From the Deputy Principal

Old Boys Reunion Celebrates Tradition, Connection and Community

Last weekend, St Patrick’s College warmly welcomed back more than 150 Old Boys for a memorable reunion that reflected the enduring strength of the College spirit and the lifelong bonds shared by its graduates. This marked the first official Old Boys event organised by the College, signalling the beginning of an exciting new chapter in strengthening Old Boys engagement. The aim of these gatherings is to unite generations of Old Boys and foster a thriving network that not only supports the College but also one another.

The reunion brought together an extraordinary cross-section of alumni, from those who first walked through the College gates in 1952 to members of last year’s graduating class. Despite the span of decades, it was remarkable to witness how quickly those differences dissolved, replaced by a shared sense of camaraderie, friendship, and a deep, enduring love for the green and gold.

Saturday evening provided a vibrant and welcoming setting for reconnection, overlooking the Pier and in the shadow of Morven. In this relaxed and familiar environment, conversations flowed easily as Old Boys reminisced, laughed, and shared stories of their time at the College. As the evening unfolded, graduating years seemed to fade into insignificance, with all present united by common experiences and values formed during their time at St Patrick’s. The sense of belonging was unmistakable, reinforcing the sentiment that once a Paddy’s Boy, always a Paddy’s Boy.

The celebrations continued Sunday with a reflective Mass in the Fr Liam Chapel, presided over by local Parish Priest, Fr Ravi. This provided an opportunity for Old Boys to reconnect not only with each other but also with the spiritual foundations that remain central to the life of the College. Following Mass, Old boys toured the school grounds, revisiting familiar spaces while also witnessing the continued growth and development of the College.

Lunch in the Christian Brothers Building (CBB) offered another opportunity for fellowship and storytelling. It was a privilege to walk alongside these Old Boys as they shared their journeys, reflecting on the experiences that shaped them and the lasting influence of their time at St Patrick’s. A recurring theme throughout these conversations was the deep respect held for the Christian Brothers, teachers, and staff who played such a significant role in their lives. This appreciation extended beyond the classroom to include administration, tuckshop, and library staff, all of whom contributed to a supportive and nurturing environment.

Adding to the occasion was the presence of a number of past staff members. Their arrival was met with enthusiasm, as Old Boys gathered eagerly to reconnect, share stories, and reminisce about the moments that defined their school days. These interactions were filled with laughter, gratitude, and a shared recognition of the lasting impact these individuals had on generations of young men.

The weekend stood as a powerful reminder of the strength of the St Patrick’s College community. It celebrated not only the College’s rich history but also the enduring relationships and shared values that continue to unite its members.

We extend our sincere thanks to Chris Simpson, Adam Quinn, and Aaron Sheppard for sharing their personal stories, which resonated across generations and reflected fondly on their time at their alma mater by the sea.

Looking ahead, we are eager to continue reconnecting with Old Boys and strengthening this important network. We encourage all members of our community to help us build our Old Boys database by reaching out to past students who attended the College from 1952 onwards. Contact details can be submitted via the link: Old Boys' Network | St Patrick's College