Issuu

2026

Brigidine College St Ives

INSIDE THIS ISSUE From the Principal

FE AT U RE

Two Milestone Events

H IGH L IGH T S

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Leading with Strength and Gentleness

Connection and Community

Navigating Child Mental Health in a Digital World

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The Age of AI

S T U DE N T S P O T L IG HT

Celebrating Brigidine Writers

I N T H E C L A S S RO OM

Where Curiosity Leads

Differentiating for High Potential Learners

BEYON D T H E C L A SSROOM

Daring to Be Yourself: High School Musical

We Didn’t Start the Fire

Cocurricular Highlights

C OM M U N I T Y

Women Who Inspire

Lights, Camera, Trivia!

School Snapshots

A LU M N I

Latest News

Reunions

Alumni Spotlight

A RC H I V E S

50 Years of the Year 11 Play

Editor Aleisha Ford Graphic Design Aleisha Ford Proof Reading Melissa Mitsopoulos

N EWS

Welcome and Farewell to Staff

The Bridge The Brigidine College St Ives magazine

Photography Jonathan Dear Anthony Khoury Skipping Stone Photography Brigidine staff and students Printing Worldwide North Ryde Contributors Brodie Byrne Elle Carroll Aleisha Ford Samantha Honeysett Brian Loughland Sia Mastro DiAnne McDonald Natasha Mercer Daniel Moller Kate Quinane Kate Ryder Elizabeth Troha Owen Vale Janet Walker Brigidine College 325 Mona Vale Road St Ives NSW 2075 +61 2 9988 6200 reception@brigidine.nsw.edu.au brigidine.nsw.edu.au

WHAT WE LIKED We proudly commissioned our 2027 Student Leaders in the presence of their families, staff and fellow students. A special moment saw our outgoing 2026 Captains pass the Lamp of Learning to the incoming College Captains, symbolising the passing of leadership and the enduring spirit of light, learning and service inspired by our Brigidine heritage. We look forward to seeing the Class of 2027 lead our College community with strength and gentleness in the year ahead.

CARE TO SHARE? We are always grateful to receive photos and stories that we can share with our community. Please send content to: communications@brigidine.nsw.edu.au

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WELCOME

From the Principal

If you walk through Brigidine on any given week, you will see what I mean when I say this is a school built on belonging, opportunity and adventure. A Year 12 student rehearsing lines for a Drama night one afternoon, studying for her Trial Examinations the next. A Year 9 student who played sport for the College on Saturday morning and turns up for a music rehearsal on Monday. We call this the Brigidine Balance, and it is not an accident. It is a deliberate choice about what a girl’s education should hold: academic rigour, faith-shaped character, broad opportunity, and genuine personal attention, each making the others stronger. In a series of small lunches I have held this year with each Year 12 Mentor Group, one thing came up again and again, unprompted. It was the authentic holistic education that we offer at Brigidine. Girls spoke about the sheer range on offer here: sport, music, debating, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, drama, service, leadership. Several told me they chose Brigidine because it is a school where girls cultivate a sense of belonging, a sense of spirit and adventure and they have found that to be true. That breadth has been on full display this year. Our Sports Aerobics team represented the College at the National Championships. Our performers brought the stage to life in the school musical and the Year 11 Play. Our Gold Duke of Edinburgh students took on an expedition over the holidays, learning to navigate, problem-solve and depend on one another when conditions were hard, and our Red

Dirt Immersion students returned with a perspective that only time away from the familiar can give. None of this happens by chance. A girl who has learned discipline through a demanding training block, or courage through performing in front of an audience, carries something from that into every other part of her life. This is also a school that keeps building. Our new Cill Dara Sports Centre has already become a genuine hub of College life, a physical expression of something we believe: if we ask our girls to be adventurous, we owe them the facilities to actually be so. Educational Excellence is one of the pillars of our Strategic Plan, Shaping the Future, and it sits alongside our commitment to a genuinely holistic education, because we do not see academic ambition and broad opportunity as competing for a girl’s time. We see them as the same project. Where are we going? Toward a Brigidine that that ensures every student is known, cared for and whose gifts and talents are fostered. Where every student is offered an opportunity to reach her potential intellectually, physically and spiritually, with a strong sense of herself and her wellbeing. Toward a school where a girl arrives unsure what she is capable of, and leaves knowing. Sr Louise Cleary, a Brigidine Sister, told a gathering of Brigidine and Presentation Sisters’ schools this year that our task is not simply to protect what previous generations built, but to keep developing it, and that this takes, in her words, the courage to risk something new. That is exactly the spirit I want every Brigidine girl to carry with her: the courage to try the unfamiliar thing, confident there is a whole school behind her while she does. Thank you for entrusting your daughters to a school that takes that seriously. I could not be prouder of where we are, or more excited about where we are headed.

“Educational Excellence is one of the pillars of our Strategic Plan, Shaping the Future, and it sits alongside our commitment to a genuinely holistic education, because we do not see academic ambition and broad opportunity as competing for a girl’s time. We see them as the same project.”

Read Brigidine’s Strategic Plan 2026-2028, Shaping the Future

K AT E Q U I N A N E P R I N C I PA L

Brigidine College St Ives

FEATURE

Two Milestone Events

The beginning of 2026 marked a significant moment in the history of Brigidine College St Ives, with the College community coming together for two milestone occasions: the official opening of the new Cill Dara Centre and the commissioning of Mrs Kate Quinane as Principal. Held across Sunday 1 and Monday 2 February, the occasions brought together students, families, staff, alumni and members of the wider Brigidine community to celebrate both the College’s progress and its future.

A NEW HOME FOR SPORT AND STUDENT LIFE On Sunday 1 February, students, families, staff and members of the wider Brigidine community gathered for the muchanticipated opening and blessing of the Cill Dara Centre. The new sports precinct represents a significant investment in the future of Brigidine students, providing a contemporary space for sport, physical education, fitness and student life. The opening marked the culmination of an ambitious building project that has transformed the College campus and

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created new opportunities for students to participate, compete, collaborate and challenge themselves. More than a sporting facility, the Cill Dara Centre has become part of everyday student life at Brigidine – a place where friendships are formed, skills are developed and memories are made. Following the ceremony, members of the College community gathered on the College Green for refreshments, providing an opportunity to celebrate the occasion together and reflect on what the new facility will mean for generations of Brigidine students.

WELCOMING OUR NEW PRINCIPAL The following day, the College community gathered for Opening Mass and the commissioning of Mrs Kate Quinane as Principal. Mrs Quinane brings extensive experience in girls’ education and educational leadership, having held teaching and leadership positions at leading schools including Ascham School, Roseville College, Santa Sabina College and Mount St Benedict’s College. Most recently, she served at St Aloysius’ College as Director of Teaching and Learning, Deputy Principal and Acting Principal. Her appointment marks the beginning of an exciting new period of leadership for Brigidine. Her experience in curriculum design, teacher professional development and student academic growth, together with her collaborative approach to leadership, will bring a strong focus on learning and the continued development of young women. For Mrs Quinane, however, leadership is also about partnership. “I look forward to partnering with you in this mission throughout 2026,” she said. The commissioning ceremony provided an opportunity for the College community to formally welcome Mrs Quinane and to recognise the significance of her new role within the life and mission of Brigidine.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Together, the two occasions captured something significant about Brigidine at the beginning of 2026. The opening of the Cill Dara Centre represents investment in the experiences and opportunities available to students. The commissioning of a new Principal marks a new chapter in the leadership of the College. Both look to the future while remaining grounded in the values and traditions that have shaped Brigidine for generations. As Mrs Quinane began her first year as Principal and students made the new Cill Dara Centre their own, there has been a strong sense of possibility across the College community this year. A new facility. A new chapter of leadership. And a shared commitment to forming women of strength and gentleness who are ready to make their mark on the world.

