The Hallowian
The Hallowian
EDITORIAL TEAM
GABRIELLE GOULDING (PPA)
NEVA WETHERELD (PPA)
MAREE NUGENT (PAST PUPILS’ LIAISON)
CHELSEA HANDLEY (DESIGN AND PRODUCTION)
If you have any questions, know of someone who is unable to access The Hallowian in digital format, or have any comments or suggestions for future editions you would like to share, please contact Maree at ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au or 07 3230 9424.
“The Past Pupils’ Association has approached this year with optimism and enthusiasm to ensure that we create opportunities for our members to stay connected.”
From the President: Welcome
In the blink of an eye we are half way through 2022 and the Past Pupils’ Association has approached this year with optimism and enthusiasm to ensure that we create opportunities for our members to stay connected. The year was set to kick off with the much anticipated International Women’s Day Breakfast at Cloudland. Former students Eugenie Buckley (1988) and Jamie-Lee Lewis (2008) were lined up to talk with host Aislin Kriukelis (2002) about their personal and professional achievements and how they have managed to ‘break the bias’ on their roads to success. Unfortunately, due to the major weather event that hit Brisbane and kept us all indoors, this event was cancelled but I would like to thank Bridget Delahunty and Maree Nugent and all who volunteered and supported us at this time.
In March, we welcomed back over 100 of our newest members from the graduating class of 2021 for our tailor-made event ‘Miss You Already’. It was a fun, intimate afternoon on The Terrace complete with games, pizza and zooper doopers. The girls really enjoyed the chance to reconnect and share experiences of their first three months out of school.
As the nights in Brisbane began to cool down, it was time to rug up and frock up for our inaugural ‘Connect Blue’ event. Catherine Court was transformed into a fairy-lit boulevard, with an array of fine food and wines and a live DJ who encouraged some dance moves that we haven’t seen for decades. The event committee led by Bridget Delahunty did a marvellous job to make this night a success and to secure its spot on the 2023 social calendar. It was really lovely to see so many guests from the classes of 1982, 1980 and 2000 who grabbed this as an opportunity to have a reunion with their cohorts.
Our team is now busy preparing for ‘Sisters in Law’ on September 5 designed for networking, mentoring, and information and experience sharing. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to connect with successful professionals. On October 29 we will be hosting the Annual Mass and Reunion Day and Morning Tea. We hope to see many of you at this special liturgy where we give thanks for the education and opportunities that All Hallows’ has given us. Please keep an an eye on our social media for further information about these events or contact our liaison officer at ppa@ahs.qld. edu.au.
This year we have introduced some new merchandise lines including The Heart Case and AH2O Water Bottle. Merchandise can be purchased online. Click here to purchase merchandise.
This year the association was in a position to support the inaugural AHS Giving Day as a matched donor, making a valuable contribution toward providing a bursary for a future student.
Finally, it fills us all with pride when we hear about the achievements and successes of so many of our Alumnae in the fields of music, rowing, water polo, swimming and curling to name a few. Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and remember to post any stories about our talented past pupils so we can all give them our support.
As always, I’d like to thank our committee of volunteers who put so much effort into keeping us all connected as a past pupils’ community. Thank you all for your continued support in 2022. I’m looking forward to seeing you before the year’s end and I pray that you and your families stay safe, healthy and happy.
Dieu et Devoir
Tron Fisher
From the Principal
Mrs Catherine O’Kane
2022 began with the unexpected challenge of a COVID-delayed start to the school year, followed by the Brisbane flood disaster. As usual, our All Hallows’ School community rallied, ready to serve with open hearts and hands.
As we looked for silver linings, one of ours appeared from behind scaffolding. Our reimagined Potter Centre is set to be transformative, not just for our students and staff, but our whole School community well into the future. New library facilities, a greatly enlarged Senior Study Centre, Junior and Senior Makerspaces, a Technology Hub
and the rooftop Potter function room are among the many exciting additions. After a phased relocation in July, an official dedication is planned for August 2022. I look forward to introducing our community to these incredible new teaching and learning spaces and to the stunning views from our Level 4 Potter rooftop function space.
Discussions continue with the Congregation Leadership Team regarding the possible transfer of ownership of the Convent, the spiritual home of the Brisbane Congregation of the Sisters of
Mercy. November 1, 2022 will mark the 159th anniversary of the blessing of Adderton as the Brisbane Congregation’s first Convent which was also the school and the boarding school until 1881 when Main Building was built as the first purpose-built school building for All Hallows’ School. How delighted our founding Sisters would be to see All Hallows’ remaining at the forefront of the education of young Mercy women.
Education is a gift that lasts a lifetime and our inaugural Giving Day is a major 2022 highlight. Our goal to fund two Catherine
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Education is a gift that lasts a lifetime and our inaugural Giving Day is a major 2022 highlight.
McAuley bursaries for students from Years 7 through 12 was not only met but exceeded, reaching over $170,000. This success is due to the goodwill of our amazing All Hallows’ community along with meticulous planning from our All Hallows’ Foundation and Community Relations and Development team.
