The Bridge, the Brigidine College St Ives biannual magazine
Editor
Aleisha Ford
Graphic Design
Aleisha Ford
Proof Reading
Mandy Loomes
Photography
Jonathan Dear
Michael Hennessy
Anthony Khoury
Skipping Stone Photography
Brigidine staff and students
Printing
Worldwide North Ryde
Contributors
Judith Allan
Elle Carroll
Aleisha Ford
Kate Gray
Shane Hogan
Mandy Loomes
Brian Loughland
DiAnne McDonald
Dr Michael McDonald OAM
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
IGSA Archdale Champions after their impressive Grand Final victory over Monte. This historic
and determination of the team, guided by their coach and Brigidine alumni, Courtney Wilkinson (Class of 2021).
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We are always grateful to receive photos and stories that we can share on our social media pages. Please send content to: communications@brigidine.nsw.edu.au
Brigidine’s New Principal: Mrs Kate Quinane
On behalf of the Board of Brigidine College St Ives, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Kate Quinane as Principal, commencing 16 January 2026.
Mrs Quinane brings to the College a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the education of young women. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Teaching from the University of Sydney. Throughout her distinguished career, Mrs Quinane has served in a range of leading girls’ schools, including Ascham School, Roseville College, Santa Sabina College and Mount St Benedict’s College. Her expertise in teaching and learning has been fundamental to her role in these schools, where she developed innovative educational programs and championed best practices in pedagogy
to ensure high academic standards and student engagement.
Her leadership journey continued at St Aloysius’ College, where she was Director of Teaching and Learning from 2016 to 2022, Deputy Principal from 2022 to 2024 and Acting Principal in 2025. In these roles, Mrs Quinane’s extensive expertise in curriculum design, teacher professional development and student academic growth has been widely recognised. Her collaborative leadership style, coupled with her passion for fostering excellence in teaching and learning, has made a lasting impact in every community she has served.
Mrs Quinane’s extensive expertise in curriculum design, teacher professional development and student academic growth has been widely recognised. Her collaborative leadership style, coupled with her passion for fostering excellence in teaching and learning, has made a lasting impact in every community she has served.
Mrs Quinane’s return to girls’ education marks a significant continuation of her professional journey. Her values closely mirror the Board’s vision to inspire students to value learning, seek wisdom, act with integrity, and honour the Brigidine heritage of the College and the mission of Kildare Ministries.
We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Mr Shane Hogan for his continued leadership of the College throughout this year. His commitment and guidance have ensured stability and ongoing excellence during this important period of transition to a new Principal.
I am sure that the College community of students, staff, parents, alumni and the broader Catholic community will warmly welcome Mrs Quinane in 2026. We look forward with anticipation and confidence to her leadership in the years ahead.
DR MICHAEL MCDONALD OAM CHAIR BRIGIDINE COLLEGE BOARD
From the Principal
There is a real sense of momentum at Brigidine right now which is exciting to be part of. Our College is in the midst of some significant projects that will help shape the experience of students for many years to come.
Leadership itself has been very much in focus in recent weeks. The announcement of our 2026 Student Leaders has sparked reflection on what it means to lead. At Brigidine we believe leadership is less about a badge or title and more about the qualities of service, courage, kindness and the ability to inspire others. These qualities can be seen across all year groups in students who take the initiative, who stand up for what is right and who build up those around them.
This was brought home powerfully at our recent Student Leadership Camp. It was so impressive to see so many young women with a genuine passion to lead the College and to unite the student body. Their energy, vision and commitment to service were on full display and I was struck by their determination to leave the College even stronger for those who follow. Experiences like this remind us that leadership is not something we impose; it is something we nurture.
As we look to the future, we can be certain that Brigidine is in very good hands. With a new Principal ready to lead us on our next chapter and with inspiring student leaders already stepping forward, there is both stability and momentum. Our community is one that consistently fosters leadership, resilience and hope. That gives me great pride and confidence for the years ahead.
SHANE HOGAN PRINCIPAL
“With leadership at the heart of these changes, there is much to be optimistic about for our College community.”
Leading with Strength and Gentleness
Student leadership at Brigidine College plays a pivotal role in shaping confident, responsible and future-ready individuals. It offers our students the opportunity to develop essential life skills such as communication, organisation, teamwork and decisionmaking. It empowers our young women to lead with strength and gentleness, and to believe in their ability to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Our newly appointed student leaders for 2026 recently attended the College’s Student Leadership Camp, held at Narrabeen. The camp focused on the importance of valuing and appreciating each other’s strengths and talents, being affirmed in their leadership roles, and creating a legacy that builds on the work of previous groups and strengthens our College culture.
Our Student Leaders are encouraged to speak up, attend meetings, collaborate effectively and make plans that serve the wider College community. An initiative of our student leaders from the Class of 2025 has been to invite alumni guest speakers to speak at five College assemblies as part of their 2025 ALIVE program. These alumni, as accomplished and confident women, served
as powerful role models, demonstrating what is possible beyond Brigidine. Their stories encouraged our students to set meaningful goals, pursue leadership opportunities and make the most of their time and experiences at the College.
By nurturing leadership in young women today, we lay the foundation for a future generation of female leaders across politics, business, science and beyond. At Brigidine, student leadership is about unlocking the full potential of every student. By empowering young women to take the lead, we not only build stronger, more inclusive schools but also contribute to creating a better, more equitable society for all.
Leadership Camp
Alumni leading the next Generation
The Class of 2025 introduced their theme for the year: Come ALIVE in 2025. The five seasons of ALIVE were launched throughout the year by alumni guest speakers who presented to the girls on their respective topics at assembly.
A – Authenticity
Chloe Christie (Class of 2020)
L – Love
Daisy Daddo (Class of 2023)
I – Inclusivity
Raihana Mangal (Class of 2017)
V – Valiance
Lana Sturmer (Class of 2003)
E – Empowerment
Valentina Buay (Class of 2017)
Here are some excerpts from their speeches that offered inspirational advice to our current students.
AUTHENTICITY
CHLOE CHRISTIE (CLASS OF 2020)
As Brigo girls ‘Come Alive’ in 2025, I want you to do so with authenticity – being genuine and true to your own personality, values, vulnerabilities and the things that make you, you – regardless of outside pressures. Being yourself should be easy, if the world didn’t convince people (particularly young women) that it’s not enough, or too much. Sadly, most of us would rather be liked than be real.
Caring about other people’s opinions does in many ways make us more empathetic, compassionate and gives us the ability to form deeper connections. What’s important is that we don’t let those opinions control us.
Fortunately, I made it through most of high school feeling pretty comfortable in my own skin. I loved school, especially English and Drama, and was gloriously nerdy and enthusiastic. I encourage you to pay close attention to the parts of your life – the
friendships, sports, subjects or clubs –where you feel most comfortable leaning in all the way.
At 17, I spent two weeks visiting the Channel 7 building in Martin Place until the Director of News could find five minutes to speak with me. With zero degree, zero selfawareness and zero shame I said “Jason, I know absolutely nothing about the news but I’m a quick learner, I’m 17, so excited to be here and I want to sponge up everything you can possibly teach me.”
He said, “Welcome to Channel 7.”
I spent 12 months there, from coffee girl to reporter. I found that everyone was extremely willing to help me as long as I led with, “I’m 17, I don’t really know anything yet but I’d love to learn from you.”
Here’s a hard truth: Vulnerability is the first thing people want to see but the last thing people want to show. Don’t underestimate how much people warm to someone who’s really honest about their shortcomings.
Now I’m at ABC as Head of Video, managing journalists much older than me. I remind them that good journalism comes from authenticity and curiosity: What do I understand? What don’t I? Why should people care?
I’ve decided imposter syndrome doesn’t exist – it’s the smartest who ask “stupid” questions. The rest are just performing to seem more impressive than they are.
