125 years on, generations of Beaudesert families continue to choose St Mary's Primary School

For 125 years, generations of Beaudesert families have shared one enduring aspiration - a St Mary’s Primary School education for their children. 

In 2026, St Mary's Primary School celebrates its 125th anniversary marking more than a century of serving the Beaudesert community.

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1901 the Catholic primary school was established to meet growing demand for a Catholic primary school in the Beaudesert area. 

Today that legacy remains strong. Following significant enrolment growth between 2024 and 2025, the school has maintained record Prep numbers, with approximately 80 students enrolled this year and similar numbers anticipated for the 2027 school year.

Principal Diane McClure said the continued enrolment growth was the result of a strong reputation.

"Our reputation has been built over 125 years through the relationships we form with our families and the care we show every child,” she said.

“We are seeing former students return as parents, and that is one of the strongest endorsements a school can receive."

For many families the decision to enrol at St Mary's Primary School is about more than education. It is about becoming part of a community where children are known, valued, and encouraged to flourish.

Alumni parent Mary Dunne said that sense of belonging has endured long after she left the classroom.

“Choosing St Mary's for my child felt like a natural decision,” she said.

“What stood out to me when I attended St Mary's was the sense of community.

"It wasn't just a school; it felt like an extended family. The values, the support from teachers and the friendships I made have stayed with me throughout my life.”

Diane adds the school’s mission is simple, “we belong, we grow, we serve”.

“We want every child and every family to feel they belong, while inspiring future generations to lead hope-filled lives."

"When people speak about St Mary's, they often talk about the relationships," Renay adds.

"Whether it's families returning with their own children, former students staying connected to the school, or staff dedicating decades of service, there is a genuine sense of belonging here. 

“That connection is something very special."

To mark its 125th anniversary St Mary’s Primary School will host a series of celebrations in August. Festivities begin with a thanksgiving Mass on 19 August 2026. On the 22 August, past and present students, families, staff and friends will also gather for a community morning tea before coming together again that evening for a gala dinner.

Share your St Mary's Primary School story

As part of the school's 125th anniversary celebrations St Mary's Primary School is inviting former students, parents, staff and community members to contribute memories to ‘A Symphony of Stories,’ a commemorative book capturing the people and moments that have shaped the school across generations. 

Stories can be submitted via email to pbeaudesert@bne.catholic.edu.au

For more information about St Mary’s Primary School, Beaudesert or to enrol click here.

Did you know?

Catholic education began in 1901, when St Mary’s Primary School in Beaudesert first opened to support local families. Find a Catholic school in the Scenic Rim today! Click here.

Image caption: St Mary's Primary School, Beaudesert celebrates 125 years in 2026. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2024).