I give special thanks to the countless number of past pupils who were match donors, who donated to Giving Day and who volunteered at the Giving Day Hub. I also give special thanks to Tron
Fisher, President of the All Hallows’ Past Pupils’ Association and to the Past Pupils’ Association for your very generous donation to Giving Day.
With our 2022 School Theme ‘Service with open hearts and hands’ in mind, we give thanks for the outstanding service of the Past Pupils’ Association and for your ongoing support as we continue on our shared mission to inspire our young women to a life of faith, compassion, learning and leadership in the spirit of Mercy.
Congratulations Sr Anne Hetherington OAM
The Past Pupils’ Association congratulates Sr Anne Hetherington rsm, who was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for service to the Catholic Church of Australia in the 2022 Australia Day Honours List.
Sr Anne is well known as a former Principal of All Hallows’ (1975-1980; 1983-1988), but her connections to our school began as a boarder from her parents’ sheep property at St George (19531956), a path also followed by her younger sisters Cecily and Patricia.
After completing Senior, Sr Anne studied at the Queensland Teachers’ College and then entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1958. She taught in Brisbane and on the Darling Downs, before returning to All Hallows’ as a teacher (19711974).
Sr Anne’s experience in education, together with the completion of a Master of Catholic Educational Leadership at the University of
San Francisco, prepared her well for the next stage of her career in leadership and corporate governance. Her skills in these areas are highly valued and she has held positions including Director of Mission, Mater Hospitals, Brisbane; inaugural Chair of Mercy Partners Council; and board and corporate governance roles with the Queensland Catholic Education Commission, Association of Catholic Secondary Schools of Queensland, Board of Secondary School Studies, numerous Mercy ministries and the Sisters of Mercy. She was also a member and Secretary of the Past Pupils’ Association Committee for many years.
Sr Anne has a love of history and is a member of the Brisbane Catholic Historical Society, as well as having co-edited The Correspondence of Mother Vincent Whitty 1839 to 1892 and authored Travelling A Well-lit Path: The Story of Mercy Partners. She remains active in retirement as a member of U3A
and a Volunteer Guide at St Stephen’s Cathedral as well as giving occasional papers and inservice sessions.
Sr Anne hopes her award will encourage others to use their talents to make a difference in society or their profession: ‘Don’t be afraid to take opportunities to spread your wings. There will always be people to support you’.
We give thanks for Sr Anne’s lifelong service and this welldeserved honour.
Gabrielle Goulding
The ‘Grad’ Party
March 27, 2022
On the slightly overcast last Sunday in March, it was back to the scene of many memories, moments, dance parties and jumpin’ jives, when the PPA welcomed the Class of 2021 back to the Terrace for their ‘Come back, we miss you’ get-together.
While COVID and the weather may have played a little nuisance on our numbers, it was still a great way to connect and re-connect with our newest past pupils. There were lots of laughs, hugs, hashtags and pizza.
One of the objectives of these Grad parties, apart from having a fun catch-up a few months after graduation, is to continue to support the students’ wellbeing even after they have finished Year 12. This event presents the perfect environment to share the Year 13 and beyond message, to talk about mentoring and coaching roles available to recent graduates, and other ways to give back and stay in touch via our socials and upcoming events.
When the rain finally came and we headed for shelter under the Terrace umbrellas, Head of Senior School, Ms Sue Havers, took the opportunity to remind the group that they are important role models for those who follow them, and to reiterate to them that our green gates are always (metaphorically speaking) open and they are always welcome.
Thank you to everyone who attended, to Event Organiser Catherine Bonifant, and the PPA volunteers for their help and support.
Class of 2022, we’ll see you soon!
2022 Open Day
May 29, 2022
Perfect weather and a blue-sky Sunday set the scene for a spectacular Open Day 2022.
More than 3,100 prospective students and their families came through the gates and were treated to a range of activities from performing arts presentations and sport demonstrations to informative curriculum displays and an address from the Principal, Mrs Catherine O’Kane.
The Past Pupils’ Association is proud to be part of this day as it offers the unique privilege to see and meet so many future past pupils before their AHS journey has even begun. It is also wonderful to welcome back so many past pupil parents, caregivers, grandmothers and aunts, who take great delight in seeing a familiar face or place, remembering and sharing their own recollections, while marvelling at the changes on campus, and the unchanged spirit of the Sisterhood.
The PPA Merchandise Stall was in a prime location on the Terrace and we had a healthy stream of customers throughout the day as well as past pupils keen to update their contact details so they can stay in touch and keep up with future events and happenings.
Connect Blue
A little night magic, a lot of sparkling moments
On June 4, the Sisterhood went social with our inaugural Connect Blue event.
While Covid is still impacting on our numbers, a throng of past pupils gathered underneath the fairy and festoon lights for a few hours of fabulous food, refreshments, dancing and reminiscing. It was a wonderful celebration of friendship and the school ties that bind us.
