Community farewell for Mrs O'Hea and Mr Williams

Following the student farewell on 29 November to our retiring stalwarts, Mrs Janine O’Hea and Mr Paul Williams, the wider College Community joined the school to bid them farewell after classes 8 December in the Savio Centre.

On this very special occasion, we acknowledge the blessings Mrs O’Hea and Mr Williams have bestowed on our community. Ms Gilligan said they have "gifted us with strong hands, wisdom and loving hearts in responding to student needs."

"We offer our thanks to them for their dedication and sincere love extended to the students, staff and families of Dominic College over many years, Ms Gilligan said. "We will miss them a great deal and hope they will enjoy well deserved retirement after their tireless and dedicated service."

Mrs O’Hea and Mr Williams will always be a part of this community and Dominic College is greatly enriched because of their work and contribution. We wish them the very best and they leave us with heartfelt thanks as we wish them every happiness in their next stage of life.

The ceremony was a combination of formal and informal and a wonderful occasion to share. The Savio centre was in intimate mode, with am unusual arrangement of cushions, snack tables, chairs, decorations, refreshments available and a beautifully organised raised dias and stage.

Among the speakers were MCs, Will Parkinson and Maggie Baker, College Captains for 2018, Mrs Nicola Rayner, P&F President, old scholars Brad Tuffin and Lauren Rowlands, as well as a special dramatic rendition of contributed memoirs from Mr Golding, Mrs Palermo, Mr Reinbach and Mrs Douglas.

There were some very special performances: a beautiful dance duo from senior students, an entertaining musical piece from junior students, and a farewell song from representatives of the senior choir.

Mr Williams and Mrs O'Hea received gifts from the community, presented by students and each spoke about their experiences, their gratitude for both the leaders for whom they have worked and the peers with whom they have taught. Above all they are grateful for their experiences with students in their care.

God bless you both Mr Williams and Mrs O'Hea.

You can see photos on our gallery: Community farewell.