Our Catholic Identity

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The title of our College is based on Mary, Our Lady of the Southern Cross.  Mary binds us together as a College. She followed the example of Jesus and led a life rich in faith to know God.  We are encouraged to live like Mary and follow Jesus’ example.

As a College we have a history deeply rooted in the Gospel and base our virtues on the Legacy of (our charism):

  • Catherine McAuley – founder of the Sisters of Mercy whose order established St Columba’s here in 1877 – Mercy Education values Compassion; Justice; Respect; Hospitality; Service; Courage “We must strive to do ordinary things extraordinarily well.”
  • Edmund Rice – founder of the Christian Brothers whose order established St Mary’s here in 1963 – Four touchstones Liberating education; Gospel Spirituality; Justice and Solidarity – Live, Jesus, in our hearts forever.

It is from this history that we discover our identity as a Catholic College, grounded in our faith and our central values of wisdom, humanity and justice.

Wisdom – empowering our students through a holistic education

Humanity – practiced through acts of love, kindness and connection with self and others

Justice – commitment to social action leading to just outcomes

Encompassing these three values are our Catholic Faith are our chosen Catholic Social Teachings

  • Human Dignity
  • Stewardship of Creation
  • Community and the Common Good
  • Subsidiarity
  • Solidarity

OUR COLLEGE ICONS

Blessed Edmund Rice

  • Served others selflessly
  • Helped others achieve their potential
  • Appreciated the efforts of others

Saint Mary MacKillop

  • Showed a deep sense of social justice
  • Advocated for children and others with integrity
  • Demonstrated loyalty, forgiveness and courage 

Venerable Catherine McAuley

  • Embodied a sense of union through action
  • Promoted active participation through team spirit 
  • Demonstrated the qualities of a team player 

Monsignor Thomas Nolan

  • Creativity and innovation
  • Loyalty to his community
  • Well-regarded by others both in St Joseph’s Parish and within the Dalby community
  • Worked for the benefit of our parish and community