We had many year group clusters join us, including the Class of 1982 reunion group and a Class of 2000 group, keen to make up for missing their reunion in 2020 due to Covid restrictions.
Thanks to all who supported our Connect Blue raffle, which included ticket holders from our cancelled IWD Breakfast in March. Proceeds will go towards our Past Pupils’ Bursary.
Thank you to Beautiful Weddings and Events, Little Rum Runners, In A Pickle, Negociants, Snaptured and DJ JLFox for contributing to the event’s success. Thanks also to Bridget Delahunty, PPA Event Organiser, the hardworking and ever-ready PPA Committee volunteers, and AHS Facilities for their amazing support.
At the end of the night, it was unanimous – there is definitely a place in our 2023 calendar for another Connect Blue!
Our lucky raffle winners:
WEEKEND IN WINE COUNTRY Lynette Bennett
HOME IMPROVEMENT Marnie Devitt
BLOSSOM AND BLOOM Margaret Fitzpatrick
RESIN HOMEWARES HAMPER Kylie Viven
FEEL AND LOOK LUSH Elisabeth Mealey
DENIM THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE Alison Nicol
THEATRE AND DRINKS PACKAGE 1 Libby Brown
THEATRE AND DRINKS PACKAGE 2 Jennifer Rosengren
DJ AND PJ PACK Gabrielle Mitchell
DELIGHTFUL AND DELICIOUS Marilyn Casey
DELI INDULGENCE Christine Cain
1982 Reunion Wrap
Walking through the All Hallows’ School gates, across The Terrace with its spectacular view of the Story Bridge, and down into the fairy lit Catherine Court, it was very clear the Connect Blue soirée was going to be a huge success.
Being fortunate to hold our first celebration for our 40-year reunion as part of Connect Blue was a bonus as we simply paid our registration and had fabulous food (In A Pickle, you never disappoint), reasonably priced drinks and not to mention the wonderful DJ (JL Fox)... playing all the 80’s and 90’s hits upon request. Being able to catch up with 30 ladies from our year and mingle with sisters from other years was so very special. We could have stayed chatting and dancing all night.
The amazing organising by Maree and her team added to the success of the evening and for that we would like to sincerely thank you!
We really hope Connect Blue will be an annual event and we encourage other groups such as Tuckshop mums, sporting and milestone year groups to rally together and book a ticket to this event next year as it was lots of fun and truly a memorable experience.
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Being able to catch up with 30 ladies from our year and mingle with sisters from other years was so very special. “
A reunion of Ronan’s 1952/53 girls
Since the late 1990s, members of Sister Mary Ronan’s Sub-Junior and Junior Class of 1952/53 have met on the last Thursday of May each year. In 2022, 70 years on, a small but jolly group met to celebrate this amazing milestone at the Sofitel in Turbot Street, Brisbane City.
A lovely time was had by all.
Thanks to Moira Ryan, as always, for organising the venue. Thanks to Patricia Tierney for sharing the details with us.
WHAT’S ON
August 1 – PPA Meeting
We invite and encourage you to join us at our events and regular Committee meetings. Following are key dates for you to enter in your calendar now.
September 5 – ‘Sisters in Law’ Career/Networking Event
October 10 – PPA Meeting
October 29 – Reunion Day, Annual Mass and Morning Tea
November 28 – PPA Meeting and Christmas Celebration
Milestone year reunions groups, click here for an easy guide to organising your reunion event.
All Hallows’ School Reunion Guide
10easystepstohelporganise yourmilestonereunion.
Sister Stories
The Murdochs: Going pink for the Mater
Past Pupils’ Association Past President (2000-2003) and Class of 1979 School Captain, Catherine Murdoch (Arnold) and her daughter Annie (Year 12), supported by Catherine’s husband Jim, have raised over $44,000 for Mater Chicks in Pink.
Working through the Mater Foundation, Chicks in Pink provides invaluable support to women diagnosed with breast cancer through practical, personalised services along with hope for the future by investing in breast cancer research.
Catherine was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, and in 2021 she decided to share her story publicly to raise funds and awareness. The family’s efforts have resulted in Annie and her supporters, who this year included a team from AHS, raising over $37,000 in the RACQ International Women’s Day Fun Run. In both 2021 and 2022, Annie topped the leader board as the event’s highest individual fundraiser and, this year, Annie also captained AHS XC, the highest fundraising school team.
In October 2021, Catherine initiated her fundraising idea ‘Catherine’s Comfortable Cuppa’, for the Mater, as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This virtual event, which encouraged supporters to gather with family and friends to enjoy a comfortable cup of tea in the spirit of Catherine McAuley, raised over $6,300 for Mater Chicks in Pink.
Catherine says:
“Sadly, 1 in 7 women in Australia is diagnosed with breast cancer. It’s a disease that strikes at the very core of family life. Most women undergoing chemotherapy are obliged to give up work, imposing financial burdens on families already struggling to cope with watching their loved one suffer treatments that are traumatic, invasive and debilitating. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy, the Mater Hospital provides exceptional care to those diagnosed with breast cancer and our family is proud to support its work.”
