“Change is possible” whispers the wind as it rustles through the trees surrounding Dunlea Centre. This is not just any school. Dunlea Centre offers hope and a new beginning for young people facing emotional behavioral or social difficulties.
Dunlea Centre in Engadine began its journey in 1939. Father Thomas Vincent Dunlea, a Roman Catholic priest from Ireland founded it. Ministering to homeless families, he couldn’t turn away a dying woman’s plea to care for her son. Soon, more boys arrived needing a home.
The presbytery was too small. Fr Tom rented a house. Twenty-seven boys three dogs two goats and chickens filled the property. Neighbors complained. The health inspector threatened eviction. Fr Tom organized a march to a camp called Boys’ Town. News reels and newspapers covered the event. Public support poured in.
A seven-acre property was purchased in Engadine. Premier Alexander Mair opened Boys’ Town in 1941. Fr Tom declared it a hometown for homeless and friendless boys. A place of charity unity and kindness. It welcomed boys of every race color and creed.
Boys’ Town was partly self-supporting. The boys ran their own council. They held elections for mayor aldermen and health inspectors. The “town” had school rooms dormitories a kitchen a chapel a swimming pool and even a hospital. The boys managed a farm with livestock vegetable gardens and workshops.
In 1942 the De La Salle Brothers assisted Fr Tom. In 1950 Fr Dunlea resigned. The Salesians took over in 1952. They remained until 2005.
Over time Boys’ Town transformed. It became a residential school for disadvantaged boys. By the late 1970s most students were boarders. In the early 2000s girls began attending as day students. Boys’ Town was renamed Dunlea Centre. It honored its founder and its changing mission.
In 2010 Dunlea Centre opened its first girls residential unit. In 2024 a primary program started for years 3-6. Dunlea Centre helps younger students balance home social and educational lives.
Today Dunlea Centre uses the Teaching-Family Model. It teaches positive behaviors and coping skills. The centre focuses on building relationships promoting healthy behaviors and providing a structured environment. Specialist teachers and social workers support the students.
Dunlea Centre embodies RUAH. This promotes respect understanding affection and humour. It is a place where young people and families at risk can change their lives and build a hopeful future together.
Notable alumni include politician Dan Minogue Aboriginal elder Johnny Jarrett and Ben Lexcen. Ben designed Australia’s winning America’s Cup yacht in 1983. Former staff include Fr Chris Riley founder of Youth Off The Streets.
Dunlea Centre remains a beacon of hope. It demonstrates the power of compassion. It shows the strength of community. It exemplifies the belief that every young person deserves a chance to thrive. As you leave Dunlea Centre remember its enduring message of transformation and renewal.