Historical information

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records.

Michele used this Booklet as part of her research:

The booklet "At Heart With the Young: The Story of the Marist Brothers in Bendigo, 1883–1993" by Breda Phillips tells the story of the establishment and early development of the Marist Brothers in Bendigo. The section provided focuses on the period from 1883 to about 1907, describing how the Brothers founded a Catholic boys' school and built a lasting educational tradition despite limited resources.

The booklet opens with a foreword from the Bishop of Sandhurst, who praises the Marist Brothers for their century of dedication to Catholic education and their significant contribution to the religious, educational and social life of Bendigo. He acknowledges their influence on generations of young people and the lasting impact of their work in the diocese.

The first chapter, "The Call and the Response", explains how Bishop Martin Crane invited the Marist Brothers to establish a school in Bendigo after recognising the need for Catholic secondary education. Following discussions with Marist leaders in Europe and Australia, the first community of Brothers arrived from Sydney in April 1883 under the leadership of Brother Basil.

Schooling began in St Kilian's Hall, where the facilities were simple and overcrowded. Brother Basil quickly developed a reputation as a capable teacher and administrator who expected high standards of discipline, respect and academic effort. The Brothers worked in difficult conditions, often teaching large classes while living in temporary accommodation nearby. Despite these challenges, enrolments steadily increased as parents recognised the quality of the education being offered.

As the school grew, efforts were made to improve both the Brothers' living conditions and the school's facilities. In 1893 a permanent residence for the Brothers was completed opposite St Kilian's Hall through generous financial support from local Catholics and church leaders. Although construction delays and transport difficulties briefly interrupted school operations, the community continued to expand and the school established a strong reputation within Bendigo.

The second chapter, *Becoming Established*, describes how the school matured during the following decade. Leadership passed through several directors, including Brothers Stanislaus, Kostka Maund and Paulinus McColl, each of whom strengthened academic standards and expanded enrolments. Under their leadership the school became recognised for both educational excellence and strong Catholic formation.

Religious life formed an important part of the students' education. Pupils participated in daily prayer, Rosary, First Communion celebrations, church choirs and organisations such as the Sodality of the Children of Mary. The Brothers believed that education should develop students spiritually as well as academically.

Academic achievement steadily improved throughout these years. Students earned scholarships, medals and prizes in public examinations, while government inspectors regularly praised the school's discipline, teaching standards and overall quality. Several former students entered the Marist Brothers themselves, while others continued to university or pursued successful professional careers.

The booklet also describes continual improvements to the school's buildings and resources. Donations from parishioners funded repairs, equipment, books and classroom furniture. In 1901 a new primary school building replaced the earlier temporary classrooms, providing a more suitable learning environment as enrolments continued to rise. The school library also expanded through generous donations and new purchases.

Student life extended well beyond the classroom. Boys participated in football, cricket, gymnastics, marching, music, debating and public competitions. They regularly won awards at local exhibitions and academic competitions, helping to establish the school's reputation throughout Victoria. Sporting achievements, musical performances and community celebrations became important parts of school life.

Overall, the booklet presents the early Marist Brothers as dedicated educators who overcame financial hardship, limited facilities and the challenges of establishing a new school. Through strong leadership, commitment to Catholic values and emphasis on academic excellence, they laid the foundations for a respected educational institution that would continue serving the Bendigo community for more than a century.

Physical description

Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - The Marist Brothers in Bendigo

This item includes the following document:

8672.29a Photocopy of a booklet by Breda Phillips - At Heart With the Young, the story of the Maris Brothers in Bendigo 13 A4 Pages