FEATURE
LOVE
DAISY DADDO (CLASS OF 2023)
Love is a big word. It’s layered, complex –the sort of thing you hear about in songs or associate with boyfriends, girlfriends and big, grand gestures – not school assemblies. But love doesn’t have to be loud or dramatic. It can be quiet and even a little mundane – in friendships, family and pets.
To me love is the backbone of what truly matters in life. And at Brigidine, it shows up in the small moments – in laughter, or a shared glance in an exam when the question makes zero sense – that last long after the uniform’s packed away.
Last night I had dinner with my high school friends. We’ve all gone in different directions – uni, jobs, overseas – but we’ve stayed close. We weren’t even all best friends at school but what connects us is the foundation we built here. That’s love – the kind that shows up, stays and grows with you.
Female friendships, I believe, are some of the most important connections in life. And school is where many of those begin.
What I remember most about high school isn’t exam scores – it’s who made me laugh until I cried, who helped me when I was stressed and who I’ll always stop to talk to, no matter how much time has passed. Because the love built in female friendships – especially here – is enduring. It teaches you how to show up for someone, how to listen deeply, how to laugh at yourself. And most importantly, it reminds you that you are never alone.
So, my advice: Be genuine. Be passionate. Be unapologetically yourself. Surround yourself with people who love you not despite your quirks but because of them. When we show up as our full selves, we give others permission to do the same.
INCLUSIVITY
RAIHANA MANGAL (CLASS OF 2017)
My story begins with my incredible parents. They were both born in Afghanistan, an extremely beautiful country which I have sadly never stepped foot in due the to the war and current strong oppression towards women ever since the Taliban took over. My parents had to escape Afghanistan through the terrain for days and nights leaving their home and their identity to save their lives and future.
They arrived here in Sydney, Australia as refugees close to 40 years ago now. They were welcomed and included into our beautiful country which they proudly call home. They were given an opportunity for a new life, hope and a place to raise a family of their own one day. That’s when my sister and I came along.
They wanted to give back everything they could which is the exact same thing I wanted to do once my application was accepted into Brigidine.
When I began in Year 7, all I wanted was to feel included and blend in like the rest of the girls, wishing I had blonde hair and blue eyes and be anything but Muslim. I supressed my identity, was embarrassed of my faith and felt like I had to overcompensate which was extremely exhausting.
How silly was I? What could have been an opportunity for my classmates to learn, to question, to understand and to be exposed, I instead let my insecurities rob
the girls and myself of potential growth and inclusion. What could have brought us closer together pushed me away because I didn’t want to make my differences known. I know humans like to naturally focus on similarities but ever since graduating I realised the power of celebrating our differences.
My definition of inclusion is to be seen, heard and acknowledged. So why deny yourself and others the opportunity to gain more knowledge, kindness, empathy and acceptance? Be open to inclusion. You’re adding more colour and value to your life.
While you have the community and support, join the school band, join the football club or debating team, join the social justice club or the leadership team. Choose anything you want. You’re not a voiceless girl in Afghanistan with her rights stripped of her. You are privileged and liberated women, with power, a voice and a top tier education.
Now as you all celebrate and recognise each trait of this year’s theme ‘Come Alive’, remember this: It takes love to be inclusive, it takes valiance to be authentic, and it takes an empowered Brigo girl who is sitting right next to you, in front of you, behind you and within you, to embody all five traits.
Photos:
1. Chloe Christie (Class of 2020) with 2025 College Captains Emilea Wallis and Caroline Cuda
2. Daisy Daddo (Class of 2023) with Principal Shane Hogan, Emilea and Caroline
3. Raihana Mangal (Class of 2017) with her mother
FEATURE
VALIANCE
LANA STURMER (CLASS OF 2003)
Resilience isn’t bouncing back – it’s being brave to reclaim your voice, your values and your worth. It’s learning that you are not weak but giving yourself permission to move forward.
Here’s a little wisdom from one Brigo girl to another.
To Year 7 and 8: You are enough. Right now. Be brave to keep showing up.
To Year 9 and 10: This is your questioning era. Let curiosity lead but be brave to hold a little grace beside your curiosity.
To Year 11: Surround yourself with people who lift you. Friendships matter.
And to the graduating class of 2025: Don’t ask “Who do I want to be?” You know who you are! Instead, ask, “What am I curious about?” and “What am I brave enough to change?”
Say yes to bravery even when fear is at your side. Let your values take a chance.
Brigidine gave me the foundation to stand strong in my convictions, while leading with compassion. Your values will guide you home. They’ll remind you who you are and always welcome your valiant self back.
EMPOWERMENT
VALENTINA BUAY (CLASS OF 2017)
The mindset I learnt at Brigidine is what empowered me to tackle the world that came after high school. School is the most empowered you’ll ever be to try anything and everything and to fail as many times as you want, without fear of any real world implications.
I absolutely loved trying new things. It’s how I made friends, found my passions and how I expanded my knowledge about things other than what I thought my career would be. Brigo empowered me to fall in love with being a beginner. I tried textiles, dance, drama, touch football, softball, musicals and many more things.
The world is literally at your doorstep and all you have to do is say yes. Do things because you’re interested, not because
you want to top the subject but because you want to grow your mind, meet new people, become a better, cooler, person.
That’s empowerment.
This feeling of wanting to try new things, if you establish that now, will take you beyond high school. I’m now in my final year of postgraduate medical school, graduating to become a doctor next year. At uni I did dance, theatre and rock climbing, I’ve met so many incredible people along the way who are now my life-long friends and that only happened because I felt empowered to give things a go and not be scared of failing.
Every single thing that you do will make you a better, more unique and interesting person. That’s empowerment.
Lana Sturmer (Class of 2003)
Valentina Buay (Class of 2017)
FEATURE
Congratulations to our 2026 Student Leaders
We were thrilled to announce the incoming student leaders for 2026 during the Founders Day Assembly held on the final day of Term 2. This special occasion marked not only the celebration of our school’s history but also a passing of the leadership torch to a new group of students who will guide and inspire our community in the year ahead.
These young women will lead Brigidine with strength and gentleness, upholding our values, encouraging their peers and leaving their own unique mark on the College. We are excited to watch their journey and contributions to the life of the College.
It was wonderful to have our incoming Principal, Mrs Kate Quinane, present for the occasion to meet the leaders she will be working closely with in 2026.
College Captain Emily Sing
Senior Vice Captain Alyssa Sorbara
Senior Captains
Rose Aylmer, Sophie Clark, Jessica Gantvoort, Amelia Hague, Olivia Halloway, Alice Halpin, Jessica Kelly, Edie Scarf
House Captains
Fatima
Kildare
Lourdes
Prague
Year Ambassadors
Mission Captains
Evie Sadler, Billie Wadling
Charlotte Bensley, Ailee Campbell
Grace Miles, Ava Wilson
Tasha Lillycrop, Poppy Smith
Melia Adamian, Sarah Chen, Gracie Daddo, Livia Hilton, Gemma Woolley
Ministry Imogen Cran, Chloe Walley
Social Justice Imogen Cochrane, Edie Scarf
Cocurricular Captains
AFL
Chloe McGuire
Art Camila Diaz Cerpa, Chloe Rienits
Athletics/Cross Country Jasmine Siddall
Dance
Debating
Drama
Duke of Edinburgh
Football
Girls In Black
Hockey
Music
Gemma Barkhan, Greer Woodbury
Amelia Hague, Isabella Keir
Amelia Janoyan, Zoe Mills
Estelle Batchelor, Arabella Wallace
Hallie Whitfield
Dia MacNamara
Rose Aylmer
Grace Eldridge, Alexandra Knight
Musical Clare Hurford
Netball Isobel Bagley
Rugby 7s
Sports Aerobics
Swimming
Grace Miles
Annabel McKinnon, Lauren Turner
Poppy Smith
Tennis/Tildesley Nia Harper
Touch Football
Volleyball
Water Polo
Charlotte Bensley
Sophie Cooper
Lilah Ogg
Photo: Mrs Kate Quinane with our newly appointed 2026 Senior Captains
Exciting Progress on our New Sports Building!
