A grand opening: Harmony House and the McIntosh Administration Centre

The Most Reverend Dr Phillip Aspinall, the Archbishop of Brisbane, officiated the blessing of the McIntosh Administration Centre and Harmony House dormitory for senior international students.

The event also involved a traditional smoking ceremony and blessing of the land by Aboriginal group Bundjalung Kunjiel.

Ann and Walter McIntosh Jr, family of founding All Saints Chairman the late Walter McIntosh, unveiled the plaque for the McIntosh Administration Centre.

Director of International Education Michael Bartlett, alongside 2021 Boarding Captains Natalie Tsui and Alicia Nguyen, revealed the plaque for Harmony House.

Founding Headmaster The Reverend Canon Len Nairn was in attendance on the day with wife Vada Nairn, along with other significant contributors to the founding and development of All Saints including Reverend Jim Stonier and former Commercial Manager Max Whitford. 

Headmaster Patrick Wallas says it was a delight to welcome back to campus so many of the School’s founding mothers, fathers and friends.

“It’s just lovely that they graced us with their presence,” says Mr Wallas.

“It gave us an opportunity to not just thank those people, but also to remind those who are currently at the School about where we’ve come from, and the hard work that has been done by others to bring us to this point."

Harmony House is one of the only known boarding houses in Queensland specifically designed for students in Year 12; a blend between normal boarding school and independent university-style living.

According to Mr Bartlett, senior international students have been thriving with the new living arrangement.

“It’s so nice being around young adults who are learning to be more independent, while in control of their own lives and learning,” says Mr Bartlett. “It certainly has created a happy environment and made for an enjoyable place to live.”

Regarding the opening ceremony, Mr Bartlett says it was particularly special to have had international students unveiling the plaque.

“I think they felt very valued, and I believe it will continue to be a memorable moment in their lives.”