Congratulations Catherine and Annie and thank you for your wonderful support for women affected by breast cancer.
Linda Neil: The Joy of Re-discovering Her Creative Self
Linda Neil (Class of 1976) is a writer, songwriter, musician and documentary producer. The richness and range of her creative output has been quite extraordinary.
She has a PhD in creative writing, and has taught university-level creative writing, cultural and media studies, and film and television. Having also trained as a classical violinist, Linda has performed, toured, and recorded with orchestras, rock bands and leading independent artists. In addition, her radio documentaries have won numerous awards at the New York Radio Festival and been shortlisted for the United Nations Association of Australia (UNAA) Media Peace Awards.
Linda’s first book, Learning How to Breathe, a profoundly beautiful and touching biographical ‘love letter to her mother’, was published in 2009 to much critical and popular acclaim.
However, after Linda was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2013, she began to question whether she would be able to continue or sustain her creative endeavours.
Fortunately, she was able to access support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and it has been a life-changer for her. Linda is once again expressing herself creatively, but this time more through visual artistry.
When Linda started walking her local (Sandgate) Esplanade to maintain her health, she decided to take photos on her phone along the way.
In just 12 months (her self-titled ‘year of discovery’), Linda went from being a novice photographer to entering and winning local art competitions, and subsequently holding her first photography exhibition, ‘Detritus: Fantastical Tales of the Mulch’, made possible with support from the NDIS.
Linda’s photos have been developed into a hardcover picture book for adults, with assistance from her support worker, Bella. She then branched out from taking photos to making films – also with her phone – with some amount of success (winning international online festivals), by combining the footage with music she recorded many years ago as a violinist.
Linda is cherishing her newfound creative freedom and the opportunity to channel it again in different and surprising ways is, in her own words, ‘giving me my joy back’.
Emily goes to Parliament
Emily Scriven, Class of 2020, reports: ‘In 2021 I was lucky enough to be chosen to represent the Nudgee electorate at Queensland Youth Parliament where we debated bills, discussed world issues and advocated for our electorates. It was an honour to be a part of the Program and I am so grateful for the opportunities that were presented to me.’
Tahli’s Olympic first
Our AHSister Tahli Gill, Class of 2016, made Australian Olympic history when she became the first ever female (along with her doubles partner Dean Hewitt) to represent our nation in the event of curling.
Although Australia has competed in the Winter Olympics since 1936, perhaps not surprisingly we have never competed in curling as there is currently no dedicated curling facility in Australia and we have never been considered a ‘typical’ curling nation. First played in Scotland in the 16th century, today curling takes place indoors on artificial ice rinks and the sport is dominated by cool-climate nations such as Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway and Great Britain.
For Gill and Hewitt to qualify for the Beijing Olympics was amazing in itself. For them to finish in the top 10 despite the disadvantages of their preparations and a COVID scare which almost derailed their capacity to finish the competition, is nothing short of extraordinary.
Tahli visited All Hallows’ School on two occasions after her Beijing experience which proved challenging in more ways than one, with COVID interrupting both preparations and the event itself. Tahli, who is studying to be a primary school teacher, first spoke to the Year 5 and 6 girls, who had so many questions for her she could not answer them all and many of whom professed determination to now try the sport they had never heard of before. At the Whole School Assembly, Tahli’s message of resilience, adaptability, determination, the positives of ‘failing’ and how to be your own cheerleader resonated so perfectly with the staff, students and teachers in the audience that she received a very deserved standing ovation.
To find out more about Tahli’s other claim to fame - having a strawberry named after her, click here.
Marchesi makes an artistic statement
Karla Marchesi (Class of 2001) is a talented visual artist living and working in Berlin, Germany.
During her undergraduate studies at the Queensland College of Art, Griffith University, Karla received the Philip Bacon Galleries Prize for Excellence in Drawing in 2003 which enabled her to study for a semester at the prestigious Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in the United States. Karla graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Fine Art and was awarded the University Medal for Academic Excellence. In 2007 Karla received First Class Honours in Fine Art (Art Theory) and was awarded the Honours Thesis Prize.
After being awarded First Place in the 2010 Redland Art Awards, Karla received the inaugural Wilson Visual Arts Award in 2012. In the same year, Karla undertook a studio residency at Atelierhaus Mengerzeile, Berlin before making her solo debut with her exhibition entitled, ‘Every moment lives together’ (2013) in Berlin. Karla subsequently received an Australia Council for the Arts New Work Grant - Early Career.
Through her latest solo exhibition at the Jan Manton Gallery in Brisbane (June 2022), Karla explains that the isolation and alienation of the pandemic coupled with the outpouring of emotion and fury expressed through the #MeToo movement, saw a ‘quiet rage’ gestating in her work. Her exhibition entitled ‘Desire Path’ reflects upon ‘…dissonances between hedonic desire and modalities of pleasure in contemporary life, tragicomically exploring the pitfalls of modern dating and relationships, and finding agency in female pleasure…’ (Karla Marchesi Exhibition Essay).