The construction of our new sports building is progressing steadily, bringing our vision of a state-of-the-art sporting facility closer to reality. Over the past few weeks, significant milestones have been reached and there’s a growing sense of excitement as the building continues to take shape.
The steelwork for both Court 1 and Court 2 has now been completed and the roof sheeting is fully installed. With the roof in place, work has begun on the ceiling and wall linings, along with the internal fit-out. Electricians, plumbers and other trades are actively preparing the space for its future use. Scaffolding has also been erected around Court 1 to support the installation of external cladding.
Progress on all four facades is well underway:
• Northern facades: Brickwork and windows are complete
• Western facades: Sarking and cladding are complete
• Southern facades: Cladding on the enclosed area has been installed
• Eastern facades: Glazing and cladding are complete, with painting due to begin soon.
Inside, the lower ground level is also taking shape. The change rooms are coming together, bathroom joinery has been installed and the walls have been painted. On the mezzanine level, the new PE and PDHPE office space is currently being fitted out.
A highlight of the project so far was the Topping Out Ceremony which was held on 29 April 2025. This special occasion marked the milestone of the completion of the structure. Guests gathered on site to celebrate with a barbeque hosted by Stephen Edwards Constructions which was an excellent way to recognise the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.
At the end of Term 2, staff were invited for a special site visit. Many had observed the building’s progress over the past 12 months from a distance but this walkthrough gave them the chance to see the construction up close and appreciate the transformation taking place.
As we move closer to completion, it’s inspiring to watch this dynamic new space take shape. It will soon be a vibrant hub for sport, fitness and student life that will serve our Brigidine community for many years to come.
We look forward to officially opening our new building in 2026.
New Uniform, Same Pride
In 2022, the College began a review of the academic uniform, recognising the need to modernise it while still honouring the traditions of our school community. After a two-year journey of research, consultation and design, the College is excited to announce a new academic uniform, set to be introduced in 2026.
This change marks a significant milestone in our visual identity with a blend of past, present and future. While we look ahead to a refreshed and contemporary uniform, we also celebrate the story that our uniforms have always told: a story of tradition, identity and pride.
Since its introduction in 1990, our current uniform has served generations of students well but its design and colours are shared with many other schools across NSW. It became clear over the years that an update was necessary.
In 2022 we set out to design a new uniform that would be:
• modern and stylish
• distinctively Brigidine
• practical and comfortable
• and above all, reflective of our values and school culture.
A key part of the design process was listening. Students, staff and parents all contributed to focus groups and feedback sessions. Their voices were vital in shaping a uniform that not only looks good but feels right.
Some things were clear from the start:
• The hat remains a much-loved and recognised symbol of Brigidine and will continue as part of the uniform.
• The blazer will stay burgundy, retaining its strong visual connection to our school identity but it now features an updated lapel and piping for a more contemporary look.
The new uniform introduces greater choice and flexibility, including:
• a pants option for students
• a newly designed jumper
• a range of wool and cotton fabric options to suit different preferences and seasonal needs.
To support families and reduce environmental waste, the College will roll out the new uniform through a three-year transition period.
• Year 7 2026 will be the first full cohort to wear the new Junior uniform.
• Year 10 2026 will transition into the Senior uniform in Term 4, ahead of their senior years.
This phased approach allows for a smooth, inclusive and environmentally conscious transition, while celebrating the start of a new chapter of Brigidine history.
We are proud to share this new chapter with you. One that honours our past, reflects our present and boldly steps into the future.
Welcome and Farewell to Staff
Welcome New Staff
LUTHER SYMONS BUSINESS MANAGER
Luther Symons brings over 25 years of executive leadership experience across multiple sectors to his role as Business Manager at Brigidine. Prior to joining the College, he held senior roles at All Saints Grammar School and Oran Park Anglican College and served on numerous Boards, contributing to strategic governance and organisational growth.
A seasoned leader, Luther specialises in business development, corporate finance, governance and multi-site operations. He is deeply committed to supporting highquality education and community services and is passionate about fostering a culture of excellence, innovation and collaboration.
At Brigidine, Luther oversees core business functions including finance, capital works, facilities management and ICT. He works closely with the Principal, Board and Executive Team to ensure the College’s long-term financial sustainability and to deliver on its strategic goals.
TIM CROW HEAD OF COCURRICULAR MUSIC
With over 25 years of experience in music education, Tim Crow has worked in many of the leading music programs throughout Sydney. Prior to joining the College, he held the position of Director of Bands at Queenwood School where he worked for more than 20 years. He has also been heavily involved in the NSW Department of Education and Training Arts Unit where he was the Director of the highly acclaimed NSW Public Schools Jazz Orchestra and Schools Spectacular Stage Band for 15 years. For more than 20 years, Tim has worked as a band director and private instrumental tutor at numerous schools both in the public and private sector.
Away from teaching, Tim has enjoyed a busy and varied performing career as a professional trumpeter.
His professional theatre credits include MJ, Beauty and the Beast, The Book of Mormon, Aladdin, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Chicago, Matilda, A Chorus Line, Wicked, Grease, The Wizard of Oz, Legally Blonde, Annie, West Side Story, Jekyll and Hyde, Mary Poppins, The Producers, Guys and Dolls, Jersey Boys, Little Women, South Pacific and Titanic. Tim is looking forward to performing in the upcoming season of Back to the Future
Tim has worked with such notable names as Harry Connick Jr, Jerry Lewis, Franki Valli, Mike Patton (Faith No More), Bobby Rydell, Petula Clarke, Jim Pugh (Steely Dan), Barbara Morrison and The Cinematic Orchestra.
Closer to home, Tim has played with or recorded for Guy Sebastian, Megan Washington, Peking Duk, Rhonda Burchmore, Tim Minchin, James Morrison, Tom Burlinson, Glenn Shorrock, Paulini, Pete Murray, Kate Miller-Heike, Human Nature, David Campbell, Kate Ceberano, Tommy Emmanuel, Anthony Callea, Todd McKenny, Tina Arena, The Sydney International Orchestra, The Sydney Jazz Orchestra, The Jazzgroove Mothership Orchestra, The Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra and Ensemble Offspring.
At Brigidine, Tim will oversee the Cocurricular Music Program working closely with the Director of Cocurricular and the Head of Music.
Staff Farewells
CHARLIE LOVELOCK HEAD OF COCURRICULAR MUSIC
Joining Brigidine in 2013, Charlie was appointed to grow the College’s Cocurricular Music program, building on the foundation established by Mrs Ros Boyd and Mrs Lorna Hall. Over more than a decade, Charlie’s leadership and passion for music led to the development of a vibrant and diverse program, including the creation of Junior and Senior Concert Bands, String Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Junior and Senior Choirs, Vocal Ensemble, Chamber Ensemble and an Alumni Band.
Under his direction, students performed at a wide range of events – from the A Cappella National Championships in Melbourne to the Manly Jazz Festival, the Sydney Royal Easter Show, Big Band Blast, Warringah Mall Christmas events and countless school celebrations. Charlie’s legacy is one of joy, inspiration and musical excellence. His ability to bring music to life at school events has left an indelible mark on students and the wider College community. We thank Charlie for his exceptional contribution and wish him and his family every blessing as they begin a new chapter in England.
ANDREW HODGSON PROPERTY MANAGER
Since joining the College in 2021, Andrew has been a friendly and dependable presence across the campus. Whether helping staff, students, parents or guests, Andrew has consistently gone above and beyond, always with a generous spirit and can-do attitude.
Andrew has also been instrumental in supporting the College’s current Master Plan building project, providing invaluable knowledge and skill over the past two years. His expertise, calm approach and problemsolving mindset have made a significant impact during a crucial period of growth and development for the school.
He, along with his partner Sheridan, who worked on Reception in Term 2, and their much-loved fur baby Randall, are heading south to take on a home renovation adventure. We thank Andrew for his dedication, professionalism and support and wish him all the best for the exciting journey ahead.
