In 2018, Marist Regional College was approached and asked whether an acknowledgement of the historical abuse could be made by the College. This request was supported by the College Leadership Team, the College Board and following consultation with the Archbishop of Hobart, endorsed by Julian Porteous in late December 2018.
In 2019, the College formed the “Seek the Truth Committee” led by Dr Trish Hindmarsh, the former Director of Catholic Education Tasmania and a local parishioner. This Committee of key stakeholders worked to respectfully develop an expression of recognition and sorrow for historical sexual abuse that occurred at Marist College and Marist Regional College.
Former Principal, Mr Adrian Drane, was committed to acknowledging the past sexual abuse. Mr Drane’s sudden illness and passing has seen this commitment and responsibility handed to Acting Principals, Mr Peter Douglas (2019) and Mr Gregg Sharman (2020), the Seek the Truth Committee and the College Leadership Team.
Our commitment to Marist Regional College’s A Ritual of Lament has always remained strong, even as our plans were unfortunately put on hold as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Please join us on Saturday, 20 March 2021 at 11.00am, at the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens to acknowledge and remember those who have suffered past sexual abuse at Marist College and Marist Regional College. Survivors of sexual abuse, together with their partners, family members, friends, and others associated with the College and Parish, are warmly invited to attend.
Archbishop Julian Porteous and Marist Fathers Provincial Fr Tony Corcoran will be present and participating in the Ritual. The College will live stream the Ritual with limited / restricted access to ensure that confidentiality and privacy of attendees is upheld. For further information on the live stream or to indicate your interest in attending the Ritual, please email comms@mrc.tas.edu.au
The Seek the Truth Committee has designed a plaque as a tangible sign of lasting acknowledgment and sorrow to be placed afterwards, in the Reconciliation Garden at the entrance to Marist Regional College. This is a visual reminder of the commitment the College has, to ensuring a safe and supportive future for all young people entrusted in its care.
In 2020, the College has appointed a dedicated Workplace Health and Safety Officer, who is also the College’s Child Safety Officer. In addition to the Catholic Education Tasmania’s policy and procedures already in place, this role ensures that all new staff to the College undertake professional learning in Child Safety before commencing their work with our young people.
The College will continue to take all the time that is required, to acknowledge and engage survivors and to work with the community, together we can support the healing process, reconciling our past with our hope for the future.
Please see the following statement linked online: https://mrc.tas.edu.au/community/mdos/
Contact:
Gregg Sharman
Principal, Marist Regional College
(03) 6432 7600