Karla’s work features in numerous public collections including The Museum of Brisbane, QUT Art Museum Collection, The University of Queensland Art Museum, Griffith University Art Collection, Australian Catholic University Art Collection, Queensland Children’s Hospital, and several regional galleries.
Lesleigh styles a COVID success
Lesleigh Jermanus (Class of 1998) is the founder and Creative Director of ALÉMAIS, one of the most talked about brands of 2022. Lesleigh is a Graduate in Fine Arts and has been designing and collaborating within the fashion industry for over 20 years.
Some may say that launching a new fashion label during a global pandemic and economic downturn would be foolish, Lesleigh however saw an opportunity and was spurred by a desire to make a real impact in a world facing so much uncertainty and turmoil.
At its core, ALÉMAIS is a contemporary brand with purpose and integrity. Determined to champion environmental and ethical issues, ALÉMAIS strives for “conscious consumerism” by supporting
and empowering artisanal communities, reducing environmental impacts, and treating suppliers with honesty and integrity. Utilizing natural, durable and organic fibres, the ALÉMAIS focus is always on sustainability and quality over quantity.
ALÉMAIS garments are exquisitely feminine, unique and ethically focused, and if that is not reason enough for you to invest in Lesleigh’s creative and virtuous brand, you are challenged to look past the ALÉMAIS Forest where a tree is planted for every garment sold (https://ecologi.com/alemais).
Recently ALÉMAIS has been named as a Finalist for the coveted National Designer Award 2022 presented by David Jones as part of the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival. The award celebrates the future of Australian fashion, and it is truly inspiring to see an AHSister recognised as one of Australia’s most talented emerging fashion designers. The winner of the National Design Award 2022 will be announced at an industry event on the 27th July 2022. Good luck Lesleigh. Your AHSisters are incredibly proud of all you have achieved and are eager to see what the future will hold for you and ALÉMAIS.
Lizzie & Bronte: Birmingham Bound
Congratulations to former AHS Swim Captains
Lizzie Dekkers (Class of 2021) and Bronte Job (Class of 2020) on their selection to the Australian Dolphins Swim Team. Lizzie and Bronte will represent Australia at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in late July.
From the Shed to Henley
Congratulations to three past pupils, Lilee Powell-Lunney (Class of 2016), Ellen Pozzi and Eloise (Ellie) Parker (both Class of 2013) for being part of a momentous achievement in the history of women’s sport in Queensland.
Ellen, Eloise and Lilee travelled to the UK in June 2022 with six other young women to race at Henley Royal Regatta (HRR) to contest the Wargrave Challenge. This competition is regarded as one of the most prestigious rowing events in the world and a career goal for many athletes, including those who have achieved Olympic success.
Lilee, Ellen and Ellie are part of the first Queensland women’s rowing crew to ever race at Henley. All three were involved in the All Hallows’ School rowing program while at school and it was there that their love for the sport began and where all three represented AHS in the First VIII. Since then, Ellie and Ellen have both represented Australia multiple times.
Pictue: From left: Ellen, Lilee and Ellie
Maria takes on a new AMA role
Congratulations to Dr Maria Boulton (Avila, Class of 1994), who has been elected President of the Australian Medical Association (AMA) Queensland.
She is the ninth woman to hold the role in the Association’s 128-year history.
Dr Boulton was born in El Salvador and fled with her family during the civil war, arriving in Brisbane when she was 13 years of age.
After completing her education at All Hallows’, she studied medicine at The University of Queensland and graduated in 2002. She is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
‘I am determined to ensure that the AMA Queensland Council and Board continue to have strong cross
All American accolades for Cara
Congratulations #AHSister Cara Woolnough (Class of 2016) who was recently awarded the prestigious Elite 90 Award by the NCAA for reaching the pinnacle of competition while also achieving the highest academic standards.
In addition, Cara has received All American Honours for her results in Athletics plus All American Academic Honours, graduating from The University of Utah with a perfect 4.0 in Biomedical Engineering.
Amazing! We can’t wait to see what you do next Cara!
Miranda seen on the big screen
Miranda Frangou, Class of 2016, gets up close and personal in a scene from Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis.
representation of all specialties, that we work for all doctors, but most importantly that we work for the community and patients’, Dr Boulton said.
Dr Boulton also holds the leadership roles of Chair, AMA Queensland Committee of General Practice; Director, Australian GP Alliance; and Vice President, Queensland Medical Women’s Society.
We wish Maria well in her term as President.
Vale
Katrina Roberts
Katrina, Class of 1991, was a proud and passionate 5th generation AHSister. We thank her family, and especially her sister Greta (Class of 1995), for allowing us to share these beautiful memories.
“Lynda and Paul Roberts were so delighted to welcome Katrina on 17 February 1974 - the first of five children. Katrina was a high-spirited little girl and that indomitable spirit led to a fulfilling life; one of great happiness, achievement and influence. The outpouring of love for Katrina from around the globe is testament to the woman Katrina was; how she walked through life with compassion, generosity, kindness, with her values firmly intact and the way she embraced life.