Brigidine College St Ives

HIGHLIGHTS

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Brigidine College proudly celebrated the exceptional achievements of the Class of 2025, whose outstanding HSC results placed the College 48th in the state and earned a record-breaking number of NESA HSC Showcase nominations. Earlier this year, many of our graduates returned to the College for the High Achievers Assembly, providing a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their successes, reconnect and hear about the exciting pathways they have begun beyond Brigidine. The Class of 2025 achieved an outstanding set of HSC results, with a median ATAR of 86.32 and 39 per cent of students achieving an ATAR above 90. Nineteen per cent achieved an ATAR above 95, helping Brigidine rank 48th among all NSW schools and fourth among NSW Catholic girls’ schools. The results were impressive across a wide range of subjects. Seven students achieved a top-ten place in the state, including Ariel Simonsen, who placed second in Japanese Beginners; Jimena Blanco, who placed third in Spanish Continuers; and Olivia Carson and Caroline Cuda, who both placed eighth in Drama. Allegra Stritt placed eighth in Textiles and Design, while Olivia Lisle placed ninth in Textiles and Design and Chelsea Bannister placed ninth in Studies of Religion II (HSC 2024). There was also plenty to celebrate beyond the ATAR results. The Class of 2025 achieved an exceptional level of recognition across the creative arts, with students represented in Dance, Drama, Music, Visual Arts, Textiles and Design, and Design and Technology.

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JOINT

8TH IN STATE FOR DRAMA

CAROLINE CUDA

OLIVIA CARSON

Every Dance student in the cohort received at least one Callback nomination, with 20 nominations from just 10 students. Brigidine also received a record 58 OnStage nominations from 39 Drama students. Students were also nominated for and selected in ArtExpress, Encore, TexStyle and SHAPE. The strength of the cohort was reflected in individual subject results too. In Drama, 66.7 per cent of students achieved a Band 6, placing the cohort fourth in the state. Society and Culture also ranked fourth in NSW, with 54.5 per cent of students achieving a Band 6, while Studies of Religion II ranked sixth, with 36 per cent achieving a Band 6. These outstanding results reflect years of learning, persistence and commitment from the students, alongside the encouragement and expertise of their teachers and the support of their families. We particularly acknowledge and thank the teachers who prepared these young women for their HSC and those who walked alongside them throughout their six-year journey at Brigidine College, offering unwavering support, a commitment to excellence and genuine care. The High Achievers Assembly offered a chance to celebrate these accomplishments together and to hear from graduates about what comes next. College Dux Josephine Crocker spoke about carrying the values of Strength and Gentleness into her future, while College Proxime Ivy Guo reflected on the friends, memories and values she takes with her from Brigidine. We look forward to seeing where the Class of 2025’s achievements and experiences take them in the years ahead, and to following their journeys as members of our Brigidine alumni community.

SELECTED

SHE IS NOT FRAGILE (SCULPTURE) BY LAURA ZAWODNA SELECTED FOR ARTEXPRESS

CLASS OF 2025 HSC HIGHLIGHTS •

99.70 – highest ATAR, achieved by College Dux Josephine Crocker

•

99.55 – College Proxime Ivy Guo

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39% – of students achieved an ATAR above 90

•

19% – of students achieved an ATAR above 95

•

109 students – recognised as Distinguished Achievers

•

228 mentions – across the Distinguished Achievers List

•

5 All Rounders – achieving 90 or above in 10 or more units

•

48th – Brigidine’s ranking among all NSW schools

•

4th – ranking among NSW Catholic girls’ schools

•

94 NESA Showcase nominations – with nine selections

•

58 OnStage nominations – from 39 Drama students

•

20 Callback nominations – from 10 Dance students

•

In Drama, 66.7% of our students received a Band 6, ranking the cohort 4th in the state

•

In Society and Culture, 54.5% of our students received a Band 6, ranking the cohort 4th in the state

•

In Studies of Religion II, 36% of our students received a Band 6, ranking the cohort 6th in the state

•

In Studies of Religion I, 48.1% of our students received a Band 6, ranking the cohort 9th in the state.

8TH & 9TH IN STATE FOR TEXTILES & DESIGN

LEF T: THE RINASCITA (THE REBIRTH) (TEXTILE ART) BY ALLEGRA STRITT RIGHT: SAKU (APPAREL) BY OLIVIA LISLE

LE ARN MORE AB O UT BRIGIDINE ’S 2025 HS C RE SULTS

Brigidine College St Ives

HIGHLIGHTS

Leading with Strength and Gentleness

At our Commissioning Ceremony held in September, our 2027 student leaders were formally entrusted with the opportunity to lead our College community. Reflecting on the meaning of leadership at Brigidine, Principal Kate Quinane reminded students that “leadership is not simply leadership that comes with a title or a badge, but the kind that comes from knowing who you are and having the courage to live those values with purpose.”

House Captains Fatima Kildare Lourdes Prague

As they step into their new roles, our 2027 leaders are called to embody the Brigidine tradition of Fortiter et Suaviter – strength and gentleness. They will lead not only in the visible moments, but also in the small, everyday choices that create a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We congratulate our 2027 student leaders and look forward to seeing them carry our values forward into the year ahead.

Cocurricular Captains AFL Art Athletics/Cross Country Basketball Dance Duke of Ed Debating Drama Football Girls in Black Hockey Music Musical Netball Rugby 7s Sports Aerobics Swimming Tennis/Tildesley Touch Football Volleyball Water Polo

Congratulations to our 2027 Student Leaders

College Captain

Sophie Jackson

Senior Vice Captain

Veronica Scully

Senior Captains

Caetlin Ashby, Alicia Baek, Sophia Benson, Gemma Carson, Mary Formston, Abigail Julian, Ellie Saunders, Mia Vale

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Sofia Ehnbom, Isabella Parkes Lily Hulley, Ava Wearne Yuna Han, Elise Shanahan Kate Bromby, Samantha Shaw

Year Ambassadors Evelyn Howells, Charlotte McGregor, Ruby Ossowski, Inez Taylor, Jessica Widdup Mission Captains Ministry Hayley Dawson Social Justice Rose McLean-Johnston, Holly White Beatrix Gardner Sophia McKechnie, Juliette Soady Poppy Decker Mia Soghomonian Lucy Fitzpatrick, Sage McConnell Gemma Basilisco, Angie Ho Rose McLean-Johnston, Caitlin Millar Isabella Andersson, Elsie Ord Alexandra Cornish Annabelle Willoughby Amelie McGuire Angie Ho, Ranee Wu Jemima Sayers Maya Caulfield Samantha Shaw Ebba Cordell, Phoebe Taylor Nikita Muriti Metta Brynildsen Lily Hulley Jada Drape Nikita Muriti

HIGHLIGHTS

Connection and Community In September, Brigidine College joined schools, workplaces and communities across Australia in recognising R U OK? Week, embracing this year’s important message: “R U OK? Any Day”. At Brigidine, the week provided an opportunity to reflect on the importance of connection, wellbeing and the relationships that help our community thrive. The message was a simple one: meaningful conversations and genuine connection can make a difference, not just on one day, but throughout the year. Students participated in mentor-led initiatives and lunchtime activities designed to encourage connection and open conversations. A highlight was the annual R U OK? Brekky, thoughtfully prepared and served by our Hospitality students and staff. Despite the chilly morning, students and staff gathered together to share breakfast, check in with one another and celebrate the importance of belonging. The morning continued in Bowie Hall with an engaging Q&A panel, facilitated by our 2027 College Captains, who confidently guided the conversation and posed thoughtful questions.

The discussion explored how we can recognise when someone may be struggling, the importance of listening without judgement, and the value of seeking support when it is needed. Students also considered the influence of social media and screenbased technologies on young people’s wellbeing. While technology offers valuable opportunities for connection and learning, the panel highlighted the importance of maintaining genuine face-to-face relationships.

Although R U OK? Week has concluded, its message continues to resonate across our community. The week offered a valuable opportunity to pause, connect and reflect on the importance of looking out for one another — a message that sits naturally alongside the values at the heart of a Brigidine education.

Our Year 11 Student Leaders brought an element of fun to the week by organising an ice-bucket challenge. Beyond the laughter, the activity provided an opportunity to consider how a physical “circuit breaker” can help interrupt overwhelming thoughts and bring attention back to the present.

The panel featured Eliza Charlett from the Butterfly Foundation, Nick Crott from PAVE, a Northern Beaches mentoring organisation supporting young people to build confidence, resilience, wellbeing and academic success, and our Year 11 student representative, Mary Formston, whose reflections brought an important student perspective to the discussion. We were also delighted to welcome two members of our Brigidine alumni community. Sally Thompson (Class of 2000), National Wellbeing Lead, Performance Pathway at Tennis Australia, and Alyssa Grady (Class of 2017), now a psychologist at headspace, generously shared their professional insights and personal experiences. Their journeys beyond Brigidine demonstrated the many ways our alumni continue to contribute to the wellbeing of others, while reflecting the enduring values of compassion, service and connection fostered through a Brigidine education.