PIP INMAN ALUMNI AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS
A former Brigidine student from Windsor in England, Pip has been part of our community in many ways over the years. Starting as President of the College’s P&F Association, Pip later took on the role of Alumni and Community Relations Coordinator, a position she has held for over six and a half years. Pip has brought warmth, professionalism and a deep love for Brigidine to all she has done. Her passion for connecting our community including parents, past and present students and staff, and her commitment to community-building events, has left a lasting legacy.
Pip’s ability to bring people together with authenticity and care has been at the heart of her work. As she and her husband retire to the Southern Highlands, we extend our thanks and best wishes for a well-deserved and fulfilling new chapter.
My Week in the Red Centre
Brigidine staff member Elle Carroll wears many hats – she is a French Teacher, Duke of Ed Convenor and AFL Coach. As a result of her involvement in coaching, Elle was asked to join the Sydney Swans First Nations Academy, a program which aims to boost participation and engagement of First Nations people across the entire game, while also identifying individuals with the physical skills and character needed to excel as high-performing athletes. Here she speaks about her involvement with the Academy and her recent experience traveling to Central Australia.
In October 2022 I received a phone call from the Swans inviting me to be part of the new Sydney Swans First Nations Academy. With five hubs across New South Wales, they were looking for AFL coaches in the Sydney hub and I was thrilled to get involved. Since then, I’ve been coaching on Wednesday afternoons at Moore Park during Term 4 and Term 1. The academy supports First Nations children aged 8 to 18, focusing on developing footy skills while fostering a strong sense of cultural connection.
This year the program launched its inaugural Red Centre Tour, selecting the top 25 girls and 25 boys from across the five hubs to spend a week in Central Australia during the July school holidays.
The tour included two games in Alice Springs and one with the Mutitjulu community. Both athletes and coaches were immersed in Indigenous Australian culture, with the aim of empowering
the children to feel confident in their identity and equipping them with the knowledge to share their culture with the broader community.
A personal highlight was visiting Mutitjulu, an Aboriginal community near Uluru. Playing football on red dirt with local children and spending a day in the outback is an experience I’ll always treasure.
Other memorable moments included visiting Uluru and Kata Tjuta, watching the sunset drone show at Uluru and coaching a game at Traeger Park.
While football was at the heart of the tour, it offered so much more than just a sporting opportunity. Much like our own sporting and outdoor education programs here at Brigidine, it’s the lessons learned, friendships formed and lived experiences that truly shape the growth of our young people.
A Celebration of Brigidine Heritage
The final week of Term 2 was marked by colour, connection and celebration as the College came together for Spirit Week, a tradition that acknowledges our history, celebrates our present and looks ahead to the future. The week concluded with Founders Day on Friday.
The day began with our Founders Day Mass, where we welcomed Sr Maree Marsh and Sr Margaret Daniels, representing the Brigidine Sisters who established the foundation of our College. We were also pleased to host College Pioneers Ruth Bridger (Class of 1958) and Ann Lomas (Class of 1959), as well as Golden Girls Jacqueline Field, Stephanie Rogers, Deborah Haddrick (all from the Class of 1971) and Phillipa Thompson (Class of 1974). Together, they represented more than 70 years of alumni and the continuing connection to our College community.
Following Mass the focus shifted to celebration, with our annual ‘Brigo’s Got Talent’ show highlighting the wide range of skills and creativity within our student body. After the performances, students and staff took part in a variety of Founders Day
activities including food stalls, games, face painting, a Haunted House, Rave Cave and Petting Zoo.
These activities supported the 2025 Year 12 Charity, Wellsprings for Women, adding a sense of purpose to the day’s events.
Students and staff wore T-shirts designed by students specifically for the occasion, and our community enjoyed a sausage sizzle lunch prepared and served by our wonderful parent volunteers.
Spirit Week and Founders Day are important reminders of the strong sense of community at our College, reflecting the connections across generations – students, staff, families, alumni and the Brigidine Sisters. It was a fitting and meaningful way to close out the term.
IN THE CLASSROOM
Voices of the Future
This collection highlights standout speech transcripts from recent Year 9 and Year 10 English assessments, where students brought powerful contemporary issues to life through their voices.
Year 9 students explored the unit ‘First Nations Voices’. Their challenge was to craft a four-minute persuasive speech responding to the statement, “Storytelling can be a powerful tool for truth-telling, healing and building bridges between cultures – if we choose to listen.”
Drawing from extensive research and rich literary sources, students shaped their arguments using texts such as Ruby Moonlight, a verse novel by Ali Cobby Eckermann, and The Final Quarter, a documentary on the later career of Indigenous AFL legend Adam Goodes. They also engaged with essays by Stan Grant and The School That Tried to End Racism, broadening their understanding of reconciliation and cultural dialogue.
Meanwhile, Year 10 students tackled the theme of ‘Representations of Gender through the lens of technology.’ Their task was to deliver a four-minute discursive speech responding to the statement, “Technology can actually tell the wrong stories – if we let it.”
Guided by Man Made by Tracey Spicer, students examined how artificial intelligence and new technologies can reinforce outdated gender biases. Their speeches reflected deep critical thinking about the intersection of storytelling, social justice and the role of innovation in shaping the narratives we accept.
Through these assignments our students are not just honing their communication skills; they are engaging meaningfully with the stories that define our culture and future.
Imagine I was a 27-year-old woman, just completed six years of study, now working at NASA. I play a major role in the next mission to space but my name? Never mentioned once. Why is that?
Could I come to work in my pyjamas, launch the wrong spacecraft and leave work early with no consequences because in the public’s eye, I don’t even work here?
If I were actually that woman, maybe I would do all those things. It wouldn’t matter who I was but just what I contributed.
Would you believe that the world’s first computer programmer was a woman? Ada Lovelace. Ring any bells? Now to give some perspective, while researching her, the first thing that comes up is...her death. Not her achievements or inventions, just the day she died. She was the one who wrote the first algorithm, starting a revolutionary industry. Women like her have just been erased, buried beneath layers of male recognition and sugar-coated history.
This is exactly what Tracey Spicer warns us about when she states, “Technology can actually tell the wrong stories if we let it.”
For me, and I’m sure Spicer could agree, the problem isn’t just who gets left out, it’s that technology limits our understanding of who matters.
Spicer refers to this in her book Man Made, as the ‘gender data gap.’ She highlights how modern technology, AI, phones and media are all designed by men, for men. So, I guess that means, when we ask Siri a question for example, we’re not just hearing a monotone voice, we’re hearing decades of unconscious bias, coded into our future.
Now, Ada Lovelace wasn’t just a one-off. The history of technology is essentially one long episode of “Women Did the Work, But Men Took the Credit.” Look at the women of NASA in the 1960s – Katherine Johnson,
Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson. They were pivotal in the numbers that sent men to the moon. Did they get to go? No. No women have ever set foot on the moon and there are no plans to change that.
In Man Made, Spicer states that “history has a habit of erasing women” particularly in the fields of science and technology. She makes it obvious that this is not a rare occurrence. To me it’s evident that the erasing is still happening but it’s just concealed behind the thin walls of the electronics we use daily. Women aren’t just silenced after they contribute but their ideas are shut out before they even get the chance.
This isn’t ancient history. Take the infamous Barbie movie for example. A film created to celebrate women, centred on an iconic female figure, directed by a woman… and who wins the People’s Choice Award for Favourite Movie Actor? Ryan Gosling, for playing Ken. Even in a story built for women empowerment, men wrongfully walk away with the trophy. As Spicer says, “the system’s not broken, it was built this way.” It’s not just science and tech, it’s media, algorithms, society. All built on the framework that sidelines women.
This is the same system that shapes what stories our technology tells, who they prioritise and who they ignore
So, back to that 27-year-old woman at NASA. The one who changed everything but whose name no one remembers. The truth is, she exists not just in the past, but in labs, studios and headquarters all around the world continuing to do amazing things.
