On July 23rd, 1868, Ambrose Treacy wrote to the Superior General, James Aloysius Hoare

Christian Schools,
Carlow,
[Thursday] July 23rd, 1868

My Most Dear Brother Superior,

Br Regis and myself took an early opportunity to avail ourselves of your kind permission. We spent the time in Waterford and Tramore. This is the reason I have not answered your important note sooner. When informed some time ago that I was spoken of as likely to be sent, though I did not attach much importance to it, my sentiments were that I would not make the selection of it but, if sent, I would endeavour to act my part faithfully, whatever it might be. I remain still the same, and am inclined to think that, with God’s blessing, I shall continue so during my life.

Br Regis Hughes is a Brother possessing many qualities and qualifications, as you know, to recommend for the other Brother. In saying so I merely suggest it, as I would not wish to take any active part in the affair. I may add that he is not aware that I have made this suggestion.

Br M Reddington I would also say is well acquainted with the boys and the affairs of this place. It will not require many hours to set in order the affairs of the house as the only bill due is the one to the Brother Assistant and I think this is not a very weighty one.

As the postulant did not bring the bag etc with him this morning, I now forward it. Fervently praying that God may direct you in the choice you are about to make, and with love

I am, my most dear Br Superior,
Your affectionate Brother,
P A Treacy

In this letter written in July 1868, Parade College’s Founder and first Principal, Ambrose Treacy accepts the invitation to lead the mission to Melbourne, Australia. In only three weeks after receiving the invitation to be the leader of the new foundation in Melbourne, Ambrose Treacy, Fursey Bodkin, Barnabas Lynch and Joseph Nolan on the Feast of the Assumption in 1868, left for Australia. They did not have a chance to say goodbye to their families, nor did they meet as a community to reflect on what lay ahead of them. As far as they knew, they would never see Ireland again. They were to simply leave all to begin Parade College. They would live quiet, laborious lives in the classroom; they would not seek acclaim, publicity or thanks. They did their best so we could excel. Parade is built on their courage and on the local people’s generosity.