels behind the altar are particularly meaningful, as they were designed to reflect the College’s values and its motto, ‘One in Christ’. The panels feature flow lines and vibrant colours that represent the life of Christ flowing through the community, uniting all in His spirit and extending outwards into the world and creation.

The Chapel’s completion provided the College with an inspiring space where students, staff, and families could gather for worship and moments of quiet contemplation. It stands as a testament to the College’s commitment to fostering spiritual growth and a deeper connection with faith. The Chapel continues to be a central and cherished part of the College, offering a sacred space for prayer, reflection, and the strengthening of community bonds.

In 2017, the Saint Mary MacKillop Centre and the Sir Doug Nicholls Gymnasium were unveiled, transforming the campus into a more dynamic and versatile learning environment.

The Sir Doug Nicholls Gymnasium offered students a state-of-the-art facility for sports, assemblies, and Masses, fostering both physical activity and community spirit. Meanwhile, the Saint Mary MacKillop Centre became a hub of student activity, providing a modern library, dedicated study spaces, and new classrooms tailored to specific subject areas.

In the years that followed, the Colonel George Gawler Auditorium was added to the campus, creating a purpose-built venue for performances, presentations, and celebrations.

This expansion aimed to bring the richness of a Catholic education in the Salesian tradition to the Adelaide Plains community, fulfilling a growing need for accessible, high-quality schooling in the region.

The vision for the Two Wells Campus centered on providing modern learning facilities and fostering a seamless Reception to Year 12 pathway. This milestone was a testament to the College’s commitment to delivering holistic education, offering students a wealth of academic and career opportunities while staying true to the core Salesian values of reason, religion, and loving kindness.

One of his most enduring contributions was the establishment of a strong House and Oratory system, designed to nurture both the academic and pastoral needs of students and staff. At its heart, this system reflected the Salesian principles of reason, religion, and loving kindness.

Lynn’s leadership was defined by his ability to build genuine, supportive relationships with people from all walks of life. His dedication to fostering these connections inspired staff to do the same with their students, creating an environment where every individual felt valued. This nurturing atmosphere enabled students to thrive, learn effectively, and succeed in their chosen pursuits.

Lynn’s legacy continues to resonate at the College, as the systems and culture he helped shape remain central to the College’s identity and mission. Lynn not only inspired a generation but has been a truly exceptional and inspirational leader within our community.

Mark’s leadership has been marked by a commitment to honouring the College’s Salesian ethos while embracing innovation and growth. Drawing on his long-standing connection to the community, he has focused on fostering a culture of inclusivity, academic excellence, and pastoral care. Under his guidance, the College has continued to expand, with significant developments such as the opening of new campuses and the enhancement of programs to support students’ holistic development.

From its inception, the Two Wells Campus embraced the established values and traditions of the College, seamlessly integrating them into its community. Over the years, it has grown and evolved, becoming a vital part of the College’s mission to provide education in the Salesian tradition.

As it continues to expand, the Two Wells Campus plays a key role in delivering quality Catholic education to the Adelaide Plains region.

This addition marked a significant milestone in the College’s history, as it now provides a seamless Reception to Year 12 pathway within the Salesian tradition within the Gawler area.

The Evanston Campus, dedicated to educating students from Reception to Year 6, embodies the College’s commitment to nurturing young learners in a faith-filled environment. This amalgamation has strengthened the College’s mission to provide a holistic Catholic education, fostering a sense of unity and continuity across all stages of student development.

The facilities were blessed by Archbishop O’Regan and officially opened by Principal Mark Flaherty, marking a significant milestone in the growth of the campus.

This project supports the campus’ remarkable enrolment growth—from 157 students in 2021 to nearly 800 in 2024. The Lynn Martin Building features modern learning spaces, including Makerspaces, a Virtual Reality room, and flexible indoor-outdoor areas, while the new gymnasium provides a hub for sports and community activities.

Principal Mark Flaherty noted the importance of these state-of-the-art facilities in enhancing learning and supporting the College’s mission to offer affordable Catholic education in the region.

This new partnership not only established Xavier College as the home of the first Liverpool Football Club International Academy in South Australia, but also introduced a high-performance soccer program for students and the community, combining world-class football training with educational excellence.

Since the announcement of this partnership, the College has successfully hosted several after-school and school holiday programs, run by accredited LFCIA coaches. These programs have provided local players with the opportunity to learn ‘the Liverpool way’ and develop their skills in a supportive and professional environment. Looking ahead, more programs are set to be offered in 2025, continuing to strengthen the connection between the College and the wider community, while providing even more opportunities for players and coaches to develop their skills.

This exciting collaboration between the College and the Liverpool Football Club International Academy Australia is driven by shared values of education, sport, and community development. The partnership is set to transform the future of soccer in the region, offering students and local coaches valuable opportunities to grow and excel in the sport.

We are thrilled to commence Stage 1 in 2025, which will include the construction of modern science facilities, a refurbishment of the arts space, the construction of a music lab, and an extension to the uniform shop.

These upgrades are just the start of our journey to enhance the learning experience for students and provide them with the tools and spaces needed to excel in their studies for years to come.

These plans, which are expected to be finalised and approved by the first quarter of 2025, represent a bold step forward in our commitment to providing quality education in state-of-the-art facilities. This redevelopment aims to transform the Reception to Year 6 learning environment, reflecting modern educational standards and fostering an engaging, supportive space where students can thrive.

The first stage of the new build is set to begin its planning and design phase in 2025, with completion targeted by the end of the year.