Discover the rich history of The Convent at Koroit, where the Sisters of the Good Samaritan resided from 1907 to 1973. They worked as dedicated teachers and shaped Catholic education in Koroit, Crossley, Illowa, and Kirkstall. The magnificent Convent was designed in Warrnambool, and built, with great care, and attention to detail, by local tradesmen.
An Extraordinary and Magnificent Convent
The Convent at Koroit, established in 1905, became a landmark historical structure vital to the local community as a centre of Catholic education.
It played a crucial role not only in educating children in Koroit but also in shaping Catholic education across Australia.
The Convent's impact extended beyond its walls, influencing educational practices and values throughout the nation.
The Catholic Church of The Infant Jesus - Koroit
The Convent's origins are associated with The Catholic Church of The Infant Jesus, Koroit, which is located diagonally opposite The Convent. The stained glass windows in this Church are breathtaking.
The Church had been established in 1867 during the expansion of the Belfast Mission. (Port Fairy was originally called Belfast.)
At this time, Reverend James Parle had purchased and reserved two acres of land for a secondary school to be named St Patrick's Convent. (This is now The Convent at Koroit.)
On the land opposite the Church, the thriving St Patrick's Primary School is located.
1906 - Laying the Foundation Stone
On April 14, 1906, the Advocate announced that Bishop Higgins of Ballarat, with Archbishop Carr of Melbourne, would lay the foundation stone for the Koroit Convent on Sunday, May 6, 1906.
This event drew 3000 people including clergy and leaders, highlighting the Church's commitment to addressing the Catholic community's schooling needs.
Bishop Higgins declared it a significant milestone for Koroit's Catholic community, while Archbishop Carr expressed his pleasure in contributing to an institution dedicated to providing both secular and religious education to Koroit's youth.
1907 Opening the Convent
St Patrick's Convent, was launched in 1907, and drew an estimated 5,000 people.
They came by horseback and horse and cart from far and wide across the district.
St Augustine's Orphanage Band from Geelong played Haydns 12th Mass along with Irish tunes.
Despite the area's small population, the launch was a significant historic gathering.
Many Thousands Attended the Opening of The Convent at Koroit
This important event marked a milestone in local education. It reflected the importance of The Convent to the community and to the Catholic Church who strongly supported its development.
What Did it Cost to Build The Convent?
At the ceremony, it was announced that the sum of £5493, 9 shillings and l1 pennies had been expended on the convent to date, excluding furniture.
The receipts amounted to £2738 9s. 4d., leaving a debit balance of £3255, including £500 for furniture.
A collection was taken up, and resulted in the substantial amount of £712 and 10 shillings being realised.
So there you are, The Convent cost very little, even for those days, which just shows how much 'goodwill, local labour' must have been involved in the build!
Thanks to Koroit & District Historical Society September 2023 Newsletter for this information.
The Nun's - Sisters of The Good Samaritan of the Order of St Benedict
In 1906, the first nuns, 12 Sisters of the Good Samaritans, moved into The Convent.
They taught in Koroit and Crossley, and later established schools in Illowa and Kirkstall.
In 1973, when the government reinstated financial support for Catholic schools, the Convent was sold.
It was not sold to the highest bidder however, the nuns made sure it went to a worthy cause. Five Melbourne schools purchased it for use as a school camp.
By the time the schools moved out, it is estimated between 8,000 - 10,000 students had attended camp there.
1973 - A Change of Pace - Melbourne School Children Arrive at The Convent!
Children experienced an unforgettable school camp adventure at The Convent at Koroit.
Students from: Niddrie High School, University High School, Buckley Park High School, Essendon High School, and Fitzroy High School engaged in explorations of local history, nature, and team-building activities.
Some of the children were involved in planting many, many trees and bushes on the edge of the volcano at Tower Hill - the end of Anzac Avenue.
This provided a perfect blend of education and adventure, creating lasting memories for students from these Melbourne schools.
Year 11 Buckley Park School 1975
The Children just had so much fun! This image provided by a staff member.
One student from Fitzroy High remembers 1973 when the matresses being set up at night and then piled in the corner during the day!
What a lot of fun eh?
In 2003 The Convent is Sold and Becomes a B&B
The Convent was sold in 2003 for $650,000. The real estate company handling the sale reported receiving over 100 calls - from as far away as New York - in a single weekend when the property was first listed. This highlighted the high interest in this historic site.
2022 - Significant Restorations Begin
A meticulous 20-month restoration of The Convent at Koroit ensued, where skilled craftsmen revived its historic charm. This extensive project preserved the building's architectural beauty while enhancing modern amenities.
This image shows the mark on the stained glass window where an 'out house' had been attached.
Our painters carefully removed the materials from the window leaving it intact. Suddenly light shone into The Convent again!
Partially Restored Door with Stained Glass Window
Partially restored door at The Convent at Koroit, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship involved in reviving this historic landmark.
The image highlights the blend of original details with modern restoration techniques, which preserve the door's timeless character while preparing it for future use.
The door leads to an area that was called 'Spencer Street' by the students as this is where they left their school bags.
Accommodation at The Convent
Nowadays The Convent has become a welcoming hotel, ensuring public access to its historic beauty.
As the building has undergone multiple refurbishments over the past two decades, guests can enjoy a blend of modern comfort and timeless charm.
This preserves the Convent’s legacy while allowing guests to appreciate its interior splendour.