to Fintona staff, students, parents and alumni for their articles,
and
COMMUNITY EVENTS
To see upcoming community events and add them to your calendar, scan the QR code or visit fintona.vic.edu.au/events.
CONNECT WITH FINTONA
Stay up to date with our community online.
SHARE YOUR NEWS
We love to share special and significant achievements from the Fintona community. Please send your news to Kate McPhee, Alumni, Community & Marketing Officer at news@fintona.vic.edu.au
SCHOOL TOURS
Discover how Fintona encourages every girl to do what she does well at one of our school tours.
To see dates and register for a tour, visit: fintona.vic.edu.au/enrolment/book-a-tour/ or contact the Registrar on 9830 1388.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Fintona Girls’ School recognises the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have educated children throughout Australia for thousands of years and continue to have a connection to land, waters and culture. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people, traditional custodians of the land on which we learn and work, and pay our respects to the Elders and educators past and present.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
A MILESTONE TO BE PROUD OF
'One of the most important milestones we'll all hit along the way is the moment when we finally own our unique point of view and realise how priceless it is.'
Sarah Ban Breathnach
In life, milestones are a common cause for celebration. They are markers representing significant achievements which we use to track progress in our personal lives and in the lives of others. Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, victories large and small, are all cause for a collective rush in endorphins and are an integral trait of being human.
From birth to early childhood, we acknowledge cognitive, social and physical markers like crawling, sitting unaided, first words and first steps, through to early childhood and starting primary school, learning to read and write, and developing our interpersonal skills and independence. From young adulthood into adulthood, we become our unique selves and begin
to understand abstract and more complex concepts, we realise what we are good at and develop life skills to support us in the future. Further education and embarking on career/s are the next milestones and pathway.
As educators, we are privileged to witness the exponential growth in our youngest learners in the Early Learning Centre, right through to our most senior students, who strive to reach their potential and become leaders and exemplars. Celebrating both personal and professional milestones motivates us to keep going, enhances our self-esteem and creates shared moments that strengthen our relationships and support of one another.
The Fintona community is driven by one common denominator; the education of girls. This year the school reached its own significant milestone, in that our education of girls now spans 130 years.
For 130 years Fintona has been a place that has inspired learners who lead, who are capable, confident and enthusiastic citizens. Across generations, Fintona girls have gone on to shape their communities and the wider world as artists, educators, doctors, entrepreneurs, scientists, advocates, and so much more.
Our founding Principal, Annie Hughston, on that day in 1896, began something more powerful than a school. She began a vision; one that believed girls deserved more than limitation, more than expectation, more than the narrow paths society and most other schools, at that time, offered them in terms of subject choice, physical pursuits and intellectual rigour.
130 years is a remarkable achievement, and it is a milestone of which we can all be proud.
Rachael Falloon Principal
2025 VCE RESULTS
2 The achievements of the Class of 2025, and of every student, have been cultivated through the dedication of our extraordinary staff.
Their guidance has nurtured curiosity, stretched thinking, and inspired students to step beyond what they believed was possible. Through their care, encouragement, and high expectations, they have created the environment in which our students can thrive, contribute, and discover their best selves.
Together, students and staff have shaped a year defined not only by success, but by connection, contribution, and a powerful sense of belonging; qualities that continue to strengthen the heart of our school and support all to do what they do well.
Principal Rachael Falloon said: ‘Our Year 12 students have modelled integrity, leadership, and kindness in every aspect of school life. It is especially pleasing to see students achieving strong academic results while also maintaining their wellbeing and engagement in co-curricular activities. Whether through contributions to sport, creative arts, student leadership or community service, they have shown a commitment to making Fintona a welcoming, vibrant place. This cohort has epitomised what it means to be a team and have been exceptional role models and leaders.’
We proudly celebrate the outstanding VCE achievements of the Class of 2025, reflecting the school’s enduring tradition of academic excellence and student dedication.
Fintona’s VCE success would not be possible without the dedication and guidance of expert staff who have supported our students throughout their time at Fintona.
