This year, four Marist Brothers resident in Bendigo celebrate remarkable milestones: Brothers Kevin Hoare and Xavier Collins mark 75 years since their first profession of vows, while Brother Kevin Langley marks 70 years, and Brother Michael McManus, 60 years.
Before honouring their individual journeys, let’s recap on the enduring legacy of the Marist Brothers, whose influence has shaped Catholic education, parish life and community organisations in Bendigo for more than a century.
The Marist Brothers were founded in France in 1817 by Saint Marcellin Champagnat. As a young priest, Champagnat was deeply concerned by the spiritual and educational poverty he encountered among rural children. Convinced that every young person should know they were loved by God, he gathered a small group of young men to educate and accompany the young, particularly those most in need. From these humble beginnings grew an international congregation dedicated to making Jesus Christ known and loved through education.
The Marist Brothers arrived in Australia in 1872, opening their first school in Sydney before expanding to other colonies.
The Brothers first arrived in Bendigo in 1893, teaching classes in St Kilian's Hall until a permanent school was established across the road in McCrae Street (the site of the current Chancery) the following year. What began as a small school quickly became one of the city's most significant Catholic institutions, educating generations of young men and helping shape the life of the local Church.
For almost 90 years, Marist Brothers College was a cornerstone of Catholic education in Bendigo. The Brothers were known not only as teachers, but as mentors, coaches, musicians, organisers and community builders. Their influence extended far beyond the classroom.
Among their most enduring contributions was the establishment of the Marist Brass Band. Founded in 1910 through the college, the band continues to serve the Bendigo community more than a century later, performing at civic commemorations, community events and competitions, while introducing new generations to music. Today, the band's home remains connected to the former Marist Brothers College site.
The Brothers also left a lasting mark on local sport. In 1952, Brother Flavius Donnelly founded Maristians Cricket Club, bringing together students, former students and Brothers in a sporting community built on friendship, teamwork and service. The club survives today as Strathdale-Maristians Cricket Club, carrying forward the Marist name and spirit more than seventy years later.
These institutions are part of a broader legacy. Through schools, sporting clubs, music programs, parish involvement and youth formation, the Marist Brothers helped shape the social, cultural and spiritual fabric of Bendigo. Their impact can still be seen in the lives of former students, families and community organisations throughout the region.
As we celebrate the Brothers marking important anniversaries of religious profession, we also celebrate a tradition that began with Saint Marcellin Champagnat's vision more than two centuries ago, and continues to bear fruit in Bendigo today.
Over the coming weeks, we will share the stories of these Brothers whose lives of prayer, service and commitment embody the Marist missionn and whose witness continues to inspire new generations.