General News
21 October, 2026
100 years of teaching and learning at St Rita’s School
A HISTORIC landmark in local education is set to be celebrated next weekend as St Rita’s Catholic Primary School marks 100 years of faith, learning and service in the Babinda community.
Founded in 1926 by the Sisters of Mercy, St Rita’s was lovingly nurtured by the religious sisters for its first six decades, laying a strong spiritual and educational foundation.
Since then, dedicated lay staff and leaders have proudly carried the torch forward, ensuring every student continues to be known, valued and supported through a quality education grounded in unconditional positive regard for every child.
Reflecting on the milestone, principal Michael Rowe invited the broader region to take part in the upcoming festivities.
“This weekend, our school community will proudly celebrate a remarkable milestone – 100 years of Catholic education in Babinda,” Mr Rowe said.
“We warmly invite our community to join us,” he said.
The centenary celebrations will kick off on the evening of Friday 23 October with the St Rita’s School Centenary Gala Ball at the RSL hall.
Offering alumni, former staff, parishioners, and friends of the school a chance to reconnect and celebrate, the formal evening features a delicious three-course banquet, live entertainment by Riff Raff, raffles and prizes. Limited tickets remain available through the school office.
The main community festivities will take place on Saturday, 24 October, beginning at 10am with a thanksgiving mass at the school campus on 7–13 Church Street.
Following the service, guests can enjoy a full afternoon of free family activities, including a jumping castle, face painting, food trucks, a coffee van and afternoon tea hosted by the P&F.
Attendees will also have the chance to win prizes in centenary raffles and explore extensive historic memorabilia displays showcasing a century of stories, photos and memories.
Read More: Babinda