The Hallowian Vol 2 2023

The Hallowian VOL 2 2023

STORIES CONNECTIONS MEMORIES NEWS COMING EVENTS PHOTOS FAREWELLS

Goodbye Graham

Mr Lowry blows the full-time whistle after 44 years

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10 What's inside...

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FROM THE PRINCIPAL

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EVENTS & REUNIONS

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

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CONGRATULATIONS & HONOURS

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EMPOWERING FUTURE LEADERS IN STEM

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SISTER STORIES

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VALE

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IN MEMORIAM

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FROM THE FOUNDATION

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FROM MEDIA TO MIRACLES

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COVER STORY: FULL-TIME FOR MR LOWRY AFTER 44 YEARS

Front row (L-R): Ms Jemima Welsh, Ms Ann-Maree David, Miss Amelia Tutt, Sister Anna Ventura, Sister Shirley Myers, Sister Josephine Dooley, Sister Irene Callinan, Sister Ann Hetherington, Sister Rita Huxley, Sister Angela Mary Doyle, Sister Maura O’Shaughnessy, Miss Bridget Land Miss Cristina Griffin Second row (L-R): Mrs Kaylene Elliott, Mrs Catherine O’Kane, Sister Maree Hutchinson, Sister Pauline Smoothy, Sister Karen Risson, Sister Collen Geary, Sister Peta Goldburg, Sister Sandra Lupi, Sister Jill Stringer, Sister Elizabeth Jordan, Sister Fay McMeniman, Sister Mary Costello, Sister Christine Watt, Sister Pauline Burke, Sister Barbara Donohue, Sister Mary Kinney, Ms Sarah Rush Back row (L-R): Sister Mary Johnson, Mr Ivan McDonald, Sister Patricia Blundell, Sister Patricia Kirchner, Sister Maureen Keenan, Sister Catherine Reuter, Sister Mary Pescott, Mr Kieran McCarthy

From the Principal Mrs Catherine O’Kane Our rich All Hallows’ history includes the many buildings and facilities that have been an integral part of our story for more than 160 years. They are a tangible reminder of the Sisters of Mercy and AHSisters who have gone before us, and the legacy we are honoured to continue.

The eagerly anticipated launch of our new Facilities Master Plan in March 2024 will outline several transformative physical changes that will pay homage to this heritage, while ensuring our facilities meet the ever-evolving needs of our students and holistic education program.

A historic highlight of 2023 was the purchase of the All Hallows’ Convent from the Sisters of Mercy, with the reimagining of this sacred space a major catalyst for the new Facilities Master Plan.

As a fitting tribute to the 160th anniversary of Mother Vincent Whitty and our founding Sisters moving our school to Adderton House on 1 November 1863, the liturgy held on 9 November 2023 to acknowledge through prayer and

ritual this transition was a moving and memorable celebration.

While All Hallows’ has leased and used large areas of the Convent since the Sisters left the building in 2007, the transfer of ownership and the ability to use the entire building for school purposes will enable us to fully integrate the Convent into the daily life of the school. Plans to develop Convent spaces for the benefit of our whole community include the creation of a Heritage Centre in the original parlour rooms, meeting and event spaces for use by our whole community including students, staff, parent groups, and our Board and Board committees, and new staff work, end of trip and eating spaces.

To support the expansion of our Year 5 and 6 streams in 2024 from three to five streams, St Gertrude’s will be redeveloped into an additional active play space, complementing the current Year 5 and 6 playground. This new active play space for our youngest AHSisters will provide facilities for physical activity that is so important for their health, wellbeing and development.

The refurbishment of Main Building will commence in late 2024 with the creation of a new Student Health and Wellbeing Centre on the ground floor in the University wing. This project will enable the co-location wellbeing facilities including the Health Centre, School Counsellor offices and Heads of House offices. Additionally, a large new student bathroom on Level 2 of Main Building, and the relocation and rebuilding of the current external stairs near the Sophia Centre will complete this phase of the renovation of Main Building with further projects to be completed later in the Facilities Master Plan’s implementation.

We look forward to watching these new and revitalised spaces take shape over the life of the plan and I look forward to sharing the benefits and joy they will provide for our All Hallows’ community in the coming years.

With blessings in Mercy, Mrs Catherine O’Kane Principal

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From the President:

Welcome It fills my heart with joy to reflect upon the extraordinary year we have had. Everything that has been organised by the Past Pupils’ Association this year has not only met expectations but exceeded them in numerous ways.

to be a night of enjoyment for all attendees, with great music, delectable food, and quality champagne contributing to keeping the Sisterhood connected.

The Annual Mass and Morning Tea and Reunion Day is a special day that brought generations of past pupils together. The event was filled with chatter, laughter, and heartfelt remembrances and reconnections where guests enjoyed a lovely morning tea using our coveted fine china trios and were served by current Year 11 and 12 students.

We kicked off our events calendar with the annual International Women’s Day Breakfast.

This event was hosted by Aislin Kriukelis (Class of 2002). Our record number of attendees were inspired by our speakers Lauren Zanetti (Class of 2000) and Dr Amy Illidge (Class of 1994). In March we also welcomed back the Class of 2022 The biannual Hallowian publication continues to for a delightful afternoon, filled evolve and provide information, with pizza, laughter and shared stories and ease of accessibility. stories of life beyond the green The publicity team shared Our commitment to gates. numerous photos and social media posts to ensure that fostering excellence Our commitment to fostering our Past Pupils’ community is in STEM was evident excellence in STEM was always in the know and stays at Sisters in Stem, the evident at Sisters in Stem, the connected. Our merchandise informative evening and informative evening and panel range has undergone a significant discussion with accomplished transformation in branding and panel discussion with women in science, technology, quality and sales received from accomplished women engineering, and mathematics. events, online and the School in science, technology, The impact of this event was Shop have made valuable profits engineering, and palpable as the audience heard that contribute to supporting the from Georgina Siggins (Class School. mathematics. of 2012), Nicole Shambrook (Class of 1998), Bridgette The Association’s major Ward (Class of 2001), Jane Hogan France (Class contributions were to All Hallows’ Giving Day and of 1994), Avalon Martinkus (Class of 2015) and the Past Pupils’ Legacy. Supporting these two moderator Felicity Furey (Class of 2003). initiatives is so important in ensuring that the gift of an All Hallows’ education may be possible to The Potter Room came to life for a fun filled those who might otherwise not be able to afford evening for our Connect Blue event. This proved it. This year, the Association has taken ownership

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of the Dr Lee Anne Perry AM Leadership and Service Award and we were delighted to present the award to Solene Hegarty-Cremer (Class of 2014).

I extend heartfelt thanks to Catherine O’Kane and her dedicated staff for their invaluable support throughout the year. Special gratitude goes to Past Pupils’ Liaison Maree Nugent for her connection with the school and meticulous oversight of our activities.

Finally, the committee farewelled several members who have volunteered tirelessly Bridget Delahunty (Vice President), Catherine Clemot, Lucy Oakhill, and Catherine Bonifant - and I express deep appreciation for their dedicated service. Executive Members Sarah Fraser (Treasurer), Felicity Francis (Secretary) will step down and remain as general members.

Each have played a vital role, contributing skills and commitment that have left an indelible mark on our association.

Blessings of the season and we look forward to seeing you in 2024.

Dieu et Devoir Tron Fisher

Tron

Be social, keep connected, stay in touch allhallowsschoolpastpupils ahsbrisbane ahspastpupils AHSBrisbane

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Past Pupils LinkedIn Group

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Empowering Future Leaders in STEM:

Dr Lee-Anne Perry AM Leadership and Service Award SOLENE HEG ART Y-CREMER | CL ASS OF 2014

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he Dr Lee-Anne Perry AM Leadership and Service Award is named in honour of the first lay Principal of All Hallows School and in recognition of the exemplary way she manifested mercy goals and values during her sixteen years of leadership. The award was originally established by the All Hallows’ Parents & Friends and Mothers’ Network. From 2023, the award will be proudly and fully funded by the Past Pupils’ Association. Recipients of this award need to be recent past pupils (within 10 years of graduation) and 4

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demonstrate a commitment to service and action in the spirit of mercy.

The 2023 recipient, Solene Hegarty-Cremer (Class of 2014), truly embodies the spirit and intent of the Dr Lee-Anne Perry Award which will provide support for Solene’s passion for ensuring equitable access to education, especially in under-represented groups in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths).

FEATURE

Solene’s dedication to Mercy service began during her years at All Hallows’ School, where she actively participated in initiatives such as Eddie’s Van, Antipodeans, and Red Earth trips to China and Cape York. Her commitment to service continued at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), where she pursued a Bachelor of Mathematics and a Master of Philosophy. Solene engaged in social justice activities globally, teaching English and Mathematics in Laos for six months through Global Vision International, and contributing to community-based design in Cambodia with Engineers Without Borders.

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Reflecting on her experience, Solene states: “The trip really highlighted the importance of access to education, and I became involved in multiple initiatives throughout my time at QUT: being a student ambassador, teaching mathematics in disadvantaged areas around Brisbane and volunteering at multiple women in STEM events.”

Solene is dedicated to inspiring young minds.

She actively participates in various programs, educational forums, and events, spreading her knowledge and passion for mathematics and STEM as tools for helping people.

Solene is currently a Doctor of Philosophy candidate at the University of Montreal, where she is modeling influenza and identifying key risk factors for severe disease.

Solene explains: “I am passionate about leveraging my skills to help others and my PhD, which is using mathematics applied to immunology, will help me achieve this. I first became interested in mathematics as a career when I learnt of its application in biomedicine. My PhD is the pathway for me to contribute to improving people’s quality of life.

I am modelling the human immune system using differential equations to understand the variety of factors that make some people very susceptible to disease and others not so much”.

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I first became interested in mathematics as a career when I learnt of its application in biomedicine.

My PhD is the pathway for me to contribute to improving people’s quality of life.

