Mary Josephine Read was born in Dublin on the 20 May 1859. She was professed as a Sister of Mercy on the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy, 24 September 1885, and took the religious name of Sister Mary Xavier. In 1897, when the new Bunbury Congregation was established, she was appointed Mother Assistant.

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Xavier Read's legacy of compassion, dedication, and service serves as a guiding light for the members of Read House. As part of our vibrant College House system, Read House encourages students to embrace their unique talents, foster meaningful connections, and make a positive impact both within our College and in the wider community.

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Our Crest and Motto

​The Read crest consists of three elements: a cross, the Golden Wattle and music notes.

The cross is central in the crest and the design is taken from the cross located on the exterior of the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery. The gallery is housed in the building of the original convent of the Mercy Sisters in Bunbury, which opened in 1897. It symbolises the heritage of the Mercy Sisters in the region.

The Golden Wattle is known for its ability to thrive in Australia’s diverse and often harsh climates, mirroring the enduring spirit of the Australian people. In contemporary times, the golden wattle has become a potent symbol of remembrance and reflection. On national days of mourning, Australians are encouraged to wear a sprig of wattle, fostering a sense of unity and collective memory. This practice underscores the deep connection between the natural world and national identity, highlighting how the golden wattle serves not only as a botanical emblem but also as a touchstone for shared experiences and sentiments.

The music notes represent Sister Xavier Read’s profound relationship with music which played a significant role in her ministry. Known for her musical talents, Sister Xavier utilized music as a tool for education, spiritual enrichment, and community building. As an educator, Sister Xavier integrated music into the curriculum, believing it to be essential for a holistic education. She taught music to her students, fostering their appreciation for the arts and enhancing their cultural and spiritual development. Her dedication to music extended beyond the classroom, as she often organized musical events that brought together diverse groups, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

The motto Dream, Believe and Achieve aligns with the colour yellow, which represents optimism and creativity. The motto suggests a journey where one starts with a vision, fosters confidence and determination, and ultimately realises their goals through persistence and effort. It serves as a reminder that success begins with a clear goal, is sustained by belief and is achieved through consistent action.
 

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