Dux of 2025
Achieved an ATAR of 99.7
90.03
Jessica Leung
COURSE DESTINATIONS
FROM THE CONSULS
Fintona is a school defined by its students, staff and traditions. As young women shaped by this community, and as the 2026 School Consuls, we are grateful to lead with purpose, strengthen connections across year levels, and contribute to the culture that makes Fintona so special.
As part of our leadership vision for 2026, we aim to inspire and empower young girls to embark on their own unique leadership journeys. Our vision focuses on two key dimensions of leadership, aligned with the goals of the Student Leadership Development team: leading oneself and leading beyond.
Through initiatives such as our Sky’s the Limit Award, we celebrate and recognise the often-overlooked, quiet achievements of girls who demonstrate leadership both within themselves and in their wider communities. By shining a light on these actions, we hope to celebrate the many contributions of Fintona girls while also encouraging others across the school to step forward and begin their own leadership journey.
We are also committed to supporting younger students who aspire to leadership roles by helping them develop the essential soft skills needed to lead with confidence and authenticity. We plan to introduce a series of interactive leadership workshops and forums to nurture practical skills and confidence in Fintona’s emerging younger leaders.
Another key aspect of our 2026 vision is to strengthen camaraderie and foster a deeper sense of community across the Senior Campus. We have organised a range of lunchtime games and activities designed to connect students across year levels, while also nurturing a strong sense of belonging within the Year 12 cohort.
Whether it is creating opportunities for Year 12s to unwind and connect with younger students, or hosting activities like a pancake breakfast, we aim to create an environment where every student feels supported, celebrated and valued.
What we value most about Fintona is that leadership is not simply about holding a title, but about how we support, listen to and connect with our peers. We were fortunate to attend the Student Leadership Conference at Sydney’s Pymble Ladies’ College in January, where we heard from inspiring Australian female leaders and reflected on what it means to lead with authenticity, teamwork and purpose.
This experience helped shape our vision for the year: to lead with openness and strengthen connection and leadership across the Senior Campus.
As the year continues, we are excited to foster connection within the Fintona community and support each girl to grow in confidence as she shapes her own leadership journey, both within and beyond school.
Bella
and Mahlia School Consuls
A BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS
Sport is woven into the fabric of Fintona, and in February we were proud to host the 2026 GSV Sport Leaders’ Breakfast, welcoming 150 student leaders and staff from member schools.
The annual event featured an inspiring panel of accomplished sportswomen and Girls Sport Victoria (GSV) alumnae: AFL umpire Kaitlin Barr, Executive General Manager of Women’s Football at Collingwood Jess Burger, AFLW players Abbie McKay (Carlton) and Fintona alumna and former Sports Captain Sarah Poustie (Western Bulldogs). Sports Coordinator, Iain Rowe, led a dynamic and engaging discussion.
The focus of the session was on the importance of girls’ school sport. GSV’s central belief is that ’being part of a school sporting team helps [girls] feel valued by and connected to their school community. Girls who play sport not only benefit from the physical activity of training and playing
sport, they develop friendships with their team mates, learn about the highs and lows of life, but importantly, maintain a healthy balance between study and co-curricular activities which ultimately assists them to perform well academically.’
Sharing their unique pathways in sport, the panellists spoke candidly about resilience, leadership and the determination required to succeed in traditionally male-dominated environments. Their stories carried a powerful message for our student leaders: to meet challenges with confidence, seek support when needed and build strong networks that sustain growth through every high and low.
Kaitlin reflected on competing directly with male umpires for selection, while Sarah and Abbie highlighted the strong culture of mutual respect and collaboration across men’s and women’s teams. Jess offered insight into navigating the significant mental load of the COVID period while stranded for an extended time during an interstate work trip.
The event came as Fintona celebrates an outstanding year in GSV Sport. Among many achievements, our students claimed first place in the GSV Triathlon Senior Team event, third in the Senior Individual event, and secured Fintona’s first GSV Swimming Premiership as Division 3 Champions. Our Diving Team also achieved a historic podium finish and earned promotion to Division 2.
