Flinders Hosts 35th-Anniversary Luncheon to Recognise Founders and Celebrate Future Growth

To mark 35 years since Matthew Flinders Anglican College was founded, the Matthew Flinders Foundation hosted a heartfelt luncheon on campus on Friday, 17 October 2025, bringing together founding guarantors, early staff, and past parents and friends to share memories and celebrate the College’s journey. 

The event also provided an opportunity to express gratitude to many of the people whose vision and commitment established the strong foundations upon which the College continues to flourish. 

The history and growth of Matthew Flinders Anglican College is captured through stories and photos here.

The occasion provided an opportunity to express gratitude to many of the people whose vision and commitment established the strong foundations upon which the College continues to flourish. 

Guests took great pleasure in exploring the newly masterplanned Infinity Centre, marvelling at how the College’s facilities have transformed from its humble beginnings on a farm. As they walked through the campus, they reminisced about the College’s formative years and reflected on the inspiring journey of teaching and learning at Flinders since the gates first opened on 29 January in 1990.

During the luncheon, John Rivett, one of the founding guarantors, reflected on Rod Forrester’s drive, vision and leadership in establishing an Anglican school on the Sunshine Coast and identified the perfect site for the campus in Buderim. John spoke warmly of Rod’s guidance and foresight in creating what is now one of the region’s most beautiful educational environments. 

The Matthew Flinders Foundation Chair, Mr Murray McCarthy, welcomed and thanked special guests. 

Mr McCarthy said, “The Matthew Flinders Foundation was born from the generosity of those who started this College. It exists today because of that same spirit of people who believed in creating something enduring for generations of students to come. We see ourselves as custodians of that legacy sharing the story of how Flinders began, and ensuring it continues to grow stronger.” 

The College Board Chair, Ms Peta Grenfell, shared the recently unveiled Flinders Master Plan and discussed future developments. 

Ms Grenfell noted, “The College Board, together with the Principal and Executive Leadership Team, is responsible for ensuring that we have our eyes, hearts and minds focused on the College’s future—just as so many of you did as our founding guarantors, contributors, staff and parents. We take this role seriously and are honoured to continue your inspiring legacy.” 

Read some of the fascinating founding stories on the College’s history website here.