The St Joseph’s College fountain is a symbolic feature of the school that connects students, past and present and has always been an important focal point — acting as a central location for congregating, a meeting place during events, and a familiar backdrop for photographs.
By 2019, the 124-year-old fountain, which has stood on the front lawn at the college since 1897, was looking a little worse for wear.
During the past two years the St Joseph’s College Facilities and Environment Committee has been working with designers Real Building Design and submitting planning permits to ensure the most appropriate course of action was undertaken to maintain the heritage overlay of the fountain and stay as close to the original design as possible.
Rapido Constructions Pty Ltd was appointed to carry out the restoration works, which started in September.
This included the delicate process of moving the fountain forward, to protect it from the trees; construction of a new concrete base above ground level to avoid root damage; rendering, re-coating and recreating damaged pieces; and installing new plumbing and lights.
Principal Michael Delaney said they could not be happier with the finished result.
“The final outcome is a stunning fountain that looks new, but has maintained its heritage and can now be enjoyed by new generations for another 124 years,” Mr Delaney said.
“We are so thrilled to see water flowing once again from this magnificent, historic landmark.”
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