The College recently reconnected with former boarder Chris Haintz (SPC 1945-50) who has shared his memories of SPC school days.
"Life for me began at SPC in 1945. I moved to Ballarat from a state school of 30 to being one of 300 boarders. It was a fair shock at first but as we were allocated a senior boy to show us around – it wasn't too bad – 30 in a dormitory and the "horse trough" area where we shaved and did our washing – and the lockers etc were a challenge.
Friendships developed over my six years at SPC and were everlasting as I found from the first school days – we were always delighted to meet and share old times. Unfortunately the numbers are getting less and at the SPC 125-Year Reunion (in 2018), there were very few of our generation.
I have given great thought to which teacher had the greatest impact on my life.
In 1945-47, Br Tom Mullins had an amazing work ethic. He ran the dining room, a dormitory, sub-intermediate and supervised outdoor staff. He was a remarkable person and really an inspiration.
Happy moments during my time at SPC included being a member of the 1st XVIII, Captain of the 2nd XVIII and Captain of the 2nd IV.
Catholic values of the period were clearly demonstrated in our everyday classes. This background did much to shape personal values as we moved into the wider world.
Values have changed over the years, but family life can still be shaped on the simple basics if we are prepared to listen.