Gilroy Santa Maria College is the result of the 1984 merger of two secondary Catholic schools established in the Ingham district in 1949: Santa Maria High School, a girls’ school administered by the Sisters of Mercy, and Cardinal Gilroy College, a boys’ school administered by the Christian Brothers.

The origins of the schools trace back to 1945, when Fr John Garvey purchased the Roscommon Estate on behalf of the Diocese of Townsville. Fr David O’Meara was appointed Parish Priest and entrusted with establishing a school on the estate. That same year, plans for a Christian Brothers’ school for boys were first recorded.

By 1948, Fr O’Meara had become the eighth Parish Priest of Ingham and advanced projects initiated by Fr Garvey, including the construction of classrooms and a chapel for Cardinal Gilroy College. Santa Maria College officially opened in the convent school complex the following year, providing education for girls under Mother Dympna, who was recognised as the foundress.

Cardinal Gilroy College opened on 1 February 1949, covering Grades 3 to Junior Standard. The first Christian Brothers’ community, led by Brother Ephren Cryan, lived temporarily in a local house until a purpose-built residence was ready. Both schools held their official blessing and opening ceremonies on 26 June 1949, with over 1,000 people attending.

The College was named in honour of Australia’s first cardinal, while the chapel was dedicated to Our Lady of Fatima, with Blessed Martin de Porres as secondary patron.

Through the 1950s and 1960s, the schools expanded steadily. In 1957, Pius X Parish was created in East Ingham, with Gilroy Chapel serving as its Mass centre. New residences, classroom reorganisations, and the appointment of successive principals ensured that both colleges could meet the growing educational needs of the district. The first joint graduation with Santa Maria students took place in 1965, and in 1968, a new building and science block at Gilroy was officially blessed, marking further progress in the provision of modern facilities.

By 1972, Santa Maria High School was relocated to the Gilroy grounds, consolidating the campuses and enhancing access to science and library resources.

The 1970s and early 1980s saw continued development. Silver Jubilee celebrations for both schools were held in 1974, featuring alumni reunions, combined Masses, and community festivities. New facilities, including a library, Manual Arts block, and administrative offices, were progressively added between 1975 and 1982. During this period, the schools also began integrating their finances, co-educational classes, and administrative systems, laying the groundwork for the eventual merger.

The merger in 1984 formally created Gilroy Santa Maria College, uniting the traditions, resources, and communities of the two schools. The first Year 11 class commenced in 1986, with the opening and blessing of the Year 11 and 12 extensions conducted by Bishop Raymond Benjamin, assisted by Senator Margaret Reynolds. The first Year 12 cohort graduated in 1987, marking the full establishment of senior secondary education at the College.

Subsequent decades saw the introduction of Open Days, a Student Representative Council, and major building developments, including refurbished classrooms, the All-Purpose Hall in 2002, and a newly refurbished chapel in 2009, coinciding with the College’s 60th Jubilee.

Gilroy Santa Maria College honours the heritage of its founding schools through its mottos and colours. The Sisters of Mercy motto, Sub Tuum Praesidium (“under your protection”), and the Christian Brothers’ motto, Facere et Docere (“to do and to teach”), continue to guide the College’s values.

The College colours of royal blue and gold reflect the heritage of the original schools: blue symbolises Our Lady under her title of Stella Maris (“Star of the Sea”), while gold represents light, echoing the mission to enhance the light of Christ in every person.

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Message from Acting College Principal Melissa Carr

Gilroy Santa Maria College has always held a special place in our community. Our story began back in 1949 with the opening of Cardinal Gilroy College for Boys (with just 94 students) guided by the Christian Brothers and Santa Maria College for Girls, led by the Sisters of Mercy. We have since educated thousands of young people, carrying forward the vision of Blessed Edmund Rice and Catherine McAuley.
From our humble beginnings we have grown from one building, our Chapel, which continues to be the spiritual heart of our College, into a vibrant learning environment equipped for the opportunities of today and tomorrow. Students now benefit from modern facilities in science, sport, ICT and vocational training through our Trade Training Centre, Hospitality Centre and Salon. Through a variety of general subject offerings, alongside partnerships with distance education providers, we ensure every student can access pathways aligned with their passions and career aspirations.
As we marked our 75th anniversary in 2024, we reflected with gratitude on the legacy entrusted to us a legacy of Learning, Faith and Compassion. At the same time, we look ahead with confidence that we are equipping our students with the skills and agility to thrive in an ever-changing world.