With GSV representative selections continuing throughout the year, Fintona’s sporting momentum continues to build. Beyond the results, these achievements speak to the strength of character, leadership and determination our students embody. Inspired by trailblazing women in sport and by one another, Fintona girls continue to lead with confidence, integrity and purpose, both in competition and in life.
130 YEARS OF EXTRAORDINARY
How do you capture 130 Years of Extraordinary into a single story? At Fintona, it lives in a legacy of growth, purpose and possibility.
That vision was brought to life by extraordinary women, beginning with founder and first Principal, Miss Annie Hughston, whose commitment to empowering young women continues to define Fintona’s identity. Her legacy lives on not only in spirit, but in name and presence, through the Annie Hughston Centre, and across the campus in spaces that honour Fintona’s female trailblazers, the Margaret Cunningham Wing, EM Butt Building and Beatrice Chilvers Library, each standing as a tribute to the women who have shaped generations of girls.
Academic excellence remains a defining hallmark of the school, driven by extraordinary dedication from students and staff alike. Fintona consistently ranks among Melbourne’s leading private schools and the top performers in the state for VCE and NAPLAN results – evidence of a learning culture that challenges girls to think deeply, aim high and do what they do, extraordinarily well.
In 2026, Fintona marks a remarkable convergence of milestones – including 90 years at the Balwyn Road campus, 40 years of rowing, and 30 years of the student exchange partnership with Yokohama Eiwa School in Japan. Looking ahead, the opening of the Performing Arts Centre in 2027 will expand opportunities for studentsto find their voice, build confidence and perform on a professional stage.
This is Fintona’s story: 130 years of extraordinary, and the foundation for all that is still to come.
Fintona
MORE THAN JUST WATER
In our Early Learning Centre, we value inquiry-based learning that emerges from children’s interests and encourages them to be curious about the world around them.
Following heavy rains, the boys and girls embarked on a hunt for rainwater around the playground. Educators observed, listened and reflected on the children’s growing interest in water, using this as a foundation for deeper exploration and learning and guiding the beginning of an evolving inquiry.
The inquiry into water was introduced through a poem, Waiting for water encouraging children to wonder, imagine and share their thinking about water. Subsequent downpours added another layer of excitement, extending the children’s engagement with this natural element and them talking about raindrops as friends.
Working in small groups, the children explored the campus, stopping at puddles, drains and garden beds to observe and document their discoveries through photography and conversation. Their observations included how rain gathers in uneven patterns, how it soaks into soil, moves through different spaces and disappears over time.
Developing ideas were then carried into creative explorations to encourage the children to think more deeply about water and its relationship to life. Children painted water droplets in detail, carefully observing their shape before adding layered ripple lines that spread outward across the page to capture a sense of texture, flow and change.
Alongside this, children designed and constructed both individual ripple mosaics and a large collaborative piece representing the thinking of the whole cohort. In their mosaics, they planned compositions thoughtfully, selecting colours, shapes and textures to reflect ideas about movement, friendship and connection.
As a meaningful recognition of the children’s thoughtful exploration of water and its connections to the world around them, a selection of their works has been chosen for an international exhibition. Titled Boundless Innocence: Art Connects Horizons, the exhibition featuring children’s artwork opens in Adelaide before travelling to Vancouver.
Sharne Rees and Karen Winderlich Early Learning Centre Teachers
INSPIRING A LIFELONG LOVE OF READING
The Junior School Library program plays an important role in fostering curiosity, confidence and a lifelong love of reading. From the earliest years of schooling, the program is designed to help students see reading as a source of enjoyment, imagination and discovery rather than simply a task to complete.
In Prep and Year 1, library sessions focus on building positive reading habits and helping students confidently choose books that interest them. Students are encouraged to explore the library through browsing, picture books and shared reading experiences, with an emphasis on creating strong associations between books and enjoyment.
As students progress through to Year 4, the program gradually introduces more independence, supporting students to navigate different genres, develop research skills and engage more deeply with literature and discussion.
According to Nikitanjali Renganathan, Junior School Librarian, ‘At the heart of the Junior School Library program is the belief that reading underpins learning across all subject areas. Students who read widely and willingly, are often better equipped to grasp maths, word problems, absorb history, and follow scientific explanations with greater ease.
