About Us

Our Heritage

St Mary's Parish Primary School originated as a result of the 1850's gold rush and the ensuing permanent settlement of the Ararat district. In 1889 the Brigidine Sisters took over the running of the school from lay teacher, Mr Thomas Williams, thus securing for Ararat's Catholic community a firm basis for their educational and religious development.

The current school was built in 1963 with numerous additions and refurbishments since that time, notably with the building of our undercover area as part of the Commonwealth Governments ‘Building the Education Revolution’ project. 

Our Crest

The cross in the top section of the crest is that of St Brigid. This cross is based on the  simple cross of reeds which tradition says St Brigid used when teaching the truths of the Catholic faith. The small lamp in the lower section of the crest represents the light of the  Christian faith and the light of learning.

Our Motto - Strength & Gentleness

The motto "Strength and Gentleness" (Fortiter et Suaviter), was the motto of the Founder of the Brigidine Sisters, Bishop Daniel Delaney. The motto sets before us the virtues of strength and gentleness, so characteristic of St Brigid and challenges us all to be ‘people of strength' and ‘people of gentleness'.