FEATURE

Solene was presented with the Dr LeeAnn Perry AM Leadership and Service Award on the 17th October at the All Hallows’ whole school assembly. Her ambitious plans for the award funds involve creating an interactive web app to disseminate cutting-edge science and mathematics research. The aim is to make complex scientific topics, such as influenza modeling, cancer treatment, and ecology modeling, accessible and engaging, especially for those under-represented in STEM and to those who may not have access to extended scientific learning.

the cause of accessible education and inspiring the next generation in STEM fields. The All Hallows’ Past Pupils’ Association takes pride in nurturing leaders like Solene who carry the torch of Mercy values into the future.

Congratulations Solene. We look forward to sharing in the journey ahead with you.

Solene envisions breaking down barriers in scientific learning, presenting cutting-edge research in an interactive and user-friendly manner. The Dr Lee-Anne Perry AM Award not only recognizes Solene’s achievements but also propels her towards furthering

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From media to miracles: my unexpected journey to World Youth Day 2023

BY CAROLINE KOVAC | CL ASS OF 2010

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orking within the media sector for over 10 years it never occurred to me that my job may one day lead me to World Youth Day (WYD) – a gathering of young people within the Catholic church.

But this became my reality in 2022 when I was chosen by Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE), along with 20 other pilgrims made up of Teachers, Campus Ministers, and Executives, to attend WYD 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal.

Starting in Madrid, we made a pilgrimage to Avila, Salamanca, and Segovia, visiting Cathedrals and sacred sites along the way, including the birthplace of Santa Teresa de Jesus, otherwise known as Saint Teresa of Ávila.

Her life and writings offered me a unique perspective on the power of words and storytelling in conveying faith. I found myself absorbed by her writings about spirituality and mysticism, wanting

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Above: Caroline with BCE colleague Louisa Gough

to know more about her teachings, including the seven chambers of spiritual development and her insights into the practice of prayer.

As a writer myself, I connected with the way she used words to inspire and guide others on their spiritual journeys. It was a humbling experience to walk in her footsteps and draw inspiration from the same places that had shaped her own faith and writing.

Arriving in Lisbon, one can never truly anticipate the experience of being among a group of 1.5 million Catholic youth eagerly awaiting the arrival of Pope Francis.

FEATURE

Above: Caroline (right) with fellow BCE colleague and past pupil Genevieve Easton (Class of 2017) (left).

Above: An amazing opportunity to be within metres of Pope Francis.

After waiting hours to see the Pope in person, my expectations were superseded when the Pope drove straight past us. In this moment he couldn’t have been any more than two metres away, he grinned as the youthful crowd chanted ‘esta es la juventud del Papa,’ which means ‘this is the youth of the Pope’ in Spanish.

Knowing I would encounter the Pope again at the WYD final Mass site, made it all the easier to pilgrimage the 16km return journey, even in scorching 42-degree heat. Although challenging at times, the heat did not deter me from making my way to the front of the WYD stage to witness Mass up close with the Pope. My media badge proved to be an invaluable asset as I navigated through various security barriers. I was deeply moved by the Pope’s messages in which

he encouraged the youth to live fearlessly and spread the message that all people are welcome in the Catholic church.

Concluding our pilgrimage in Fatima Portugal, we learned about the miraculous apparitions of the Virgin Mary to the three shepherd children in 1917 and took part in a candlelight procession to honour and offer our prayers and devotion. Fatima’s profound spirituality left an indelible mark on my heart, where the unmistakable presence of the Virgin Mary resonated within its sacred grounds.

As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am reminded that God has a way of leading us to extraordinary places and experiences we could never have anticipated.

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Full-time for Mr Lowry

after 44 years

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raham Lowry was first employed at All Hallows’ School as Sports Master and a Health and Physical Education teacher in 1980.

He remembers the thrill of being appointed by then Principal, Sister Anne Hetherington in 1980 and how blessed he felt at “being given the opportunity to work in such a learning environment”.

To some, 44 years working at the same place might sound like a long, hard slog, but to Graham Lowry it has been a privilege, an opportunity for him and his family to form lifelong relationships,

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make a genuine contribution to the lives of others and create extraordinary memories - for which he is truly grateful.

At the core of this is Graham’s belief in the importance of community and in keeping faith with Mercy values. He looks back over the last 44 years with a sense of pride and humble satisfaction.

Memories, he has a few.

He actually has a ute full of them, so for the purposes of this article we will cap it at just one per decade.

FEATURE From left: An uplifting and emotional Guard of Honour on the last day of school; Sister Anne O’Farrell and Mr Lowry present prizes at the 1981 Interhouse Sport Carnival; With a local child during the South Africa Touch Tour in 2008

The 1980’s

Interschool Swimming Carnivals at the Valley Pool - atmospheric, exciting, nerve wracking and so much fun. Highpoint of a highpoint – when Cathy Rosengren (Nash), Class of 1984, had to win the last leg of the last relay of the day so AHS could bring home the Beirne (now Duhig) Cup. And she did!

The 1990’s

Touch football, one of Graham’s great passions, being introduced as a sport at All Hallows’. He recalls fondly the difference from those early formative years to the sea of blue and white that now seems to ‘own’ the fields at Whites Hill.

The 2000’s/2010’s

International sporting and cultural tours take off to Japan, New Zealand, Kuala Lumpar, Singapore, Fiji and Graham’s personal favourite, South Africa and in particular, Soweto, where the team distributed 300 kilos of clothing to locals in need.

The 2020’s

The legacy lives on. Graham and Diane’s only son Tyrone and daughter-in-law Anna (also an All Hallows’ girl) have presented them with two beautiful grandchildren, Sebastian and Madeline, who hopefully will be the next generation Lowry on campus in 2032.

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Changes, he’s seen a few. Here are some that stood out…

• The phasing out and then phasing back in of the primary (Middle) school and each time to a different location • The vertical house system transitioning from year group to vertical grouping • The removal of the original swimming pool and diving board! (next to what is now Kirinari) • The building of Loretto Hall and Mercy Hall • The not one, not two, but three renovations of the library (Potter Building) • The transition of the Mercy Sisters from teaching and living on site, to residential living.

• The shift from a Sister of Mercy Principal to lay Principal 12

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• The purchasing of the first school mini bus (the Lowrys went as guarantors for it) • The expansion of school numbers from around 600 to current numbers (almost 1700) • The removal of the two central tennis courts to make way for Catherine Court • The levelling of the Terrace • The new tuckshop and Café 547 • The change in tertiary entry from TE scores to OP to ATAR • Changes in hairstyles and hairlines – notably his own!

FEATURE

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When the Middle School started up again, I nearly fell over the first time a student said ‘Mr Lowry, you taught my mother”. So I need to go before they start to tell me I’ve taught their grandmothers!”

Click below to watch the full interview with Graham Images from left: Graham with the 1992 AHS Touch Football team; Graham with the 2008 AHS Open Touch Football team

On the eve of celebrating his final Assembly at All Hallows’, Graham was interviewed by Lucy McMillan, one of the School Captains in 2022, and former member of Graham’s homeroom, MC5.

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Connect Blue On Saturday, September 9, the Potter Room was aglow with shades of blue, fairy lights and over 120 fabulous past pupils keen to catch up, laugh and dance the night away.

Connect Blue proved to be the perfect reunion option for milestone groups who prefer an evening event, and the fabulously fun-loving cohorts from the Class of 1983 and 1993 made up most of our guests. In a Pickle excelled again with fabulous food and the team from Brisbane Event and Waitstaff Hire (BEWH) provided exceptional bar service and management. We recommend them highly!

DJ Jamie-Lee Fox kept the dance floor pumping – with lots of fan favourites from the 80’s and 90’s.

When the clock struck 10 there were cries of one more song, just one more…

Not only was Connect Blue a successful social event, it raised $5,000 which funds the Dr LeeAnne Perry AM Leadership and Service Award, which is now, quite fittingly, the sole responsibility of the Past Pupils’ Association.

In fact, Connect Blue was so much fun we need a break, so this event will be rested in 2024 to enable planning to concentrate on the Past Pupils’ Association Centenary year in 2025.

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EVENTS

Helena’s dream is about to come true!

Over the past few years, the All Hallows’ Past Pupil’s Association has been so proud to support, in whatever small ways we can, the amazing initiative of BestLife and the McIlwain family raise funds to build a house where adolescents and young adults with special needs can live their best lives – lives of independence, joy and opportunity.

This house is to be called Helena’s House, in honour of our late AHSister, Helena McIlwain, who worked with BestLife and was passionate about this cause until she tragically passed away in 2019.

So we were thrilled to ‘be in the room’ at this year's Starry Night event when the highpoint of the evening was the surprise announcement that funds raised now exceed $2.5 million – the magic number which means that Helena’s House can now become a reality.

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Reunion Day 2023 Reconnect and Remember

Despite the possibility of rain, Reunion Day, Saturday, November 4, 2023 delivered clear skies, warm weather and even warmer smiles.

We began with the celebration of the Annual Past Pupils’ Mass in the All Hallows’ Chapel, which was bathed in beautiful, early morning light.

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The Chapel was near to capacity with milestone reunion groups, past pupils of all ages and life stages, babies, grandchildren, multi-generational family members and more, as we celebrated being together and remembered fondly those no longer with us.

EVENTS

Special thanks to celebrant Father Michael Twigg OMI who made a particular effort to return to Australia from an overseas pilgrimage in time to officiate Mass for us.

Father Michael has many special connections with All Hallows’ and his fond respect for the Sisters of Mercy and our extended school community is always apparent in his insightful, often amusing, reflections.

Sincere thanks to those members of our milestone year groups (1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, 2003 and 2013) who participated in the readings and offertory, and to Cathie Neil, and cantor cousins Mia Salanitri (2018), Greta Salanitri and Millie Finney (Year 12) for the exquisite music and singing.

Afterwards, the Chapel throng broke out into the sunshine. There were spontaneous catch ups, cuddles and conversations while groups gathered for official photographs on the steps of the Convent.