‘Rather than focusing on testing or correcting in the early years, the library program prioritises building genuine enthusiasm for reading through choice and positive modelling from both peers and teachers.'
The recent refurbishment of the Junior School Library has further strengthened this approach. The redesigned space features comfortable reading areas, natural light and clearly defined collections and displays that encourage students to independently explore books aligned with their interests. Forward-facing picture book displays have also made it easier for younger readers to browse and discover new titles.
Students also participate in programs such as Book Club and the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Shadow Judging program, encouraging them to explore a broader range of texts, genres and ideas.
Through these experiences, students develop critical thinking skills, build confidence in discussing literature and strengthen the research and information literacy skills that support their transition into Middle School. Just as importantly, the program helps students form lasting connections with reading and learning.
CELEBRATING FORTY YEARS OF ROWING
Teamwork, significant commitment and famously early mornings are all part of life as a rower, but so too are connection, camaraderie and community.
This was the powerful message shared by Francesca Spano, Captain of Boats 2023, at Fintona’s 40 Years of Rowing Anniversary Dinner in March.
Held in the Members’ Dining Room at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the celebratory evening combined an end-of-season dinner with the annual awards ceremony, bringing together past and present rowers, families, coaches and supporters to honour four decades of achievement on the water.
With guest speakers including alumna Louisa Rose (Class of 1987), Fintona’s first Captain of Boats, and current staff member Alex Harrison, our longest-serving Rowing Coordinator, and with Jane Horne, former Head of Sport and long-time Head of the Schoolgirls Regatta (HOSG) commentator, serving as emcee, the evening paid tribute to generations of young women who have taken up an oar and discovered strength, resilience and teamwork alongside those who led, coached and inspired girls in this endeavour. Lucy Laussen our current Rowing Coordinator also took a moment to reflect on the season, dedication of the girls and the hard work and effort of all our rowing coaches and sports staff.
As one of the first girls’ schools to offer rowing, Fintona began with a squad of just four rowers. This past season, 40 students participated in the program with 36 competing at HOSG, a powerful reflection of the growth and enduring spirit of rowing at the School.
The dedication and achievements of our young rowers were recognised through the End of Season Awards, celebrating each athlete’s commitment across the season. Their reflections captured the essence of the rowing experience, the early mornings, the teamwork of the crew, the discipline required and the joy of rowing camp.
Speaking via video from the Australian Rowing Championships in Tasmania, Francesca reflected on the friendships, connections and lessons that have shaped her journey.
‘If you surround yourself with people who believe in you, your progress will be exponential,’ Francesca said.
‘I’ve made so many friends from rowing, I’ve met people from across all of Australia, I’ve worked with the most inspiring mentors, and I’ve been lucky enough to row with some Olympians.’
‘But it’s no secret that the challenge with rowing is the time commitment, it can honestly be a little bit fearful, but I always come back to it being something worth devoting time towards.’
‘Rowing through school and through VCE was one of the best decisions
I ever made. The busier I became the more productive and driven I became.’
The evening was also a powerful reminder of the strength of the Fintona rowing community, helping raise over $38,000 to support the future of the program.
As we enter our fifth decade of rowing, we do so with the same courage, determination and spirit that has defined those who came before and with great excitement for the season ahead.
BREAKING BARRIERS AT FINTONA: THE POWER OF DISMANTLING GENDER BIAS
When Sofia Plymin (Class of 2011) walked through the doors of Fintona Girls’ School, she embodied a spark of curiosity and ambition that would later see her named Victoria’s Young Scientist of the Year. Her journey –from School Consul and passionate science student to Senior Medical Scientist at Northern Pathology Victoria – is living proof of what unfolds when girls are given the freedom and support to follow their passions.
This freedom is precisely the outcome championed by LEGO’s global research1, which reveals that although girls possess innate creativity, gender bias and limiting language from adults still impede their confidence and recognition as innovators. Fintona’s culture and curriculum exemplify how removing these barriers leads to extraordinary achievement.
