New perpetual College Award to be awarded in 2023

We are delighted to announce the introduction of a new College award in 2023 to be known as the Greigory Francis Noonan Pillar of the College Perpetual Award.

The award, which will recognise the sustained contribution of a student to the culture of SPC, has been established following the generous donation of a perpetual trophy by the family of Old Collegian, Greigory Francis Noonan (SPC 1938-41).

Greigory’s children have been working with the College this year to establish a perpetual trophy in honour of their father (who sadly passed away in 2000), following family celebrations earlier this year, marking what would have been Greigory’s 100^th birthday.

Greigory attended St Patrick’s College between 1938-41 and was extremely proud of his SPC connection. He was also involved in many pursuits during his time at school, both academically and on the sporting fields.

He was Captain of the 1st XVIII Football Team in 1940 and 1941; Captain of the Galvin House Athletics 1941; Vice-Captain of Cricket 1941; Senior Prefect 1941; Honours Class 1941; Excelled at cricket, track & field, handball, and tennis and was Senior Prefect on the Debating Team and member of the Literary Society.

After leaving SPC, Greigory served his country in World War II when he enlisted on 16 October, 1941 into the Armoured Corps V 235453 Unit 3 ACTR – Tank Division RAAC.

On 18 January, 1943 Greig was discharged from RAAC because of disbandment. He then enlisted for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) on 29 January, 1943 and was trained and then chosen to be a part of the elite RAAF No 87 Squadron.

After the war, Greig’s vocation in education saw him serve as a school Principal over several decades.

He was also a Member of the St Vincent’s de Paul Society; Marong Shire Councillor, including several terms as President; Justice of the Peace; Loddon Campaspe Regional Planning Authority and enjoyed nurturing the beauty of his garden.

Greigory sadly passed away on 24 October 2000.

The College is delighted to announce that the new Greigory Francis Noonan Pillar of the College Perpetual Award will be offered during the 2023 Academic Assembly in February next year.

This award will recognise the sustained contribution of a student to the culture of St Patrick’s College, as described by our Four Pillars: Faith, Tradition, Excellence, and Joy. This student will be an example of the free and responsible commitment to the values that unite and inspire the College Community.

It is also recognised that this award is through the kind gift of his family, Catherine, Leonie and Greigory (Jr) who wish to honour their father and inspire students to a full and flourishing life.

Greigory’s family have also put together this special presentation of their late father’s life story for you to enjoy – please click here to read.

We thank the Noonan family for this generous gift to St Patrick’s College and our students.