A large crowd gathered at the Damascus Event Centre on Saturday, 25 October to celebrate 30 years of Damascus College, a milestone built on a legacy that stretches back to 1881.
The afternoon brought together alumni, Sisters of Mercy, current and former staff, students, and friends of the College to honour the people, stories, and faith that have shaped Damascus over three decades. The Event Centre was buzzing with conversation and laughter as guests enjoyed music, hospitality, and an impressive display of archives showcasing the College’s rich history.
The formalities began with a liturgy and Acknowledgement of Country led by students and members of the Catholic Culture Team, grounding the celebration in gratitude and reflection.
Principal Steven Mifsud shared his reflections on the College’s journey, acknowledging the three foundation schools —Sacred Heart College, St Martin’s in the Pines, and St Paul’s Technical College —who, through their courage and vision, gave life to the Damascus story.
“These 30 years of Damascus are built on something far older and deeper, the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy, the Christian Brothers, and the parish communities who founded and sustained our heritage schools,” Mr Mifsud said. “We continue to be inspired by Christ’s Mercy, a welcoming community transforming self, others, and the world.”
Throughout the afternoon, guests were treated to a series of wonderful performances and reflections. The West Family, past student Dan West, and his children, Matilda and Elliot, performed ‘Let It Be’ by The Beatles, symbolising the generations of families who remain connected to Damascus. Alumni twins Will and Charles Smith, performing as My Alibi, brought energy and creativity to the stage with two of their original songs. Author Marion Taffe from the Class of 1991 reflected on how her time at St Martin’s in the Pines shaped her journey as a writer. The Damascus Senior Singers, led by Performing Arts Coordinator Isabella Harper, concluded the formal program with a moving rendition of Light from Next to Normal.
After cutting the 30th Anniversary cake, guests had time to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the enduring friendships formed through the College community.
The celebration concluded with guided campus tours, giving visitors the chance to explore both the bones of the original school and the thriving contemporary College that has grown around it. A highlight for many was the new Xavier Flood Senior Learning Centre, a purpose-built space that supports students in preparing for life beyond school and stands as a symbol of the College’s growth and vision for the future.
The 30th Anniversary Reunion was a proud and joy-filled celebration of faith, learning, and community. It honoured those who laid the foundations of Damascus College and looked with hope toward the next chapter of the College’s story, continuing to educate and care for one another through the light of Christ.