St Mary’s teacher aides Ali Humphreys, Chris Molloy, Pauline Roberts and Beryl Parfett get into the Christmas spirit

August 1, 2012

St Mary’s Catholic College’s Maryknoll Centre in Kingaroy was transformed into a winter wonderland on Saturday night as more than 70 staff members and parents celebrated “Christmas in July”.

The staff function was organised by St Mary’s teacher Larry Byrne who put weeks of work and planning into this event, with help from many staff and students.

On arrival, guests were ushered through a pathway of lights into a darkened hall adorned with Christmas lights and decorations.

A traditional three-course meal was prepared by Jason Ford (TAFE) and Chris Bates (Queensland Heath) and their team of helpers.

They were entertained throughout the night by a number of musical acts including local duo Grant Jeppeson and Vashti Bruyn, and Brisbane-based folk singer Damien Murtagh.

St Mary’s College principal Mr Michael Nayler said the evening was designed to be a staff bonding and morale building event.

He said it had been a great success and he was extremely grateful to Larry Byrne, Jason Ford and the huge group of helpers and entertainers for creating such a memorable occasion.

He hoped “Christmas in July” would become an annual event at the college.

Principal Michael Nayler with chef Jason Ford who prepared a traditional three-course Christmas dinner with all the trimmings
Staff were having a cracking good time … as the lights twinkled and real (and video) fires added to the atmosphere

P&F President Damien Martoo with his wife Bronwyn

Anne and Julian Connelly with Mark Richard (in the stylish hat)
The Maryknoll Centre was transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland for the dinner

Scott Collier, Racheal Stenning and Jerry Kumar

Peter Verbakel and Pam Radcliffe

Claire Van Dyk and Larry Byrne

Emma Galea and Mary Childs
Damien Murtagh, from Brisbane, kept the diners entertained with live music and quiz questions