Brigidine College St Ives

HIGHLIGHTS

Navigating Child Mental Health in a Digital World Bringing together more than 120 school leaders representing more than 50 schools across Australia, Brigidine College St Ives’ inaugural National Mental Health & Social Media Symposium created a space for educators, clinicians, technology specialists and policymakers to consider one of the most pressing challenges facing young people today. Held on Friday 15 May, the Symposium explored a complex and rapidly evolving question: how can we help young people navigate an increasingly digital world while protecting the relationships, experiences and connections they need to thrive? Grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens through conversation and collaboration, the day provided an opportunity for school leaders to share experiences, challenge assumptions and learn from one another. The Symposium opened with a keynote presentation from clinical psychologist Dr Danielle Einstein, who explored the relationship between social media, technology, uncertainty and anxiety in the lives of young people. Drawing on her work and research, Dr Einstein examined how digital environments can influence adolescent identity, relationships, emotional regulation and connection, while offering evidenceinformed strategies for supporting healthier engagement with technology.

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MOVING BEYOND AWARENESS A recurring theme throughout the day was that the response to social media and device use cannot simply be about restriction or fear. Schools and families must also consider how technology can be used intentionally while preserving the real-world relationships and experiences that support young people’s development. Two panel discussions brought together perspectives from clinical psychology, school leadership, ICT, student wellbeing, child protection, online safety and education policy. Discussions explored student attention and resilience, online safety, gaming and gambling pathways, technology overuse, staff role modelling and opportunities for face-to-face interaction.

“It was encouraging to hear bold, values-driven discussions about what meaningful action could look like. Days like this remind me why I do this work, why it matters, and why I continue to feel so passionate about supporting children, adolescents and families. Very grateful to everyone involved in creating such an important and thought-provoking event.” SYMPOSIUM ATTENDEE

FROM CONVERSATION TO ACTION A key strength of the Symposium was its focus on moving beyond awareness towards practical action. School leaders shared initiatives already being implemented in their communities, including screen-free periods, technology-free playgrounds, reduced device use in classrooms, and greater emphasis on handwritten learning and face-to-face interaction. The discussions also highlighted the importance of collaboration between

schools and families. Consistent community expectations around technology use, alongside staff modelling healthy and intentional digital habits, were identified as important elements in creating lasting cultural change. Rather than seeking a single solution, the Symposium recognised that every school community is navigating its own circumstances. What matters is creating the conditions for informed discussion, shared learning and purposeful action.

“Thank you for creating such a powerful opportunity to come together, learn from one another, and share meaningful practice and strategies that support staff and students’ digital wellbeing.” SYMPOSIUM ATTENDEE

A CONVERSATION THAT CONTINUES Participant feedback reflected the value of bringing diverse perspectives together. “It was reassuring to hear such a balanced conversation around social media, mental health and young people, rather than simply focusing on fear-based messaging.”

“It was an incredibly thought-provoking day filled with valuable insights, the sharing of ideas, and practical strategies to better support school communities in such an important space.”

Another participant described the Symposium as an opportunity to “come together, learn from one another, and share meaningful practice and strategies that support staff and students’ digital wellbeing.” For Principal Kate Quinane, the strong national response reinforced the importance of creating spaces where educators can work collaboratively on these issues.

“Our hope is that this symposium becomes an ongoing platform for leadership, collaboration and action in supporting the wellbeing of young people in the digital age.” Following the success of the inaugural event, the National Mental Health & Social Media Symposium will become an annual national event hosted by Brigidine College St Ives. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so too will the questions facing schools, families and young people. The Symposium provided an opportunity to explore these questions together and consider how technology can sit alongside the relationships and experiences that are central to young people’s wellbeing.

SYMPOSIUM ATTENDEE

Brigidine College St Ives

HIGHLIGHTS

Learning Beyond the Classroom

LEARNING THROUGH Educating the whole person ENCOUNTER means creating opportunities for students to grow beyond Students from Years 9–11 travelled through academic learning – developing Western New South Wales as part of the Red Dirt Immersion, alongside students resilience, independence, from St Edmund’s College and Mater Maria empathy, confidence and an Catholic College. understanding of the world around them. Some of the most The journey took students through Coonabarabran, Baradine, Coonamble, meaningful learning happens when students step beyond the Walgett, Brewarrina, Bourke and Dubbo, classroom and are challenged to where they walked on Country, listened to Aboriginal Elders and community members, experience, explore and engage visited local schools and experienced places in new ways. of cultural and historical significance.

During the July school holidays, the Red Dirt Immersion and Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition provided two examples of how these experiences can enrich students’ learning and personal growth.

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At the heart of the immersion was the practice of Dadirri – deep listening. Students were encouraged to approach each experience with respect, openness and a willingness to learn, gaining a deeper understanding of First Nations cultures, reconciliation and community.

A particularly significant moment was visiting St Brigid’s School in Coonamble, the first Brigidine school established in Australia. Standing where the story of Brigidine education in this country began provided a powerful connection to the College’s heritage and values. The experience encouraged students to develop greater cultural awareness, resilience, empathy and independence. As Mrs Kate Ryder reflects, “With open hearts and minds, it offers students the opportunity to grow in faith, empathy and understanding.”

STRENGTH, RESILIENCE AND ADVENTURE Nineteen Year 11 students completed an extraordinary 12-day Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition through Central Australia, exploring Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, the West MacDonnell Ranges and the Larapinta Trail. The expedition was demanding, with early starts, full days of activity and little downtime. Students hiked through some of Australia’s most remarkable landscapes, camped under the stars and spent four nights at Hamilton Downs Cattle Station, where they experienced life as ‘Stockwomen’, developing navigation, cooking and leadership skills. The journey concluded with a challenging two-day, 30-kilometre hike along the Larapinta Trail. Through the challenges, students demonstrated determination, resilience and compassion for one another. Evenings provided time for reflection through yarning circles, journaling and conversation. Without phones or devices, students had space to slow down and reflect on what they had learned about themselves and each other. As one student reflected, “I realised I am much more resilient than I thought, and that I am capable of handling challenges.”

Brigidine College St Ives

NEWS

Welcome and Farewell to Staff Welcome New Staff NATASHA MERCER DIRECTOR TEACHING AND LEARNING Natasha Mercer joined the College in 2026 as Director of Teaching and Learning, bringing more than 20 years of experience across independent, public and international education. Since 2005 she has taught and led in settings ranging from a single classroom to schools across New South Wales and overseas.

ERIN WEBB DEPUTY PRINCIPAL We are delighted to welcome Mrs Erin Webb, who will join Brigidine College St Ives as Deputy Principal in Term 4, 2026. Erin joins us from St Aloysius’ College where she was the Head of Campus at Rozelle. She brings extensive experience in Catholic education and senior leadership, having previously served as Dean of Students and, before that, as Student Leadership Coordinator at Santa Sabina College. A passionate and relational educator, Erin is deeply committed to the wellbeing, growth and success of young people. She is particularly drawn to Brigidine’s charism and our motto, Fortiter et Suaviter – Strength and Gentleness – values that reflect her own approach to leadership. Erin holds a Master of Educational Leadership, is Convenor for ISNSW Studies of Religion and serves on the NESA Advisory Group for the new Studies of Religion syllabus. We look forward to welcoming Erin to our College community.