1945
The Roscommon Estate was purchased by Fr John Garvey on behalf of the Diocese of Townsville, with Fr David OMeara appointed Parish Priest to establish a school on the grounds. Plans for a Christian Brothers School for Boys were first recorded, with additional land acquired in Ingham and surrounding districts for this purpose.

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�E1980
On 22 October, a public meeting was held to discuss a proposed Senior High School. A committee was formed, and a feasibility study was conducted, with reports presented in March and June 1981.
1981
Two demountable classrooms were erected for the scholastic year, costing $4,988. One classroom served as a Domestic Science room for Santa Maria girls, while the other was used as a homeroom for Year 10 Gilroy boys. Students from Cardwell were also transported to Gilroy using a newly acquired college bus.
1982
Further improvements were made at the Colleges at a cost of $30,078. Works included enclosing Gilroys undercroft to create a new classroom, converting the former music room into a multi-purpose space, and enclosing the verandas of the Manual Arts block to provide additional storage. Finances were computerised, and all grades became fully co-educational.

1985
In June, the Schools Commission approved a grant of $495,000 for new development, with tenders called in July. The district contributed the remaining $200,000, shared among the Ingham, Halifax, and Abergowrie parishes, reflecting strong local support for the project.
1986
The first Year 11 class commenced, with 75 students enrolled in April. The Year 11 and 12 extension was officially blessed and opened on 19 April by Bishop Raymond Benjamin, with celebrations including a dinner at the Royal Hotel and participation by Senator Margaret Reynolds. Fr David OMeara passed away in Ireland on 15 June.

1992
The Student Representative Council (SRC) was established, giving students a formal voice in school activities and decision-making.
1998
The upper refurbished floor of G-Block was officially opened by Mr Bob Katter and blessed by Father Ferlazzo.
2002
The All-Purpose Hall was completed and dedicated on 11 October, providing a versatile space for school events.
2008
Year 12 students were awarded the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) for the first time.
2009
Gilroy Santa Maria College celebrated its 60th Jubilee, with the refurbished college chapel blessed and officially opened as part of the anniversary celebrations.

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Student 11, Bob Mitting

Reflecting on his time at Cardinal Gilroy College in Ingham, former student Bob (Robert) Mitting recalls nothing but fond memories. Yet, alongside those recollections, he vividly remembers the culture shock he experienced upon arriving.

He had gone from being a barefoot country kid to a student among Christian Brothers and boys with unfamiliar traditions — including the expectation to wear shoes and socks, something he rarely did, especially after the war when footwear was a luxury.

“That was a bit of a shock initially,” he said. “And because we were college boys, we also had to wear ties. You’ve got no idea the cacophony of colours that turned up, with everyone wearing their dads’ old ties. That was one of the first things that really stood out — having to wear shoes, socks, and a tie.”

Another surprise came with the Ingham wet season, which coincided with the start of the school year. The school was still new, and poor drainage left the grounds dotted with puddles and makeshift creeks.

“When you’re kids, you run about and chase each other, running like madmen all over the place. And you’d be up to your knees in a puddle of water before you realised — and with our precious shoes and socks on,” he laughed, adding that he often got into trouble with his mother for it.

The school day began with the usual assembly, where the Brothers read announcements before class. The school consisted of one long building with concertina doors separating classrooms. For larger gatherings, the walls could be opened so the entire school could be addressed by the principal, Brother Cryan. Alongside him, Brothers Wittig and Baillie formed the core teaching team. A new addition, Brother Seaman, was a young, athletic recruit who became the sports coach. Unlike the middle-aged Brothers, he was likely only 18 or 19 — just slightly older than the students themselves.

