Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese mourns the loss of Diocese of Parramatta Bishop Emeritus Kevin Manning who passed away yesterday. Bishop Manning who attended and studied for the priesthood at St Columba’s College Springwood, served as Bishop of Parramatta from 1997 to 2010.
Through his leadership, characterised by compassion and commitment, Bishop Manning left an indelible mark on the Parramatta community. He was the Patron of the Bishop Manning Support Fund, a charitable fund established in 2007 by Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese to receive tax-deductible donations to provide financial assistance for families in the Diocese who would like a Catholic education for their children, but for whom the cost is out of reach.
Executive Director of Catholic Schools Jack de Groot served alongside Bishop Manning on the Australian Catholic Social Justice Council during the 1990s. He said Bishop Manning’s commitment to equitable access to Catholic schooling and contribution to education in the Diocese of Parramatta leaves a proud legacy.
"Bishop Manning’s personal experiences deeply informed his advocacy for Catholic Social Teaching, particularly regarding workers' rights," said Jack. "His time in Armidale also fueled his commitment to supporting First Australians, highlighting the injustices of poverty and discrimination."
One of seven children, Bishop Manning left school at 14 to work and support his family. These early experiences of hardship, coupled with a desire to share what little he had with those in need, shaped his profound commitment to social justice. Bishop Manning was a strong advocate for workplace relations, social justice and especially his careful fostering of good relations with Muslims.
Diocese of Parramatta Curia member Sr Patty Andrew OSU served as Principal of Holy Family Primary Luddenham during the time Bishop Manning led the Diocese and says his ability to connect through shared experience exemplified his dedication to community.
"One fond memory I have is from a special Holy Family Luddenham Parish anniversary celebration in the mid-1990s," said Sr Patty. "During Mass, Bishop Kevin made a profound connection with the congregation, sharing a personal story from his youth when, as a young seminarian, he worked on the construction of the Warragamba Dam during his holidays. This experience allowed him to spend time with the labourers, and he emphasised how much he learned from them. His heartfelt reflections resonated deeply with the working-class community gathered that evening."
Former Executive Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta Greg Whitby AM KSG fondly remembers Bishop Manning as a good pastor with “clarity of purpose for Catholic schooling”. He also admired Bishop Manning’s leadership on interfaith dialogue, observing that this is such a relevant focus for our times.
Former Executive Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta Dr Anne Benjamin worked with Bishop Manning during his time in Armidale and for a long period when he was Bishop of Parramatta and paid tribute to his legacy of supporting school communities.
“I remember Bishop Kevin as a pastor who made a priority for the wellbeing of children in our schools,” said Anne. “He supported the work of teachers and put trust in our staff. We shared a mutual respect and regard."
“We will continue to honour Bishop Manning’s legacy through the Support Fund in his name,” Jack de Groot added. “Bishop Manning stood with people who experienced disadvantage and had such solidarity with people doing it tough. The Support Fund provides practical support for families who struggle with costs associated with schooling such as uniforms and technology.”
Learn more about the Bishop Manning Support Fund
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
-
09 Dec 2025
From Facebook
In celebration of the incredible sporting talent at our school, and the success we have been fortunate enough to experience at all representative levels, last week we held our Annual Sports Awards assembly for 2025. Across a vast range of sports and activities - as diverse as Chess, Volleyball, Touch, Badminton, Cricket, Soccer, AFL and Rugby League - the skills and dedication displayed by our students were truly impressive. Huge congratulations and thanks to the teachers who coached and organised teams each week, the students who participated with passion and sportsmanship proudly represented our school, and finally, to Mr Noah Meares for leading the assembly and facilitating our representative sport so professionally throughout the year.
08 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Last week, we held our annual Step Up Into Senior School (SUISS) program for Year 10 students. This program assists Year 10 students who are continuing into Year 11 to prepare for the significant step up into senior education. Workshops presented by our staff included study skills, managing health and wellbeing, respectful relationships and career pathways – complemented by sessions on motivation, setting goals, and team building presented by several outstanding guest speakers. Thanks to Miss Lombo and Mr Williams for their tremendous work in getting the program organised this year. And a special thanks to our guests: Daniel Merza, Jesse Sene-Lefao, Siosaia Vave and Matthew Cameron and Tuza from African Beats.
Latest News More news
09 Dec 2025
From Facebook
In celebration of the incredible sporting talent at our school, and the success we have been fortunate enough to experience at all representative levels, last week we held our Annual Sports Awards assembly for 2025. Across a vast range of sports and activities - as diverse as Chess, Volleyball, Touch, Badminton, Cricket, Soccer, AFL and Rugby League - the skills and dedication displayed by our students were truly impressive. Huge congratulations and thanks to the teachers who coached and organised teams each week, the students who participated with passion and sportsmanship proudly represented our school, and finally, to Mr Noah Meares for leading the assembly and facilitating our representative sport so professionally throughout the year.
