Blue & White | Edition 1: Semester 1 2026

BLUE & WHITE E D I T I O N 1 : S E M E S T E R 1 , 2 0 26

ALL HALLOWS’ SCHOOL T H A NK YOU FOR YOU R INTE REST

Since 1861, we have been educating

I N A L L HALLOW S’ SC HOOL .

young women in the Mercy tradition, nurturing faith, compassion, and a

lifelong love of learning and leadership. As Queensland’s oldest secondary school, All Hallows’ is built on a legacy of faith, learning and opportunity. Today, we empower each student to grow with confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose.

We invite you to explore the first 2026 edition of Blue & White. In these pages, we share highlights from Semester 1 and showcase the spirit of belonging, opportunity, and community that defines an All Hallows’ education.

We acknowledge the Turrbal and Jagera Peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our School is located on a rise above Maiwar, the Brisbane River. They have lived on the shores of Maiwar, the Brisbane River, for millennia, and the river was used as a sustainable resource for food, including many varieties of fish, shellfish and eels. Sites near the river have held significance from an age-old past to the present for meeting, learning and sharing.

We pay our respects to the Turrbal and Jagera Peoples and respect the love they gave and received from the land, waters and sea.

May we walk gently and respectfully on this land.

2

A Message F R O M T H E P R I N C I PA L

IN THIS 165TH YEAR OF OUR SCHOOL, WE GIVE THANKS FOR THE FAITH, COURAGE AND VISION OF CATHERINE McAULEY AND THE SISTERS OF MERCY, WHOSE LEGACY CONTINUES TO SHAPE AND INSPIRE OUR COMMUNITY TODAY. We also acknowledge the generations of students, staff, families, and friends whose contributions have helped shape the vibrant story of our school over the past 165 years.

Our 2026 school theme, Welcome all with Love and Respect, speaks deeply to who we are as a Mercy community. It calls us to live with open hearts, generous spirits and a commitment to the dignity of each person, shaping a school where compassion is practised, relationships are valued, and each individual is welcomed and known.

Semester 1 has been filled with learning, growth and shared experiences, as students engaged wholeheartedly in the life of the school through their academic pursuits, faith formation, cocurricular involvement, service opportunities and leadership experiences.

Special highlights include the announcement of our 2026 Whole School Project supporting Helena’s House, the opening of the Scholars’ Centre, building on our proud tradition of scholarship at All Hallows’, and the Opening and Blessing of the All Hallows’ Heritage Centre.

3

Opening and Blessing of the All Hallows’ Heritage Centre

Opening of Scholars’ Centre

S T R AT E G I C P L A N

2026 - 2030

2026 Whole School Project Announcement: Helena’s House

As we look to the future, I am pleased to introduce our 2026-2030 Strategic Plan,

READ OUR STRATEGIC PLAN 

Empowering Extraordinary Futures. This Plan reflects both confidence in who we are and hope for who we are called to become. Framed around five key pillars, Faith and Mercy, Our Students, Our Staff, Our Community and Stewardship, it

articulates a clear and purposeful vision for our future and the aspirations we hold for our community in 2030 and beyond. More than a strategic document, it is an invitation to move forward together with integrity, faith and hope.

In this milestone year, we celebrate our legacy and school community, where doors, hearts, and minds are open; each person is welcomed and experiences a true sense of belonging; and the spirit of Mercy is lived out each day through acts of compassion, service, and kindness.

God bless, Mrs Catherine O’Kane Principal

4

Blueprints OF BELONGING

2026 SPIRIT THEME Our Spirit Theme is a student-led vision, chosen by our School Captains to shape the spirit and identity of each year.

Blueprints, by definition, are ‘a complete plan that explains how to do or develop something’.

At All Hallows’, blueprints aren’t grand plans; they’re small, everyday efforts. Every smile, every cheer, and every helping hand - that is how we build belonging.

‘Blueprints of Belonging’ calls each of us to be the reason someone feels seen, welcomed, and included.