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There were spontaneous catch ups, cuddles and conversations while groups gathered for official photographs on the steps of the Convent.

Morning Tea was once again a sell-out. It was a combination of delicious sweet and savoury tiers on the tables, and a savoury and fruit grazing table for that little bit extra! Thank you, as always, to Ab Fab Catering. It was so lovely to see all the different ages and life stages in the room. The sense of sisterhood was palpable.

There were multiple tables of milestone reunion groups from 1963, 1973 and 2003. There were friendship groups and family groups – grandmothers, mothers, daughters, nieces, and cousins. It is over 70 years since our most ‘mature’ Morning Tea guests Jill Smith (Condon) and Eithne Stafford (Meehan) graduated from All Hallows’ but it was almost like yesterday, literally, for our youngest guests, Georgina Harris, Class of 2021 and Lucy McMillan, Class of 2022.

The evolving selection of Merchandise produced by the Past Pupils’ Association proved a big hit, and the sales kept our PPA volunteers busy all day.

However, if you missed out, or did not want to carry items to your after-event, you can purchase PPA Merchandise any time online at shop.ahs.qld.edu.au.

Speaking of ‘after events’, both on the day, and at other times throughout the year, milestone groups may choose to organise an alternate or additional reunion event off-site.

If your cohort decides to do this, please let us know so we can support you with communications etc, and include photos and details of the event in the Hallowian. Simply email ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au.

For those not heading off to Morning Tea in the fabulous rooftop Potter Room, there was an opportunity to wander through the front parlour rooms in the Convent which included a display of uniforms and other historical items carefully curated by our School Archivist, Cathy Clem.

There was also an opportunity to take a leisurely wander around the campus, using the specially created self-guided tour map, complete with QR codes and videos, of all the old familiar places and amazing new spaces.

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There are so many people to thank for their contribution to what was a thoroughly enjoyable and successful day: •

Thank you to Mrs Catherine O’Kane, Principal of All Hallows’ School for so generously opening up the School and the Convent on Reunion Day, and providing all the associated resources.

•

Thank you also to the many All Hallows’ staff, especially the Facilities and Community Relations teams, who provide ongoing support and advice to the PPA.

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Thank you to the Mothers’ Network for the loan of the tiered platters and the beautiful teacup trios – each one brought with it the spirit of a past pupil who donated it as they graduated Year 12.

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Thank you to the outgoing and incoming School Captains and all the All Hallows’ students who helped with Mass, welcoming our guests and serving tea and coffee. You make us all so very proud.

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Thank you to the members of the Past Pupils’ Association for the weeks and months of planning and organisation leading up to the day, and for the great team effort on the day.

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Thank you to the School Archives team for their ongoing support and expertise

Perhaps this excerpt from an email from Monica Cowell (Class of 1963) sums it up best: It was a delightful morning from start to finish.

I really enjoyed being able to visit the Convent, such a beautiful building and I thought of some of the nuns who had lived there - the gracious Sister Mary Celestine (my mother’s cousin), the lively and intelligent Sisters Benedict and Johannes, the friendly and down to earth Sr Mary St Helen and the amazing Sr M Maris who managed to teach 64 in one class and get all of us through Scholarship.. It was so interesting to meet up with the classmates of 1956-1963 and to walk around the school grounds with lifetime friends. The morning tea was delicious and the students who served it were delightful. They were genuinely nice and very attentive and obliging. Please thank them for looking after us so kindly. The Reunion was beautifully organized and we were all made to feel welcome. Thanks to everyone involved.

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Finally, to see and enjoy all the photos from the day, simply click on this link.

EVENTS

Class of 1962: A regular reunion group Thank you to Ann Tracey for this latest update from the Class of 62’s most recent gathering in late October: “Lyn had come from Perth for a relative’s 100th, so the timing was auspicious for her.

Katherine and Colleen drive from Gatton. We used to meet every five years, but it has just become every six months. We have a Facebook page, which is All Hallows’ Seniors, 1962.

We plan to meet next at the Jindalee Hotel on 29th April, 2024.

If there are Class of 62’s out there who would like to re-connect please contact Ann Tracey annjtracey@gmail.com or 0402 958 246 We had apologies from Barbara de Bont (Kaus) and Gabrielle Courtney and messages from Elizabeth Bradley (Murphy), Christine Hayden (Jordan), Rosslyn Bell (Bushell), Judy Bennett, Barbara Raymond (Jones), Carol Moloney (Chapman) and Gay Wood (Hewett)”

From the left: Madeleine Sayer (O’Dea), Margaret Christensen (Noonan), Lyn Bloom (Butler), Ann Tracey (Vowles), Izzy Bell (Silva), Trish Doyle (Menkens), Colleen Fitzgerald (Byrne), Teresa Creagh, Trish Wylie (Brady) and Katherine Whiteway (Hardin).

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Class of 1973: 50 year reunion Thank you to the wonderful organisers of the Class of 1973 50 year Reunion for this report: “After the School’s Reunion Day celebrations which many of our cohort were thrilled to be able to attend, the 50 year anniversary group met at the Story Bridge Main Street Bar for an extremely happy gathering full of great energy and joy. The reunion committee worked to ensure regular pre gathering communication and a well organised function which resulted in an impressive 82 members of the cohort attending. A number of those made intrastate and interstate journeys to be there and there were a number of apologies from those disappointed at being unable to attend due to prior commitments. Paula Egan (Oliver) who was the President of the Student Representative Council in 1973, a year which saw a move away from the traditions of Head Girl or School Captain, gave a thoughtful welcome speech reminding us all that although our lives had taken us all on diverse paths, we came together to reconnect and to celebrate the bonds and memories created at AHS 50 years ago. We also remembered those from our group who had passed and had a memory table with their names listed.

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”

Paula’s quote from TS Eliot was very apt: Time present and time past Are both perhaps present in time future And time future contained in time past.

EVENTS

A part of the speech that particularly resonated with those present were these words: “I am certain the life of each one of us over the last 50 years has not been without problems. But I also believe we would have brought to those problems something of the legacy of the amazing women who, over 160 years ago, established AHS on the site overlooking the Brisbane River – the very first secondary school in Queensland, and also some distillation of the lessons learned from the religious sisters and the lay staff who formed our attitudes, values, and beliefs during our school days in their care. And let’s not forget our peers who undoubtedly taught us much as well, (perhaps some of it a little dubious?) much that has been brought to the diverse lives we have all led to this point.”

The feedback was testament to what was a most wonderful afternoon: “a brilliant afternoon”, “great venue with plenty of seating for us old girls”, “how great was our day - all was fabulous”, “the venue was fabulous, the food was delicious”, “most importantly, decent champagne was available”, “the name tags were perfect”, “so wonderful to catch up with a very special group of women”, “non-stop conversations”, “old memories revived and new ones made”, “a great vibe prevailed throughout the day”, “a great day”, “a great success” ,”what a wonderful day”.

A consensus from our post-reunion wrap was not to wait another 10 years for the next catch up and with a great contact list and facebook page now firmly established, the next gathering will come around before we know it!

Happy memories! This is Judy Robertson (Class of 1973) who came from North Queensland to board at All Hallows’ in Grade 8 and 9 but had to continue her secondary schooling elsewhere when boarding closed down. Despite that, Judy was thrilled to join her classmates at the recent 50 year reunion. She was even more thrilled to sit in the same part of the Chapel that the boarders sat in during her time at AHS. 2023 | The Hallowian

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Class of 2003: 20 year reunion On Saturday the 4th of November members of the All Hallows’ Class of 2003 gathered to celebrate our 20 Year Reunion. For some, the day started off by attending the Past Pupils Annual Mass and Morning Tea held at the school as part of the Reunion Day celebrations.

There is always something special about being back in the All Hallows’ Chapel, and it certainly set the tone for what was to be a lovely day ahead.

Around 70 members of our cohort then gathered at Bar Pacino, where we were able to celebrate together as the Class of ‘03 - with the familiar back drop of the Story Bridge! It was a wonderful afternoon of reminiscing and reconnecting, and it was so great to look around and see the many smiling faces, genuinely thrilled to be together again after 20 years.

Thank you to all those who made the effort to attend, especially those who travelled from within Queensland, interstate or overseas. Finally, a huge thank you to Eve Gibson and Emma O’Neill for all your help with organising the day and making the afternoon the success that it was!

– Mary-Therese Maroske (Lucey)

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EVENTS

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Be inspired. Be inspiring.

The IWD theme for 2024 is #InspireInclusion When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, the world is a better place for all.

When women are inspired and enabled to be included, there is a greater sense of belonging and empowerment.

To truly include women is to embrace their diversity of race, age, ability, faith, endeavour, body image and identity, and to ensure the needs, interests and aspirations of women and girls are valued and included, individually, in communities, and globally.

Mark your diaries!

Inclusion has never been more relevant or more necessary so please join us for two fast, fabulous and informative hours of guest speakers, conviviality and conversation on the subject.

All Hallows’ Past Pupils’ Association Annual IWD Breakfast The Rose Room, Cloudland | Friday, March 8, 2024 | 6:45am for 7:00am start Tickets on sale soon, but mark your diaries now.

Keep an eye out for your invitation in your emails and on PPA socials in the New Year. If you have any questions or think you may not be on our lists, please message us so we can ensure you get the details at ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au 24

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EVENTS

Come back, we miss you: the 2023 Grad Get-together

Sunday, March 24, 2024 | 4:00pm – 6:00pm The Terrace, All Hallows’ School The Past Pupils’ Association invites its newest members, the Class of 2023, to join us on the Terrace for a casual and chill two hours of chat, music, woodfired pizza, games and ice creams.

This is a great opportunity to catch up, re-connect and check-in with your friends and classmates about uni courses, jobs, holidays and everything to do with life post-school. And it’s all free!

Watch out for more details in late January but put it in your calendar now!

