Sacred Heart Girls College / Redwood College 1892 to 1983 Reunion
Garin College had the honor of celebrating the 40-year reunion of former students from Redwood College, the predecessor to Garin College. Redwood College, formerly Sacred Heart Girls’ College, operated from 1892 until its closure in December 1982. The reunion brought together former students who, along with Garin College students, gathered for a special music performance at the reunion registration afternoon held in the Granary (Attic section of the Redwood College building ) at Founders Park.
The reunion was a heartfelt reminder of the enduring legacy of Catholic education in the Nelson District and the deep historical connections between our schools. Redwood College, established by the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions, had served as a beacon of Catholic secondary education for girls for over a century before its closure in 1982. In May 1982, the Sisters of Our Lady of the
Missions made the difficult decision to close Redwood College after 104 years of service.
Garin College opened its doors in 2002, bringing Catholic secondary education back to Nelson after a 20-year gap. The establishment of Garin College marked the continuation of Father Antoine Garin’s educational vision for the region. Father Garin, a missionary priest from the Society of Mary, was appointed to Nelson in 1850, where he worked tirelessly to build schools and orphanages. Recognising the need for a secondary school for girls, he reached out to the newly founded Order of Our Lady of the Missions, requesting that they send three English-speaking nuns to help establish what would become Sacred Heart Girls’ College.
Named after Father Antoine Garin, Garin College continues his legacy of faith, education, and service. The college proudly honors its historical roots, offering Catholic education for both boys and girls and fostering a
sense of community, faith, and academic excellence. The 40-year reunion of Redwood College alumni is a celebration of the generations of students who have benefitted from Catholic education in the region, from the early days of Father Garin’s mission to the present day at Garin College.
John Maguire, Principal