Bob fondly recalls his claim to fame at the school: he was number 11 on the initial enrolment roll, with Brian Livingston being the very first boy registered.

“The college was small, catering only to the younger grades. They had all the classes from Grade Four up to Junior — as it was in those days, Sub-Junior and Junior,” he said. “The senior years weren’t offered, so students wanting to complete what would now be Years 11 and 12 had to go elsewhere.”

Bob himself didn’t feel the need to continue:

“I just wanted to get out and work, and make some money.”

He learned blacksmithing as a trade and later went on to join the Air Force after school.

One of the highlights of his school days was the school’s first senior rugby league title in 1954.

“It took till 1954 before Cardinal Gilroy actually won the senior rugby league title for the first time. That was a big feather in our caps. We were all pretty chuffed about beating Abergowrie twice and the high school twice — we were the undefeated champions. We often pat each other on the back still, years later. It was a big thing for us, being the first boys to win.”

Looking back, Bob reflects on the friendships, discipline, and camaraderie that shaped his youth.

“I thoroughly enjoyed being there. We did have a good team, you know — the guys, the boys — we all fitted in together and backed each other.”

Even decades later, he retains a deep connection to Ingham.

“I’ve still got a soft spot for Ingham — nothing’s changed a real lot. It still has all the places I used to run around as a kid. I’m proud to be a Gilroy boy, and I’m proud to be an Ingham boy. Seventy-five years is quite an achievement.”

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Forrest Beach will come alive this weekend as surf lifesavers from across North Queensland gather for one of the region�E��E�E���E��Es most anticipated events on the surf sports calendar.

�E��E�E���E��EIt marks the start of the summer season and people look forward to reconnecting after the off-season, enjoying the action and soaking up the Forrest Beach hospitality.�E��E�E���E��E

WHEN: from 9:00 Saturday, 11th October - 12th October
WHERE: Forrest Beach SLSC, Forrest Beach

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Venables 2-Ball Ambrose Tournament

Golfers and community members are invited to take part in the 2-Ball Ambrose Tournament at Ingham Golf Club on Sunday, 19th October, hosted by Venables Glass & Home Solutions. This two-ball Ambrose event promises four hours of competitive fun, camaraderie, and charitable giving, with all funds raised going to Ingham Palliative Care.

Participants are encouraged to nominate early via Inghamgc2021@gmail.com as there are limited spots available. On-course action will include classic Ambrose challenges, with prizes for longest drives, closest to the pin, and a countdown ranking from first to fifth for the overall winners. Adding to the excitement, the ladies from Ingham Palliative Care will host raffles, while Venables merchandise will be available for purchase. Food and drinks will be offered at a separate cost, giving players the chance to enjoy a bite or a refreshing drink while supporting the cause.

Joey Venables explains that the tournament is his family�E��Es way of giving back to palliative care, thanking them for the care they provided his father. A Hinchinbrook Community Recovery officer, engaged by the Council and Queensland government, is assisting with the organisation of the charity aspect of the event, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Whether youre a seasoned golfer or a newcomer to the sport, the Venables 2-Ball Ambrose Tournament offers a perfect blend of competition and charitable spirit. Nominate today and be part of this memorable day on the green.

WHAT: Venable 2-Ball Ambrose Tournament for Ingham Palliative Care
WHEN: 19th October, 2025 at 10am
WHERE: Ingham Golf Club, 67 Marina Pde, Ingham
SIGN UP: Inghamgc2021@gmail.com

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By Victoria Velton

The Ingham Tennis Club has long benefited from the dedication of one remarkable family the Scotts. Gordon Scott, a past Chairman of the club, continues to support the community by running Pickle Ball on Monday nights and officiating at events, sharing his experience and passion for the sport.