The future of tech shouldn’t look like the past, where we let technology tell the wrong stories because if we continue down that path, women will keep getting left out of the right ones. Otherwise we’ll keep sending rockets to the moon and still somehow leave half the population behind.
SAGE MCCONNELL
YEAR 10
Stop. Listen. Imagine. Let us acknowledge the Garigal land on which we gather, its people past, present and emerging. Not just as a token gesture but for us to picture how it would have been like for them when the First Europeans stepped on this nation. Their voices have perhaps been muted for far too long. As a descendant of Armenian Genocide survivors, I am aware of how denial causes pain and erodes language, culture, traditions and identity, not just loss of land.
According to the Cambridge dictionary, storytelling is defined as the activity of writing, telling or reading stories. However, to me this implies an element of creativity and exaggeration to gain the attention of the listeners. So, is this really storytelling? Ali Eckermann provides a definition that is far more impactful. She states that storytelling is a form of resistance. That is to preserve and ensure the continuation of the First Nations people. We all have an obligation, whether we are the listener or speaker, to take part and discover more together. This provides an opportunity for personal experiences to be heard and evoke human emotions in the hope that change will follow.
Truth-telling allows us to learn about the impact of the Europeans’ arrival. “The stench of death fills the air. Love will exist here no more”, says Eckermann. “Arid eyes slit with sand. Tears will no longer flow.” Imagine. The pain to even put these thoughts into words so that we can hear and feel it. The experience of Stan Grant’s mother on the day the Queen was visiting, and the hardship and discrimination faced, over a pair of socks. Stop. Listen. Imagine. His mother’s trauma and loss of self worth. Truth-telling provides a voice for the First Nations people for us to hear and put ourselves in their shoes to gain a deeper understanding of their emotional pain and horrific experiences.
Healing can only start through storytelling. The greater the platform for the Indigenous People to tell their truths will help us to view their journey from their perspective. Stan Grant speaks of “History written by the victors and often written in blood. It is fashioned as a tale of progress, as a civilising mission.” The hurt is so evident in this statement. Stop. Listen. Imagine. The frustration and pain of your history not being recorded. How would you feel?
We can gain a greater understanding by hearing about Indigenous journeys and accepting their experiences. This will allow us all to heal.
It has been said that when racism is properly understood it is easier to overcome. So I ask, are we really ready to build bridges? Are we really ready to listen to the truth-telling and allow healing? “Fear can fuel the hardest hatred” as stated in Ruby Moonlight. To build bridges, there must be willingness to be vulnerable and have open and difficult conversations. In order to build those bridges, First Nations voices must be encouraged. And they must be heard and acted upon. Stop. Listen. Imagine. Adam Goodes says of his experience, “I don’t blame the girl herself, it’s what she hears, in the environment she’s grown up in, that has made her think that it is ok.” Goodes understands, without blame, and with education through storytelling, bridges can be built. These bridges can acknowledge the pain and loss, with the hope of preserving culture and reclaiming identity for First Nations people.
Now is the time to stop, listen and imagine. Only in the past few decades of our new nation’s history, a voice for the Indigenous People is slowly filling our ears. With my own Armenian heritage, I empathise and understand how denial compounds trauma, silence hides truth and looking away abandons hope. Without open hearts, Australia cannot truly become a nation “One and Free.” It is for this reason that “Storytelling can be a powerful tool for truth-telling, healing and building bridges between cultures – if we choose to listen.”
Will you listen?
NATALIE VANZA YEAR 9
Close your eyes and all you hear are words, open them and you see the speaker.
Truth is a doubleedged sword, one side cuts open the speaker and the other, the recipient. Views tumble out, suspended in the air between the two parties, lain on the floor for all to see, and the speaker is harmed, sliced open, bleeding raw and bare, while those on the receiving end must face this truth and how it is affecting the speaker.
For hundreds of years, Indigenous Australian peoples have been cut open by their truth of genocide and displacement, and stolen children, whilst this country’s government has painted over the past.
Truth-telling can help acknowledge the past but only if we choose to truly listen can we begin to mend the present and prevent a repeating future.
The Final Quarter is a 2019 documentary using only archival media footage about AFL player, Adam Goodes’ retirement due to racism and the negative response to him standing up for himself and his culture. The documentary shows how Goodes resiliently faced adversity and defended himself.
Goodes said in a press interview after the event, “Racism has a face last night and it was a 13-year-old girl. But it’s not her fault. She’s 13. She’s still so innocent, I don’t put any blame on her. Unfortunately it’s what she hears, the environment that she’s grown up in.”
He stood up for the truth. The truth he believed in and that girl’s truth. The documentary shows how Goodes was mocked for the pride he held for his heritage and all he did was hold his flag higher and spread awareness of Indigenous issues and concerns.
In a 2014 Sydney Morning Herald interview featured in the documentary, Adam Goodes said, “I’m not afraid of confrontation. It doesn’t have to be an argument. We all have a voice. And they are all worth listening to.”
He has been an instrumental influence in the call for action against casual racism and for the importance of communication, how seeing other’s perspectives and opinions can help us to bridge the gaps between people, especially between those who are part of the Indigenous population of Australia and those who aren’t.
The means to tell stories and truths are as plentiful as there are stars in the sky, a speech, an artwork, a conversation, an interview.
The Aboriginal peoples used oral storytelling to pass down legends, beliefs and information through generations, and in the status quo, it is used by Elders to preserve those traditions and cultures.
KEIRA ANANIA
YEAR 9
Showcasing HSC Talent
Bowie Hall was brimming with outstanding HSC major works from Dance, Design and Technology, Drama, English Extension 2, History Extension, Music, Science Extension, Society and Culture, Textiles and Design, and Visual Arts at our HSC Showcase held in August.
Guests embarked on a journey through the minds of our future designers and innovators as they explored the captivating stories, intricate details and transformative outcomes of our students’ HSC practical submissions.
Our Hospitality students catered the event. It was a wonderful evening celebrating creativity and the culmination of many months of hard work put in by our Year 12 students.
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Year 11s Bloom in The Small Poppies
I know you’re going to all have a lovely first day at big school.
We were taken back to school for the Year 11 Play production of The Small Poppies, written by David Holman and directed by our Head of Drama, Miss DiAnne McDonald. Performing five shows over three days in June, 61 enthusiastic and talented Year 11 students were involved in some way, whether it was on stage or behind the scenes as part of the dedicated technical crew, hair, make-up and costume assistants and choreographers.
A longstanding and important cultural event at Brigidine College since its inception in 1976, the Year 11 Play offers all Year 11 students, regardless of whether they study Drama, the opportunity to collaborate and perform on stage as part of a dynamic and exciting cocurricular activity, with some students stepping on stage for the very first time.
Congratulations to everyone involved in this year’s production which offered audiences a hilarious and wholesome glimpse into the rite of passage of starting “big school”.
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Cocurricular Highlights
DANCE
Brigidine dancers finished the eisteddfod season with the Level Up Troupe Challenge where they took out first and second place in every section they competed in:
First Place – Company Contemporary
First Place – Company Jazz
First Place – Company Hip Hop
Second Place – Contemporary Ensemble
Second Place – Jazz Ensemble
Elsie Ord (Year 10) was not only a finalist in the Intermediate Traditional Contemporary Soloist section at the prestigious Australian Classical Grand Prix but also took out first place in the category.
DEBATING
Our Senior Debating team won the IGSA Archdale Grand Final against Monte. Well done to Isabella Keir, Dia MacNamara (both Year 11), Josie Crocker, Georgia Potts, Sofia Little, Isabella Ringrose and Deana Little (all Year 12), along with their coach, Brigidine alumni Courtney Wilkinson (Class of 2021). Josie has been selected for the IGSA Representative Debating Team and will now represent IGSA against the GPS, CAS and CHS representative teams.
FOOTBALL
Our Junior Firsts and Seconds teams both had undefeated seasons in the IGSA Football competition for the second consecutive year. Special mention to our Junior Firsts who played the highest division.