At Fintona, every student is actively encouraged to ‘have a go,’ embracing opportunity in all academic domains, leadership, performance, the arts or sport.
In the area of STEM, from Year 9, Accelerated Mathematics, Coding, Applied Computing and Science programs alongside opportunities across year levels to participate in Science Talent Search, da Vinci Decathlon, Tournament of Minds, and Australian Maths and Science Olympiads provide platforms where talent is developed and celebrated, regardless of gender. Fintona students are regularly recognised with prizes in both Junior and Senior divisions of the Science Talent Search; results that demonstrate how an environment free of bias, and where possibility is celebrated, enables girls to thrive.
Learning at Fintona isn’t confined to
textbooks. Students are invited to explore ideas, grapple with logical reasoning, and grow critical thinking skills. Students also connect with women in real-world STEM careers – most memorably last year during International Women’s Day at Moorabbin Airport, where Year 8 to 10 students met female firefighters, pilots and airport operations managers and saw firsthand how women excel in roles traditionally dominated by men.
In 2023, the BrainSTEM Innovation Challenge saw girls design prototypes of a tactile chemistry set and fidget pen to support vision-impaired and sensory learners. While these creations were simple, their purpose was profound: making STEM
more inclusive, and echoing LEGO’s view that creativity should have no boundaries.
Empowering girls with financial skills is also front and centre. From the Lemonade Stand Game in Year 6, where students learn about entrepreneurship and business and a Year 9 Financial Literacy Subject, to senior classes tackling property investment, budgeting, share markets and the economy, Fintona girls build skills and confidence for life after school.
Leadership is another thread weaving through every aspect of school life. Programs like the Leadership Series invite students to learn from staff, community leaders and accomplished alumni.
Such role modelling shows girls how empathy, resilience, and strategic thinking enable successful leadership, regardless of the setting.
Co-curricular activities reinforce these lessons, with students diving into clubs like Dungeons and Dragons, STEM Club and Model United Nations. By stepping into spaces often dominated by males, girls develop teamwork, experimentation, critical analysis and communication skills, building confidence to challenge boundaries throughout life.
Extraordinary achievements abound!
Sofia Plymin’s (Class of 2011) career as a medical scientist is mirrored by other alumni successes, including Sarah Poustie’s (Class of 2024) Australian Football League Women’s debut while studying commerce at The University of Melbourne, Georgia Griffith’s (Class of 2014) record-breaking Olympic running, and Mackayla Hanney (Class of 2010) – Chief Commercial Officer at a global transport company – who credits Fintona with inspiring her commitment to advancing opportunities for women in male-dominated industries.
The School’s influence is confirmed by tertiary results: in the Class of 2025, 23% of VCE students chose a business, commerce and international studies degree, 22% opted for science and engineering and 15% entered medicine and medical related fields. For the Class of 2024, 35% of VCE students entered business and commerce, 27% medicine and health sciences, and 13% science and engineering; in the Class of 2023, 26% chose science and engineering, 18% business and commerce, and 16% medicine and health sciences. These figures illustrate students choosing traditionally male-dominated fields and pursuing their ambitions without limitation.
At its heart, Fintona empowers each girl to break boundaries and shape her own future. As the LEGO research highlights, creativity, ambition, and leadership flourish where bias is dismantled and experimentation is valued. At Fintona, the result is seen in every student who confidently challenges convention, dares to ‘have a go’ and is driven to do what she does well.
EXTRAORDINARY ACHIEVEMENTS
EXCELLENCE IN MATHEMATICS AND PHYSICS
STEM Captain Abby, Year 12, has been recognised nationally for her outstanding achievements in mathematics and physics.
Following a High Distinction in the Australian Science Olympiad Examination (Physics), Abby was selected as one of the top 24 students in Australia to attend an intensive Physics Summer Olympiad training camp at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, where she explored advanced topics including relativity, quantum mechanics and astrophysics.
Adding to this success, Abby and past student Laura from the Class of 2025 were recognised at the Australian Maths Trust State Awards for their exceptional results in the 2025 Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC). Both students received the prestigious Cheryl Praeger Medal, awarded to the female secondary student with the highest AMC score in the country, with Laura also receiving the Best in School award.