Many of Katrina’s values and attitudes, no doubt, were formed during her home life and Catholic education. Katrina attended All Hallows’ School from 1987-1991. Later in life Katrina also embraced the philosophy of Buddhism and meditation. She took a stand on social justice, which was reflected in her work decisions. Katrina lived her beliefs of honesty and integrity, with an appreciation of nature, sustainable foods and cosmetics. One of her friends told us that she was the most caring and considerate friend she had known.
Katrina based herself in London for many years after obtaining a Bachelor of Commerce, a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance and her CPA which she had for over 20 years. While in London she obtained a Diploma of Natural Medicine and a Diploma of Nutritional
Medicine. Katrina was intelligent and driven to get the most out of life. She travelled widely before coming back to Australia and eventually finding her way to Sydney where she worked in finance. At the time of the car accident which tragically took her life on 11 April 2022, Katrina held the position of Executive Manager Credit Policy at Westpac.
Katrina asked us regularly to contribute to the Walk for a Cure. She formed the team from Westpac to participate in this cause and to build community across their Credit Risk domain.
Katrina loved her Brisbane, Cairns, Armidale and Sydney family and wide circle of friends. She was incredibly generous to everyone around her, showed up to all special occasions even if they were held in a different state and was often the organizer of groups to attend concerts and events. Katrina has been described as a ‘people gatherer’ and was the type of person who listened and supported through good times but also through the darkest days.
Katrina’s family is very proud of her achievements, who she was as a person, the impact she had on those around her and the way she lived her life to the fullest. Katrina crammed 96 years of living into 48; as a daughter, granddaughter, Godmother, Goddaughter, sister, aunt, niece, Confirmation sponsor, cousin, bridesmaid, work colleague and good friend. Katrina will be forever missed and forever young in our hearts.”
Margaret Baker Genovesi From Brisbane to Rome –
Acclaimed opera singer
Internationally renowned opera singer, Margaret Baker Genovesi (AHS 1946-1950), died on 23 February 2022, aged 89 years.
Margaret was born in 1933, the daughter of Francis Baker, a police officer, and Evelyn Gould, who was also an All Hallows’ past pupil. Margaret showed her gift for singing from an early age, winning ‘Australia’s Amateur Hour’ on the radio at the age of 10 as well as every section at the Brisbane Eisteddfod from ages 11 to 14. She excelled in her education at All Hallows’, achieving A passes in English, French, German, Italian, Music, and Art of Speech, and winning the Archbishop’s Award for the highest academic score and a full scholarship to university. However, Margaret had a dream—to go to Italy, the home of opera and fine singing—so she found the best paying job she could, in the Sales and Tax Department of the Queensland Government.
Margaret made her operatic debut at the age of 20, singing Violetta in La Traviata with the Queensland
National Opera. She realised her dream in 1956, travelling to Italy, where she won scholarships to study at the Accademia di Santa Cecilia, Rome, and the Accademia Chigiana, Siena. She continued her studies in Germany, before settling in Rome, from where she pursued an international career as a singer and teacher.
Margaret’s vast operatic and concert repertoire covered four centuries of European music, from the Baroque era to the twentieth century. Her European debut was in the role of Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro (Rome); followed by leading roles at La Scala, Milan; Theater an der Wien, Vienna; Teatro della Cometa, Rome; the Victoria State Opera, Melbourne; Festival Hall, London; Tonhalle, Zurich; Suisse Romande, Lausanne; the festivals of Vienna, Salzburg, Moscow, Spoleto and Brno; concert tours through Europe, Asia and the Middle East; and recitals for Europe’s principal radio and television networks.
From 1986 to 2006, Margaret was a regular member of the juries of some of Europe’s most prestigious singing competitions, including Munich, Salzburg, Nuremberg, Coburg, Graz, Sulmona, Gorizia and Cologne. She taught and lectured at tertiary institutions in Italy, Germany, Hong Kong, China and Australia.
Margaret met her beloved husband, Vittorio, when they were both 36. They married in Rome, where they lived until Vittorio’s death in 1997. During her decades in Rome, Margaret experienced an idyllic life immersed
in Italian culture, exploring the city’s iconic sites and attending operas and song recitals of greats such as José Carreras.
In 2007, Margaret returned to Australia and settled in New Farm. She established a private teaching practice and collaborated with the Young Artists Program of Opera Australia, the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University (her most recent masterclass being delivered in April 2021) and The University of Queensland, and adjudicated many of Australia’s major singing competitions.
Among her renowned students around the world, Margaret was a much-loved mentor, teacher and friend to Tarita Botsman, distinguished Queensland and Australian opera singer and artist. Speaking at Margaret’s funeral service, Tarita said:
Margaret wanted you all to remember that she lived a wonderful life: she cruised the Nile and recklessly climbed the Great Pyramids when it was still allowed (she wanted me to add), she walked the Great Wall of China, climbed Uluru, she went to the Acropolis and the Parthenon, and of course lived in Rome and Brisbane, for her the two most beautiful cities in the world.
