D. Handley

GAWLER (Sth Australia): 28th March -- The last two weeks have been a time of excitement and pride at Xavier College Gawler, Australia.  Xavier College is a Diocesan College conducted by the Salesians. The College commenced in February, 1995.  Amongst the newly completed teaching facilities officially opened last week were a Horticultural Centre and  Resource Centre.  Gawler lies at the heart of an area rich in horticultre especially viticulture and is known as the entrance to one of Australia's best known wine regions.
Xavier College has taken up an innovative approach to education by reflecting the advanced technological approaches in Australian society today, in particular as applied to the resources of the region. The Resource Centre offers students access to a wide variety of digital information and technologies.  Some 900 people gathered for the opening of these facilities and were able to note the enthusiasm and competence of students who demonstrated their capacities on the day through wide-ranging displays.  The total value of the new facilities was just under $3 million, and was supported with a grant of $265,000 by the Federal Government.