General News
26 February, 2024
Emmanuel launches appeal
EMMANUEL College is the place to be this afternoon (Friday) with the official launch of the school’s major capital appeal for the state-of-the-art Edmund Rice Centre.
The appeal will kick off with a much-anticipated basketball match at 2pm when the ‘All Stars Warrnambool Legends’ will take on a group of talented Emmanuel College students.
Along with the basketball match, today’s program will also give the community an opportunity to participate in a variety of activities and see student project displays.
All proceeds from the day will go directly towards the new Edmund Rice Centre.
It is anticipated the centre will accommodate up to 250 year nine students and will be designed to cater to the unique requirements of the 9@RICE program.
Commencing construction last year, it is projected to be ready for occupation by the start of the 2025 school year.
The college is launching a capital appeal in support of its target to raise $1.5 million towards the cost of the centre’s construction.
To date, the appeal has already raised $300,000 through generous community donations.
It is now approaching 10 years since Emmanuel College last asked the community for support to develop the Emmanuel Centre.
Since then the centre has become the heart and soul of college events and celebrations and is used continuously throughout the school day, and by community groups and organisations at night and on weekends.
The extensive current works represent the largest investment in improvements in the school’s history.
The college is grateful for a state government grant of $2 million – the balance will be funded by the college through its building levy, a bank loan and fundraising.
College principal Peter Morgan said today’s event would bring the community together to witness some good old-fashion hospitality and an exciting basketball match.
“Emmanuel students will be pitting themselves against an All Stars team comprising alumni and celebrities,” Mr Morgan said.
“The Rice Rally is an opportunity to learn about the Edmund Rice Centre and the 9@RICE program, both of which are unique to Warrnambool, and join in the spirit of growth that’s been part of our school story for over 150 years.”
The All Stars team will comprise former AFL players Jonathan Brown, Ben Cunnington and Anthony Daniher; Marli Blackey-Noter (former Warrnambool Mermaids player), Steve Callaghan (Callaghan Motors), Leah Kermeen (netball legend and Emmanuel teacher), Molly McKinnon (current Mermaids basketballer), Matthew Monk and daughter Layla, Mick Owen (ski and surf lifesaving champion), Andrew Sloane (South West Academy of Sports CEO) and Shane Smith (Seahawks coach).
The All Stars will be coached by former college basketballer, Bobby Cunningham.
The Emmanuel College student team will comprise Sophie Smith, Paddy Sell, Jimmy Stevens, Lewis Gommers, Poppy Myers, Charlie McKinnon, Kayne Rae-Rentsch, Des O’Keefe, Eve Covey, Molly McLaren, Matilda Sewell and Cijijwok Lual.
The team will be coached by Mermaids basketballer, Louise Brown.
Anyone wishing to donate towards the Edmund Rice Centre Appeal can do site via the College Foundation website at www.emmanuel.vic.edu.au/edmund-rice-centre