Margaret excelled in so many ways in life, but friendship, I am sure many of you will agree, was another of her true talents. When you sat with Margaret for a visit or a chat,
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When you sat with Margaret for a visit or a chat, she shone a light on you and she cared about what you had to say. Somehow you knew that she would always be there for you to cultivate and protect you with her insight and wisdom, and as a trusted confidante.
she shone a light on you and she cared about what you had to say. Somehow you knew that she would always be there for you to cultivate and protect you with her insight and wisdom, and as a trusted confidante.
May Signora Genovesi rest in peace, and may her story continue to inspire young women to follow their dreams.
Acknowledgements: Tarita Botsman, Dieu et Devoir, and Sydney Eisteddfod. A collection of memorabilia from Margaret’s life has been donated to the All Hallows’ School Archives.
In Memoriam
MARY BACKSTROM (KERLIN), mother of Mary-Anne Pagliaro, sister of Margaret York
MARGARET BAKER GENOVESI, daughter of Evelyn Baker (Gould) (dec)
CARMELA BARBAGIOVANNI, mother of Maria and Luisa
MICHAEL BATHERSBY, brother of Sue Nolan and Anne Johnson
FAY BOUEL, mother of Shauna, Donna and Tracy
CATHERINE BOURKE, sister of Mary and Veronica (both dec)
WILMA BOWMAN (MUIRHEAD)
GERARD BRENNAN, husband of Patricia (O’Hara) (dec), father of Madeline, Anne, Margaret and Bernadette
VALERIE BURNS (TUNNEY)
ANNE BYRNE (PERRY), sister of Marie-Louise Mark
NAURELLE CAHILL (FOX)
GIUSEPPA COLOMBO, mother of Rosalba (dec)
LORRAINE COOKE, sister of Joan and Diane
GORDON DEVEREUX, father of Annemarie
IAN DRYNAN, brother of Julanne Sweeney
MARY GILLETT (AHERN)
JUDY GRAY, mother of Louise Gray and Kelly Prosser
Please pray for the following past pupils, past staff members, and their family members who have passed away recently.
LEN GREEN, son of Laurie (Shannon) (dec), brother of Margaret McShane, Anne Green, Mary Green (all dec), and Frances Adkins
CARMINE IACOVELLA, father of Rina, Pia, Sogna and Elsa
DANIELLE LOCK
LOUIS MAJER, husband of Maureen (Donaghy), father of Sonia and Julie
SANDRA MCGRATH (HANLEY)
WIN MENDOZA (COLLINGWOOD), sister of Patricia O’Brien (dec), Marie Bourke and Anne McMahon
KEVIN MEWBURN, husband of Eileen (McDonald)
REGINALD MONTEIRO, husband of Ivy (past staff member), father of Jackie and Stephanie
BERNICE O’CALLAGHAN (CASEY), mother of Carmel O’Callaghan, Catherine Ruff, Anne O’Casey, Maria O’Callaghan, Margaret O’Callaghan, Elizabeth O’Callaghan and Madonna Bongard
PATRICK O’SULLIVAN SJ, son of Jessie McEncroe (dec)
KATRINA ROBERTS, daughter of Lynda (Whimp), sister of Greta and Elissa
TERRY RUSSELL, father of Rebecca Parer and Anna Markey
MARGARET SMITH (ALLEN)
WAL SMITH, father of Janene McKeon, Lisa Cooper and Kaylea Burns
RITA STOWER (CURTAIN), mother of Maria Cranitch, Catherine Cowley, Elizabeth Bartlett and Jane Marchand
IAN THOMSON, (past staff member), father of Hilary
JOHN VANDERBYL, husband of Rita (Falvey) (dec), father of Mary Rose Harms and Josephine Vanderbyl
MARJORIE WHIMP, mother of Valerie, and Lynda Roberts
MARION WILKINSON, mother of Donaugh Jones, Katrina Weller, Lisa Podosky and Ann Halligan
WALTER WOOD, husband of Beverley (Piper)
SHEILA WRAY, mother of Paula Oliver
SUE ZILLMAN (RIDDLE), (past staff member), mother of Stephanie
This list has been compiled as at 12 July 2022. To request that the name of a recently deceased past pupil, past staff member, or immediate family member be included in the next edition of The Hallowian, please email ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au
Past, Present, Future: Introducing the Past Pupils’ Legacy
You are invited to contribute to a unique fund designed to provide an All Hallows’ education to daughters of past pupils who would not otherwise afford to do so.
You may choose to give in memory of a mother, grandmother, sister, daughter or friend; to give out of gratitude for your own All Hallows’ experience; or simply so that in the future, a young girl will benefit from your generosity today.
The Past Pupils’ legacy is a true and enduring expression of the All Hallows’ Sisterhood, and of how we value the continuity and connections across our community and through the generations.