Sisters Spotlight in the

Tuesday, April 30, 2024 | 5:30pm Claver Theatre and Piazza, All Hallows’ School This third edition of the Past Pupils’ Association’s Sisters in… Series focuses on the performing arts and all its facets, from front of house to back of house, writing, performing, producing and corporate.

Watch out for further details of an amazing panel of presenters and opportunities for mentoring and career advice.

If you’d like to be involved in some way, please email ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au

Sisters Scrubs in

Tuesday, July 30, 2024 | 5:30pm Claver Theatre and Piazza, All Hallows’ School Yes, there will be many doctors in the house when the Past Pupils’ Association presents Sisters in Scrubs, where a panel of fabulous past pupils working in a number of medical fields share their insights, pathways and experiences.

Watch out for further details early in 2024.

If you’d like to be involved in some way, please email ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au 2023 | The Hallowian

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DATE CLAIMERS FOR 2024 INAUGURAL MASS Thursday, January 25 at 1.00pm Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

SISTERS IN SCRUBS Tuesday, July 30, from 5.30pm Claver Theatre and Piazza

PPA MEETING Tuesday, February 6 6.30pm

PPA MEETING Tuesday, October 15, 6.30pm

TWILIGHT OPEN DAY Tuesday, March 5 All Hallows’ School

REUNION DAY 2024 Saturday, November 2, from 9.30am

IWD BREAKFAST Friday, March 8 from 7.00am The Rose Room, Cloudland, Ann Street COME BACK, WE MISS YOU: THE 2023 GRAD GET-TOGETHER Sunday March 24, 4:00pm-6:00pm The Terrace, All Hallows’ School SISTERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT Tuesday, April 30, from 5.30pm Claver Theatre and Piazza PPA MEETING Monday, May 13, 6.30pm MOTHERS’ NETWORK MAY MORNING TEA Friday, May 17, from 9.30am RNA Convention Centre PPA MEETING Monday, July 29, 6.30pm

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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Monday November 25

Suggest a Sister We are blessed to have such a large and vibrant past pupil community with members living, working and making a difference all over the globe.

The problem sometimes with such a large community is that we can’t possibly know what all our AHSisters are doing. If you have a friend, a sister, daughter, mother or classmate who is doing something amazing in whatever endeavour she is involved in, please let us know who they are, where they are, what they are doing and how we can make contact.

We are particularly keen to connect with past pupils who may be able to speak at events, mentor others, share their stories and inspire others.

If you would like to let us know about such a person (or maybe you are that person!) please send an email to ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au or phone Past Pupils' Liaison Maree Nugent on 0417 776 918.

Thank you in advance for your suggestions!

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Events made easy Did you know that All Hallows’ School’s extensive range of on-site venues and facilities are available for hire to individuals, companies, organisations, associations, and community groups?

From state-of-the-art classroom/learning spaces to heritage style halls (100pax), mid-sized theatres (300pax) and large 1,200 seat auditoriums, our flexible spaces provide multiple options and solutions for events of varying types and sizes - conferences, meetings, seminars, brand and product launches, corporate presentations, dinners and cocktail events.

One of our latest additions, the Potter Room, with breathtaking views of Brisbane City, is perfect for conferences, seminars, and corporate networking events of up to 200, and offers the additional advantages of adjoining balconies for break out spaces or welcome drinks and canapes.

The All Hallows’ Events team provides a seamless event management service by 28

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on-site professionals and preferred suppliers which can include: • Audio and IT • Security • Event styling and décor • Catering on-site or by preferred caterers Most venues are available 7 days a week, and free on-site parking is available (subject to availability).

Plus, consider the ease and convenience of the School’s prime inner city location with excellent access to transport (rail, bus and CityCat), Brisbane Airport, shopping and accommodation.

To find out more please view our comprehensive Venue Hire Guide, or contact: venuehire@ahs.qld.edu.au 07 3230 9412 @ahs.events

EVENTS

Heavenly.

From its sweeping terraces to its gracious 19th century buildings, iconic spaces and interesting facades, All Hallows’ School offers the most romantic, picturesque wedding possibilities.

Celebrate your marriage in the elegant and intimate Chapel with its amazing acoustics and breathtaking aura, capture incredible before and after photo opportunities on the School’s riverside terraces which offer panoramic views of the City and Story Bridge, continue the magic up in the rooftop Potter Room with its choice of aspects, layouts, indoor and outdoor

spaces for your reception, party or festivities.

Whatever you are imagining, our Events team can provide the individualised style and service to curate the most important day of your life, your way.

To find out more about how All Hallows’ could be the perfect place to make your wedding dreams come true, enquire to weddings@ahs.qld.edu.au or call 07 3230 9412. @ahs.events 2023 | The Hallowian

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We acknowledge these AHSisters who have been honoured for their outstanding service and achievements.

Clare O'Connor (McNamara) Class of 1978, awarded a Public Service Medal in the 2023 Australia Day Honours for outstanding public service to the development and support of Queensland communities, including as Director-General of the Department of Communities, Housing and Digital Economy, successfully delivering major policy and program reviews and reforms, regional service delivery and sector engagement, demonstrating commitment and a genuine desire to achieve exceptional outcomes for Queenslanders and the government of the day, and delivering significant public value for Queenslanders and high return on government investment.

Clare is currently Director-General of the Queensland Government Department of Treaty, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Communities and the Arts.

Dr Julia Vonwiller (Hall), Class of 1964, was honoured with an Order of Australia (AM) in the recent Kings Birthday 2023 Honours List for significant service to science and technology development.

Julia co-founded Appen in 1996 to provide an opportunity for linguists like herself to build their careers in a commercial setting.

The company, which floated in 2015, is a multi-lingual provider of high-quality training data that powers artificial intelligence for some of the world’s most well-known organisations. It is one of the Top 100 companies on the Australian Stock Exchange, employing over 1000 professional staff and one million contract staff worldwide.

Julia is also co-founder of the Vonwiller Foundation and actively supports many other philanthropic organisations.

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Lorraine Martin AO Class of 1958

Lorraine (Conolly) Class of 1958 was inducted into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame in recognition of groundbreaking, visionary contributions of national significance to private education businesses, and for enduring and significant community services. Over the last 50 years, Lorraine has served on more than 30 committees and boards of public, private, educational and community organisations.

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Lorraine Martin AO is a distinguished Queenslander whose achievements over nearly 50 years have paved the way for women to own and lead major businesses and who has left an indelible mark on the private education sector both within the state and nationally.

In 2021 artists Katrina Galsworthy chose Lorraine as her subject for the Brisbane Portrait Prize. This video of the artist’s process gives some great insight to Lorraine and her legacy.

WE HONOUR, WE CELEBRATE, WE REMEMBER

Mina Song Class of 2017

We are delighted to announce that Mina (pictured on right) has taken out the ‘QBCC Award to a Young Achiever’ at the 2023 NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) QLD Awards for Excellence.

This is an incredible achievement for Mina who started with Icon as a graduate in 2021 and has been promoting a number of initiatives that encourage gender equality in the construction industry.

Izzy Davies Class of 2018

Congratulations Isobel ‘Izzy’ Davies, Class of 2018, on receiving a George Georges Research Scholarship earlier this year.

The purpose of this Scholarship is to support an undergraduate student seeking to undertake a research project in an area relating to peace, nuclear disarmament, trade unionism, environmentalism, social justice, human rights, or other areas that reflect the values and goals of the late Senator George Georges.

Under the supervision of the Asia-Pacific Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, she has written a research paper on the relationship between the protracted violence throughout West Papua and the large scale extraction of the region’s natural resources.

Her primary focus has been on the Indonesian occupation of West Papua, its militarisation of the extractive industry and the impacts for Indigenous Papuans.

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Navigating the seas of healing Maddie shares her mission with Mercy Ships

MADELEINE ANDERSEN CL ASS OF 2016

"In the comforts of our everyday lives, we often take for granted the ease with which we can access healthcare. When I am sick, I go straight to Earl Grey tea until I am guided back to wellness. However, when tea alone is not enough to quell my illness, a short five-minute walk to my local medical centre finds me in the capable hands of medical professionals, receiving care without a second thought.

But what if circumstances were different?

What if help was hundreds of kilometres away and not a guarantee? Sambany, a local man from the Sahanomby Village in Madagascar, reminds us of the stark reality that exists outside of our privileged bubble. Sambany had spent nearly half of his life an outcast from his community. A monstrous tumour weighing as much as two heads enveloped half his face and his identity.

Rejected and mocked, he searched for help travelling long distances to ten different hospitals and even a witch doctor, all in vain.

As poverty and despair gripped Sambany, his world shrank to the confines of his house. His only companion—the radio—became a lifeline and ultimately introduced him to Mercy Ships, the organisation that would save his life.

SISTER STORIES To learn more about Sambany’s story, please click here.

A floating hospital of hope Mercy Ships is not your typical medical operation. In a world where 70% of the population lives near the coast, Mercy Ships travels from port to port providing free medical aid and education to the struggling nations of the world. These vessels are fully equipped ‘mobile’ hospitals, with operating theatres, intensive care units, outpatient clinics, pharmacies, radiology departments and more. Onboard, a team of dedicated medical professionals volunteer their expertise to bring healing and hope to those who need it most. The best part is, it’s all free!

My mission…

I am thrilled to share that I will be joining the extraordinary team aboard the Global Mercy Hospital Ship, setting sail to bring free medical aid to the underserved people of Sierra Leone, helping those like Sambany who simply don’t have access to all the medical assistance you and I take for granted.

On board Global Mercy I will be one of two volunteer radiographers. Radiography is the field of medical imaging encompassing X-ray, CT and MRI. Radiographers’ knowledge of physics, anatomy and disease processes allow us to provide the necessary images that inform clinical decisions, diagnosis and treatment. Currently, within Sierra Leone there are no formally trained radiographers, making my role there as both a clinician and a teacher incredibly special. My hope is to make a lasting impact not only on my patients, but on the future radiology practices within Sierra Leone.

Why Sierra Leone?

