Down Memory Lane ... the story of Tower House
The story of The Convent begins in the early 1880s by Joseph Parer - a member of the influential Parer family, known for their contributions to the development of Frankston and the surrounding region. After settling in Melbourne and marrying Caroline “Minnie” Ferguson, Joseph purchased 97 acres of land in Frankston and began construction on the two-storey house, complete with a distinctive four-storey timber tower.
This grand two-storey residence, later dubbed the “Tower House,” stood proudly on a rise and featured stables, a summerhouse, and beautifully landscaped gardens - a true landmark of its era. Over the years, it passed through several owners before becoming the clubhouse for the Peninsula Golf Club in 1922.
The home was considered grand for its time, featuring a hall, eight rooms, a summerhouse, stables, and beautifully landscaped gardens. According to historical records, the tower was once blown down mid-construction and had to be rebuilt — a testament to the determination of its owner.
In the decades that followed, Tower House passed through many hands. It briefly served as a schoolhouse, then became the Tower Golf House under new ownership by the Peninsula Country Golf Club in the 1920s. The opulent interiors were described by The Australasian in 1923 as "furnished with every beauty and luxury modern taste can desire,” with Oriental lamps, wood-panelled lounges, and even hot and cold water in every guest room.
In 1965, the Faithful Companions of Jesus Sisters purchased the property from the Golf Club with the vision of establishing a new girls’ school. By mid-1967, they had taken possession and, by the end of that year, had moved into the former clubhouse. Renovations soon transformed the building into the home of Stella Maris College, which officially opened in 1968.
The Convent served not only as a residence for the Sisters but also as part of the school itself, particularly during its formative years. For a time, Stella Maris accepted boarders, who lived in the residential wing. As enrolments grew, additional classrooms, science labs, and a library were constructed around the original structure.
In 1980, Stella Maris and Marianist College amalgamated to form John Paul College. The former Stella Maris site became the Junior School, welcoming Year 7 and 8 students. The original building remained in use until it was eventually replaced by new facilities.
Though The Convent is no longer physically present, its legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of John Paul College. It stands as a cornerstone of our early history - a reminder of our beginnings, the vision of the Sisters, and the generations of students who passed through its halls.
Source:Adapted from Tower House in Frankston by Parer History (https://parerhistory.wordpress.com/2018/02/19/tower-house-in-frankston/)