Belonging doesn’t simply appear; it’s something we build together.

SABINE & EVA, 2026 SCHOOL CAPTAINS

WHAT IS THE SISTERHOOD? The “AHSisterhood” is a shared bond that connects every All Hallows’ student – past and present – through a spirit of support, respect, and genuine care for one another. It’s not defined by a single moment or event, but by the everyday ways students show up for each other.

Spirit Launch with 2026 Spirit Captains

Student Coaches & Junior Teams

Y12 student presents House badge to Y7 AHSister

Y7 & Y12 Buddy Picnics

Y5 & Y8 Supporting 5 Sisters Program

Curriculum “AN ALL HALLOWS’ STUDENT IS EMPOWERED TO BECOME A RESILIENT PROBLEM-SOLVER, A GLOBAL CITIZEN, AND A LIFELONG LEARNER.” Teachers at All Hallows’ School are committed to developing positive learning relationships with students – ones that support engagement, interpersonal connection and achievement.

A diversity of backgrounds, abilities and aspirations are embraced and nurtured as we deliver learning experiences that support, challenge and extend each student’s learning.

CURRICULUM FEATURES YEAR 8 CREATIVE ARTS DAY Year 8 Creative Arts Day saw students immerse themselves in Dance, Music, Drama and Visual Art through dynamic workshops. Designed to nurture wellbeing, inspire creativity and build confidence, the day offered a vibrant glimpse into the rich and diverse opportunities within our Creative Arts program.

MATHS EXTENSION PROGRAM

Year 8 Creative Arts Day

Our Maths Extension Program for Years 7-10 continues to attract outstanding participation, with more than 55 students engaging in Beginning Geometry, as well as introductory and advanced courses in Number Theory and Combinatorics – one of the strongest levels of participation in Queensland!

Students build advanced problem-solving skills that extend well beyond the classroom, equipping them for academic success and real-world thinking.

6

Members of the Maths Extension Program

I’M SO GRATEFUL FOR THE SLC — IT’S A CALM, SUPPORTIVE SPACE WHERE I CAN FOCUS, GET HELP WHEN I NEED IT, AND FEEL CONFIDENT IN MY FINAL YEAR. SOPHIA, YEAR 12

SENIOR LEARNING CENTRE Located within the Potter Building, the Senior Learning Centre (SLC) provides Year 11 and Year 12 students with a dedicated space to study, collaborate and prepare for senior assessment.

Designed to support both individual learning and group work, the SLC is open beyond school hours and staffed by experienced tutors, offering students a focused, supportive environment to achieve their academic goals.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT We proudly celebrate the outstanding achievement of Scott Adamson (Dean of Teaching & Learning), Shanee Conran (Teacher & Curriculum Leader, Science), and Matt Lourigan (Physics Teacher), who have authored the newly

L-R Matt Lourigan, Scott Adamson & Shanee Conran

published Nelson QCE Physics series for senior students across Queensland.

The textbooks are valuable resources for students and teachers alike and a wonderful demonstration of the expertise and dedication found among the All Hallows’ School teaching staff.

7

Culture

SCHOOL PRODUCTION – JERSEY BOYS The combined St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace, and

Hosted by Gregory Terrace, the musical was a wonderful

All Hallows’ School production of Jersey Boys delighted

display of talent, dedication, and teamwork!

DID YOU KNOW?

audiences with three sold-out performances from 6 to 9 May.

YEAR 5 INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAM As part of the Year 5 curriculum, every student participates in our year-long Instrumental Music Program.

Students learn an instrument with expert teachers and experience the joy of making music together in an ensemble. Students build confidence, creativity and connection through exciting rehearsals and performance opportunities that give students a genuine sense of pride and achievement.

PERFORMING ARTS All Hallows’ School has a proud and enduring tradition in the Performing Arts, brought to life through a vibrant program of Music, Speech & Drama and Dance. Students engage in ensembles, showcase performances, musicals and productions, with opportunities for private tuition to further develop their talents.