Madison Gabila (Year 9) was selected in the NSW Under 15s team to compete in the Emerging Matildas Football Championships in July. The tournament showcased the top Under 15 and 16 female footballers across the country.
Alessia Leotta and Evette Kelly (both Year 8) had Representative Football success with the Northern Tigers Under 14s team. The Tigers play in the WNPL competition, which is the top level of week-to-week Football played for their age group in NSW.
HOCKEY
Ava Ellis (Year 8) has been selected in the U14 NSW Blues Hockey team. She will be heading to Brisbane for the National Championships in October.
SNOWSPORTS
Eight students travelled to Perisher in July to represent Brigidine in the Interschools Snowsports competition, with Year 12 students Sabrina Mulhearn and Lily Wearne (pictured) placing third in the Snowboard final.
WATER POLO
Nikita Muriti (Year 10), Chloe Cogan (Year 12), Lilah Ogg (Year 11) and Isabella Parkes (Year 10) travelled to Brisbane in August to represent the NSWCCC Water Polo Team at the Water Polo Exchange Championships.
SPORTS AEROBICS
We had 55 students represent our College at the National Schoolaerobics Championships in Hobart in August. Across the nine teams and two individual entries, Brigidine celebrated an incredible result of three Gold medals, one Silver and one Bronze.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Music is a vibrant and vital part of life at the College and on Wednesday 7 May we were proud to host a Women in Music Forum, featuring three Brigidine alumni in a panel presentation. The panel included Zoe Gougousidis (Class of 2019), Annelise Hall (Class of 2017) and Priscilla Pek (Class of 2003).
Each speaker brought a unique perspective on how music has shaped their professional journeys, highlighting the many different paths available to students with a love of music. The panel demonstrated that the skills gained through studying music can be applied in countless creative and fulfilling ways.
Throughout the forum, students heard about:
• the subjects each panellist studied at school
• their chosen university courses
• their current roles and career highlights
• how music continues to play a key role in their professional and personal lives
• the unexpected ways musical skills such as teamwork, discipline, communication and creativity support success across various fields.
Zoe Gougousidis is a composer specialising in wind and brass music, and a low brass performer. She has completed a Bachelor of Music in Composition from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Throughout her time as a composer, she has had multiple works selected for competitions, has been commissioned by numerous Australian performers, and has had her music performed across Australia and internationally. Zoe also teaches at Brigidine as a music tutor.
Annelise Hall is a professional musical theatre performer, film actor and vocal coach. Annelise’s most recent work includes playing Sandy in the national tour of Grease the Musical with Xroads Live. Prior to this, Annelise toured Australia as the leading female role of Hope in the new Australian musical The Marvellous Elephant Man, winning an Adelaide Fringe award. During this time she was also cast as Izzy in the
Australian film Moonrise over Knight’s Hill which was filmed in the Southern Highlands and has recently started its festival circuit before hitting cinemas next year. When she’s not on the stage, Annelise is a trauma-informed vocal practitioner and rehabilitation coach, leading masterclasses and one-on-one sessions with people of all ages to improve their craft, prepare for auditions and rehabilitate their voices back to singing, post injury, alongside speech pathologists.
Priscilla Pek, who started Brigidine’s Music Club when she was at school, is a Melbourne-based registered music therapist. She has extensive experience in paediatrics, working with children and young people across palliative care, developmental, physical and mental health. She has over 12 years of clinical experience and has contributed to the training and supervision of music therapists and music therapy students. Since working in private practice, Priscilla has expanded her clinical experience to include working in adult disability, mental health and with neurodivergent populations. Priscilla also currently serves as Acting Head of Music, Art and Child Life Therapies at Monash Health and leads a new Music for Employee Wellbeing initiative across the organisation.
The event gave our students the chance to see real-life examples of how a love for music can grow into a meaningful career and to feel empowered by the journeys of these inspiring Alumni.
L-R: Annelise Hall (Class of 2017), Zoe Gougousidis (Class of 2019) and Priscilla Pek (Class of 2003)
When Music and Community Come Together
Now in its fourth year, the Festival of Music provides all Brigidine musicians an opportunity to perform as part of a concert series held over three nights. It also offers a chance for College alumni to return to the Brigidine stage each year.
The Alumni Program is made up of past students who were involved in Brigidine Music during their time at the College. The program now boasts almost 200 members.
In addition to our Brigidine musicians and our Alumni performers, this year we were thrilled to welcome back three alumni as Guest Performers, each returning to share their skills, passion and musicianship with our Brigidine community:
• Pianist Lindsay Gilroy (Class of 2000) graduated from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music with both a Masters of Music and Bachelor of Music, gaining First Class Honours. Lindsay has won numerous awards and competitions throughout her career and performs extensively across Sydney and country NSW as a soloist, ensemble and vocal pianist.
• Devina Maurice (Class of 2017) is a lawyer by day and a singer by passion. While her Brigidine musical and senior
vocal ensemble days are behind her, she continues to nurture her genuine love for music.
• Jess Hildebrandt (Class of 2023) plays the double bass and electric bass. During her time at Brigidine, she was a committed member of the Music program, performing in concert bands, stage bands and choirs. Her passion for music has continued beyond school and she regularly performs with the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, Northern Beaches Orchestra and Beachside Big Band. She has also played with the Sydney Concert Orchestra, The Sydney Youth Orchestra (Flagship), En Coda Symphony (Sydney) and recently in the newly formed Combined Community Big Band. Jess is currently studying Aerospace Engineering and Computer Science at the University of New South Wales, while remaining actively involved in the Northern Beaches and Sydney music scene.
It was an honour for our current students to share the stage with such accomplished and inspiring Alumni.
This year’s Festival was more than a spectacular performance – it was a fitting farewell to our Head of Cocurricular Music, Charlie Lovelock after his 13 years of service to the College. It was especially meaningful to have our former College Principal who first appointed Charlie, Ms Jane Curran, in attendance to farewell him. The recognition of Charlie’s extraordinary contribution was unanimous and deeply felt.
Big thanks to all the staff who supported the event, including past staff member, Byron Usmar, who joined the stage band on trumpet and made a special appearance on his bagpipes. Special thanks go to the students, alumni and parents whose involvement made it such a memorable celebration.
School Snapshots
Principal’s Reading Challenge
Mother’s Day Liturgy
Father’s Day Liturgy
Red Dirt Immersion
Rice Day
Year 9 Shark Tank
Pink Day Cut for a Cause
Big Sister, Little Sister initiative
RUOK? Day
Daffodil Day
Open Day
Stepping Back for Trivia
Community and the importance of it has been part of our College since its beginnings when a group of Irish Sisters arrived in St Ives with one goal: to create a community of strength and gentleness where girls could be educated. On the evening of Saturday 21 June it was clear that this spirit of community continues to thrive as we came together for our annual Trivia Night.
Each year, through events like Trivia Night, the P&F focus on raising money for items that benefit all our students. In the past, this has included purchases such as a minibus, outdoor seating and tables. This year, they set their sights on funding the installation of amphitheatre seating in the Quadrangle – and so the theme of ‘Step Back’ was born.
Parents embraced the event with fabulous costumes and creativity centred around the theme. Our hosts for the night and creators of our trivia questions stepped back to one of their favourite TV shows dressed as characters from CHiPs, Toby Dewar, Darren Kilkeary and DJ Mark. They guided us through the rounds of questions, often on the receiving end of banter from teams trying to earn that extra point. They shared updates on our online auction, were judges for the best dressed team and encouraged us to take part in Head or Tails games.
The Best Dressed Team and Trivia Winners was ‘Walk like Egyptians’ – Year 12 parents finishing up their Brigo journey in a blaze of glory!
Congratulations to Simon Carson who won the Buy a Key game securing himself a piece of jewellery of his choice and design worth $5000, generously donated by Daniel Anania and Anania Family Jewellers.
