Triplets set to make history

​In a triple treat for Notre Dame College, Bells Creek, on the Sunshine Coast, four-year-old’s Benji, Lilly, and Chloe have become the first students to be enrolled at Brisbane Catholic Education’s (BCE) newest Prep to Year 12 school.  
Triplets.jpg
Bernardo triplets the first to be enrolled at Notre Dame College Bells Creek. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Notre Dame College, Bells Creek (2024).​ 

Notre Dame College Principal Dan McShea said the triplets add a triple dose of excitement as the College gears up to welcome its foundation students in Prep to Year 3 and Year 7 in 2025. 
 
“Their enrolment not only heralds a joyous beginning for the trio but also marks a monumental milestone for the College,” he said. 
 
“It signifies not just the start of their educational journey but also symbolises a transformative moment for our institution as we expand and evolve to accommodate our new students and their individual needs. 
 
"We are committed to nurturing every student's potential.” 
 
The triplet’s mother Ana Bernardo said the values of the College and the appointed Principal strongly aligned with her aspirations for her children, which also includes her eldest daughter, seven-year-old Louisa. 
 
"We have great confidence in Mr McShea and the team he's assembling for Notre Dame College,” Ana, who lives in Banya, said. 
 
“He will undoubtedly attract great leaders and teachers. 
 
"Our children have eagerly studied the plans for the new playground and their excitement knows no bounds as they prepare to start school. 
 
“Louisa is particularly excited about starting her new educational journey along with her siblings at Notre Dame College.” 
 
The triplets father Sergio Bernardo said he valued the convenience and peace of mind that Notre Dame College offers the community. 
 
“Our community has been crying out for a College in Banya and we are excited for our children to be able to walk or ride their bikes to school,” he said. 
 
"The after Outside of School Hours Care (OSHC) was a huge selling point, providing us with the reassurance and convenience we need as working parents. 
 
"We eagerly anticipate becoming an integral part of the Notre Dame College story and wholeheartedly supporting the College in its pursuits.”  
 
With construction in full swing, Notre Dame College is poised to become a “triple-A” educational institution, accommodating up to 1800 students and employing 280 staff by 2030. 
Bernardo Triplets34.jpg

​​Bernardo triplets (front row) with older sister Louisa (back row). ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Notre Dame College, Bells Creek (2024).