St Francis Day and the 40th Anniversary of the Roscoe Library and (Geoffrey Thomas Roscoe)

St Francis Day and the 40th Anniversary of the Roscoe Library

A Celebration of Legacy, Learning, and Community

Yesterday, St Francis Theological College marked a dual celebration: St Francis Day and the 40th anniversary of the Roscoe Library, named in honor of the remarkable Geoffrey Thomas Roscoe. The event brought together alumni, faculty, and special guests to commemorate both the college's enduring traditions and the legacy of a man whose dedication shaped the institution's intellectual heart.

Event Highlights

Date: Friday, 3 October

Special Guests: Mrs. Margaret Leditschke (longtime collaborator of Mr. Roscoe) and members of the Roscoe family

Activities: Storytelling, library tours, unveiling of new artwork featuring Mr. Roscoe's image

"This year marks not only 40 years since the library was named in Mr. Roscoe's honor but also 50 years since he began his work here. His legacy is woven into the very fabric of our college," said one of the event organizers.

Alumni were encouraged to return, reconnect with former classmates, and revisit the evolving space that continues to serve as a cornerstone of theological education at St Francis. The newly installed artwork — a tribute to Mr. Roscoe — now greets visitors at the entrance, symbolizing the enduring impact of his service.

A Life of Dedication: Geoffrey Thomas Roscoe

Geoffrey Thomas Roscoe (1900–1985) was an Australian educator and public servant whose career spanned continents. After a distinguished tenure in Papua New Guinea as Director of Education and a member of the Legislative Council, he began volunteering at the St Francis College library at age 75 — while simultaneously completing librarianship studies four nights a week.

His commitment to education and service continued until shortly before his death in 1985. In recognition of his contributions, the library was named in his honor in 1985, and today, his legacy is celebrated not only in books but in the living memory of those who continue to learn within these walls.

Special thanks to the Roscoe Library staff: Eve James (Library Manager) and Susan Thomas (Librarian), as well as to all the speakers and organizers who made this memorable event possible. We look forward to more details about Roscoe's life being made publicly available.

Main Photo Credit: Class of 1985 with Mrs. Margaret Leditschke, Care of St Francis Milton Facebook page