Delany House - Story & Symbols

Bishop Daniel Delany, revered as the house patron of St Augustine's College in Kyabram, left an indelible mark on Catholic education. Born in Ireland in 1747, Delany dedicated his life to advancing education, founding the Brigidine Sisters and the Patrician Brothers. His visionary commitment to empowering the underprivileged through learning inspires our college today. 

Raised by Catholic parents, Daniel studied to become a priest, at a time when priests were outlawed. Once ordained he embarked on a mission to provide education to people from all walks of life. To provide this opportunity for education to more people, Daniel sought out the assistance of young men and women who were willing to create and run schools, as a result of this he founded the Brigidine Sisters in 1807 and the Patrician Brothers in 1808. Delany’s values of community, compassion, and service and his tireless work in establishing effective schools is a source of great inspiration and faith leadership today. 

Symbols & Story

House Patron: Bishop Daniel Delany

Feast Day: 15 August

Delany House Motto – Be Not Afraid

The logo for Delany House depicts a shamrock and the Southern Cross. The shamrock represents Bishop Daniel Delany’s loyalty to the people in Ireland. Daniel returned to Ireland from France at a time when the Irish Catholics were impoverished and oppressed. The Southern Cross, also found on our college logo, marks the coming of the Brigidine Sisters, who were founded by Daniel Delany, to Australia and then Kyabram.

Be Not Afraid (Be Delany) captures the courage of Delany and in turn, the sisters who left what was known and comfortable, and answered God’s call to bring the Good News of the gospel to others in need. 

The house chant is as follows:

Delany is good, Delany is great, 
The others won't get out the gate. 

Other symbols:

• Lamp of Learning:

  • Symbolizing Bishop Daniel Delany's dedication to education, the Lamp of Learning represents the enlightenment that comes from knowledge. Delany's vision led to the establishment of schools, emphasizing the transformative power of education in lifting individuals and communities.

• Brigid's Cross:

  • As Delany founded the Brigidine Sisters, Brigid's Cross symbolizes his commitment to promoting women's education. It reflects the interconnected values of faith, knowledge, and empowerment, echoing Delany's belief in the transformative impact of education on society.

• Episcopal Crozier:

  • The Episcopal Crozier signifies Delany's role as a bishop and spiritual leader. It represents his pastoral care and guidance, emphasizing his commitment to fostering spiritual development alongside intellectual growth within the educational institutions he founded.

• Open Book:

  • The Open Book is a symbol of Delany's advocacy for literacy and learning. It represents the accessibility of knowledge and underscores his belief that education should be open to all, regardless of background, aligning with his inclusive vision for the empowerment of individuals through learning.

• Globe with Compass:

  • The Globe with Compass symbolizes Delany's global perspective on education. It reflects his recognition of the interconnectedness of cultures and the need for a well-rounded, global education. This symbol embodies his commitment to preparing students to engage with and contribute to the wider world.