08 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Last week, we held our annual Step Up Into Senior School (SUISS) program for Year 10 students. This program assists Year 10 students who are continuing into Year 11 to prepare for the significant step up into senior education. Workshops presented by our staff included study skills, managing health and wellbeing, respectful relationships and career pathways – complemented by sessions on motivation, setting goals, and team building presented by several outstanding guest speakers. Thanks to Miss Lombo and Mr Williams for their tremendous work in getting the program organised this year. And a special thanks to our guests: Daniel Merza, Jesse Sene-Lefao, Siosaia Vave and Matthew Cameron and Tuza from African Beats.
03 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Each Thursday this year, as part of our Special Religious Education program, a group of committed Year 10 students visited Blacktown South Public School to work with students from various year groups. They guide and support young students in exploring and understanding their faith. Our Year 10 students have excelled in preparing engaging lessons each week, incorporating activities such as prayer, storytelling, drawing, writing, and reflection. With the conclusion of the final SRE lesson for 2025, we extend our congratulations to these Year 10 students for their exceptional dedication and effort in nurturing the faith and growth of these young learners.
02 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Last Friday evening, we held our Year 12 2025 Formal at Novella on the Park at Abbotsbury. The Year 12 boys looked resplendent in their formal attire and there was a very large contingent of teachers in attendance to farewell this outstanding senior group. The evening was filled with joy, dancing, gelato and laughter. Special thanks to Mr Williams, Miss Gearing and Ms Aboelsaad for their efforts in organising this memorable event.
26 Nov 2025
From Facebook
16s Super Rugby Cleansweep The 2025 Super Rugby U16s competition began in late September and concluded November 2, and Patrician Brothers' College Blacktown was well represented with four students among the squad, including Charlie Xuereb, Cordell Arama, Talmage Lemusu and Ziyon Lepolo, with all four eventually playing in the determined 57-34 Grand Final defeat of the QLD Reds at Knox Grammar School. Games were played against Victoria, QLD Reds, Western Force and ACT Brumbies, with numerous dominant performances including 97-0 and 96-7 wins. Our Patties boys were consistently named as standouts among the squad. And the proof is in the selection, with three of our boys from the Blue and Gold now named in the Green and Gold. Huge shoutouts to Talmage, Charlie and Cordell who were named in the Australian U16s squad, with Patrician Brothers' Blacktown the most represented school in the squad, a phenomenal achievement to outnumber the nation's elite rugby union schools, proving Patrician Brothers' Blacktown is where champions are made. The College community is incredibly proud of all four young men and are right behind them as they prepare for camp and their upcoming match against the QLD Reds U17s in December. A further special mention as well to Bronson Tupou of Year 9, who played in the NSW Waratahs U15 in a two match series against the QLD Reds, scoring the match winner in one of the games.
25 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Last Sunday evening, our newly invested 2026 Student Leaders joined ACYF pilgrims and student leaders from other secondary schools across Parramatta Diocese to celebrate Mass with Bishop Vincent Long at St Patrick's Cathedral.
24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Last Friday, we celebrated the rich diversity within our College community during Multicultural Day. After being welcomed with dance and song by our Indigenous students, everyone enjoyed a series of student-led workshops showcasing dance, games, songs and traditions from our cultural groups. The day concluded with an outstanding concert featuring performances from our African, Middle Eastern, Greek, Pasifika, Indian, Thai, Filipino and Brazilian students and teachers - with some creative input from several guest performers.
20 Nov 2025
From Facebook
This week, our College Assembly featured the Investiture of our 2026 Student Leadership Team. The new team has already undertaken extensive training at school, and with student leaders from the other Patrician-linked schools across Sydney. They will commence their roles with faith, enthusiasm and an impressive list of practical ideas for building our school community during the next 12 months. Fr Andrew Rooney, from Mary Queen of the Family Parish at Blacktown, was kind enough to lead the Investiture Ceremony..
18 Nov 2025
Western Sydney Catholic Schools hold the phone
Student mobile phone use will be banned across 80 Western Sydney Catholic schools from the beginning of the 2026 school year. The restriction presents a positive opportunity to enhance student outcomes, both in academic excellence and wellbeing.
11 Nov 2025
From Facebook
💙💛 2026 Sponsorships Now Open! 💛💙 Patrician Brothers’ College, Blacktown, is inviting local businesses and community partners to become proud sponsors of one of Sydney’s leading school sporting programs. By partnering with us, you’ll gain strong exposure through local, state, and national sporting events — while supporting excellence, teamwork, and community spirit. 🏆 Sponsorship Packages Available: Platinum | Gold | Silver | Bronze 📣 Opportunities include team uniform, training uniform, program, or event sponsorships. 👉 Scan the QR code or contact Madlin Aboelsaad at maboelsaad@parra.catholic.edu.au for more information. 📞 0409 345 843 Let’s make 2026 a year of sporting success — together! 💪⚡️ #PatricianBrothersCollege #Blacktown #SportsSponsorship #CommunityPartners #TeamSpirit
10 Oct 2025
From Facebook
07 Oct 2025
From Facebook
Two weeks on, we couldn't resist a final look back at our wonderful Year 12 Graduation Mass and Ceremony! A day filled with pride, performances, and heartfelt goodbyes. 🎓