“IT’S really odd,” said Tory Brett of the first time in decades she has not had to get organised for the return to work as librarian at Tenison Woods College.
After five decades as an employee at the College, Tory retired at the end of last year and has found the transition “relaxing” but “odd”.
“It’s a funny feeling not having to rush around and get organised, but it’s a very nice feeling too,” she said.
“I can get up, have a coffee, talk to the cat, talk to hubby – in that order.
“And I’ve been watching a lot of cricket,” exclaimed the cricket mad Tory.
“But I will miss things, especially the kids.”
Tory’s involvement with the College began when she attended secondary school at Mater Christi College for girls – a predecessor of Tenison Woods College – from Year 8 to Year 11.
Matriculation was not yet available at Mater Christi, so in 1971 Tory went on to complete her final year at Mount Gambier High School.
In 1972, Mater Christi College and Marist Brothers Agricultural College for boys combined as a senior school to form Tenison College at the Shepherdson Road site.
At the age of 17, Tory was offered a position at the school as a Librarian and became the youngest of 15 staff members at the College.
This was in 1972 which was the first year the College had a purpose‐built library.
In 1974, Tory went on leave to be married and start a family but she maintained her connection with the College and spent time studying to be a Library Technician.
Her mother, Pam O’Connor took on the Librarian position and her siblings continued to attend the school.
Tory returned to the College in 1987 when a Librarian Assistant position became available.
In 1988 Tory took over as Librarian and continued in this role at the College until her retirement.
Tory’s role at the College often went beyond that of librarian, inheriting the job of managing the school archives which were originally setup by her mother, Pam O’Connor, who was a local Historian.
In recent years, Tory has spent time digitising year books from Marist Brother’s College, Mater Christi College and Tenison College, so that they can become available in an online capacity, to be searched and viewed by members of the College and the wider community.
Tenison Woods College Principal, David Mezinec praised Tory for her dedication and passion over her five decades of work.
“Tory has been our resident historian and astute investigator in relation to the College story, while at the same time making history herself as our longest serving staff member,” said Mr Mezinec.
“Her commitment to the College and its people has left a lasting impression on how we appreciate the shoulders on which we stand as a Catholic College community and the legacy we leave to future generations.”
Tory reflects on her career and ‘life’ at the College as being fulfilling, particularly when working with younger students.
“I found my connections with primary school and early learning students,” said Tory.
“Their spontaneity and directness were some of the most rewarding and fun moments for me.”
Tory has witnessed the constant development of the College over the years and attributes community spirit as the driving force for this growth.
“A highlight during my career was seeing the building of the multipurpose hall in 1986/87 (known today as the Barrie Holmes Stadium).
“There was a community spirit which was felt all around the College.
“In a time of economic difficulty at the school, the community saw a need and worked tirelessly to ensure students had the facilities they required.
“It was a time of coming together and it was amazing to be involved.”
At the end of school term last year, the College farewelled and honoured her with a standing ovation at the conclusion of her moving farewell speech.
