The Edmund Rice College Centenary Gala Dinner, scheduled for Saturday, May 16, promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime event, bringing together a room filled with rich memories of time spent in classrooms, on sporting fields, and in recital halls. This milestone celebration marks 100 years of Catholic boys' education in the Illawarra region.
Russell Bates, a member of the Class of 1979 and a staff member since 1983, described the event as one of those rare opportunities for the entire community—nearly 1,100 current students, 16,000 alumni, and generations of dedicated staff and parents—to unite under one roof.
History of Edmund Rice College
In January 1926, the history of Catholic boys' education in the Illawarra was forever changed when four Christian Brothers welcomed 105 eager boys to the new school on Peacock Hill at Crown Lane. From these humble beginnings, the school quickly developed a unique spirit. Since that inaugural day, Edmund Rice College has evolved from its modest origins into a landmark of the Illawarra. On May 16, this 100-year legacy culminates in the pinnacle of celebrations: the Centenary Gala Dinner at the WIN Entertainment Centre.
Spotlight on Sporting History
While the evening celebrates a century of facere et docere (to do and to teach), the spotlight will shine on a pivotal era of the college's sporting history. Central to the night's proceedings is a Q&A session with one of its most distinguished Old Boys, former Wallabies player Geoff Shaw.
Shaw's rugby journey is synonymous with a bombshell decision in 1964, when then-principal Brother Brosnan shifted the college's main football code from rugby league to rugby union to address local competition disputes. This bold transition paved the way for the legendary 1965 First XV rugby union team, a powerhouse squad that tore through their season undefeated. Coached by Brother Brosnan, this team became a breeding ground for national talent. Geoff Shaw famously went on to become the first former student to represent Australia and serve as a Wallabies captain. Joining him in the ranks of international representation from that era was teammate Brian Weir, who also donned the Wallabies gold, while teammate Larry Jennet represented the strength of the college in the NSW Country ranks.
A Community Reunion
The gala is designed to be more than just a formal dinner; it is a historical community reunion for generations of alumni, families, and staff. MC Jared Constable, a member of the Class of 2011, will guide guests through an evening of premium hospitality, including a gourmet three-course alternate serve meal and a four-hour Gold beverage package. Beyond the formalities, the night will feature a special production by current and past students, staff, and families of the college.
However, the night truly prioritises connection, offering guests ample time throughout the evening to mingle, share stories of the ERC Spirit, and reunite with old classmates and mentors. It promises to be an unforgettable night honouring the past and inspiring the future.
Tickets are available at erc.edu.au.
