Brisbane Girls Grammar School Impact of Giving 2023

BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL

IMPACT OF GIVING 2023

Since 1875, Brisbane Girls Grammar School has been committed to nurturing the intellectual, social, and emotional development of young women, arming them with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently shape a world that values wisdom, creativity, and integrity.

Your philanthropic contributions to Brisbane Girls Grammar School have been instrumental in enabling opportunities for both current and future generations of young women. Your generosity not only upholds the School’s ideals, achievements, and reputation but also actively contributes to an enduring legacy of empowering girls through education.

Thank you for supporting Girls Grammar’s vision to pioneer exceptional scholarship, creating pathways for the advancement of young women in today’s dynamic world. Together, we are crafting the next pivotal chapter in Brisbane Girls Grammar School’s history.

FROM THE CHAIR

MS JULIE McKAY (2000) CHAIR OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend my thanks and gratitude for your generous support of Brisbane Girls Grammar School in 2023. Together, our efforts create a positive and lasting impact on the future of our School and the young women it guides and nurtures.

Our collective Girls Grammar philanthropy genuinely made its mark in 2023, with $673 023 raised in total. The impact of these gifts—detailed throughout this report—demonstrates the power of individuals united by a shared purpose.

We are poised on the cusp of a new and rewarding chapter, and philanthropy will be a vital pillar of support—as it has been historically—for major developments within the School. Over the last decade, our students have benefitted immensely from your contributions, which have funded the Elizabeth Jameson Research Learning Centre, the Science Learning Centre, and the Dorothy Hill Observatory— outstanding facilities that continue to support optimal teaching and learning outcomes. Development also allows us to secure bursaries that facilitate a vibrant and accessible School environment, where students are enriched by diverse experiences and different perspectives.

As we consider the economic uncertainty of the past two years and declining government-funded revenue, now, more than ever before, the Board of Trustees sees an imperative to foster a strong and sustainable foundation to maintain excellence in a changing environment. Philanthropic giving has been fundamental to the School’s offering throughout its history, and from 2024 there will be an option, entirely voluntary, on the Tuition Fee statement for parents to donate directly.

The return of Giving Day in 2024 brings a new opportunity for investment in girls’ education. The decision announced last year to introduce Years 5 and 6 in 2026, following the School’s 150th-anniversary celebrations in 2025, represents a contemporary evolution in the offer of education for girls at BGGS. A project of this magnitude demands meticulous planning and financial support.

To achieve our goals we will rely on a blend of funding sources, including philanthropic donations. Later in 2024, we will call upon the support of our School community to join us in our capital campaign, forging partnerships to raise the necessary funds for this endeavour. Your support of this year’s Giving Day will contribute towards a new infrastructure project, such as the Cherrell Hirst Creative Learning Centre Greening Project and Bursaries— resources that will continue to enhance the teaching and learning experiences of all students at Girls Grammar. We deeply appreciate that every donation, regardless of size, positively impacts the young women we educate.

The tradition of philanthropy at Brisbane Girls Grammar School continued during 2023, and we look forward to another full and rewarding year in 2024. Our annual Impact of Giving report is an uplifting reminder of the collective spirit of giving—a chance to recognise and honour the generosity of the Girls Grammar community and all that has been achieved together. However you may choose to become involved in 2024, thank you again for your philanthropic contribution to Girls Grammar education.

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

MS JACINDA EULER WELSH PRINCIPAL

Brisbane Girls Grammar School is entering an exciting new era in its history, with the School’s 150th anniversary in 2025, and the introduction of Years 5 and 6 in 2026. In this time of diligent planning and preparation, our supportive community will play an integral role in ensuring the continued provision of the School’s truly enriching education.

Our heritage of giving—dating back to Sir Charles Lilley’s pioneering efforts in 1875—laid the foundation for a philosophy of philanthropy at Girls Grammar where giving, in all its forms, is a natural and affirming part of being a member of our School community. This ethos, carried forward by instrumental leaders and benefactors, shapes our commitment to giving back.