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Natasha is recognised as a pioneer in student peer coaching, an approach that equips students to support one another through goal setting and reflective practice. She has presented this work internationally, delivering the workshop EvidenceBased Student Peer Coaching: A Dual Approach to Supporting Wellbeing and Achievement at the International Positive Psychology Association World Congress in 2025, and joined a panel on coaching in Australia and New Zealand with Leeds Beckett University in 2024. Prior to joining Brigidine, Natasha was Head of Teaching and Learning (Upper School) at Wenona School. She has previously worked with the NSW Department of Education’s Quality Teaching Unit, partnering with teachers across the state to improve student writing outcomes, and in the United Kingdom as part of the team establishing a new school in Chelsea, London. She spent many years at St Ives High School serving in Head of Teaching and Learning and Deputy Principal roles. She was also the Principals’ Advisor for Learning and Innovation with the North Shore 5 Secondary Schools Partnership, a collaboration between high-

performing secondary schools formed to share expertise and lift teaching and learning at scale. Selected from more than 500 teachers across the partnership, she designed professional learning for staff and advised principals on current research and instructional improvement. Natasha holds a Master of Education specialising in student engagement, motivation and educational leadership, with a final thesis examining AI in girls’ education. She is a 2026 to 2027 GARC Fellow with the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools, a winner of the NSW Teachers Guild Excellence in Education Award, and a co-founder of the Australian EduCoaches Community, which brings educators together for free professional learning in coaching and mentoring. A History teacher at heart, Natasha is passionate about Ancient History and about the lost voices of the past, and she particularly enjoys teaching History Extension, a course she describes as a reminder that history is constantly being written, questioned and rewritten. Above all she is committed to girls’ education and to schools that are truly built for girls. At Brigidine, she oversees teaching and learning, working closely with the Leadership Team and the Heads of Department.

Staff Farewells ROB FARR HEAD OF SCIENCE After 25 years at Brigidine College St Ives, Mr Rob Farr has concluded his time at the College, having served as Head of Science for a significant period of his career.

DANIEL MOLLER HEAD OF DIVERSE LEARNING Daniel Moller joined Brigidine College in 2026 as Head of Diverse Learning, bringing more than a decade of experience across English and Diverse Learning faculties in Sydney secondary schools. Daniel is passionate about creating inclusive educational environments where students feel known, supported and empowered to achieve their potential. Throughout his career, Daniel has been particularly interested in the intersection of teaching, inclusion and leadership. His commitment to professional learning has seen him receive the Gandel Philanthropy Scholarship, which took him to Jerusalem, Poland and Germany for a Holocaust Education immersion in 2019, and the NSW Inclusive Practice in Education Scholarship in 2021. The latter supported his Master’s in Special and Inclusive Education at The University of Sydney, where he graduated in 2023. In 2024, Daniel presented at The University of Sydney’s annual Successful Learning Conference, sharing his work, Reading Progress: Creating a tiered evidence-based reading program for Stage 4 that aligns with School Improvement Planning. Daniel’s academic work at The University of Sydney continues today, where he contributes to the education of future teachers. He particularly enjoys the opportunity to learn alongside students and colleagues and to share practical experiences from his work in secondary schools. Since joining Brigidine, Daniel has appreciated the calm and gentle nature of the College community. He has enjoyed getting to know students, families and staff and is looking forward to continuing to build a culture of inclusion and collaboration across the College.

Rob has made an outstanding and generous contribution to Science teaching and learning at Brigidine, supporting generations of students in their studies and helping to foster a strong culture of engagement with Science across the College. As Head of Science, Rob provided leadership and guidance to the department, supporting his colleagues and contributing to the ongoing development of Science education at Brigidine. His commitment to his subject and to the students he taught has been an important part of his contribution to College life over many years.

CHRIS RUTHERFORD DRAMA After 20 years of affiliation with Brigidine College St Ives, including 18 years as a fulltime staff member, Mr Chris Rutherford has concluded his time at the College. Chris has made an outstanding contribution to Drama, both in the

After 25 years of service, Rob leaves Brigidine with the thanks of the College community for his dedication, generosity and contribution to Science. We wish Rob all the very best for his retirement and the next chapter ahead.

classroom and through the College’s extensive performance program. Since 2014, six of his students have achieved state rankings in HSC Drama, including two first-place results, while many others have been selected for OnStage across Group Performance, Costume Design, Promotion Design and Theatre Criticism. His expertise has also extended beyond Brigidine, including serving as Coordinating Senior Marker for the HSC Drama written examination, delivering essay-writing masterclasses and working with ISNSW as a Drama specialist supporting curriculum implementation. Across his time at the College, Chris directed two Year 11 Plays and 13 College Musicals, including two filmed revues during the COVID-19 pandemic, while supporting countless other productions. He also contributed to College life through the Social Club, Brigfest and work on the College’s mission statement. We thank Chris for his dedication, expertise and lasting contribution to Brigidine and wish him every success for the future.

Brigidine College St Ives

NEWS

The Age of AI Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly familiar part of everyday life, including in education and the workplace. For students currently at school, understanding how to use AI appropriately and developing the skills to work alongside new technologies will be an important part of preparing for life beyond Brigidine. AI AND THE FUTURE OF WORK The impact of AI on future employment has been a topic of increasing interest among our Year 12 students as they consider university courses and career pathways. AI is already being used across industries including healthcare, education, business and the creative industries. Jobs and Skills Australia’s Jobs and Skills Report 2025 identifies three main ways generative AI is affecting work: automation, where tasks are performed by machines; augmentation, where people use AI to enhance their work; and adaptation, as new ways of working develop. The report found that around four per cent of Australia’s workforce is in highly automatable occupations, while 31 per cent are in occupations that are highly augmentable. This suggests that for many workers, AI is more likely to change the way they work than replace their entire role. For students entering this changing workforce, skills such as critical thinking, digital literacy, creativity, collaboration and ethical judgement will continue to be important. Being able to evaluate information, identify limitations in AIgenerated content and make informed decisions will also be increasingly relevant. Rather than preparing for one particular version of the future workplace, students will need to develop the ability to continue learning and adapt as technology changes.

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THE AIDA PROJECT At Brigidine, these ideas are being explored through the AIDA Project – the AI & Digital Agency Project. Named after Ada Lovelace, the nineteenthcentury mathematician widely regarded as the world’s first computer programmer, AIDA aims to develop AI literacy across the College and provide students with opportunities to explore the use of AI in education. The AIDA Student Consultancy Board includes students from Years 8 to 11. Board members are reviewing AI policies and approaches from schools in Australia and overseas, considering how different approaches might apply at Brigidine and preparing recommendations to help inform the College’s approach to AI. Students are also exploring the use of AI across the curriculum and contributing to the broader conversation about how the technology can be used appropriately at school. The involvement of students is an important part of the project. Rather than being simply recipients of new policies and guidelines, students have an opportunity to contribute their perspectives and experiences as AI becomes a more established part of education.

AI LITERACY IN THRIVE AI education is also being explored through Thrive. Year 9 students are designing and piloting an AI literacy program for Year 7 students. The program introduces younger students to some of the ways AI can be used, while also considering the importance of using the technology thoughtfully and responsibly. For the Year 9 students, developing the program provides an opportunity to build their own understanding of AI. They are required to research the topic, consider what younger students need to know and develop activities and explanations that are appropriate for their audience.

The project also provides an example of students contributing to the learning of others within the College.

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR CHANGE AI will continue to develop, and the technologies available to students in the coming years are likely to change significantly. At Brigidine, our approach is focused on helping students understand these technologies while continuing to develop the skills they need to use them effectively and responsibly. This reflects the College’s values of Conviction and Compassion: engaging with new developments while keeping the needs, wellbeing and development of our students at the centre. Through initiatives such as AIDA and Thrive, students are developing their understanding of AI and contributing to the way it is explored within the College. It is another part of preparing our young women for the opportunities and challenges they will encounter beyond Brigidine.

Brigidine College St Ives

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Celebrating Brigidine Writers Each term, The Lamp provides a platform for students to share their creativity, ideas and perspectives through creative writing, poetry, speeches, artwork and graphic design. The student-led magazine celebrates the diverse voices and talents of our students and is distributed to staff and students throughout the year. Here are some highlights from the latest issue.

has changed this. Now, with news being instantly available through digital platforms, awareness has increased. However, this constant presence of news means that people no longer have to look for news. News looks for you. This extreme over-exposure is turning real suffering into something we just scroll past. According to studies done by the University of Canberra, 76 per cent of people aged 18-24 get the majority of their news from social media, and of this, 69 per cent have reported that they did not want to see the news. With news being a constant, it means that people can never escape the real world. News has been shortened into 30 second clips – a highlight reel, if you will. So that it can be put on social media, so that more people can know what is happening in the world. While this has increased accessibility, it also reduces complex global issues into simple content, made easy for people to consume. News is no longer something we process, but something we scroll past. Technology has changed the world. We no longer interpret what we see and people no longer process information in the same way. My question is, when did tragedy become something we consume rather than respond to?

