Strive for better things

House Colour - Blue

John McColl (Br Paulinus) was born in Wellington, New Zealand in 1878. He entered the training house of the Marist Brothers, three months before he turned 12. He taught at North Sydney and then in 1904, aged 25 years he became Director of the Marist Brothers school in Bendigo. In 1922 he was appointed the first Director of the St Patrick’s College Sale. This period clearly proved his ability as administrator, his flair in public relations and his warm affection for the Brothers and boys.

Old Collegians of these days remembered Br Paulinus for his vigorous exhortations to live their motto, “Aemulamini Meliora” which means “Strive for better things”. His own enthusiasm was evident in the classroom and on the sports fields.  He took a keen interest in athletics and this played no small part in the extraordinary results St Patrick’s had in athletics. He is probably best remembered for being the driving force in obtaining the land and building the College Oval. He was a strong and original type of man, and a leader among men.
The Bishop’s Family Foundation was launched in June 1999 with the aim of raising a substantial capital base to be used in helping fund programs assisting families in the Greater Gippsland area which the Diocese of Sale covers. Paulinis house regularly runs raffles, casual days and sausage sizzles to raise money for this foundation.

Paulinus Leadership & Staff