This year, the School was delighted to receive its largest-ever bequest from a remarkable woman, endowing a bursary in perpetuity that will benefit generations of women in years to come. We also welcomed two new students in 2023 whose education at Girls Grammar has been made possible through the inaugural Parents & Friends Association Bursary and the Maria Sulima Bursary

Our School has also been deeply enriched by non-financial gifts, and we are thankful to all those who generously gave the gift of time, talents and passions—whether this be through Parent Support Groups, mentoring current students through the Grammar Women—Grammar Girls Mentoring Program, or volunteering as a graduating class reunion coordinator. We have sought opportunities in 2023 to show our deep appreciation of our donors and volunteers who have shaped and enriched the lives of students, staff and families in immeasurable ways.

It has been our daily privilege to witness the acumen and energy of Grammar girls, and to work with teaching and professional staff who display uncompromising commitment to educating and caring for our students. Educated in the fullest sense, the outstanding academic results achieved by the class of 2023 are a testament to the School’s culture of deep learning and provision of an exemplary, broad, liberal education. In 2023, the School’s median ATAR score was 96.30 with 13.48 per cent of Girls Grammar students achieving an ATAR score of 99 and above—outstanding results.

These academic achievements underscore the importance of the support we receive as a School from our strong and purposefully engaged parents, alumnae and friends who value the finest traditions and aspirations in education.

Looking forward, nurturing a culture of stewardship remains an important priority and this will ensure resources are optimised for the benefit of girls, staff and our community today, while also strengthening the foundations for a sustainable and confident future.

As always, the School is grateful for your commitment and support. Your generosity and willingness to engage and be involved are essential elements of a connected and vibrant community, and your efforts and contributions are deeply appreciated.

FROM THE CFO

MS JANE HAILES (ADDIS, 1998) CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AND SECRETARY TO THE BOARD

As an alumna of Brisbane Girls Grammar School, I’ve long maintained a connection to the School, making it a pleasure to return in a professional capacity in the role of Chief Financial Officer. Like many other alumnae, parents, and benefactors, I have felt an enduring connection to BGGS that has led me to continue wanting to be part of it in some way. I know many of our benefactors feel very strongly about providing the opportunity of an enriching education for girls by investing in the School through bursaries, and the built environment.

In my role as CFO, I observe directly the tangible impacts of your gifts to the School: empowering students, through bursaries, to access an education that would otherwise be out of reach for many young people; nurturing talents through investment in the academic, creative and athletic potential of students; and strengthening our community through your participation and selfless giving of your time.

The culture of giving at Girls Grammar is remarkable. Many academic and professional staff contribute year-on-year to our Annual Giving Program, and pledge on Giving Days. When I reflect on this and speak to our staff, they echo a sentiment I’ve heard resonate across all corners of the wider Girls Grammar community: where there’s momentum, there’s leverage

Our network of donors appreciate the results of their financial support—providing state-of-the-art buildings to enhance classroom learning, enabling access to opportunities for bursary students and expanding the educational offering with the development of our new Junior School. The continual growth of our School is supported, as it has been historically, by a community that believes in the importance of reinvestment—they understand we are the stewards of the School’s educational offering, culture, and outcomes for future generations.

Philanthropic giving is a discrete stream of revenue that goes directly into the School’s Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) registered funds. In accordance with the Strategic Design 2023-2025, the School’s financial management must deliver appropriate, sustainable, transparent and empowering fiscal management that balances the surplus requirement for future reinvestment with immediate educational program priorities.

The years ahead hold much excitement for the School, with new opportunities to support major developments including the Junior School, alongside other funds and strategic priorities. I look forward to working in partnership with you and our broader community to support our ambitions for the future of Brisbane Girls Grammar School.