The nation bore the brunt of a decade-long civil war, only to face the devastation of the Ebola epidemic in 2014, the largest ever recorded. The aftermath left thousands of Ebola survivors with severe health complications, including neurological, eye,

and ear disorders, along with mental health challenges. These patients, along with many others, can have life changing surgery or treatments with the help of Mercy Ships.

Patient screening teams travel long distances across the nation to screen and select surgical candidates. Once selected patients make their way from their homes to the Ship where they will remain in our care until well enough to return home.

Healthcare accessibility changes lives For Sambany it was no mere five-minute walk to a medical centre but a desperate trek involving the sale of his family rice field, a two day journey being carried on the back of family members, and a painful six-hour taxi ride. Sadly, this is not uncommon for our patients, many of which will traverse mountains, ride horseback or even cross water, to reach the ships. Their belief in the transformative assistance we provide makes every challenging step worthwhile for those who are otherwise plagued by pain, rejection, and hopelessness.

Help me make a difference My mission aboard the Global Mercy is a reflection of the values and principles that All Hallows’ School champions. It is an opportunity for me to give back to those in need, but I would also appreciate your help.

Volunteering for such missions comes with its own set of expenses, including travel, accommodation, and other mission-related costs. While I am fully committed to selffunding my volunteer mission, these expenses can be significant and I would sincerely appreciate any support in any form you can provide. Join me in making a difference in the lives of others.”

The All Hallows’ Past Pupils’ Association is proud to support Maddie’s volunteer mission with Mercy Ships.

If you would like to do the same please visit Maddie’s Gofundme Page.

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Amelia Oberhardt: the secrets we keep Class of 2003 On the day of her mother’s burial, journalist Amelia Oberhardt (Class of 2003) discovered that she never really knew her mother at all. A traditional funeral service was held for Amelia’s mother, Cecelia McNamara (Class of 1972) at St Brigid’s Catholic Church, which was followed by a wake at a city pub where memories, stories and alcohol flowed freely. Amelia recounts: “It was here I stood watching a slide show my best friend had made of my mum’s life: Her as a little girl, laughing with friends and with our family in the early years. But then a photo I’d never seen before flashed up on the screen. There she was as a teenager, a wedding ring on her finger, a new baby in her arms and a young man standing awkwardly next to her, his hand across her back. It looked like a family portrait.“ However, this alleged family portrait did not feature Amelia’s father nor did it depict Amelia as a baby. The photo was time stamped August 1973, almost 13 years before Amelia’s birth.

“Who was this man? Who was this baby? My quest to find the truth began.”

Growing up, Amelia’s parents pursued successful careers in journalism. Unfortunately, the demanding nature of their jobs led to the rapid dissolution of their marriage by the time Amelia was just 10 years old.

”

Who was this man? Who was this baby? My quest to find the truth began.

“Over the years we would come and go out of each other’s lives, my desperation for a relationship with her [Cecelia] always marred by her ability to pull me in then push me away. As I reached my early 20s I tried harder to get to know Mum, but any time I’d ask her about her past she’d fly off the handle and refuse to answer any questions.

In the final years of Mum’s life…she was in and out of hospital treating a range of illnesses…then on New Year’s Eve 2011, I received the call that Mum had died. She was 56…

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SISTER STORIES After seeing the photo at the wake, I tried in vain to ask the people around her – who was the man in the photo, and who was the baby?”

Amelia’s father was aware of Cecelia’s first marriage and disclosed that her ex-husband’s name was Michael Davies. This triggered an almost decade-long quest for information.

By 2022, Amelia was encouraged to create a podcast about her journey. Teaming up with her podcast producer and through meticulous investigative efforts, she successfully tracked down the elusive Michael Davies.

Michael verified that he was the young man in the photo with Amelia’s mother. He and Cecelia had a teen romance, resulting in an out-of-wedlock pregnancy. Due to societal expectations in the 1970s, coupled with Cecelia’s devout Catholic upbringing, the young teens were pressured to marry. Importantly, Michael clarified that Cecelia had experienced a miscarriage just before the wedding. Being young the marriage was short-lived and the pair rapidly drifted apart, resulting in a controversial divorce.

“And the baby in the photo? … Was a relative of Michael’s. Mystery solved!”

Unraveling the mystery brought a degree of closure for Amelia, shedding light on the societal norms that shaped Cecelia’s life and how they significantly influenced the woman she would become and the secrets she would steadfastly protect.

”

I’m sensitive to the intergenerational pain that can be passed through families. By telling my family’s story, I hope I can help others heal too.

“I’m sensitive to the intergenerational pain that can be passed through families. By telling my family’s story, I hope I can help others heal too.”

To hear Amelia’s fascinating full story, listen to her podcast, Secrets We Keep: Shame, Lies and Family.

On the left: the photo that started it all, and on right, Amelia and her husband Grant with their treasured children Billy, Harper and Tommy.

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Elissia Carnavas:

from young Matilda to World Cup commentator Class of 2002 Elissia Carnavas (née Canham) is ‘super proud’ of the special place she holds in Australian football, being the first known female of African descent to represent an official Australian national football team.

A bright young star of Australian football, Elissia played representative football from the age of 11 and quickly ascended the ranks to become a Queensland Academy of Sport scholarship holder at the age of 13 and one of the youngest players to play in the Women’s National Soccer League (WNSL) at the age of 14. Elissia played in the WNSL with the QLD Sting winning dual premierships and went on to become one of the youngest players selected in the first Young Matildas team in 2001 at the age of 16.

At 17, Elissia was selected for Australia to participate in the FIFA U19 Women’s World Cup in Canada where the team became the first Australian National Women’s Team to reach a quarter final of a major tournament.

Elissia was a late call up under Adrian Santrac to join the Matildas for the Australia Cup tournament and subsequently selected in the 26 player Olympic Squad for the Athens Olympics in 2004, although was not available for final selection due to injury.

In the mid-2000’s, Elissia joined Perth Glory in the newly formed W-League.

Elissia has been a National Premier League coach, is a mother, holds a degree in Health Science from the Queensland University of Technology and is a board member of Olympic FC, Brisbane.

Passionate about inclusion and diversity in sport and an avid sports lover, Elissia is currently a commentator and football analyst for the Sports Network and weekly radio show, The Global Game, alongside Simon Hill and Alex Brosque.

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Most recently, Elissia brought her unique perspective and experience to her commentary role for the FIFA Women’s World Cup hosted by Australia and New Zealand, commentating over 24 matches around Australia. From being part of the formative period in women’s football in this country, she was honoured to follow the trajectory of today’s players who stand on the “shoulders of many, many amazing players who have played and given the women’s game its formation and foundations…”

SISTERSTORIES STORIES SISTER

initially taught 7 women how to work with leather and continue to work in Cherbourg. All of our leathers for sandals use kangaroo leather (the most sustainable leather or material commercially available) from a tannery outside of Brisbane that has been there since the 1800’s. We use traditional shoemaking techniques to ensure our sandals last for years.

Monica Arce Garcia: from Dodge Lane to the runways of Paris

We have been featured in shows at New York and Paris Fashion Week and participated in the Cannes Film Festival as part of their sustainability initiative.

With our customers predominantly in the United States and Europe we are now expanding into closed shoes with the introduction of our latest Mary Jane ballet flats that are produced in Portugal by a boutique family run factory who have met all of our sustainability specifications with Leather Working Group certified leathers and no thermoplastic components”.

Visit darcesandals.com to shop.

Instagram: @darcesandals_ Facebook: D’Arçé

Class of 2001 Monica Arce Garcia is the founder and Creative Diretor of D’ARÇÉ, a footwear brand which has at its core a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, while crafting exquisite leather shoes that not only transcend seasonal boundaries but also endure the passage of time.

Monica pictured on left, with women from the Cherbourg community in Queensland

Monica shares her journey in her own words: “From a tender age, fashion has always been a passion, something my Barbies could attest to after their seventh outfit change of the day by 8am. This interest was furthered at All Hallows by having the opportunity to take Fashion with Mrs Mullins in Dodge Lane and in Year 11 a Certificate of Fashion at TAFE every Wednesday afternoon.

With working in fashion always being my goal, I moved to Paris to finish my Masters degrees in luxury brand management and international development.

After a stint at the OECD, I knew I wanted to bring these two interests of mine together by creating my own brand. In 2017 I started D’Arçé Sandals to create a brand that made beautiful shoes that were truly socially responsible as well as environmentally sustainable. I chose to create the production studio in Cherbourg, Queensland, as a way to bring economic opportunities to regional, indigenous communities. I 2023 | The Hallowian

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Amelia Cherry Class of 2018

To find out more about Amelia’s project you can visit her page on the Australian Cultural Fund.

Applause and accolades for Amelia Cherry, Class of 2018, as she moves ever closer towards realising her dream of a career as a solo double bassist.

In September this year, Amelia and her double bass moved across the other side of the world to Milan, Italy to continue her studies with Giuseppe Ettorre, Principal Bass of La Scala.

In a remarkable achievement the following month, Amelia won a position to study at the Accademia Stauffer in Cremona under the tutelage of Maestro Franco Petracchi.

This is an extremely competitive institution that attracts the most successful and appreciated string players from around the world.

Amelia’s love for music first began at All Hallows’ School, where the nurturing environment of the Year 5 Strings Program ignited her fascination and passion for the double bass. Her journey from those formative years to where she stands today is a testament to the invaluable impact of the Year 5 Instrumental Program.

Above from top: Selena Bartlett; Solene Hegarty-Cremer

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SISTERSTORIES STORIES SISTER

Past Pupils inspire at AMSSA All Hallows’ Past Pupils generously shared their time and collective wisdoms at the 2023 Australasian Mercy Secondary School Association (AMSAA) Conference, hosted by All Hallows’ School in August this year.