The commitment of these three generations is deeply appreciated by the Ingham Tennis Club. Their time, effort, and love for the sport exemplify what makes a community club thrive. The Scotts dedication ensures that tennis  and now Pickle Ball  remains a vibrant part of Ingham's sporting life.

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By Victoria Velton

With the Cardwell Seafest slowly setting up around the runners, Parkrunners showed a market full of stall-holders just how fit they were. With no small thanks to Terry, a man behind the scenes of Cardwell Park Run who blocked retro and hot-rod traffic that morning so the parkrunners could jog on safely.

Terry has never run or walked parkrun, but he has turned up 140 times to volunteer. A beloved part of the Cardwell parkrun family, it's most weeks that Terry is the first to arrive with all the equipment to set up, he then becomes the Northern marshal before barcode scanning. A man beloved in the running community, who will be missed.

"We appreciate all you have done and we shall miss seeing your smiling face. Please remember to pop in for coffee with us sometimes. We wish you all the best. Thank you again, see you around." - Cardwell Park Run

Parkrun Results: 4th October 2025

Palm Creek #93 �E��E�E���E��E 36 participants
Fastest time: Jayson (20:04)
Final finisher: Wayne (54:50)
PBs: Rachel (24:08), Zeke (24:56), Brent (25:57), Amie (28:53), Marika (29:38), Michael (50:23)
First-timers: Max, Jason of Team Runna, Angela, Justine, Lee, Bianca, Darren, Ashley, Samantha of The Adventurers, Bentley, Wayne
Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Paula Rand, Samantha Roberts, Wayne Roberts

Terry's last Cardwell Park Run, surrounded by all his Park Run friends. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Dametto Resigns to Pursue Vision for Capital of the North

Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto, has stunned the community with the announcement that he will contest the upcoming Townsville local government by-election, officially launching his bid to become the next Mayor of Townsville.

After eight years of service in State Parliament, Dametto will step down from his role as Member for Hinchinbrook to pursue the mayoralty an ambitious move with no guarantee of success.

"IT WAS A HARD DECISION, BUT IT WAS THE BEST DECISION

The opportunity came up, and I believe its good for the whole region, he said.

I would like to sincerely thank the good people of Hinchinbrook who have trusted me over the past eight years, said Dametto.

Dametto says I think it's necessary to demonstrate independence" stepping down from his position as Deputy Leader of Katters Australian Party to become a politically neutral leader for Townsville. Photo supplied

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Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

I hope everyone packed their party gear for these weeks of the school holidays! From the river to the sea, there�E��Es plenty happening; from the Rock n Croc last Saturday to Cardwell�E��Es Seafest this weekend, along with many other events lined up throughout the week, some even overlapping this weekend. Maybe I�E��Ell meet a mermaid at Seafest if I�E��Em lucky.

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Fun Fact:  Crocodiles swallow stones to aid in the breakdown of food, as they do not chew. These stones help grind and crush food in their stomachs, especially when they consume whole prey with tough shells or bones. They can also cough up hairballs, as they cannot digest, even with the aid of stones, hair, hooves, claws, and fingernails.

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In the wake of the devastating North Queensland floods earlier this year, the Lions Clubs of District Q2, together with the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), have launched a Disaster Recovery Fund to support local families in need.

The fund offers up to $1000 per household to assist those severely impacted by the disaster. The assistance is aimed at covering essential items and immediate needs, helping families begin the journey of recovery and rebuilding their lives - from basic necessities to urgent requirements, every contribution counts towards restoration.

Residents seeking more information or wishing to apply for assistance can contact the Ingham Lions Club via email at inghamlionsclub@gmail.com.

National Police Remembrance Day

Today, the community of Ingham came together to pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Queensland Police Service who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The National Police Remembrance Day Service, held at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, offered a solemn and poignant moment for reflection, remembrance, and respect.