HISTORY OF PHILANTHROPIC HIGHLIGHTS

1875—A Foundation of philanthropy

Brisbane Girls Grammar School was established by the visionary leadership of Sir Charles Lilley with philanthropy at the foundation of the School’s establishment.

1882—Miss Sophia Beanland

The School’s first Lady Principal, Miss Sophia Beanland, advocated for a broad and liberal education, and understood the transformational gift of philanthropy, as Miss Beanland bequeathed her estate to the School upon her death in May 1925.

1904—A Board of Honour

In 1899, the Old Girls Association was established, which to this day is the heart of community fundraising and philanthropic support to the School. In 1904 a Memorial to Mary Mackinlay was erected by her pupils, honouring students who attained academic distinction—including the School’s four Rhodes Scholars.

1907—Instilling an ethos of philanthropy

Margaret Annie Mackay supported the School’s involvement within the community, with a focus on encouraging the girls to give back by bringing in one penny to support the Royal Children’s Hospital.

1952—True community spirit

In 1952, the origins of the Parents & Friends Association was established by Mrs Ethel Boulton, with the P&F being officially established in 1953 with Mrs Boulton as the first P&F President.

1993—Maria Sulima Bursary

In 1993, funds were bequeathed to the School by Dr Maria Sulima who was inspired by the School’s ethos in providing a broad, liberal education for girls. The School’s Maria Sulima Bursary was first awarded in 1995.

2017—Brisbane Girls Grammar School Bursary

In 2017, the Board of Trustees introduced a means-tested Bursary, reflecting the generosity of spirit and contribution to community on which the School is founded. Bursaries provide up to 100 per cent remission of tuition fees from Year 7 to Year 12. The Bursary is provided to a girl whose family is unable to, or would have financial difficulty, in paying tuition.

2020—Science Learning Centre

The BGGS community came together to support the development of the School’s Science Learning Centre through gifting a periodic element to the ‘Table of Elements—Wall of Acknowledgement’.

2021—A new chapter of giving

The School’s inaugural Giving Day was held in 2021. Giving Days are an important fundraising event which not only assist to raise vital funds, but demonstrate the impact of the BGGS community coming together in support of the School.

2024 and beyond

You are invited to strengthen our philanthropic legacy by leaving a gift to enable the next enriching chapter in the future of Grammar girls.

PHILANTHROPIC PRIORITIES

The philanthropic principles on which Brisbane Girls Grammar School was founded are based on four pillars that support the School’s commitment to a broad, liberal education for girls.

Buildings

Providing inspirational and engaging learning spaces is essential to support students to achieve their full potential. Girls Grammar will continue to invest in infrastructure projects to engage and challenge girls in enriching and interesting ways.

Sport

The School has a long tradition of encouraging students to train and perform to their highest potential in their chosen sport. Ensuring girls have access to excellent sports facilities, equipment, and programs for their physical and mental wellbeing is pivotal.

Bursaries

Girls Grammar fosters a climate of opportunity and has a rich history of educating girls from diverse backgrounds. Through bursaries, the School is committed to offering the life-changing experience of a Girls Grammar education to girls who may not otherwise be able to attend the School.

Library

Housed in the Elizabeth Jameson Research Learning Centre, the Beanland Memorial Library contains a vast array of specialist resources to spark curiosity, imagination, and discovery, and deepen knowledge.

Brisbane Girls Gramar is a registered Deductible Gift Recipient under the subdivision 30-BA of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997. All gifts over $2 toward the School’s, Building, Bursary and Library Funds are tax-deductible.

If you would like to discuss BGGS’ philanthropic priorities and how to support our School, please contact the Development team on 07 3332 1396 or via email development@bggs.qld.edu.au

CELEBRATIONS OF GRATITUDE 2023

Girls Grammar is built upon a heritage of giving, with each generation benefitting from the generosity of those who came before. We acknowledge with heartfelt gratitude our donor community, who have supported the BGGS community to further enrich the lives of Grammar Girls and create meaningful and lasting impact.

