News

Echuca women gather for breakfast celebration

By Kelly Lucas-Carmody

Mar 5, 2026

St Mary’s Parish Women’s Breakfast brought the community together to celebrate women and milestones. Pictured, from left: Bev Stapleton, Judy Clark, Mary Gray, Phil Stules, Marie Johnson, and Margaret Murray. Photo by JORDAN TOWNROW

Ninety ladies from Echuca gathered last Saturday, February 28, at the St Mary’s Catholic Church Hall to celebrate women and the upcoming 140th anniversary of St Joseph’s College, and to farewell the much-loved Sister Cecilia Merrigan.

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Bacon and eggs and a range of delicious foods were on the breakfast menu, while raffles and lucky door prizes kept the gathering light and friendly. Attendees were also treated to two guest speakers.

St Mary’s Parish social committee member Margaret Hart said the morning also tied in with International Women’s Day.

“It really was a celebration of women in general,” she said.

“Although we spoke about many things, and we also celebrated some big milestones.

“We took the opportunity to thank our wonderful friend Sister Cecilia Merrigan for her tireless work over many years at the parish, including her role on the social committee. She will be greatly missed.”

Guest speaker Pat Whyte shared her experiences at St Joseph’s College, beginning as a Prep student and finishing in Year 10.

Her daughter Megan and granddaughter Georgina have followed in her footsteps.

Judith O’Farrell provided insight into her days at the college as a teacher.

“She particularly focused on the major changes during her time, including the increase in student numbers from around 200 to 700,” Margaret said.

“The college now has an enrolment of 1100 students.

“It was a really lovely morning, with a wonderful atmosphere in the hall.

“The committee thanks everyone who made it possible, all who attended, and everyone who helped make the morning special.”