Events like this are not possible without the support of our wonderful P&F committee who again worked tirelessly to ensure the night was a great success. Our thanks go to each of them for their time and effort, and especially to Amy Hoffman, our P&F President and Victoria Monahan, P&F Vice President.
We would also like to extend our thanks to our event sponsors and donors who gave so generously. Many of them are local businesses and we encourage our
community to support them whenever they can.
Lastly, but by no means least, thank you to our wonderful community for supporting the event. Whether it was by sending in donations for the auction, buying tickets for the event or Buy a Key, or bidding on the auction, we are incredibly pleased and blessed to report community spirit is alive and well here at Brigidine St Ives.
As we ‘Step Back’ from another great Trivia Night we are thrilled to announce, including sponsorship, we reached a combined total of $27,000!
Thank you to our Sponsors
Sponsor of Buy a Key Sponsor of Lucky Door Prize
Anania Family Jewellers Zjoosh
Gold Sponsor Silver Sponsor
Stephen Edwards Constructions
stephenedwards.com.au
Bronze Sponsors
Pixevity
Thank you to our Donors
Altern8 Training
Chargrill Charlies – St Ives
Diamond D Hair
GM Photographics
Gourmet Basket
HART
Helping Hand Group
Jamberoo Action Park
Killara Golf Club
Lady Shake
Man Shake
Modus Brewing Co
Northshore Gym
Party in a Paint Box
Refresh You Turramurra
Roseville Cinemas
Sarah Alden
Sydney FC
Terry Hills Swim School
The Physio Pilates Studio Northern Beaches
Tom Trbojevic
UnicDIY
Unifit Gym St Ives
Verve Portraits
Victoria Monahan
Vine Apparel
Founders Day
Thank you to the parents who helped with the sausage sizzle on Founders Day. We are always so grateful to our parent volunteers.
You don’t need to be a member of the P&F to be a parent volunteer. Keep an eye on your emails for more opportunities like these.
Latest News
FROM THE ALUMNI AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS COORDINATOR
It is hard to put into words what Brigidine has meant to me over the past 40 years. From my earliest days as a Brigidine student in the UK, through to being a proud mum of an alum, President of the P&F, and for the past six and a half years as the Alumni and Community Relations Coordinator – this place has always felt like home.
What I’ve loved most is the sense of community that threads through every classroom, assembly and event. The connections I’ve made, the stories shared and the warmth I’ve felt are things I’ll carry with me always. It’s been a privilege to work with dedicated staff, passionate alumni and engaged families. Thank you for allowing
PIONEERS AND GOLDEN GIRLS DAY
The College proudly hosted our Pioneers and Golden Girls (Classes of 1954 to 1975) for a special lunch on Saturday 16 August to celebrate their invaluable contributions to the fabric of our community. This year we warmly welcomed the Class of 1975 into the group fondly known as our Golden Girls, honouring 50 years since their graduation from Brigidine.
It was a wonderful day filled with reflection, storytelling, laughter and camaraderie – a celebration of the lifelong connection our Brigidine women share.
me to walk alongside you – celebrating milestones, honouring traditions and helping to build bridges between past and present.
This year we sadly said good bye to four strong and gentle women from our community. Each left an indelible mark, especially Di Lawrence – a dear mentor, friend and true leader. Di’s vision led to the introduction of The Bridge, the very publication you are reading. Her legacy reminds me daily of the power of connection and care.
When we celebrated the College’s 70th Anniversary I wrote about how as humans we constantly look forward and very rarely look back. How we strive towards new
goals, life experiences and relationships rarely stopping to look back at where and what we came from. So, it is with mixed emotions I stop and look back as I write for the last time.
Though I’m stepping away from this role, I’m not saying good bye to the community that has shaped so much of my life. I look forward to watching from the sidelines, cheering you on and always holding a deep affection for this incredible school and its people.
“Our roots are strong, our future is exciting, our story continues…”
PIP INMAN ALUMNI & COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Class of 1975
ALUMNI DAY
We were delighted to welcome back the Classes of 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020, along with current and past staff, on Saturday 13 September for our annual Alumni Day.
It was a wonderful afternoon of reconnection and reflection as former students returned to the College to catch up with old friends and see how the campus has evolved since their time here. With the sun shining and a festive buzz in the air, guests enjoyed delicious food and refreshments, all set to the uplifting sounds of our talented Music students.
ALUMNI
PROFILE
Niamh Hitchman (Class of 2009)
Since graduating from Brigidine, Niamh has built a dynamic career in IT, cyber security and corporate governance, all while taking on impactful leadership roles in volunteering. In this interview, she shares how curiosity, purpose and a passion for making a difference have guided her journey.
DESCRIBE YOUR JOURNEY SINCE GRADUATING FROM BRIGIDINE AND WHAT INSPIRED YOUR CAREER CHOICE?
It’s been quite the journey since graduating – not always linear but always interesting! I’ve worked across IT, cyber security, audit and corporate governance. What’s connected all these roles is my love of a challenge and a desire to fix complex problems. I’ve always been curious about how things work (and how they could work better) and that’s what’s guided me into the career I have today.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR CURRENT ROLE AND WHAT IT INVOLVES.
I’m currently the Operations Manager at a data analytics company, specialising in corporate governance, IT and cyber security. It’s a role that sits at the crossroads of strategy, technology and people, so no two days are the same! I’m also studying a law degree and wrapping up my MBA, which are giving me even more tools to lead effectively and make a real impact, as well as paving the way for my next steps.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR VOLUNTEERING ROLES AND WHAT THEY INVOLVE.
I’m the Deputy Chief Commissioner of Scouts NSW, as well as a Board Director. In Scouts I oversee the operational delivery of all of our portfolios including Adventurous Activities, Adults in Scouting and Training, Youth Program, People, Program Support Leaders, Youth and International Scouting. I also lead
a lot of our work in child protection and youth safety with our amazing team in our State Service Centre. It’s a responsibility I take very seriously and one that I’m incredibly passionate about and has become central to my purpose at Scouts NSW.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR CAREER AND VOLUNTEERING?
My volunteering work gives me a huge amount of purpose. It’s a chance to create positive change for future generations. I’m especially proud to be a woman in this role and one secret is that I didn’t grow up in Scouts (I was a Girl Guide!). I think it’s important for young people to see that leadership paths don’t have to follow a set script and that you don’t have to come from a certain place or be a certain someone – if you care enough, you can pave your own way.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO YOUR 16-YEAR-OLD SELF?
Don’t be afraid to do things differently. Stick with what you’re passionate about, even if it feels uncertain because that’s where the magic happens. And never underestimate the value of your voice and your perspective.
WORDS OF WISDOM FOR TODAY’S BRIGIDINE STUDENTS?
Follow your passion, the rest will fall into place. Be proud of who you are, even (and especially) if you don’t quite fit the mould. Your individuality is your strength and it will bring something truly unique to everything you do.
Alumni Highlights
HAYLEY BALLESTY (CLASS OF 2018)
Hayley Ballesty was selected in the Australian Stingers Water Polo team and competed in the Water Polo World Championships in Singapore in July.
VICKY BOYD (CLASS OF 2010)
The AIS is dedicated to celebrating outstanding teachers throughout NSW. In their latest edition of Education News, Vicky who is also our Year 8 Coordinator, was acknowledged for her passion for learning and personal connectedness, and her commitment to her students. Read the full AIS article at aisnsw.edu.au
CAITLIN FLETCHER (CLASS OF 2021)
Caitlin signed on with the GWS Giants for the 2025 AFLW season.
JAANVI KHANDHAR (CLASS OF 2021)
Jaanvi (pictured centre) works at the Sydney Opera House as part of their Workplace Readiness Program. She spoke about her experience at the Opera House in front of 1,800 guests as part of a panel.
ABBEY LENTON (CLASS OF 2019)
Abbey and her fiancé Harley Sugden were engaged on 12 June in Cadaqués, Spain on a boat during their European Summer vacation. They have been together for five years since meeting at university in 2020 and are very excited for their next adventure.