DONOR THANK YOU EVENT

In 2023, more than 80 generous donors supported the School’s four philanthropic pillars, with more than 65 per cent of the donor community contributing toward the School’s Bursary Fund.

On Tuesday 28 March 2023, the support received from the School’s donor community was celebrated.

VOLUNTEER THANK YOU EVENT

The Parents & Friends Association, founded in 1952, continues to stand as the cornerstone of our philanthropic community. Over the past 70 years, the Association has demonstrated unwavering generosity and played a crucial role in fundraising to support the School, embodying a spirit of benevolence.

In Term 4 2023, beneath the twilight sky on the Pool Lawn, our School community came together in celebration of an exceptional year of community fundraising.

DONOR LIST

The Board of Trustees and the Principal, on behalf of the School, thank members of the Brisbane Girls Grammar School community for their generous support in 2023.

The Au Family

Dr A Bell AM

BGGS Mothers Group

BGGS Rowing Support Group

The Bowden Family

Ian & Janelle Brown

Dr Alison Bruce

Kay Bryan

Ms S Cali

Campbell Family

The Caposecco Family

The Cardell Family

Dr K Choo & Dr M Thomas

Jill Corrigan

B & S Cox

Jim & Tina Diakogiannis

S Edwards

The Ekeocha Family

Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh

Evelyn

Dr Henry Fang & Ms Tammy Liang

The Fanning Family

Dr Jody Forbes & Dr A Smith

Dr M Fry

The Fu Family

Gandhi Family

The Gianduzzo Family

Sophia Beanland Circle

Anonymous

Dr Barbara Burge

Mrs Kay Brassil

Mrs Ann Caston

Mrs Julie Caton

Ms Jane Hailes

Dorothy Hawkins

J Hennessey

Dr Cherrell Hirst AO

The Hodge Family

Teresa Howard

Ms Elizabeth Jameson AM &

Dr Abbe Anderson

Ruth Jans

The Knight Family

The Kolff van Oosterwijk Family

The Liu and Chen Family Trust

The Li-Zhang Family

The Hon Justice John Logan & Mrs Janice Logan

Christine Lonergan

The Lui Family

Allison Luque

J & C MacDonald

J McKay

Dr S & Mr H McKay

The McMurdo Family Fund

Saxon Mew

Paul & Melanie Mitchell

Dr C Mittelheuser AM

Ms L Mungomery

Johanne Neill & Ben Dodd

Mrs Tatiana Coulter

Mrs Lesley Davies

Mrs Jenny Everett

Ms Elizabeth Jameson AM

Ms Linda Lee

Mrs Jeanette Lockey

Kerryn Newton

Prof James Nicklin

Susan & Georgie O’Hare

Robyn Osborn

Dr Juanita Pappalardo &

Dr Matthew Peters

The Phua Family

Andrew Pollock

Dr Glenda Powell AM

Maurice Prendergast

David Rawson

Janine Schmidt AM

Kim Selwa

The Shaw Family

Shorrock-Browne Family

Jasjeet Sihota

Dr Carol Sorensen

Lorraine Thornquist

Mr Jim Truesdale

Dr P & Mrs M Vujovic

Louise Walls

Robin Williams

The Yong Gee Family

Peter & Nicole Zentveld

Gifts in Wills

Estate of Beth Muir Dawson

Gifts in-kind

Parents & Friends Association

Thank you to the School’s Support Groups and volunteers for their important contribution and service throughout the year.

Parents & Friends Association

P&F Uniform Shop

Old Girls Association

Mothers Group

Fathers Group

Music Support Group

Rowing Support Group

Water Polo Support Group

Grammar Women Mentors

Acknowledgements as at April 2024. Please contact the Development team via phone 07 3332 1396 or email development@bggs.qld.edu.au should you have any concerns.