Did you know that Carmel College began with just 80 students? It is hard to believe now. Today, we are standing in front of Carmel College in Thornlands. It is a thriving co-educational Catholic secondary college. Carmel College has a rich history and a strong commitment to its students.
Carmel College was established in 1993 by Brisbane Catholic Education. It was founded by Faye Conley. She oversaw the location scouting and construction. The initial buildings cost $2.1 million. The college opened its doors on February 2, 1993. There were 11 staff members in four buildings. A blessing and opening ceremony was held on July 24, 1993. Representatives from the government, council, and Brisbane Catholic Education attended. Staff, students, and parents were also present.
Carmel College has undergone many expansions. In 2006, Berenice McLellan became principal after Faye Conley retired. In 2010, there was a significant expansion of the facilities. Tragedy struck on December 20, 2011. The College library suffered severe damage from arson. Books, textbooks, and computers were lost. The staff worked hard to replace the lost items.
The Carmel College community celebrated its 20th anniversary on July 20, 2012. Archbishop Mark Coleridge led the ceremony and mass. In July 2015, Carmel College hosted the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball Carnival.
A new $3.1 million library opened on August 25, 2015. There was also a new home economics building, a science building extension, and renovations. This $5.7 million expansion catered to the new Year 7 students.
Carmel College celebrated its 25th anniversary on July 20, 2017. Foundation Principal Faye Conley and Quandamooka elder Aunty Joan Hendriks attended. Past student actor Lincoln Lewis and netball player Jemma Mi Mi also attended.
Construction of the new H Block Senior Learning Facilities began in September 2017. It was completed in October 2019. The tuck-shop was rebuilt and a new staff car park was added. Stephen Adair became principal in 2018. He succeeded Brian Eastaughffe.
The original administration building was demolished in late 2019. A new two-storey building was completed in January 2021. In 2022, Carmel College celebrated its 30th anniversary.
The name Carmel College comes from Mount Carmel. It is a place of religious significance in Christianity. The college logo features a lighthouse. It symbolizes security, family, and faith. The lighthouse sits on a green hill, representing Mount Carmel. The yellow cross represents Jesus. The stars represent the light shining upon us. The motto is “Let Your Light Shine”.
Carmel College has a strong Catholic identity. It follows Carmelite and Marist traditions. The college offers many co-curricular activities. These include sports, arts, and social justice programs. Every year, Carmel College holds inter-house athletics, swimming, and cross-country carnivals.
The Arts Co-Curricular program includes music, drama, dance, and visual art. Biennially, the college performs a large-scale musical. Past performances include Annie and Peter Pan. Carmel College participates in debating and public speaking competitions.
Carmel College has produced notable alumni. These include actor Lincoln Lewis, netball player Jemma Mi Mi, and swimmer Paige Leonhardt. Carmel College continues to be a beacon of learning. It fosters a strong community spirit. The college encourages students to let their light shine.