Long Bay College proudly celebrates its 50th Anniversary in 2025, marking five decades of growth, achievements, and community spirit. Since opening in 1975 with just 258 students, 13 dedicated teachers, and a vision for the future, our college has come a long way. What began as a small school in a rural setting, with relocatable classrooms and few resources, has transformed into a thriving educational institution with nearly 2,000 students and state-of-the-art facilities.

Our Beginnings

Founded in 1975 under the leadership of our first principal, Ian Sage, Long Bay College welcomed only Third Form students in its inaugural year. The early years were marked by perseverance, as teachers worked with limited equipment and parents played a crucial role in fundraising to establish the school. The college grounds were stark, without trees or shade, and the elements were unforgiving. Despite these challenges, the collective spirit of staff, students, and the community laid the foundation for the outstanding school we have today.

How Far We’ve Come

Today, Long Bay College is a dynamic learning environment with modern classrooms, exceptional sports facilities, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Our students benefit from an outstanding education, preparing them for a future of success. As we reflect on our journey, we take pride in how much the school has grown and the impact it has had on thousands of students over the past five decades.

50th Anniversary Celebrations

To honour this milestone, we will be celebrating throughout 2025 with a series of exciting events:

Kickstarting the Celebrations

• Athletics Day – 70s Theme
  The celebrations begin with a nostalgic twist at our Athletics Day, embracing the style and energy of the 1970s.
• Alumni Talks
  Throughout the year, we will invite past students back to Long Bay College to share their experiences and insights with our current students, highlighting how their time here shaped their journeys.

Special Events

• 50th Anniversary Art Competition (Term 1)
  Open to all students, this competition will showcase artistic talent while reflecting on the school’s rich history.
• 50th Anniversary Round the Bays Interschool Sports Day
  A day of friendly competition among schools as we celebrate the sporting legacy of Long Bay College.
• Alumni Sports Day – 18-19 September 2025
  Past students will return to take on our premier sports teams in Cricket, Basketball, Soccer, Hockey, Netball, Touch Rugby, and Volleyball.

Labour Weekend Main Events (October 2025)

• Friday 24th October:
  • Open Day
  • VIP Afternoon
  • Time Capsule Burial
  • Performing Arts Production
• Saturday 25th October:
  • Selected school rooms open for tours
  • Gala Dinner – the highlight of our celebrations
• Sunday 26th October:
  • Alumni Brunch (at Long Bay Surf Club or similar venue) – an informal gathering for alumni to reconnect before farewell

Community Celebration

• Saturday 22nd November – LBC 50th Celebration Community Food Truck Evening
  A relaxed evening of delicious food, live entertainment, and community fun, open to students, staff, parents, and the wider Torbay community.

Join the Celebration!

We invite all alumni, past and present staff, and the wider community to be part of our 50th Anniversary celebrations. Whether you want to attend an event, reconnect with old friends, or share your memories, this is a time to reflect on our school’s incredible journey and look ahead to the future.

Stay updated on all our 50th Anniversary events and register your interest by emailing Nerys Byford – [email protected]

Let’s come together to celebrate 50 years of Long Bay College – a legacy built by our students, staff, and community!