Well done and thank you to the following scontributors: guest speakers at the Conference Dinner, Jill Stockwell (Class of

1986) and Dorcas Tuyishimere (Class of 2017); keynote speaker, Jemima Welsh (Class of 2009) and our amazing panellists at the High Tea on the last day of the conference – Emily Morisaki (Class of 2016), Lileana Colarelli (Class of 2018), Ella Proberts (Class of 2019) , Dr Amy Illidge (Class of 1994), and Caroline Kovac (Class of 2010).

From left: Caroline Kovac, Emily Morisaki, Ella Proberts, Lileana Colarelli and Dr Amy Illidge

Dorcas Tuyishimere and Jill Stockwell in conversation with Madonna King

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Vale Mary McKeering 25/03/1920 – 06/07/2023 Class of 1937 Mary Gabriel McKeering was born on March 25, 1920, at the family home ‘Tramore’ in Sandgate. Mary was the 7th child of John McKeering and Mary McKeering, nee Corbett, and little sister to Jack, Pat, Jim, Eileen, Arthur, and Neal. Both John and Mary were born in County Cork in Ireland and had migrated independently to Australia.

Sadly, in 1923 Mary’s mother passed away during the Spanish Flu pandemic, which caused over 50 million deaths worldwide. John McKeering, a Supervisor in the State Department of Works, found himself widowed and sole parent to seven young children, who were farmed out to family members until John employed a housekeeper, Theresa. Later, John and Theresa married and added an eighth child to their brood, Tom, who tragically drowned when he was 20 years old while surfing at Southport.

After attending Sacred Heart Convent at Sandgate, Mary completed Sub-junior and Junior (now Year 9 and 10) at All Hallows’ School in 1934 and 1935. She remembered her time at All Hallows’ with a mix of gratitude and awe. She was profoundly grateful for the privilege of an All Hallows’ education. In an interview recorded on the celebration of her 100th birthday in 2020, Mary recalled the Sisters giving her a cup of warm cocoa and a piece of bun when she returned to school after an illness – a small act of kindness (especially for a day girl from Sandgate!) that stayed with her for the rest of her life!

Diminutive and dynamic, capable, and diligent, Mary, who never married, had a long, varied, and successful working life. After stints at a department store, the Brisbane Amateur Turf Club, and in the Government Printing Office during World War II, she joined her brother Jack in his electrical business, and later in his real estate business. Mary held a real estate licence, operated a busy SGIO (now Suncorp) agency, an Ansett travel agency and as a

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”

“Keep on fighting, although things might be dull, just around the corner… something comes good and gives you a bit of hope, and you keep going until the next one.”

– A quote from Mary’s message to the graduating All Hallows’ Class of 2020, November 202o

WE HONOUR, WE CELEBRATE, WE REMEMBER

Justice of the Peace, often sat on the bench with the Clerk of the Court when the Magistrate was unable to come to Sandgate.

Mary McKeering believed in community.

She served terms as President of the Sandgate Quota Club and the Sandgate Ladies Bowls Club. But most of all she believed in family – she was a much loved and loving daughter, sister, and sister-inlaw. She was a universally adored aunt and great-aunt to the many McKeering offspring and loved nothing more than partying with, holidaying with, and sharing her humour and wisdom with her large and extended family. Mary’s determined and resilient spirit was legendary. She renewed her passport at 94 and was still driving at 95. She left strict and detailed instructions for her funeral and wake, and faced death, which she did not fear, steeled by her strong faith and sincere gratitude for all the blessings of her life.

Above: Esther McKeering, Year 5 and Class of 2030, with her great aunty Mary McKeering, Class of 1937, just a month before Mary’s passing.

Please enjoy, once again, the below video recorded as part of the wonderful celebrations for Mary’s 100th birthday at All Hallows’ School.

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Betty Hounslow AM Icon, advocate, force of nature 01/08/1951 – 27/07/2023 Class of 1968 Betty Hounslow will be remembered particularly by members of Sister Mary Borgia’s Year 12 Class of 1968, where one of whom said recently, she was ‘an inspiration and fount of energy.’ By the time she left school, Betty already had an impressive CV – Prefect, House Captain, champion debater, YCS leader and Quota Club Student of the Year. It was no surprise to her former teachers and classmates that she devoted her life and considerable talents to working in the areas of social justice and advocacy for the powerless and voiceless.

Although she lived in New South Wales for most of her adult life, Betty first came to prominence in Brisbane when in the early 1970s she led a courageous group of protesters against the construction of the Northern Freeway which would have resulted in the demolition of a large number of working class homes in Bowen Hills without proper consultation and adequate compensation. Although some homes were lost, the freeway was never built - thanks largely to Betty.

From the 1970s, Betty worked in women’s refuges and community legal centres in Sydney, spent time with the United Nations in Cambodia, worked as the Executive Director of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) and the Deputy CEO of the Fred Hollows Foundation, and served on many boards, including as Chair of the Asylum Seekers Centre, Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia, the Australian Council for International Development and Union Aid Abroad. A ‘78er’, proud and passionate participant in the first ever Sydney Mardi Gras Parade, Betty was a highly effective advocate across human rights issues, including the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community and refugees, and was a tireless worker for the AIDS Council of NSW. As one of the many tributes paid to her recently noted, ‘Causes just seemed to fall into Betty’s lap.’ Unlike some who devote their time to social justice issues, Betty was no ‘rabble rouser’ or dogmatist, but was well respected by politicians, party officials, public servants and the media. She spoke regularly at national justice forums, where her message, while often forceful, was always respectful.

In 2003, she was awarded the Justice Medal for her long term commitment to improving access to justice for socially and

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”

“Her centre of gravity was fairness, from the smallest thing to the biggest” – ASC Chair, Peter Waters

WE HONOUR, WE CELEBRATE, WE REMEMBER

economically disadvantaged people in NSW, and in 2013 she was made a Member of the Order of Australia for ‘significant service to the community through organisations promoting justice, indigenous health and human rights.’

A fellow worker described her as a canny strategist and a great tactician who combined these qualities with genuine humility and disarming humour to achieve success on almost every issue she ever worked on. Over her lifetime, Betty Hounslow would have improved the lot of countless people whose causes she embraced.

Betty passed away after a short illness surrounded by loved ones, and is survived by partner Kate Harrison, and sisters Mary and Margaret Hounslow.

Betty was interviewed about her early activism in the retrospective called 'The Battle for Bowen Hills’, click here for the whole story.

Above: Betty (circled) in her Year 12/Senior class photograph.

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Margaret Jennings 28/05/1943 – 25/05/2023 Class of 1960 Born amidst the shadows of war, Margaret Ann Jennings (nee Geraghty) had five siblings and despite a childhood marked by adversity, her journey through life was one of self-discovery and unwavering determination. For those who had the privilege of knowing Margaret, she was a woman of remarkable resilience and compassion.

Married to Keith Jennings, and blessed with a son, Michael, Margaret’s legacy lives on through the memories he shares. Michael reflects on a mother whose love, strength, and dedication to others left an indelible mark on those around her: “Mum was a wonderful mother. As an only child I had all of her attention. We would go to the Shingle Inn in town when I was little. Every time we went out Mum would buy me a little Matchbox car. I still have them all, hundreds of them. My childhood was lots of fun – holidays at the beach and Forestry conferences, and it seemed that every Saturday night we were going out to an Italian or Chinese restaurant, going to a friend’s place for dinner, or hosting dinner parties at our house in Graceville. The dinner parties are a particularly fond memory of my childhood.

Mum and Dad had lots of friends.

Mum loved me very much, but her greatest loves in life undoubtedly were her two grandkids, Benjamin and Louisa. Before Benjamin was born in 2010 she said she didn’t want to be called Grandma. But she was smitten as soon as he was born, and she loved being called Grandma.

”

As an only child I had all of her attention. We would go to the Shingle Inn in town when I was little. Every time we went out Mum would buy me a little Matchbox car. I still have them all, hundreds of them.

When Louisa came along in 2012 Mum had a granddaughter, and someone to go to All Hallows’! Mum went to All Hallows’ but had to leave at the end of Junior.

This was a great regret for her as she wanted to be a doctor. I’m sure she could have been one had she been given the chance. I thought Mum would hang on until next year when Louisa starts at All Hallows’, but sadly no. A couple of weeks ago when we

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knew Mum didn’t have long, Louisa borrowed a friend’s All Hallows’ uniform and wore it to see Mum. Mum loved it but there was a sadness there knowing she wouldn’t see Lou start at All Hallows’ School next year.

On the subject of schools, Mum wasn’t impressed that I went to Grammar – that was the only argument Dad ever won – but was over the moon when Benjamin got into Terrace and Louisa into All Hallows’.

Over the years, Mum worked many different jobs – her first job at 14 was a flight attendant with TAA in the 1960s – her favourite job by far. She worked at Yale while Dad was studying, was employed at the medical centre at Mt Gravatt, Estee Lauder at

WE HONOUR, WE CELEBRATE, WE REMEMBER MYER and DJ’s, wedding make-up artist on Saturday mornings, TAFE teacher, including teaching in the maximum security jails, supervisor of uni exams, and most recently working with the UQ medical students.

Mum loved flying, and she had some great stories about flying around Queensland and to Papua New Guinea. On her time off she loved travelling overseas with her TAA friends Nat and June. From Europe in the mid-60s with Nat and June and on her honeymoon with Dad, to Murgon in the mid-70s, the contrast couldn’t have been greater. Murgon was a banned word in our house for decades. Mum was devastated by how the Aboriginal people were treated then, and since then she focused on helping people less fortunate than herself – especially people from nonEnglish speaking backgrounds.

In later years Mum and Dad travelled a lot, spent much time at Peregian, and then Dad was diagnosed with dementia in 2014. Mum looked after him as best she could, but it was tough. In 2017 Dad moved into Berlasco nursing home and Mum was by herself. She stayed busy, working with the medical students at UQ, going to the community garden at Graceville every Sunday, and spending time with the grandkids.

But then another big event happened, one that changed Mum’s life completely. In 2019 she fell at home and became a paraplegic. It was a cruel blow to someone so active.

