On May 7, 2025, we were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mr Tony Treacy. He served as the Principal of St. Mary’s College from 2003 to 2010, and prior to that, he was the Head of Primary from 1998 to 2002.
He was also a parent, a teacher, a friend and an outstanding mentor and leader in our College Community and Parish.
Tony was a dedicated and effective disciplinarian and educationist. He led the school in a quiet, calm and consistent way. He recognised the rich diversity of St Mary’s College, and he believed we had a history, a purpose and a future. Upon retirement, Tony wrote, “The world has come to the Kimberley. St Mary’s cannot be a haven to shelter children from this world. To be true to its mandate it must confidently prepare our children for the world.“
Tony’s vision to keep St Mary’s true to its motto, “Listening Hearts,” was transformative. He created rich opportunities that allowed students to broaden their horizons and engage with the world in meaningful ways. Through his negotiations with representatives from Taiji, Japan, he was instrumental in forging a unique sister city student exchange program, bridging on history, cultures and fostering international friendships. In the spirit of Reconciliation, his commitment also extended to the Melbourne exchange program. He saw the introduction of The Clontarf Foundation Footy Academy, and the establishment of the new Broome Residential College in collaboration with the State Government, where he proudly served as Chairperson. On the Primary Campus, Tony made a positive impact on education by launching innovative programs such as Reading Recovery, 1st Steps, and was inspired by Dr Chris Sarra’s program, ‘Stronger Smarter’, ensuring each student had the support to thrive. He enjoyed the Monday morning assemblies, where he would explain the gospel to the students, and very often become quite animated acting it out. This set the tone for the week. Tony also led with remarkable pride during our College Centenary celebrations, honouring the past while embracing a hopeful vision for the future.
He worked tirelessly to motivate and inspire the students to get on board and to work hard for themselves aiming to reach their full potential. ‘if it’s going to be, it’s up to me’ was his initiative for student motivation, and the mantra at many assemblies, “Who are you working for?”, “Working for ourselves!”
It is difficult to convey a true measure of his contribution to the St Mary’s College ethos. His service to the schools and communities across the Kimberley was a testament to his dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of so many. His faith was the foundation of his service, clearly seen in the way he prayed, nurtured others, uplifted the school community, and led with humility and grace, while always being aware of individual struggles and achievements.
Tony was unwavering and candid in his commitment to global social justice and the empowerment of our First Nations people. His appreciation for the Indigenous communities of these lands ran deep, rooted in a profound respect for their histories and the legacy of those who came before him. He openly recognised and valued the support he received from parents, dedicated staff, and partner organisations, seeing them as essential allies in the journey toward positive change and making a difference. With fervour, he inspired his ATA’s and Indigenous colleagues to embrace their roles as the storytellers, the gatekeepers of the school and guardians of culture and heritage, while urging all his staff to relentlessly pursue the impact they could make in the lives of every student. His vision was not just about education; it was about igniting a flame of hope and opportunity that would illuminate paths for future generations.
All those who knew Tony will remember he was a humble man with deep compassion and faith, he was greatly accepted and respected by our St Mary’s family. The College Community were saddened when he retired in 2010, and gave him a wonderful farewell.
At his final address to St. Mary’s College, Tony spoke about the many aspects that make St Mary’s culture so unique. He impressed upon us that it is the Spirit—emanating from the Word of God and communicated through words, deeds, and ritual—that truly defines our school. It is this Spirit that inspires our teachers to move beyond simply arriving each day to perform a job, and instead to embark on a shared journey with their students—a journey that transforms teaching into a lived vocation.
We are forever grateful for the many years of the staunch dedication and wise guidance he offered to our school. His remarkable wisdom, and steadfast leadership have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all the students and staff who had the privilege of knowing Tony. The impact of a great teacher is felt long after the end of the lesson.
Tony would wish to be remembered as a family man. He was intensely proud of his wife, children and grandchildren. Beverley, Dominic, Paul, Damian, Josh, Rachel, Rebecca, Sarah, Maria, Anthony and his entire family should be comforted by the fact that their husband, father, jowjie, son, brother and uncle enriched so many lives, and that through his influence many of us are better people because of our encounter with him.
He accepted his diagnosis and fate with dignity, and his strength and extraordinary faith and values continue to be an inspiration to each of us.
“He fought the good fight, he finished the race, and he kept the faith.”
Let us strive to carry on his legacy by continuing to learn, grow, and make a positive impact on the world. May Tony’s memory be a source of inspiration for us all, and may he have eternal peace in the arms of our loving God.
As we say goodbye, know that our College community and the communities throughout the Kimberley will miss you, Tony. Until we meet again, may the blessings of our God be upon you.
