Lifeline for St Brendan’s

By Tina Seirlis

A local primary school site with a question mark hanging over its future has received a thankful and temporary reprieve from uncertainty.

During the recent St Brendan’s Primary School end of an era celebration in Dunnstown, a spokesperson representing the Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Ltd’s (DOBCEL) announced to attendees that Damascus College would utilise the site across 2024.

A formal statement then ensued early last week from the Ballarat-based Catholic secondary school.

According to Damascus College Principal Steven Mifsud, the soon-to-be-former Dunnstown primary school will have mixed use by Damascus across the coming year covering a series of learning activities involving all year levels. Uses will include student retreats, exam revision, lectures, staff professional development, and Year 7 reflection days.

Mr Mifsud said the site provides an educative, peaceful, and ready-made opportunity that is complimentary to the Damascus bush setting at Mount Clear.

“The intimate size and location of the property strengthens our inclusive community where every student is named and known, supporting the cognitive, creative, and spiritual development of Damascus students, with access to the Dunnstown church providing a meaningful faith experience,” he said.

The school has committed to exploring opportunities presented by the St Brendan’s site throughout 2024, ahead of a decision being made on a potential long-term arrangement and educational opportunities.

Tom Sexton, Executive Director of DOBCEL said he was elated that Dunnstown will continue to be a home to Catholic education.

“It is the end of an era, but it also marks the beginning of a new one with Damascus College,” he said.

Mr Sexton acknowledged the support from generations of local Dunnstown families and the St Brendan’s parish who had enabled the outgoing primary school to prosper for as long as it did.

Soon-to-retire St Brendan’s Principal, Inez French, said the decision about the future of the school is exciting and has been well received by the community.

“The biggest fear was the site would remain empty and fall into disrepair.

“With Damascus using the school, Catholic education will continue in Dunnstown and, it will keep people coming into the town. Some of our past students will be among those using the building. Everyone seems very happy about the decision,” she said.