Remember the good times with Mum, for there were many of them. Remember the laughs and the bright dresses. I will certainly forever remember her love for me and her love of Benjamin and Louisa.

Rest in peace, Mum.“ Margaret passed away 25th May 2023. She was a dedicated and active member of the All Hallows’ Past Pupils Association and devoted many years to serving on its Committee, contributing to the nurturing community that meant so much to her. Margaret was a cherished friend to all who knew her and is greatly missed. May her soul rest in peace.

Margaret with her granddaughter Louisa, All Hallows' Class of 2029.

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Sr Margaret Mary Birgan Oln: A life devoted to the poorest of the poor 15/11/1943 – 09/11/2023 Class of 1961 Sr Margaret Mary Birgan Oln was born on November 15, 1943 and passed away peacefully in Lake Macquarie on November 9, 2023 surrounded by family, friends and dear Sister companions. She was a well-known, much loved and respected figure in Newcastle’s Catholic community for over 40 years.

Born in Brisbane, Margaret Mary attended St Ignatius’ Primary School in Toowong and then All Hallows’ School where she was in the Class of 1961.

Despite losing their father when Margaret Mary was just 7 years old, she and her three brothers Laurence, James and Michael (Paddy) were raised by their widowed mother Phyllis in an abiding atmosphere of love and faith.

In a profile written in 2011 when Sr Margaret Mary became the Congregational Leader for Our Lady’s Nurses of the Poor, she shared the life changing impact of her introduction to the life of the poor.

“I was brought in contact with the lonely plight of elderly ‘shut-ins’ and more impressionably with the fact of the deep and desperate poverty of people in the very midst of some of Brisbane’s more affluent and comfortable addresses,” she said.

Above: A young Sr Margaret Mary Birgan Oln attending to an elderly patient ‘on the district.’

”

Because I had been given so much love I felt I had so much to give.

– Sr Margaret Mary Birgan Oln

“We visited a lady in Wickham Terrace (and) the floor of her home was dirt, shelves were hewn into dirt walls and the lady walked on her hands – she had no legs. I couldn’t believe that someone in such poverty lived a stone’s throw from great affluence.”

Motivated to make a difference and feeling the call of nursing, Margaret Mary, also a gifted pianist, felt a ‘persistent call to religious life’.

Despite a close affinity with Our Lady’s Nurses for the Poor, known as the ‘Brown Sisters’ because of the traditional long coats and nurses’ caps they wore, Margaret Mary wanted to ensure she ‘had something to bring’ to the order so she completed general nursing training at the Mater Misericordiae Hospital in Brisbane and 2023 | The Hallowian

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WE HONOUR, WE CELEBRATE, WE REMEMBER

obstetric nursing at the Queen Victoria Hospital, Melbourne.

When she finally joined the Brown Sisters in 1966, she knew she had found her life’s vocation, one she never regretted because so many people had ‘nobody but the Sisters’. At that time welfare services, government and non-government support, were virtually non-existent, and certainly nothing like what is available now. In fact, even today, the Brown Sisters receive no government funding and rely on the order’s benefactors and committees of people who work tirelessly to provide finances necessary for the Sisters to do their work.

Parts of this story have been reproduced with permission of Our Lady’s Nurses of the Poor.

”

Motivated to make a difference and feeling the call of nursing, Margaret Mary, also a gifted pianist, felt a ‘persistent call to religious life’.

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Sister Elizabeth O’Connell rsm: A life defined by courage and compassion 19/10/1936 – 17/11/2023 Elizabeth was born on October 19, 1936 at Island, Burnfort, County Cork, Ireland, the second child of Margaret Sheahan and Jeremiah O’Connell. Her loving O’Connell family ultimately included siblings John (dec), Kathleen, Denis (dec), Margaret Teresa (dec), Dermot (dec) and Joe (Patrick).

In 1953 she sailed to Australia with six other young women, completing her postulancy and Novitiate at Bardon in 1956, Senior in 1957 and a Certificate of Primary Teaching at McAuley College in 1958.

Sister Elizabeth (then Sister Mary Norberta) taught at several primary schools from 1959 until 1964 when she transitioned to secondary teaching. All in all she spent 14 years teaching in regional Queensland locations from Toowoomba to Charleville, Goondiwindi and Gympie.

In 1974 Elizabeth completed a Diploma of Pastoral Studies at the National Pastoral Institute in Melbourne, returning to Toowoomba in 1975 as Religious Education Coordinator at St Saviour’s, followed by a year at Star of the Sea, Southport, before four years at All Hallows’ School 1982-1985. In 1986 Elizabeth completed a missiology course at Turramurra, becoming Local Community Leader at All Hallows’ Convent 1987-1988.

In early 1989, Elizabeth began her missionary work in Pakistan where she fulfilled various roles of teacher,

principal, tutor and outreach worker to Afghan refugees with amazing courage and compassion.

After a year’s sabbatical in Ireland in 2002, Elizabeth returned to Buranda in Brisbane where she provided a ‘home away from home’ for Mercy Sisters visiting from the West or Papua New Guinea.

Sister Elizabeth was the Wedding Co-ordinator for All Hallows’ Chapel for 10 years before retiring from formal ministry in 2017. She passed into the loving arms of Our Lord on November 17, 2023 and is buried in Nudgee Cemetery.

”

In early 1989, Elizabeth began her missionary work in Pakistan where she fulfilled various role of teacher, principal, tutor and outreach worker to Aghan refugees with amazing courage and compassion.

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All members of the All Hallows’ Past Pupil community are invited to:

The 2024 Inaugural Mass Thursday, January 25, 2024 Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Commencing at 1.00pm This is the first significant whole of community event where we welcome our youngest and newest students, celebrate the achievements of staff, introduce the School theme for 2024 and experience the joy of being together as we chart the course for the year ahead.

For further details about ticketing etc please email ppa@ahs.qld.edu.au

Twilight Open Day 2024 For the first time ever, discover the difference of an All Hallows’ School education at dusk.

While the sun goes down and the lights of the city and Story Bridge come alive, enjoy guided tours of the campus, presentations by the Principal, Mrs Catherine O’Kane and other key personnel, find out more about sporting and cultural possibilities, meet community groups and of course, our wonderful students. Enrolments staff will be on hand to answer any questions you have.

Registration will open soon at this link.

Tuesday, March 5 from 4.00pm – 8.00pm

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.

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In Memoriam Will Abraham, brother of Lily and Grace.

Marianne Andrews (McNamara), daughter of Fay McNamara (O’Sullivan) (dec.), sister of Cecile Bennett Sr Margaret Mary Birgan OLN Denis Bollington, brother of Jan Dixon Anne Carroll, mother of AnneMarie John (Jack) Car twright, husband of Denise (McCormack)

Please pray for the following past pupils, past staff members, and their family members who have passed away recently.

Elizabeth (Betty) Hounslow, sister of Mary and Margaret Hounslow CORRECTION: apologies to the Horan family for the incorrect entry in the previous edition of The Hallowian. The correct entry is as follows: Paul Horan, husband of Marie Horan ( Vine), father of Catherine, Bernice and Stephanie, and brother of Gabrielle Hopsick (Horan)

Patricia Conroy, mother of Anna Barrett

Peter Jackman, husband of Margery (former staff member), father of Rachel, Priscilla, and Anna

James Dalton, former staff member

Brigid Kudzuis (Broekstra), sister of Louise Broekstra

Peter Daley, father of Danielle

Susan Larsen, sister of Katrina Larsen, Lisa Redden and Kirsten Wiley

Earle Denning, husband of Madeleine (Keegan), father of Elizabeth Denning Kay Dickie (Mur tagh) Filomena Fasano Michael French, father of Jessica Geoffrey Fry, husband of MarieLouise ( Vanderham), father of Nicole Umana and Catherine Cussel Jill Ellen Gagno (O’Sullivan) Margôt Goldburg ( Thomas), mother of Sr Peta Goldburg (past staff member), sister of Jan Daly Sr Jean Gormley (Sr M Jane Frances) RSM, former staff member Lurline Graving (Harsant), daughter of Esme Noller (dec.)

Cecily Hesse (Moore), sister of Molly (dec.), Doreen, Josephine and Lana (dec.)

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Mary Jane Lawes (Connor), sister of Ruth Polson and Monica Porreca Michael Maguire, father of Sarah Bryant Brian Mealey, father of Louise Hastings, Alison Nicol and Rachel Mealey Andrew McGhee, husband of Margaret O’Callaghan Angela Nichol (Patane) Sr Elizabeth O’Connell RSM, former staff member Pia Ottobrandi, mother of Laura and Denise Bettine Scott, mother of Susan Bennett, Donna De Bor toli and Christine Choveaux Rebecca Smith ( Young), sister of Caitlyn Whittaker and Tegan Smith

Michael Sullivan, brother of Margaret Collis, Sr Patricia Sullivan RSM, Gabrielle EmeryReece (all dec.) and Rita Tolhurst Felice Taraborrelli, father of Stefania Ciancio and Tiziana Taraborrelli Marianna Tigani, sister of Rosanna Mary-Ellen Tooma, sister of Angela Vivanti Pam Treacy (Lynch), sister of Sr Joan Lynch RSM and Beryl Moody (dec.)

Maureen Woodgate (Devaney) This list was compiled as of December 20, 2023.

Please email ppa@ahs.qld.edu. au to have the name of a recently deceased past pupil, past staff member or an immediate family member included in the next edition of The Hallowian.

WE HONOUR, WE CELEBRATE, WE REMEMBER

Volunteers Needed

Help refugees build their new lives in Australia Is this you?

Volunteers are urgently required to join a team of Australians who are helping people from refugee backgrounds prepare for the Australian Citizenship Test.

Just one hour a week All that’s required is a commitment of one hour a week on Wednesdays during school terms from 10.3011.30am at Acacia Ridge Neighbourhood Centre, 21 Hanify Street, Acacia Ridge.

