Former St Mary’s College principal speaks out on 33-year-old bullying incident

Retired priest Fr Anthony de Verteuil CSSp, former principal of St Mary’s College, is seeking God’s forgiveness for those whom, he claims, have falsified accounts about an incident that occurred at the College 33 years ago involving now Prime Minister Stuart Young and Imran Khan.

During his homily at the Living Water Community chapel on Saturday, March 29, Fr de Verteuil directly addressed the bullying incident.

He recounted the events that left a lasting impression on him and his decision, in the interest of justice and compassion, to choose forgiveness over punishment.

“I remember the great joy I experienced 33 years ago when I was Principal of St Mary’s College, the joy of forgiving,” he said.

The former principal explained that the incident was never formally documented, and although there were later claims the student involved had been expelled, Fr de Verteuil is categorically denying that any such action had been taken.

He recalled, “one boy clubbed another on the head. After investigating, I can say that in the interest of justice and compassion, I did not suspend him; I did not expel him; I did not stop him from doing his exams. I did not punish him in any way. I placed no record of the incident on the files.” He said, “I was happy to acknowledge him as a St Mary’s College student in good standing.”

However, Fr de Verteuil expressed his sorrow that, 33 years later “in the interest of politics”, the incident had resurfaced.

What is now being told, he said, is a “falsified version of events. Those who lied, those who slandered, those who calumniated, those who led into error persons who were eager to say evil.”

Despite this, he offered his forgiveness, saying, “I forgive you all, and I hope God will forgive you.” Fr de Verteuil prayed that those responsible for the falsified account would find peace before their death: “may God enlighten your mind, may His face shine on you, may He give light to your mind and before your death, replace the bitterness and sadness in your heart by love and peace, so be it. Amen.”

Prime Minister Stuart Young issued a statement March 19, in response to a social media post about the incident. In his statement PM Young acknowledged the trauma experienced by everyone involved, stating that the incident was “deeply unfortunate” and that it should “not be politicised.” He emphasised that bullying is a sensitive issue and deserves thoughtful discussion and solutions.

“This incident was traumatic for everyone involved,” Young said. “People are shaped by their experiences, and I have no intention of minimising anyone’s feelings, even my own, on this matter, some 33 years later. Let’s focus on ensuring that our schools are safe spaces where all children can feel protected and receive the support they need.”