MacKillop Centre

Saint Monica’s College, Epping acquired ownership of former aged care facility Green Gables located at 15 Coulstock Street, Epping on Tuesday, 9 May 2023.

This property adjoins the existing Davisson Street Campus and will be incorporated into the total area of the senior campus in due course.

The working title, to be ratified by Archdiocesan and other religious order authorities, will be Mackillop Centre named in honor of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop and her parents Alexander and Flora MacKillop.  The MacKillop family resided in the Epping district around the time of the bluestone building’s construction. This name highlights the abiding relationship and bond between child, parent and school as core components of our esteemed Monican community.

The specific purposes to which the MacKillop Centre will ultimately be put are currently under discussion and consideration.  However, a fully functional, integrated hub will be established for the delivery and provision of educational services and support for senior secondary students.  Spaces will be available for specific curriculum and worship activities. The property (including land and building) was purchased for $6.16 million with an additional amount of money expended on acquiring certain chattels within the existing facility.  The College has taken a loan and used existing funds to acquire the Centre.  The cost is manageable for the College within the current fees structure.

The site is approximately 4,049 sqm which includes 666 sqm of land on which a heritage bluestone building was constructed in 1871 as a Catholic Primary School.  The building interconnects with the main building.

In its original state, the former Green Gables was a purpose-built, two storey building comprising 55 rooms with ensuites, commercial kitchen, laundry, and 13 car spaces.  It provided accommodation for residents requiring aged care provision.

The MacKillop Centre displays fidelity to secondary Catholic Education in the northern region of the Archdiocese of Melbourne by Saint Monica’s College, Epping through faith-filled adherence to its motto, ‘Pray and Persevere’.

Brian Hanley OAM

College Principal