BYO English proficiency, empathy and patience Volunteers need to have English as their first language or be native English speakers. You may be a current/ retired educator or teacher, have academic learning in your background, or have a high level of English and work/worked in a professional field.

Volunteers also need to be patient, kind and have an understanding of how difficult it is to live in another country/culture without English, and have empathy for the isolation and challenges that can result from this situation. If you think you would like to help, and you would like to know more, please contact Cait Wildman: CaitW@communify.org.au

The PPA is proud to support

Mercy Works You are invited to click the link below to read the latest edition of The Bilum, which is packed with amazing insights, stories and information.

The Annual Bilum: December 2023

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To give, to use and to treasure There is something to suit and delight everyone in the fabulous range of merchandise produced by the All Hallows’ Past Pupils’ Association. Great ideas for giving to mark graduations, good-byes and other special occasions, great ideas for school and work, great ideas just to have and to hold!

Teacup Trio $28 (gift boxed) White fine bone china cup, saucer and side plate with AHS crest

Love, Light, Joy Candle $20 A new look, larger design candle with a beautiful Vanilla scent.

Mini Magnolia candle $10 Hand-poured fine quality soy wax with a vanilla fragrance.

Approx 15 hours burn time.

100mm x 60mm.

I heart (symbol) AHS case $10 Handy for all sorts of school stuff – swim goggles, caps, phones, cards and cash, calculators, pens & more.

Great for keeping school bags tidy.

Water resistant, easy to clean and sustainable made from recycled plastic. Approximately 21cm x 13cm.

Coffee cup $22 Fine bone china with iconic AHS places in smart navy lettering

Badge keyring $10 Gorgeous crest with study ring and lobster clip options.

Notebook $15 Navy textured A5 notebook with a stunning and subtle debossed All Hallows’ logo.

96 pages with a bookmark ribbon, an elastic closure band and an elastic pen loop on the spine. Perfect for the Year 5 and Year 6 journal.

Keepsake dish $10 White china dish with blue AHS crest. 100mm diameter. Perfect for rings, earrings, hairclips etc.

Heart keyring $10 Genuine leather. AHS blue. Use as a keyring or bag décor.

AH2O Water Bottle $25 Stylish and functional stainless steel, with screw-on lid and handy metal handling loop.

710 ml capacity.

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Canvas carry-all $25 Big, beautiful (32.5 x 46 x 12.5cm/29 litre capacity)100% cotton, dark denim tote style bag that pays homage to the iconic places and spaces at the heart and soul of All Hallows’ School.

Inside pocket, generous gusset and large, shoulder-friendly handles.

Tea Towels 50% cotton, 50% linen. Ethically sourced, designed and printed in Australia.

Magnolia $18 Baggot to Dodge $18 Duo (Magnolia and Baggot to Dodge) $30

Vintage clutch bag $70 Each one unique and very limited edition. A fabulously stylish, sustainable and authentically ‘All Hallows’ reimagining of our famous retro tea towels (now discontinued and sold out).

Note: Image for illustrative purposes only and actual style may vary as each is unique with its own individual clasp and inside fabric details.

Buy online 24/7 at shop.ahs.qld.edu.au or at the School Shop (School Shop is open only during term time: Monday 7.30am – 2.00pm; Wednesday 7.30am – 3.30pm; Friday 7.30am – 2.00pm)

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”

Regular committed donations enable us to plan and invest to obtain the best outcomes for our students and our wider community.

The collective spirit opens doors to opportunities Thank you from the All Hallows’ Foundation This year has been a testament to the power of collective spirit. Through investment in education together we have made a tangible impact on our community.

Continued philanthropy this year has enabled us to open the door to more bursary students and enhance the infrastructure of our campus creating an environment conducive to learning, one equipped with the facilities and tools necessary for academic success.

Support from our past pupils has allowed us to continue to invest in our future. We can’t thank you enough for that.

One of the highlights this year was our second Giving Day. We set ourselves an ambitious target to raise funds for three bursaries.

Through the provision of a bursary, we open a door to opportunity for that student and her family.

Two hundred years ago Catherine McAuley opened her door and provided opportunities for those with limited prospects. This year, with your help, we continued her legacy and opened the door for three more students to receive a mercy education at All Hallows’ School.

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Together we raised an incredible $321,472 for the Catherine McAuley Bursary and our past pupil community was a big part of that. For each of you who gave a gift on Giving Day, we thank you and trust that you know you have helped to change lives.

We continued to encourage our community to participate in our pledge program as we do each year. As new families join our community, we invite each family to become part of our pledge program for the duration of their daughter’s time at All Hallows’. Anyone can be a regular donor – just participating each month helps enormously.

Whether it’s the cost of a coffee a week or a meal out per week or month, collectively, that equals tremendous impact.

Regular committed donations enable us to plan and invest to obtain the best outcomes for our students and our wider community.

If you’ve been on campus, you may have seen McAuley Hall cordoned off as improvements were occurring for our Year 5 and Year 6 students and teaching staff. Our Facilities Master Plan continues to evolve, and as more building projects and developments are planned, we will be sharing updates and plans with our community.

FROM THE FOUNDATION

At this year’s Donor Appreciation Evening in October, we were honoured to hear from current parent and former Bursary recipient, Maria. Maria spoke about how the school assisted her, her sisters and her family in ways that changed the trajectory of their lives. Maria’s daughters have all attended All Hallows’ and as a family, they now give back. It was wonderful to hear first-hand the impact giving has had on Maria and her family.

As part of the evening, we also hosted a tour of McAuley Hall, offering a wonderful sneak peek into how our future Year 5 and 6 students and teachers will navigate their daily experiences and learning environments.

We are also excited to announce a new initiative that you will continue to hear more about next year. For anyone who has included All Hallows’ School in your Will (and you let us know), you will be included in our very special Magnolia Society. Leaving a legacy is a wonderful gift; the issue for us is that once the gift is realised, we are unable to thank you accordingly. The Magnolia Society will offer opportunities for us to thank you for your generosity, share with you the impact around the school and on our community of similar gifts while acknowledging your generosity and future investment.

If you would like to know more about the Magnolia Society, please don’t hesitate to email or phone us at foundation@ahs. qld.edu.au, or 07 3230 9476.

On behalf of the All Hallows’ Foundation, I would like to thank the Past Pupil’s Association for their partnership, and everyone who attended events and gave so generously of your time, talent or treasure this year. We look forward to working with you all in 2024 and we wish everyone a fabulous Christmas and New Year with close friends and family.

We take this opportunity to send a special thank you to our Giving Day Match Donors: The Siganto Foundation, The Gardiner Family, The All Hallows’ School Board, The Mealey Family, The Murdoch Family, The Phelan Family, The Addis Family, The Cranny Family, The Boulton Family, The Past Pupils Association, AnnMaree David, Chris and Annie White, Matt and Benita Bell, Paul and Aileen Hain, Catherine and Stephen O’Kane, Mary-Rita McGann, Christine Maher, Zelle and Rob Hodge, Ivan McDonald, Steve and Marissa Allan, Reid and Melissa Zulpo, Café 547, Macksey Rush Architects, Cleanstate Commercial Cleaning, Uniform Management Services and a few other generous donors who chose to remain anonymous. Your significant contributions went a long way to inspire further giving.

Jo Lovett Director Community Relations and Development

Above from left: During a tour of McAuley Hall; The Donor Apprecitation Event in October

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In the heart of our community, a legacy blossoms We would like to introduce to you, our newly created Magnolia Society, where the beauty of giving lasts more than a lifetime.

The Magnolia is believed to be one of the first flowering plants which evolved on Earth over 100 million years ago. As such it symbolises endurance, longevity, and perseverance. The All Hallows’ Magnolia Society is more than a bequest program; it's a commitment to nurturing the future of our beloved community.

Just like the enduring magnolia tree, the Magnolia Society will provide shade and support for generations to come. Leaving a gift in your Will is a promise for the future, a lasting tribute, supporting our school programs, our campus, and our students. It will leave an indelible mark on our All Hallows’ community.

If you have left a gift to All Hallows’ in your Will, or plan to do so, please let us know. We don’t need any details, we would just like to know who you are, so we can thank you for your generosity here and now, and share with you the kind of impact it may make in the years ahead.

To discuss further, please contact the All Hallows’ Foundation by emailing us at foundation@ahs.qld.edu.au or calling 07 3230 9476.

”

“Yesterday when on the reception rooms (of Adderton) what did I see, but a goat tearing and eating a lovely magnolia-if it survives the tearing it got, it will be a wonderful plant” – In a letter written by Mother Mary Vincent Whitty, December 2, 1875

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The 2024 Past Pupils’ Association Committee President ............................ Tron Fisher Vice President .................... Nicki Dalton Interim Treasurer* ............. Sarah Fraser Secretary ............................ Caroline Kovac Past Pupils’ Liaison ........... Maree Nugent Committee Members ........ Louise Cotterill Lucy Dalton Felicity Francis Sarah Fraser Keely Gerbanas Jane Hogan Andree Joyce Katy McGree Alexandra McInally Kathryn Pestell Neva Wethereld Letiscia Xavier

*The position of Treasurer will become vacant in early 2024.

Expressions of interest very welcome.

Some financial or accounting knowledge an advantage.

For more details please contact Tron on 0400 273 174.

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.

UPCOMING PPA MEETINGS Tuesday, February 6, 6:30pm Monday, May 13, 6:30pm Monday, July 29, 6:30pm Tuesday, October 15, 6:30pm Monday, November 25 (AGM & Christmas Celebration)

EDITORIAL TEAM Editors / Project Management: Maree Nugent (Past Pupils' Liaison) Neva Wethereld (Past Pupils' Committee) Design and Production: Chelsea Handley (All Hallows' School) Contributors: Cathy Clem and Mary Weaver (All Hallows' Archives Team) Sr Anne Hetherington rsm Caroline Kovac

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, or if you know of someone who is unable to access The Hallowian in digital format, 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 Jagera 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.