NATALIE GANTVOORT, YEAR 10 I laughed when I first found out about the war in Iran. Not because I think it’s funny, but because everyone in the comments were planning their battlefield outfits and describing them as “to die for”. The devastation of these very real events was swiped to the side so that humour can be front and centre. Technology has changed how I and many others see and interpret major world events. Technology has made the news more accessible, which has its ups and downs. People used to rely on the newspaper, radio and TV to stay informed, which took time and a conscious effort. Technology

SUNKISSED LAND BY HANNAH WOOD, YEAR 7 With this poem, Hannah won the Ku-ringgai Council Wild With Words competition, earning the opportunity to take part in a poetry masterclass. I remember the dehydrated land Burnt to a crisp, desperate to quench its thirst A vast open space wide brown and tanned Burnt to a cinder Thought to be cursed Our prayers were received when the rain thundered down Drumming on the rusty tin-roofed shed While we were deafened by the roaring sound The beauties of farmland cleared my head We set off towards the vast open fields A rocky outcrop steep and perilous Dodging nature and the weapons she wields Further down in the valley so cautious Such beauty in the simplest of things When I go there my heart rises, it sings.

SATIN SKIRT BY VERONICA SCULLY, YEAR 11 My satin skirt trails from my hands Spread like soft plumage Nestling on shining sands A sable shadow merging into green That coils duskily around pale ankles Darkening the places it had left and been With great lines of silvery spittle And tangled seaweed necklaces Each pulpy heart, little by little Festooning those watery bowers In slimy strings and bright sea flowers As still the waves ribbon and gulls cry Bubbles swirl its gaping maw Like bone fragments in the socket of an eye.

Brigidine College St Ives

IN THE CLASSROOM

Where Curiosity Leads The HSC Showcase brought students, families, staff and alumni together in August to celebrate the breadth of work created by our Year 12 students. The evening showcased HSC practical submissions and major projects across Visual Arts, Textiles and Design, Design and Technology, English Extension 2, History Extension, Science Extension and Society and Culture. Behind each submission was a process of curiosity, experimentation, research and refinement, as students developed ideas, worked through challenges and brought their individual interests and perspectives to life. The Showcase offered a glimpse into that journey and an opportunity for our community to celebrate the dedication and creativity behind the finished work.

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IN THE CLASSROOM

Differentiating for High Potential Learners In the July 2026 edition of New Scientist, an article examined growing evidence that challenges common assumptions about gifted and talented students. While concerns have long existed that labelling children as gifted may place undue pressure on them, recent research suggests that many gifted individuals flourish as adults, often achieving professional success and positive wellbeing outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of recognising and supporting the unique learning needs of high potential students.

These ideas provided a timely context for one of the staff-led masterclasses at our Brigidine Learning and Wellbeing Conference at the start of Term 3, which focused on differentiating for high potential learners. Staff explored the diverse ways giftedness, talent and high achievement can present in the classroom, recognising that gifted students are not always those with the highest grades and that potential is not always immediately visible through academic performance alone. The session encouraged teachers to look beyond traditional measures of success and consider how giftedness may be expressed through curiosity, creativity, advanced reasoning and complex thinking. Staff also examined how the College identifies gifted learners, the barriers they may face, and practical differentiation strategies that provide appropriate challenge, depth and independence, ensuring all students are supported to learn and grow at their point of need. One of the reasons I believe Brigidine College St Ives provides such a unique and enriching experience for high potential learners is that everything we do is grounded in a clear sense of purpose and mission. Academic excellence is not viewed as an end in itself, nor as a means of elevating oneself above others.

Rather, it is understood as part of a broader commitment to using our gifts and talents in service of others, and to engaging with the ethical and social justice issues that shape our world. Within our community, giftedness and exceptional talent are recognised as important forms of diversity. Like all students, high potential learners are encouraged to contribute in ways that reflect their individual strengths, passions and aspirations. Consequently, our approach to gifted education is founded on values of human dignity, compassion and service rather than competition. This is particularly important because many gifted learners demonstrate an early and intense concern for issues of fairness and social justice, a strong desire to find meaning and purpose, and a heightened sensitivity to the experiences and suffering of others. Their development is also often asynchronous, with intellectual abilities advancing more rapidly than emotional maturity. For this reason, Brigidine’s highly regarded wellbeing and pastoral care programs work alongside our academic initiatives to ensure that these students are supported not only to achieve, but also to thrive as balanced, compassionate and socially conscious young people. JA N E T WA L K E R HEAD OF ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT

Brigidine College St Ives

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Daring to Be Yourself: High School Musical What happens when you step outside the role everyone expects you to play? That was the question at the heart of Brigidine’s production of High School Musical, as students brought the much-loved story of Troy Bolton, Gabriella Montez and the students of East High to life on stage. Troy is the school’s star basketball player, while Gabriella is the brainy newcomer. When the two discover an unexpected shared love of singing, they are forced to challenge the labels and expectations that have shaped their lives at school. As friendships are tested and cliques collide, they must decide whether to follow the crowd or have the courage to be themselves. It is a story that celebrates taking risks, discovering new possibilities and being open to where an unexpected opportunity might lead – themes that were reflected in the College Musical itself. For the students involved, the production was an opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and explore talents in new ways. From the leads and ensemble to the orchestra and backstage crew, students brought different strengths, personalities and experiences together to create something greater than any one person could achieve alone. The production also brought together an enthusiastic team of staff, alumni and students behind the scenes. Mr Tim Crow took on the role of Music Director, supported by Brigidine alumni Lindsay Gilroy (Class of 2000) as accompanist. Miss Chloe Jackett (Class of 2020) returned as choreographer, bringing energy and dynamic movement to the cast. The spectacular set was constructed by Mr David Yu and Mr Glenn Cameron, with the Visual Arts team – Ms Alison Finnerty, Ms Monique Gonzalez and Miss Peta Dzubiel – bringing it to life through their artistic vision. Ms Cinzia Marocco and Mrs Katrina Rennie also contributed their choreography to the production, including the energetic ‘Get’cha Head in the Game’.

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From ticketing and promotion to rehearsal supervision and backstage support, many staff members contributed their time and expertise throughout the production process. The production was an opportunity for students to take on new challenges, work alongside people with different strengths and talents, and experience the rewards of being part of a large-scale College production. And, much like the story of Troy and Gabriella, it was a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding opportunities come from stepping outside what is familiar and giving something new a try.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

We Didn’t Start the Fire For 50 years, the Year 11 Play has been one of the defining cultural traditions of Brigidine College. What began in 1976, when Mrs Margaret Cook directed Our Town, has grown into a much-loved annual opportunity for students to come together, take creative risks and discover the excitement of performing and creating theatre. Over five decades, Brigidine has hosted an extraordinary variety of productions, from world premieres such as The History of Everything, to adaptations of classics including Romeos and Juliet, Pride and Prejudice and Animal Farm, alongside contemporary works such as Happily Ever After…? and little girls alone in the woods. For the 50th anniversary, the College returned to the stage with Bertolt Brecht’s The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, directed by Miss DiAnne McDonald in her 28th Year 11 Play. Written in 1936, Brecht’s play uses the rise of a fictional Chicago gangster to explore how corruption, complacency and the abuse of power can allow tyranny to flourish. Arturo Ui’s ruthless ambition and manipulation provide a confronting reminder that the conditions that enable destructive leadership are not confined to one time or place.

That idea shaped the production itself. Sixteen black chairs were used to transform and manipulate the performance space, reinforcing the sense that while the story may be set in Chicago, the dangers it explores can emerge anywhere. Cameras, film and projections brought a contemporary dimension to the production, evoking the surveillance, media scrutiny and constant flow of information that characterise our own world. For the 48 Year 11 students involved, however, the experience was about much more than the ideas explored on stage. The production brought together students from across the year group, including many performing on stage for the first time. Alongside the cast, choreographers, costume, hair and make-up teams and technical crew all played an important role in bringing the production to life. Behind the scenes, Mr Gareth Edey once again worked his technical magic, helping to create an ambitious and visually striking production while leading the Girls in Black, whose technical expertise supports Brigidine productions throughout the year. Mrs Lisa Stevens also provided invaluable support, while Year 11 students Abigail and Jemima brought their creativity to the choreography and taught the cast the energetic ‘manchild’ finale. Fifty years after the first Year 11 Play, the tradition continues to offer students something that extends well beyond the performance itself: the chance to collaborate, be courageous, try something new and become part of a tradition that creates a lasting sense of belonging. The productions may change, the stories may change and the students who take to the stage each year may change, but the spirit of the Year 11 Play remains. We didn’t start the fire. But after 50 years, it is certainly still burning.

