Geneva – shining God’s light since 1960
Geneva has profoundly impacted countless lives—spiritually, socially, and academically. Generations of students, teachers, parents, and friends hold cherished memories of their time here. But more importantly, Geneva has always been guided by God’s plan, one that continues to unfold.
Humble Beginnings
The land Geneva now occupies has a rich history, dating back to the 1890s when local magistrate, Patrick Churcher Maxwell, established a small apple orchard on a portion of the 95 acres of land, known as Hazeldene, along the Moriarty Road in Latrobe. In the early 1900s, a retired ex-Indian officer, Captain Lancelot Falkland, then expanded the orchard and farmhouse and hosted lively community events, from garden fetes to band performances. These open grounds, once farmland, still contribute to the unique charm of Geneva today.
Since those early times the property changed owners several times. By 1952, the property changed hands again when John Gamble, an English immigrant who had recently arrived with his family, purchased it for just over 9,000 pounds. Eight years later, he welcomed a group from a Bible college in Launceston, led by Joseph Lawrence (Lawrie) Lincolne and his wife Innes. With 70 staff, students, and children, they established the Geneva Fellowship in 1960 and a rigorous building program commenced.
The old farmhouse, 1960
John Gamble at Hazeldene, 1960s
Lawrie Lincolne and Bible College, 1961
The Birth of a School
Originally, Geneva served as The Bible College of Tasmania, training adults for overseas and local ministry. The farm provided food, and a printing press (Geneva Press) was established to support the college mission. The Latrobe Particular Baptist Church (later Geneva Baptist Church) oversaw this work. However, by 1967, it became clear that God had a new direction for Geneva.
Front of the Bible College
Geneva Press, 1978
Building works at the College, 1960
In 1968, Geneva Primary School was founded—the first independent school in north west Tasmania. Commencing with just 33 students, the school offered affordable Christian education to children from all backgrounds. Lawrie Lincolne served as Principal, with Arthur Baxter as Headmaster and a small but dedicated teaching staff, including Miss Jean Armstrong, Miss Alison Smith, Miss Anna Jarmy, and Mrs Lyn Auty (nee Lincolne). The school was assisted by a number of other faithful support staff, parents, friends, churches and community members. As enrolments grew, classrooms were added, culminating in a completed Primary quadrangle by 1976.
Mr Baxter with students, 1968
Whole school, 1973
Geneva buses, 1977
Expansion and Innovation
By the early 1980s, Geneva had grown significantly, introducing the A.C.E. (Accelerated Christian Education) program in 1981. This individualised approach allowed students to master content at their own pace, and Geneva students joined with other A.C.E schools to participate in A.C.E. Student Conventions, competing at regional, national and international levels.
In 1984, Geneva introduced its first secondary class, officially becoming Geneva Baptist School. Over the next six years, senior classes expanded to Year 12, providing families with a continuous Christian education pathway.
Following John Gamble’s passing in 1989, ownership of the property was entrusted to the Geneva Fellowship, ensuring the school’s long-term future. The 1990s brought national education reforms that influenced enrolments, but under David Lincolne’s leadership (following the passing of Lawrie Lincolne in 1999), Geneva adapted, enhancing its program with new subjects, activities, and excursions according to the Australian curriculum.
Miss Jarmy with students in classroom, 1984
First A.C.E Convention. 1981
Mr David Lincolne with senior students, 1999
A New Era
In 2003, Geneva changed its official name to Geneva Christian College. The Interlaken Outdoor Campus was acquired, in central Tasmania, providing secondary students with opportunities for outdoor education along Lake Sorell. Continued growth led to the construction of key facilities, including:
• Senior School Building (2005)
• Sports Stadium (2010)
• Arts Centre (2015)
• Year 7 & 8 Building (2019)
• Science Lab & New Primary Classrooms (2021)
• Administration Building (2022)
Technology and innovation transformed classrooms into modern learning spaces, while new outdoor areas, such as the Geneva Lake and surrounding bushwalk tracks (2002), enriched student life.
Interlaken Campus, 2010
David & Rosemary Lincolne, 2017
Geneva Christian College, 2017
Continuing the Mission
As a Christian school, Geneva remains committed to refining its programs, staff, and resources to support a Christ-centered education. Under Principal Rosemary Lincolne’s leadership since 2017, Geneva celebrated 50 years of service, welcoming past and present students and families to reflect on God’s blessings.
Today, Geneva is one of the fastest-growing schools in north west Tasmania, with over 300 students from Kindergarten to Year 12. While the school has evolved, its mission remains steadfast:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
We give thanks for all that God has done and the blessing of those who have contributed to Geneva over the years. We eagerly anticipate God’s plans for the future.
Geneva Buses, 2022
School Musical, 2022
New Administration building, 2023