The College was recently able to support a wonderful tribute to the ‘Mothers of Paradians’ over the years. It recognised the contributions that mums have made to the education of their sons and to the Parade College community.

Stephen Nailer (1987) approached the OPA about the tree planting project. Principal Andy Kuppe (1983) embraced the concept straight away. We were able to source some expert advice from Michael Van Dort, long term College staff member, who identified a perfect tree, the Crepe Myrtle, for the planting location. The Property & Grounds team swung into gear, led by Mario Camilleri, with the purchase and planting of the tree. Lexie Stewart prepared the order of ceremony booklet and Deb Singleton gave her assistance with catering arrangements and the production of the plaque.

The Nailer family saw this tree as a way of highlighting the contribution of Paradian mothers ‘along the years’ and were inspired by their late mother Kaye Nailer’s contribution to the College over many years. Kaye was given the honour of the OPA ‘Woman of Distinction’ Award in 2021 however sadly passed away two weeks prior to accepting the Award.

About 60 of Kaye’s family and friends attended the ceremony. Former Principal Brother Laurie Collins, former Vice Principal Brother Roger Cripps and former OPA President Lewis Derrico (1974) were in attendance. Lewis was given the honour, by the Nailer family, of unfurling the ‘Mothers of Paradians’ plaque, donated by the family in memory of Kaye.

The ceremony was followed by afternoon tea in the Darren Borg Boardroom at the College.

The tree, together with the plaque, will have pride of place in the College’s ‘Foundation Square’ for generations to come.