Turn to page 34 to read alumni reflections and memories from 50 years of the Year 11 Play!

Brigidine College St Ives

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Cocurricular Highlights DANCE Brigidine dancers placed at all the major dance eisteddfods this year, including I’d Rather Be Dancing and Platinum Dance Eisteddfod. Additionally, Company Contemporary qualified for the Australian Dance Festival Resonate Finals after competing in the Wildcard event in July, placing them among the top school dance troupes in Australia.

HOCKEY

ATHLETICS

DEBATING

Our Athletics team enjoyed a successful championship season at the CGSSSA and IGSA Carnivals, with students achieving numerous personal bests and medals across the two events. Division 3 improved to third place at the IGSA meet, while Beatrice Mathers (Year 7) set Brigidine’s first-ever CGSSSA record, breaking the 13 Years 1500m record by four seconds.

Following their success in 2025, our Senior Debating Team continued their strong form in the prestigious Archdale Debating Competition, finishing runners-up in the Grand Final in August. Their achievement was the result of months of preparation and demonstrated the girls’ confidence, collaboration and ability to engage thoughtfully with complex issues.

Brigidine Hockey celebrated a memorable season, with our Junior Firsts securing the premiership after a fantastic Grand Final victory, while the Senior Firsts finished runners-up after a narrow 1–2 defeat. Earlier in the year, our Hockey girls also made history by winning the Mollie Dive Hockey Final, securing Brigidine’s first title in the competition’s 32-year history.

BASKETBALL MUSIC

Our Junior Firsts Basketball team were crowned IGSA J01 Division 1 Champions after a thrilling Grand Final. In a tense finish, the girls held their nerve to take a two-point lead with just 15 seconds remaining, securing a memorable victory.

Brigidine musicians showcased the breadth of the College’s music program in July, delivering a phenomenal performance featuring some of our finest strings, vocal and band ensembles. The performance celebrated the talent, dedication and musicianship of students across the program.

GYMNASTICS Sakura White (Year 7) achieved a clean sweep of gold medals at the Gymnastics Nationals Club Championship, taking out Level 6 Intermediate Freehand, Hoop, Ribbon and the All-Around title. Her club also claimed the Level 6 Overall Trophy, capping off an exceptional competition.

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NETBALL This year, Brigidine Netball made history. For the first time, Brigidine hosted and contested both the Senior and Junior IGSA Division 1 Netball Grand Finals – a significant achievement reflecting the high standard of performance, teamwork and commitment across the program.

RUGBY Brigidine Rugby enjoyed a strong season, with the Year 8 Junior A team finishing third, the Intermediate team finishing runners-up in its division and the Senior Firsts securing third place. The results reflect the commitment, resilience and teamwork demonstrated by our players throughout the season.

It was a Grand Final weekend to remember, with 14 Brigidine teams competing across the finals and seven claiming victories. Four more teams came agonisingly close, going down by just one point. The results capped off an outstanding season for Brigidine Netball and highlighted the dedication of our players and coaches throughout the year.

SPORTS AEROBICS Brigidine Schoolaerobics athletes achieved an outstanding 10 national medals at the 2026 Schoolaerobics National Championships on the Sunshine Coast, including six gold medals. National titles were secured across singles, teams and pairs/trios events, highlighting the athletes’ commitment, teamwork and determination throughout the season.

BRIGIDINE EMERGING ATHLETE PROGRAM Students in the Brigidine Emerging Athlete Program (BEAP) have demonstrated outstanding commitment throughout Term 3, building on several terms of consistent Strength & Conditioning training. This term, students progressed to more advanced methods including plyometrics, Olympic lifting derivatives, loaded jumps and contrast training. The success of the BEAP program and the exceptional engagement of our students will be showcased as a case study at the National Strength & Conditioning Conference in Brisbane later this year. Their dedication and progress are a wonderful reflection of the College’s commitment to developing students both on and off the field.

SPRINT KAYAKING Year 12 student Tess achieved outstanding results at the National Sprint Kayaking Championships in Perth, winning gold, silver and bronze across U18 events. She was subsequently selected for the Australian Team to compete at the 2026 Asia Pacific Sprint Cup in New Zealand.

Brigidine College St Ives

COMMUNITY

Women Who Inspire

International Women’s Day is an important occasion in the life of Brigidine College, providing an opportunity to celebrate the women who inspire us, reflect on the progress that has been made towards equality and acknowledge the work that still lies ahead. This year, students, staff and parents gathered in Bowie Hall for the annual International Women’s Day Breakfast, sharing a morning of conversation, inspiration and community. The event highlighted the importance of supporting and advocating for the issues that continue to affect girls and women both locally and globally. A highlight of the morning was a panel discussion featuring College Principal Kate Quinane, alumnae Zarina Mangal (Class of 2018) and Holly De Jong (Class of 2003), alongside current Year 12 student Edie Scarfe. Together, the panel offered a range of perspectives on leadership, resilience, opportunity and the experiences that have shaped their personal and professional journeys. The discussion encouraged students to reflect on the women in their own lives who have influenced and supported them, whether through family, friendship, education or the workplace. It also

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reinforced the message that leadership can take many forms and that every woman has the capacity to make a meaningful contribution to her community.

years. Her response resonated with many in the audience and served as a reminder of the values that sit at the heart of a Brigidine education.

One particularly memorable moment came during a question from student leaders Emily and Alyssa, when Edie Scarfe reflected on what she would remember most about her time at Brigidine. She spoke about the importance of thankfulness and gratitude, identifying these as qualities she would carry with her beyond her school

International Women’s Day is both a celebration and a call to action. While it is a chance to recognise the achievements of women and girls, it also reminds us that the journey towards equality is ongoing. As a community, we are encouraged to continue advocating for opportunities, respect and inclusion for all women.

COMMUNITY

Lights, Camera, Trivia! More than 150 parents, staff and friends of Brigidine College came together for an evening of laughter, friendly competition and community spirit at this year’s Parents & Friends Association Trivia Night. The Brigidine community took centre stage, embracing the musical theme with spectacular creativity. From Cats and The Phantom of the Opera to Chicago, Grease, Dolly Parton and even a dedicated backstage crew, teams dressed for the occasion with plenty of theatrical flair and imaginative interpretations. Bowie Hall was filled with colour, energy and good-natured rivalry. The evening was packed with trivia, games, raffles and auctions, bringing members of the College community together to connect, celebrate and have some fun. Congratulations to the winning Year 8 team, The Phantom of the Opera, who took out the trivia competition, and to Year 7 parent Lauren Watson, who won the spectacular $10,000 Anania Jewellers raffle prize.

Beyond the fun, the evening was an important fundraiser for the Parents & Friends Association. Funds raised will support the purchase of new and updated musical equipment, helping to nurture the next generation of performers and ensuring students can continue to build confidence, skills and community through music and performance. The generosity of our community was reflected throughout the evening, with a wonderful range of raffle and auction prizes donated by local businesses, organisations and Brigidine families. We extend our thanks to Anania Jewellers, St Ives Shopping Village, Chatswood Chase, Macquarie Centre, Sydney Theatre Company, Theatre Royal Sydney, the Fiddler on the Roof Company Management team at Trafalgar, State

Theatre, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Sydney Kings, Buckettys Brewery, Dad and Dave’s Brewing, Archie Rose Distilling Co., REVLON, Little Label Co., a local Pilates studio owned by Year 7 parent, Cassie, and the many families who contributed prizes and support. The evening was made possible through the dedication of the Parents & Friends Association, College staff and parent volunteers, whose time and talents helped create such a welcoming and enjoyable event. With an evening of games, auctions and community connection, Trivia Night was a fitting celebration of the creativity and spirit that make Brigidine special, while raising $20,000 to support the future of music and performance at the College.