To make a donation, click here.
An update from the All Hallows’ Foundation: It started with a gift
Two hundred years ago it all started with a gift. Two hundred years ago, Catherine McAuley received an inheritance, a gift that could have afforded her a life of great comfort and luxury.
Catherine leveraged this gift that was bestowed upon her to create opportunities for others. She had a desire to educate and support the children and young women of Dublin and she was purposeful in her decision to do just that.
With that financial seed, the House of Mercy was established and grew, embodying Catherine’s compassion, purpose and mission-driven work that demonstrated her resounding belief in the potential of women.
Catherine’s legacy continued through the work of the Sisters of Mercy, in Ireland and in Australia as they set to establish and build the site and community that is now the All Hallows’ that we experience today, the All Hallows’ that connects us all.
On Thursday 9 June this year, we came together as a community to celebrate and support Catherine’s legacy as we raised funds for the Catherine McAuley Bursary to further assist students who would ordinarily be unable to access a mercy education.
On Giving Day together we raised funds to support the Mercy education for two students. Together, we surpassed our goal of $155,200 and raised over $173,000. Those funds will change lives – not only the lives of the two young women who will benefit from a Catherine McAuley bursary, but the lives of their future families and communities.
The All Hallows’ Foundation is the entity that continues to build on the pioneering impact economy that the Sisters of Mercy established under the helm of Catherine McAuley. Two hundred years ago, the Sisters were able to invest in ways that enabled new opportunities and pathways for others. By giving through the All Hallows’ Foundation, you are equally furnishing those pathways for others. You are agents of change.
For a look back at why we are here and why we do what we do, we invite you to hear from those who benefit from your generosity in the video above.
Thank you to the All Hallows’ Past Pupils Association for your match gift on Giving Day and thank you to everyone who joined us on the day as a valued volunteer, ambassador or donor. Together, we can change lives.
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Two hundred years ago it all started with a gift. Two hundred years ago, Catherine McAuley received an inheritance, a gift that could have afforded her a life of great comfort and luxury. .
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ARE YOU UP TO DATE?
The best way to be in the know about reunions, events, past pupil news and other opportunities to connect is to ensure your email and phone details in particular are up to date.
If any of your personal contact details have changed, please click here and update now.
If you have a family member – mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, or friend who has mentioned they don’t hear from All Hallows’ anymore - please share this page with them and encourage them to follow these simple ways to stay in the loop.
Seeking Prizes and/or Sponsorships
We welcome event sponsorship and donations of raffle prizes including travel, accommodation, entertainment and dining experiences; women’s health and beauty products; jewellery, fashion and accessories; homewares and art; and food and beverages.
All donors are acknowledged as part of events and through social media.
If you would like to offer a raffle prize or cash donation or sponsor an event, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact Maree Nugent, Past Pupils’ Liaison on telephone (07) 3230 9424 or email ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au.
Be social, keep connected, stay in touch
The PPA is proud to support Mercy Works
We invite you to click the links below to read about some of their latest projects and news.
House of Hope: ‘Balay Banaag Offers These Girls a Future’
Silent Continuation of the Stolen Generation
Finding Peace in Ballarat
Help Save a Mother and Child with our Chicken and Egg Nutrition Project
The Past Pupils’ Association Committee
President ...............................
Vice President .......................
Treasurer ...............................
Secretary ...............................
School/Past Pupils’ Liaison
Committee Members ...........
Tron Fisher
Bridget Delahunty
Sarah Fraser
Felicity Francis
Maree Nugent
Catherine Bonifant
Cathy Clemot
Leonie Clothier
Nicki Dalton
Anne Goulding
Gabrielle Goulding
Katy McGree
Lucy Oakhill
Neva Wethereld
We welcome new members at any time, or encourage you to join us to get in touch if you would like to help with a specific event or project.
From our Merchandise Collection
The AH2O Water Bottle $25
Stainless steel style, with screw-on lid and handy metal loop handle. 710ml capacity.
The Heart Case $10
You will love how handy this little 21cm x 13cm case is! Great for swim goggles, caps, phones, calculators, pens, pencils, personal stuff and more.
It’s water resistant, easy to wipe clean and made from recycled plastic.
The Canvas Carry-All $25
This big, beautiful, dark denim tote style bag pays homage to the iconic places and spaces that are synonymous with All Hallows’ School.
• 100% cotton
• Inside pocket
• Large, shoulder-friendly handles
• Gusset
• 32.5 x 46 x 12.5cm/29 litre capacity
Coming Soon: The Vintage Clutch
Styled by Anna Gibson using our very own PPA tea towels.
If you have any questions, know of someone who is unable to access The Hallowian in digital format, or have any comments or suggestions for future editions you would like to share, please contact Maree at ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au or 07 3230 9424.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Land on which we stand, the Turrbal and Jaggera people. We pay our respects to them, and for the love they gave and received from the Land. May we walk gently and respectfully upon this Land. May we always recognise that we walk in love with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sisters and brothers in creating a more just Australian society.