Private tuition offered: Bassoon

8

Double Bass

Guitar

Saxophone

Viola

Brass

Euphonium

Oboe

Music Theory

Violin

Cello

Flute

Percussion

Trombone

Voice

Clarinet

French Horn

Piano

Trumpet

Speech & Drama

Sport AHS SPORT At All Hallows’, we’re committed to providing positive, accessible and meaningful sporting opportunities for every student. As members of the Catholic Secondary Schools Sports Association (CaSSSA) and other associations, students enjoy sport at all levels—whether for fun, fitness or competition—with pathways to Queensland Schools Sport and representative opportunities.

Annual international tours enrich students’ experience, broadening their skills and perspectives. Many CaSSSA sports and programs, including

AHS NETBALL

Gym Fit and the Athletics Performance Program are offered at no cost, supporting student wellbeing now and into the future.

Netball is one of many club sports offered that provide opportunities for

CONGRATULATIONS LILLA!

students to participate, compete,

Congratulations to Year 11 student

and explore pathways as players,

Lilla on her selection for the Australian

coaches, and umpires.

Junior Dolphins swimming team!

455 Players

Lilla will compete at the 2026 Junior

46 Teams

Vancouver, Canada, this August. The

Pan Pacific Championships in

37 Student Coaches

team was announced at the conclusion

64 Umpires

where Lilla delivered an outstanding

of the Australian Age Championship, performance, claiming

Carnivals, Camps, Clinics and

🥉

International Tours

2 Bronze medals.

🥇 6 Gold and

INTERHOUSE COMPETITIONS: Students compete for their House, building pride, spirit and connection!

CROSS COUNTRY

ROWING (ERGO)

ATHLETICS

9

Community MOTHERS’ NETWORK The Mothers’ Network (MNET) is a valued part of our community, offering mothers and mother figures a welcoming way to stay connected with the school, and with one another. Through social events, hospitality, pastoral care and fundraising, the MNET fosters a strong sense of community and support for families.

MAY MORNING TEA On Friday, 8 May the MNET signature event welcomed more than 900 guests to the Royal International Convention Centre for a joyful morning of fun and friendship.

Hosted by past pupil and journalist Rachel Mealey, the event captured the warmth of our community while raising vital funds to support initiatives that directly benefit our students.

10

GEORGIA GUNEW (CLASS OF 2020) We are incredibly proud of Georgia, who represented Australia in Para-alpine skiing at the 2026 Paralympic Games and served as a flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony. Georgia’s journey is truly inspiring. After growing up as a recreational skier and competitive hockey player, she turned to alpine skiing following her vision loss, discovering a new passion and embracing a fresh challenge with remarkable courage, determination, and resilience.

Opening the door to belonging, opportunity, and a future shaped by possibility.

GIVING DAY On Thursday, 11 June, the All Hallows’ community came together for our fifth Giving Day.

Thank you!

Together, we raised

$248,815!

This year, through our “Hold the Door Open for Her” campaign, our community raised funds for two Catherine McAuley Bursaries, creating life-changing opportunities for young women who may not otherwise have access to an All Hallows’ education.

Inspired by Catherine McAuley’s legacy of opening doors for others almost 200 years ago, Giving Day was about creating access to belonging, opportunity and a future filled with possibility.

11

Life at AHS

12

Stay Connected VISIT OUR WEBSITE Keep connected with All Hallows’ School.

Discover what makes our school and community extraordinary.

Visit www.ahs.qld.edu.au

CONTACT US

Enrolments Team

We are delighted you are considering All Hallows’

enrolments@ahs.qld.edu.au

School for your daughter.

Address:

Choosing the right school is an important decision, and our team is here to support and guide you throughout the journey.

547 Ann Street Brisbane City Qld 4000

Phone: (07) 3831 3100

   13

Empowering Extraordinary Futures

ALL HALLOWS’ SCHOOL 547 Ann Street, Brisbane Qld 4000 Ph: 07 3831 3100 ahs.qld.edu.au