Principal 1942

Br Cornelius Placidus Foley was appointed Principal in 1942.

Born in Ireland, he completed his novitate there before coming to Australia in 1920. An inspiring and outstanding teacher, he quickly gained a reputation for his work at Waverley College in Sydney, St Joseph's in Warrnambool, St Laurence's in South Brisbane and Aquinas College in Perth, of which he was the founding Principal. Unfortunately he developed a kidney condition, nephritis, which was to cause him problems for the rest of his life.

It is said that Placidus was an appropriate name for Br Foley, he was a quiet and gentle man. A teacher and scholar of wide learning, he could hold his own in discussion and disputation on a range of issues whilst retaining his even disposition.For this reason he is represented on the Foley House crest with the mortar board and scroll.

During his three years at St Joseph's, from 1942 to 1944, his kidney illness recurred and his doctor prescribed complete rest. Soon after he returned to Ireland and died there in 1953.

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