Brigidine College St Ives

COMMUNITY

School Snapshots

Year 12 Graduation Week

Mother’s Day Liturgy

STEM Evening

Father’s Day Liturgy

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Winter Sleepout

Founders Day Mass

Cut For A Cause

Daffodil Day

Founders Day

Athletics Carnival

Homelessness Week

Pink Day

Visit from Kildare Trustees

Brigidine College St Ives

ALUMNI

Latest News

ALUMNI & COMMUNITY RELATIONS As I prepare my first contribution to The Bridge, I am delighted to join a publication that celebrates the women and stories at the heart of the Brigidine community. Like the oak tree often associated with St Brigid, our roots run deep, grounded in faith, community and a shared heritage that continues to shape generations of Brigidine women. I am excited to contribute to this space and to continue celebrating the remarkable stories of our alumni community. One of the things that has become immediately apparent to me is the strength of the connection our alumni maintain with the College, whether through reunions, mentoring, attending events or simply remaining connected to the friendships they formed during their school years.

Every graduate adds a distinct chapter to Brigidine’s history. Whether her journey leads across the globe, into a new career, community service, family life, further study or an unexpected adventure, each experience adds depth to our shared story. I look forward to creating more opportunities for alumni to exchange these experiences and engage with current students, offering insight and encouragement as the next generation shapes its own path. Thank you to the alumni who remain involved and generously share their time, memories and achievements. Your contributions keep our community vibrant and ensure the Brigidine story continues to evolve with strength, purpose and optimism. SAMANTHA HONEYSETT EVENTS MANAGER

PIP STEDRY-LETTS (CLASS OF 2007) Pip and her husband Jan celebrated the baptism of their son, Marceli Stedry-Letts, on 11 August 2024 in St Brigid’s Chapel.

ISABELLA ACHDJIAN (CLASS OF 2022) Isabella met Julius Barba in November 2023, and the couple became engaged on 27 July 2024. They were married on 11 October 2025 at Holy Name of Mary Parish in Hunters Hill, followed by a reception at Crown Sydney. Isabella is now proudly Mrs Barba.

REBECCA BACK (CLASS OF 2011) Since leaving school, Bec moved to London to work as a primary school teacher. After leaving education, she joined Amazon before moving into finance, where she now works in Business Development at American hedge fund Verition. Three years into her London journey, Bec met Nick, who grew up just four minutes from her in Sydney – Nick in Killara and Bec in Gordon. The couple bought their first home in the London borough of Islington, where Nick proposed. They celebrated their marriage with their immediate families at Islington Town Hall, followed by a larger Australian celebration with friends and family.

For Pip, the occasion was especially meaningful, as St Brigid’s Chapel holds many fond memories from her own time at Brigidine. “It was wonderful to have Marceli baptised in St Brigid’s Chapel. St Brigid’s is such a beautiful space, and it felt really special to share with my son a place that holds so many fond memories for me from my time at Brigidine.” The family expressed their gratitude to Brigidine and Father Guy for helping to make the day so special.

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Brigidine College St Ives

RACHEL SEETO TAKES CENTRE STAGE Class of 2015 Drama Captain Rachel Seeto is continuing to make her mark on the Australian stage, recently headlining Griffin Theatre Company’s production of Lacuna. Rachel, remembered at Brigidine as an outstanding performer, was previously selected for OnStage for her HSC Group Performance. Her latest performance has received rave reviews, with critic Suzy Wrong praising Rachel’s “remarkable specificity” and “commanding physicality”, awarding the production 4½ stars.

CHLOE COGAN HEADS TO THE USA Chloe Cogan (Class of 2025) is taking her water polo career to the next level after signing with Siena University in upstate New York. Chloe received an impressive scholarship to pursue her dream of studying overseas while playing NCAA Division I water polo for the Siena Saints. A decorated young goalkeeper, Chloe was the starting goalkeeper at the 2024 Australian Youth National Championships and was selected for the Australian Youth Girls Water Polo Squad.

Photo credit: Phil Erbacher

REBECCA QUINN PERFORMS AT COMMONWEALTH GAMES LAUNCH

ELLENI TURKOVIC CROWNED NATIONAL CHAMPION

Former College Captain Rebecca Quinn recently performed the Australian national anthem at the Australian launch of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Elleni Turkovic (Class of 2025) has claimed the Elite Women’s Downhill national championship at the recent Australian Mountain Bike Championships at Mount Buller.

Rebecca’s performance featured across Commonwealth Games and other social media channels, marking another exciting milestone in the music career of the Class of 2009 alumni.

Competing in her first year racing in the elite category, Elleni charged to victory to claim her maiden national title — an outstanding achievement at the beginning of her elite cycling career.

Brigidine College St Ives

ALUMNI

GENERATIONS OF BRIGIDINE

Reunions

BACK TO BRIGIDINE There was a wonderful sense of connection and nostalgia at Brigidine College St Ives on Saturday 12 September, as former students returned to the College for Back to Brigidine Day. Celebrating the Classes of 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016, 2021 and 2025, the afternoon brought together alumni from across the decades to reconnect with old friends, revisit familiar places and share memories of their time at Brigidine.

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Guests enjoyed welcome drinks and canapés before hearing from College Principal, Kate Quinane, followed by opportunities to explore the College archives and rediscover the places that shaped their school years. From joyful reunions to stories shared across generations, the afternoon was a celebration of the longstanding friendships, experiences and connections that begin at Brigidine.

Pioneers and Golden Girls Day was a wonderful celebration of the women who have been part of the Brigidine story across generations. This year, the Class of 1976 became Golden Girls, marking 50 years since their graduation with a special lunch at the College on Tuesday 25 August. For the former students, it was an opportunity to reconnect with friendships, teachers, traditions and memories that have remained with them long after their school days. Although classrooms, technology, uniforms and many aspects of College life have changed, the connections forged at Brigidine endure. The day was a reminder that heritage is not simply about looking back, but about the enduring sense of belonging created by shared experiences. Former students enjoyed revisiting the College, sharing stories and meeting current student leaders, creating a connection between the Brigidine of their school days and the College of today. Like the Lamp of Learning, the Brigidine story continues to be passed from one generation to the next – carried by the women who have been part of our community and the memories, friendships and values they take with them.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Alana Reddy Class of 2023 so much of my Brigidine experience. Some of my favourite memories were made in the Brigidine gym, playing dodgeball, kickball or whatever game my friends and I invented at lunchtime. Aerobics in PDHPE was another memorable experience. Although I was incredibly untalented at it, it remains a hilarious and fond memory of mine! My all-time favourite Brigidine experience was the student-versus-teacher basketball game. The gym was packed, the baselines were lined with students and the atmosphere was electric. And yes, the students won.

BRIGO GIRLS CAN DO ANYTHING

When the Cill Dara Centre was officially opened in February 2026, the Brigidine community was joined via live stream by proud alumni Alana Reddy (Class of 2023), who shared a reflection on the role sport, community and the Brigidine spirit have played in her journey. I’m a very proud graduate of the Brigidine Class of 2023. At graduation, I was honoured to receive the College All-Rounder Award, and I will always be grateful to the Brigidine community for supporting me both academically and athletically throughout my six years at the College. Brigidine was truly a family tradition for me. My older sister, Isabella (Class of 2019), completed all six years at Brigidine, my mum worked in the office, and then there was me, proudly following in their footsteps. From the very beginning, sport was a huge part of my life. If there was ever an opportunity to try a new sport, I always said yes. Because of my love for sport, it shaped

Brigidine’s motto, Strength and Gentleness, has played a huge role in shaping who I am today. It taught me resilience, confidence and a ‘next play’ mentality – staying strong physically and mentally, even when things don’t go my way. It also taught me gentleness: how to connect with teammates, understand others and support people in the way they need. My journey after graduating Brigidine looked a little different to most. In Year 12, I decided I wanted to go to the United States and play Division I basketball. I worked relentlessly towards that goal and, while the path wasn’t always smooth – including completing an additional year of high school in the US – I am now proudly playing Division I basketball at Lehigh University. Moving across the world by myself was a huge adjustment, but Brigidine prepared me well for this challenge. At school was constantly reassured that I could achieve anything with the right mindset, hard work and the support of those around me. I was taught how to manage a demanding sporting schedule alongside academics and excel in both areas, receiving an Outstanding Achievement in the HSC and achieving an ATAR above 95. Playing sports such as netball, basketball and touch football at Brigidine was incredibly rewarding, not just because of the skills I learned or the competition I got to play against, but because of the relationships I built. I connected with

girls across all year groups, formed strong relationships with teachers and became part of a community that made school so much fun. Brigidine also gave me opportunities beyond the school gates. I was fortunate enough to represent ICSA in touch football, basketball and netball, competing in gala days and expanding both my skills and connections. I also represented New South Wales All Schools in basketball, winning gold at the 2022 National Championships – an experience I will never forget. One of the things I loved most about Brigidine was being encouraged to try every sport I could. I’ll always laugh thinking about my first time playing water polo. I was terrible! It was hard, but I don’t regret it for a second because I met some of my closest friends through it. The new gymnasium at Brigidine is an incredible opportunity for current and future students. It will be a space to discover new passions, build connections and create memories. It will be a true home court for basketball and netball, a place for PDHPE and cocurricular sport, and somewhere that the Brigidine chant can be sung after every win. To all current Brigidine students, I encourage you to follow your dreams and passions. You truly can do anything you set your mind to. Year 7 Alana would never have imagined that she’d be playing Division I basketball at Lehigh University and being live streamed on ESPN+. Brigo girls can do anything. If you love your sport, there are endless opportunities, whether close to home or across the world. Work hard, stay grateful, lean on your Brigidine community and, most importantly, have fun. Life can be challenging, so find joy in what you do and don’t take things too seriously. I’m so excited for the Brigidine community to embrace this incredible facility and continue the Brigidine spirit on the court. I can’t wait to come and visit.