ZARINA MANGAL (CLASS OF 2018)
After graduating from university and working full time for a while, Zarina (pictured below, far right) and Teisha Wiseman (Class of 2018, pictured below, second from left) decided to take a leap and move to Spain together to teach English for a year. They have now been in Madrid for almost a year and it has been an incredible experience for them. Zarina plans to move back to Australia at the end of the year and Teisha will move to London to live there for a few years with other Brigidine alumni.
CINZIA MARROCCO (CLASS OF 2018)
Cinzia, who is also a current member of staff at Brigidine, has received a fourweek performance contract at the Galaxy Hotel in Macau. Under the direction of Keith Hawley, she will dance in daily performances alongside a talented team from Australia and Taiwan.
Photo credit: Daniel Boud
GEMMA MASOTTI (NEE JONES, CLASS OF 2011)
After meeting her husband at Macquarie University while both were playing for the football (soccer) club, they married in October 2022. In April 2024 they welcomed their baby girl (above) and come September this year they are expecting another baby.
GEORGIA NORTH (CLASS OF 2018)
Georgia North married her high school sweetheart Darcy Dunkin on 12 April in Sydney. Georgia and Darcy started dating in 2016 when she was in Year 10.
LAUREN THOMPSON (CLASS OF 2009)
Remi Thompson, daughter of Lauren Thompson (Class of 2009) and her husband Hemant, was baptised in the Brigidine Chapel by Father Greg on 10 August. Lauren said “It was so lovely to be back at school with a number of ex Brigidine students in attendance. We were able to reminisce about all the amazing times we had at school over ten years ago. We can’t thank both Brigidine and Corpus Christi enough for facilitating and conducting the wonderful ceremony!
Priscilla Pek (Class of 2003)
After Priscilla graduated from Brigidine, the path ahead wasn’t crystal clear. Missing out on a combined Arts/Commerce degree by just 0.05 felt like a setback, but in hindsight, it was a redirection – away from external expectations and toward something more meaningful.
Priscilla pursued a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at the University of Sydney. Initially unsure of her direction, she explored psychology and film before gravitating toward music and performing arts. That led her to rediscover music therapy – a career she first came across in a Year 10 job guide.
After Honours, she took a two-year break, working in admin at a Sydney travel company. “Those were fun years –earning money, travel, after-work socials and funding piano lessons.” She saved to pursue a Master of Music Therapy at the University of Melbourne. Though she intended to return to Sydney, a ‘dream job’ at Monash Children’s Hospital made Melbourne home.
Today, she juggles multiple roles at Monash Health and her private practice, Concordia Music Therapy.
At Monash, she is:
• Head of Music, Art and Child Life Therapies
• Senior Music Therapist (Employee Wellbeing)
• Clinical Music Therapist (Youth and Family Services).
Monash Health now employs 16 music therapists.
At Concordia, she works with NDIS and private clients and supervises earlycareer therapists. Though it’s a busy schedule, the mix of public health and self-employment keeps her energised.
“It’s great to use the different parts of my brain and exercise different skillsets. It means I’m still growing and learning and never bored.”
Her work has spanned paediatric oncology, paediatric general medicine, eating disorders, palliative care, mental health and LGBTQIA+ communities. What’s most rewarding?
“Being with people during their most vulnerable moments – and seeing how music can make a difference. It’s witnessing growth in their skills, relationships and overall quality of life.”
ADVICE TO HER 16-YEAR-OLD SELF
I’d tell her to stay true to herself, embrace all the parts of her and listen to Golden from the Netflix show K-Pop Demon Hunters:
I’m done hiding, now I’m shining like I’m born to be...
We’re goin’ up, up, up, it’s our moment... Gonna be, gonna be golden.
ADVICE FOR TODAY’S BRIGIDINE STUDENTS
Invest time in knowing yourself. Go to therapy – whichever form works best for you. Learn to be alone with your thoughts. Live authentically and with empathy. When you know who you are, decisions get easier.
Everything meant for you will come. Kindness will become you. Your joy and bright spark will leave a positive mark on this world and those around you.
Vale
SR ANGELA RYAN CSB OAM 8 FEBRUARY 1939–23 JUNE 2025
Sr Angela was Brigidine’s 10th Principal, serving for two years from 1994. Her key task was to assess the College’s future viability. Building on the educational excellence of her predecessor, Sr Joan, Sr Angela focused on financial sustainability with clarity and determination.
Though self-effacing and inclusive, she exercised strong managerial control. Her leadership combined business acumen with a deep commitment to developing young women. Quietly, she provided pastoral care to students facing challenges, believing that education should reach both the mind and the heart.
A pragmatic decision-maker, Sr Angela introduced a conservative, transparent and ethical financial strategy. She broadened teaching responsibilities, introduced vertical integration and elective streaming, and required executive staff to teach. She also launched direct marketing strategies
ALANNAH MORAN
29 MAY 1940–12 MAY 2025
Alannah Moran, affectionately known as Lan, was the wife of former Assistant Principal, Pat Moran.
Born in 1940 in West Wyalong, Lan grew up on a farm with her two sisters and seven brothers. She attended a one-teacher school, travelling by horse-drawn sulky, later boarding in Goulburn. She completed certificates in Dressmaking and Tailoring before entering the Sisters of Mercy Novitiate in 1962, where she taught and later served as Principal. It was during this time she met Pat. Choosing a new path, she left the convent and they married in 1979.
Pat came to Brigidine in 1978 as a teacher and finished as Assistant Principal in 2002. At this time Lan started volunteering, supporting St Vincent De Paul and later working at Corpus Christi for 23 years after Sister Carmel, a Brigidine Sister, offered
and improved transport routes, raising the College’s public profile. With the support of staff and Council, she ensured the College’s future and prepared it for its first lay Principal, Mr John Bowie.
Angela’s connection to Kildare Ministries began with her education at Kilbreda College, where she was inspired by its focus on faith, learning and justice. Her leadership reflected those values, guided by the Brigidine motto Fortiter et Suaviter –strength and gentleness.
Angela epitomised Brigidine. She graduated from Kilbreda College in 1955, later serving as its Principal (1981–83 and 1996–99). She held numerous leadership roles, including Leader of the Victorian Province, member of the Congregational Leadership Team, and President of Congregational Leaders in both Victoria and Australia. She also served in key financial roles for the Brigidine Sisters and was Executive Officer of the
National Committee for Professional Standards (2000–2012).
She worked with the Catholic Education Office and held governance roles with Catholic Church Insurance, Catholic Super and the National Catholic Superannuation Fund. She was a founding Director of the Kildare Education Ministries (KEM) Board, serving until 2022. In recognition of her contributions, she received an Honorary Doctorate from ACU in 2009, a Papal award in 2012 and a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2022.
Sr Angela offered wise and courageous leadership, always grounded in justice, compassion and care. Her clear thinking, deep faith and commitment to education enriched every community she served. She lived a life of integrity, purpose and service – her legacy endures in the lives she shaped and the spirit she embodied.
her a postion there. A much-loved teacher, she brought lessons to life with her guitar and piano playing. Her Catholic devotion remained central, marked by daily Rosaries. She loved gardening, sewing, and animals –especially her Chihuahua, Geneva.
After retirement Alannah volunteered at Brigidine in the Chisholm Centre – the special education unit developed for girls with learning difficulties. She also helped at St Edmund’s College.
Lan’s niece beautifully reflects: “Not having had kids of her own Aunty Lan was a ‘second mum’ to a whole generation of Ridley-esque kids. Lan and Pat were part of our family gatherings.
I appreciate the rare and wonderful woman Lan was – brave and strong; careful and considered; full of love, light and positivity but with conviction, tenacity and follow
through. She died as she lived – gently, with grace, well-loved and content with a life well lived!”
The final five years of her life were spent in care. Alannah is survived by her loving husband, Pat. Her legacy is one of service, compassion and a deep love for others.
