New college name announced

The new Catholic college planned for the site of the former Sugar Research Institute in South Mackay has been named Catherine McAuley College.

Catholic Bishop of Rockhampton, Most Reverend Michael McCarthy DD made the announcement today following community consultation with parishes and schools within the Mackay Southern Cluster of Parishes.

“My gratitude goes to the new college’s Steering Committee and to Catholic Education for their recommendations as a result of an extensive consultation process. It is my hope that Catherine McAuley College, built on this historical site of research and great learning, will be a true reflection of the local township and area of Mackay,” Bishop McCarthy said.

Bishop McCarthy said Catherine McAuley was the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy and the name reflects the significant contribution the Sisters have made to the establishment and development of Catholic schools in the Mackay region since 1880.

“Catherine McAuley devoted her adult life to ministering to the poor and destitute where she emphasized the importance of education, justice, service, stewardship and respect for the dignity of each person. These qualities have inspired thousands of students who have received a quality Catholic education at a Mackay Catholic school, founded and/or staffed by the Sisters of Mercy over the past 140 years”. Bishop McCarthy said.

Director of Catholic Education – Diocese of Rockhampton, Miss Leesa Jeffcoat AM welcomed the announcement that the new College would be named Catherine McAuley College.

“The College will adopt the Charism of the Sisters of Mercy and this will inspire the College’s Educational Mission and help shape the College’s identity from its very inception,” Miss Jeffcoat said.

Miss Jeffcoat said that the beginning of construction work and the naming of Catherine McAuley College were exciting milestones on the journey towards the College accepting its first cohort of students in 2022.    

“The opening of this new College in Mackay has generated enormous interest from families in the region wishing to enrol their children as well as significant enquiries from teaching professionals seeking information about employment,” Miss Jeffcoat said.

If you wish to make enquiries about future enrolments at Catherine McAuley College please call 1800 228 433 or email info@rok.catholic.edu.au