Brigidine College St Ives

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Angela Smith (nee Baker) Class of 1991 FROM BRIGIDINE TO BUSINESS OWNER

From hospitality and corporate marketing to building a successful national business alongside her husband, Angela Smith (nee Baker, Class of 1991) has embraced a career journey shaped by curiosity, courage and a willingness to seize opportunities. Here, Angela shares her experience since Brigidine, the lessons she has learned along the way and the advice she would share with today’s students. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR JOURNEY SINCE GRADUATING FROM BRIGIDINE AND WHAT INSPIRED YOUR CAREER CHOICE? I think it’s really important to know that it’s okay not to have everything figured out when you leave school. I certainly didn’t. I didn’t want to go to university just for the sake of it. I’ve always enjoyed working with people, so chose to study a three-year Diploma of Applied Science in Hospitality. From there, I worked at the Radisson Kestrel Hotel in sales, marketing and front office for four years. Then, with my boyfriend (now husband) Andy, travelled around Australia for 13 months, followed by a season living in Canada where I ran the ski school at Big White. When we returned to Australia in 2000, my husband and I started a plumbing business, Dr.DRiP, which would later become a big part of my journey. But prior to this, I worked in the corporate world. At Dairy Farmers, I was the National Sponsorship Manager for four years, managing major brands like Ski yogurt and Dare flavoured milk, and coordinating sponsorships ranging from the NRL Dairy Farmers Stadium in Townsville to agricultural shows across

The Bridge Issue 1 2025

the country. It was a diverse role – one day I’d be talking to farmers and the next I was pitching million-dollar deals to the board. After that, I joined Coca-Cola in marketing, managing the Asia-Pacific Hungry Jack’s account for a year. In 2005, I stepped away from the corporate world to focus on Dr.DRiP full-time, which by then had grown significantly – and our family had too, with my daughter, Hannah born in 2006 and son, Isaac in 2009. In 2009, out of the tough lessons we learned in running our trade business, we founded Lifestyle Tradie, a national trade coaching business. After facing real adversity, we transformed our plumbing business in just 13 months, streamlining operations and creating systems that allowed Andy to work only two hours a week in the business. Eventually, I was no longer involved operationally either. We sold Dr.DRiP three years ago after 21 successful years. Today, our focus is Lifestyle Tradie, where we help other trade business owners build businesses that serve their lives, not the other way around. We’ve authored two books, Start Up. Scale Up. Sell Up. and Tradie Wife: Why Winging It Isn’t Working,, host The Tradie Show podcast, and work with a team of 13 from our office in Warriewood. TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AND WHAT IT INVOLVES. Lifestyle Tradie is a national coaching business dedicated to helping trade business owners, like plumbers, electricians, builders, air-con techs, painters and roofers, make more profit, reclaim their time and build confidence in running a streamlined, systemised business. Our goal is to help them create a business that supports their life, not consumes it, and gives them a life of freedom.

Lifestyle Tradie, a multi-award-winning company, has been operating for 16 years. We focus specifically on husband-and-wife teams running trade businesses because we know firsthand the unique challenges and rewards that come with working together. My main role is to teach and motivate these husband-and-wife business owners. We host live events where over 200 trade business owners gather to learn, connect and be inspired. Our online portal provides training resources that I constantly build and update, including templates and checklists for business improvement. Our sole purpose is to connect trade business owners around Australia and provide a safe environment where a community of like-minded, savvy humans can collaborate, connect and grow. Andy and I are the glue that keeps them together. We have employed a number of Brigidine alumni over the years, and we joke that if they aren’t an ex-student, they won’t be employed. They have all been confident, mature and positive humans. Working in a male-dominated industry, I believe my role is to provide confidence to the women of the industry. Often overlooked, their role of organising the office is equally as important as working

on the tools and earning billable time. One cannot operate without the other. Encouraging partners to work together for the better of the business ultimately has a flow-on effect that improves their daily lives through less stress and providing the freedom to choose. WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR CAREER? The most rewarding part of my career has been the joy of seeing couples take a holiday for the first time in years together

and still make a profit, saving a marriage through our work, plus literally saving lives. Sadly, the construction industry is one of the industries most affected by suicide. We too lost a close friend three years ago to this disease, which is the reason we partner with Gotcha4Life, who help build mental fitness. WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO YOUR 16-YEAR-OLD SELF? You’ll turn out okay. Your positive attitude will serve you well. Your parents have

instilled great morals and values, your school has been the perfect grounding to round out your emotional intelligence, and your Brigo friends will be friends for life! WORDS OF WISDOM FOR TODAY’S BRIGIDINE STUDENTS? Give everything a go with a positive attitude. You only have one life, so say yes to doing new things outside your comfort zone and enjoy every moment. Life is only just getting started!

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Hanna Blanche Class of 2012 A GIFT THAT CHANGED A LIFE

For Hanna, organ donation has become a deeply personal part of her life. Her experience is also a powerful reminder of the importance of raising awareness about organ donation among young people. Hanna’s journey began with something seemingly simple. Wanting to find out what her blood type was, she visited her GP, who arranged a series of blood tests. She still remembers receiving a phone call at home telling her she needed to see him as soon as possible. Having just completed her Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Notre Dame, Hanna was told that her kidney levels were abnormal. For the next three years, she underwent regular monitoring, but when there was no improvement, she eventually had a kidney biopsy. The results revealed that she had an autoimmune disease called IgA nephropathy. In 2022, she welcomed her daughter, Everleigh – a blessing she had been waiting for. But after having her appendix removed during COVID-19, she developed a serious infection and subsequently contracted COVID-19 twice. It was then that conversations about organ donation and transplantation began – something she had never imagined she would experience herself.

Without hesitation, and without Hanna even having to ask, both of her parents volunteered to be potential kidney donors. They began the extensive testing and investigations required to determine whether they would be suitable. In December 2023, just three days before Christmas, Hanna began haemodialysis. At the beginning of 2024, it was decided that her dad would be her donor. During this time, Hanna was working part-time as a registered nurse, attending dialysis three days a week and having just one day to catch up on everything else. She had to give up netball and soccer once she began dialysis. Her priorities had changed: being there for her daughter and getting through the transplant were what mattered most. The transplant was booked for June 2024. There were extensive investigations and pre-treatment, but just two weeks before the scheduled operation, Hanna developed blood clots on her lungs. The transplant was put on hold. For another 15 months, Hanna continued working part-time, attending dialysis

three days a week and raising her toddler, while her dad continued working full-time. Then, in July 2025, they were given a new date: 5 September 2025 – coincidentally, Jersey Day, which falls on World Organ Donation Day. Her dad was “an absolute trooper”, remaining calm and strong-minded throughout the operation and the days that followed. Every day after the surgery, he would visit Hanna to check in and see how she was doing. Today, Hanna feels incredibly blessed and grateful to have such an amazing dad who donated his kidney and, in doing so, helped give her a new chance at life. “I have a whole new outlook on life now,” she says. Hanna’s experience is a powerful reminder of the importance of learning about organ donation and having conversations about it early. For young people, understanding the impact of organ donation can help create awareness of a gift that has the potential to change – and save – lives.

Brigidine College St Ives