Damascus College Ballarat proudly opened and blessed the Xavier Flood Senior Learning Centre, a major new educational facility designed to support and inspire senior students as they prepare for life beyond secondary education.

The ceremony took place on Thursday 22 May 2025 at Damascus College, and was led by Bishop Paul Bird, Bishop of Ballarat. The event included a formal blessing, a guided tour of the new centre, and a morning tea for invited guests.

This significant new building is named in honour of Mother Xavier Flood, a pioneering Sister of Mercy and renowned educational leader in Ballarat's Catholic tradition. Born in Ireland and arriving in Australia in 1872, Mother Xavier made a profound contribution to Catholic education, particularly as the first Principal of Sacred Heart College. Known for her wide learning, warmth, and stately presence, Mother Xavier was instrumental in the establishment of Aquinas Training College in 1910— an institution that would eventually evolve into what is now known as Australian Catholic University (ACU).

College Principal Mr Steven Mifsud said the new Senior Learning Centre both honours this legacy and looks to the future. “The Xavier Flood Senior Learning Centre is an investment in the learning, growth and wellbeing of our senior students. It creates a bridge between secondary school and the adult world, offering flexible and engaging spaces that support both independence and connection,” Mr Mifsud said.

“In the spirit of Mother Xavier’s enduring commitment to courageous and holistic education, this building offers the space and support for young people to flourish academically, spiritually and personally.”

Designed by Law Architects and constructed by local builders AW Nicholson, the three-storey centre includes 23 modern classrooms, flexible independent learning areas, student services, gathering spaces, and contemporary amenities. The building’s open staircase, operable glass walls, and natural amphitheatre enhance its connectivity and light-filled ambience, while its eco-conscious design—including solar expansion and sustainable materials—reflects the College’s commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.

Positioned to embrace the campus’ natural bush setting and connected to the wider college via a raised walkway, the Centre is a contemporary interpretation of learning within the Mercy tradition.

“This facility brings together the key functions of senior learning support—VCE and VCE-VM coordination, careers education, and student services—into a unified precinct,” said Mr Mifsud.

“It is a place where learning and discernment intersect, equipping students with the knowledge, confidence and care they need to pursue their chosen pathways.”

The Xavier Flood Senior Learning Centre stands as a testament to Damascus College’s vision of providing future-focussed, values-based education in a setting that nurtures the whole person.

It is a wonderful milestone for the College, as the Damascus community enjoy this innovative and contemporary facility, grateful for all those that worked so hard for it to come to fruition.