Since 1861, 151 Queensland Police officers have lost their lives while protecting and serving communities across the state. Their courage, commitment, and selflessness were acknowledged through the reading of the Roll of Honour, the laying of wreaths, and moments of quiet reflection that highlighted the enduring strength and unity within both the policing family and the broader community.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said, �E��E�E���E��EOn behalf of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, I extend our deepest respect and sincere gratitude to the Queensland Police Service, and to all who serve our community with courage, integrity, and dedication. We honour our fallen not only today, but every day.�E��E�E���E��E

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On the 18th of September 2025, an era's end was marked as Senior Sergeant Geoff Bormann attended his final Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group meeting.

Geoff�E��E�E���E��Es calm presence, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment have been vital in guiding Hinchinbrook through some of its most challenging times. His contributions to disaster response, recovery, and community resilience have not only protected lives but also strengthened the very fabric of the community.

"Your contributions to disaster response, recovery, and community resilience have not only protected lives but also strengthened the fabric of our community.

"As you move into the next chapter, please know that your efforts have made a lasting and profound difference. Thank you, Geoff.

Cr Patrick Lynch also shared his congratulations, "Well done, Senior Sargent Geoff, you have been a great leader in our community and a steady hand at the wheel, you will be missed, congratulations and I hope you enjoy your retirement."

As Geoff steps into retirement, he does so leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, compassion, and service. The difference he has made in the Hinchinbrook community will be remembered for years to come.

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Each year, a team of Hinchinbrook Emergency Services Cadets travels to Brisbane to attend the prestigious ESCAPE Week, a program that brings together cadets from across Queensland to experience life at multiple emergency services. This year, three Hinchinbrook cadets participated: two senior cadets attending as leaders and one as a program participant, accompanied by Cadet Coordinator Mark Regazzoli.

The week kicked off at Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), Bribie Island, where cadets underwent an introduction and simulated water rescue exercises. Activities included marine radio operations, abandon-ship drills, swimming to life rafts, and safely using emergency marine flares, all supported by off-duty MRQ volunteers.

On Day 2, the cadets visited the Brisbane Police Academy, exploring the Dog Squad, Bomb Squad, Mounted Police, and POL AIR 3. That afternoon, they joined SES at Riverdale Park for a land search mission, completing the scenario successfully late into the evening.

Day 3 took the cadets to the Gold Coast University Hospital, where they observed the trauma team�E��E�E���E��Es work dealing with severe injuries, road accidents, and patients affected by drugs or alcohol. That afternoon, a visit to the Southport Fire Station provided insight into �E��E�E���E��EFire Comms�E��E�E���E��E and the removal of crash victims from entrapments.

Cadet Group Leader Keldon Fletcher received the Highest Point Award for the group quiz, while leading cadet Kingsley Nipper delivered the Welcome to Country at the award ceremony. Throughout ESCAPE Week, the Hinchinbrook team embodied the program�E��E�E���E��Es values, living up to the #STANDTALL motto with dedication, skill, and excellence.

QLD Emergency Services Cadets on Day 1 at Bribie Island. Photo credit: MRQ Bribie Island Radio Officer, Peter McNamara

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The Hurley Bus

Since launching in December last year, the Hurley Bus has already completed more than 400 bookings, providing free transport for elderly, frail, and palliative community members. The service, run entirely by volunteers through the Ingham Palliative Carers Committee, offers a safe, reliable, and compassionate way for people to stay connected and attend important appointments.

The eight-seat bus is wheelchair accessible and travels throughout Ingham, the surrounding districts, Cardwell, and even to Townsville. While it is most often used for medical appointments, airport transfers, and clinic visits, the service is also available for outings such as family functions, church, shopping trips, the movies, hairdresser appointments, or special occasions.

Each trip includes both a driver and an assistant, all of whom are volunteers with First Aid Certificates and, most importantly, a willingness to help with kindness and joy.

�E��EWe do what we do, and we do it with joy,�E��E says coordinator Judy Cardillo. �E��EAs long as they can, the Hurley Bus will help you get there.�E��E

Residents in Cardwell are especially encouraged to make use of the service.

For more information, or to enquire about volunteering, contact Judy Cardillo on 0428 921 822 or email ninoandjudy@bigpond.com

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