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Our History

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In the late 1970’s the concept of a new Catholic school was born in response to the concerns of parents at St. Vincent’s and St Kevin’s Primary schools. Committees were soon formed and St. Michael’s was soon to become a reality with the help of Brisbane Catholic Education Office. Members of the first committee included Fr Charlie Casey PP Surfers paradise, Mr Mike Streeting, Mrs Beth Newlands and Mr Brian Dunlea.

Mr John Lamb was appointed as the foundation Principal of the College on June 5th 1984, and the College opened its doors on February 4th, 1985 with an enrolment of 76 students in year 8. The school was officially blessed and opened by Archbishop Rush on June 5th, 1985.

  • The first student enrolled was Lisa Radcliffe.
  • The first staff meeting took place on the tenth floor of the Allawah Apartment block on 29th September, 1984, coincidentally the feast day of St. Michael.
  • The first College office was situated down the road at the German Club in January of 1985.
  • The first College assembly took place under a tree in the College grounds.
  • The first meeting of parents of Gold Coast Catholic schools was held on July 23rd, 1984 – coincidently the St Michael’s Ten Year Gala Dinner was held on July 23rd, 1994.
  • The College Chapel was built in 1988 with the generous donations from Parents and Friends of the College. More than $50,000 was raised.
  • The first senior class graduated in 1989. This was the same year that saw the construction of the present Administration and Staffroom block, the library and S Block.
  • 1990 saw the extensions to the oval and the construction of the terraces.
  • 1991 saw the College student numbers reach 630 students but the College lost a dedicated teacher in Mrs Barbara Chippendale as a result of a car accident.
  • 1992 saw the completion of the covered area, funded by the P&F, and later to be called the “Piazza” by St. Michael’s second Principal, Mr Bob White. The Beachathon raised $12,000 to ensure the building of covered walkways.
  • 1994 was the last year of Principal John Lamb. Mr Bob White was appointed for the beginning of 1995. The College ovals were expanded to their current area.
  • 1996 saw the change from independent school sport to the larger State school competition. A decision not made lightly and one with many political overtones.
  • 1997 – Mrs Dora Luxton appointed Principal. After Mr Bob White’s appointment to St. Mary’s Toowoomba.
  • 1999 – the completion of the Performing arts, Weights Room, Catering Kitchen and Alfresco areas. Introduction of the three year senior structure Years 10 – 12.
  • 2002 – upgrade and refurbishment of Hospitality and the Design Technology area and the establishment of the Air Force Cadet Unit, 232 Squadron
  • 2004 – Appointment of Mrs Luxton to Assisi College Upper Coomera and the subsequent appointment of Mrs Mary Wallis as Principal.
  • Sadly, the College community was rocked with the deaths of Mr Alan Noonan (PE Teacher), Mrs Lynne Dolan (Counsellor) and Mr Peter Williams (former PE Teacher). A memorial garden at the Chapel was established.
  • 2005/2006 – saw extensive grounds improvement –gardens, shade areas, basketball courts. The Student Support Services area was established housing learning support, counsellor, RBR, Voc Ed, Indigenous Liaison. In 2005 we celebrated our 20th year since foundation.
  • 2007 saw the College reach its highest enrolment to date of 710 students. To cater for increasing numbers. Significant planning for major building projects in the future is taking place

  • 2009 - Mrs Mary Wallis was appointed to an Area Supervisor position.  Mr Michael Laidler appointed Principal.
  • 2010 - 25th Anniversary of the College.  Time capsule opened.  25th Anniversary Mass combined with the Opening and Blessing of the Multi Purpose Centre (MPC).  Building starts on the new Resource Cntre and 7 GLA's on the Western end of 'A' Block.