We congratulate Abby and Laura on these remarkable achievements and their dedication to academic excellence.
KWONG LEE DOW SCHOLARS PROGRAM
Late last year, Emma who is now in Year 11 was selected for The University of Melbourne’s Kwong Lee Dow Scholars Program, Class of 2027.
The program supports high-achieving students through a range of academic enrichment events and activities designed
COMMUNITY AWARDS WITH A CONNECTION
Congratulations to Esha and Evelyn now in Year 7 and last year’s School Consul, Stephanie who were all recognised with the prestigious 2025 Alison Harcourt Community Awards.
The awards celebrate students who demonstrate outstanding commitment to community service, citizenship and leadership, qualities all three students displayed with confidence and care.
The honour holds particular significance for the Fintona community as Alison Harcourt AO is a past student who, after graduating from Fintona in 1945, went on to become a pioneering mathematician whose work influenced modern computing and social research.
Well done to Stephanie, Esha and Evelyn on this meaningful achievement and their positive contribution to the wider community.
to encourage leadership, personal growth, connections and preparation for university life.
What a fantastic opportunity for Emma and wonderful recognition of her academic achievements and potential.
AMUSA SUCCESS
Congratulations to Chaitra in Year 9 who has achieved her Associate in Music, Australia (AMusA) in violin.
Presented by the Australian Music Examinations Board, the AMusA is a highly regarded qualification that recognises outstanding musical achievement through rigorous practical and theoretical examinations.
TOP ARTS AND MUSIC SUCCESS
Outstanding achievements in the arts have been celebrated by Zindzi from the Class of 2025 and School Consul, Bella in Year 12.
Zindzi’s oil painting, ‘Fallacies of Perception (Autoscopy)’, was selected for exhibition at Top Arts 2026 at the National Gallery of Victoria, a prestigious showcase celebrating exceptional student work in art and design.
Bella, an accomplished flautist, was selected to perform at Top Class Music
This accomplishment reflects Chaitra’s dedication, discipline and musicianship, developed through many years of commitment to her craft and we congratulate her on this impressive milestone and look forward to seeing her continued success in music.
MEDAL SUCCESS AT GSV TRIATHLON
Our results at this year’s GSV Triathlon were to be celebrated, with Anagi, Chloe and Eliza in Year 11 taking out first place in the Senior Team event, while Ibby, Year 12, placed third in the Senior Individual event.
Held at Altona Beach, the competition saw Fintona students from Years 7 to 12
compete against participants from 23 schools across a demanding course featuring a 300m swim, 10km ride and 3km run.
Congratulations to Anagi, Chloe, Eliza and Ibby on their impressive performances.
2026 following her outstanding Music Repertoire Performance results last year. Chosen as one of just 13 performers statewide, Bella delivered an expressive performance of ‘Birds of My Gully’ by Philip Bolliger.
These achievements reflect Zindzi and Bella’s creativity, dedication and talent, and we congratulate them on their success.
GSV DIVISION 3 SWIMMING CHAMPIONS
Our Swimming Squad made history by securing Fintona’s first GSV Swimming Premiership, a fantastic achievement.
Across Years 7 to 12, students delivered consistently strong performances throughout the meet, with the Seniors and Intermediates both winning their respective divisions.
The team’s combined effort and determination ultimately saw Fintona take out the overall title in Division 3. Congratulations to all swimmers on this outstanding achievement.
SETTING THE STAGE FOR THE FUTURE
At the heart of our School, something remarkable is taking shape.
Rising steadily from the centre of our grounds, Fintona’s new three-storey Performing Arts Centre is beginning to transform the landscape and with it, the future opportunities available to our students. Designed to empower girls to pursue their passions and strengthen their skills in drama, music, debating, public speaking and production, this landmark building will become a vibrant home for creativity, confidence and expression, alongside key community events.
The scale of the project is becoming powerfully visible. Its presence can now be felt across the School as works continue on schedule toward a grand opening early in 2027.
At the heart of this building will sit a spectacular 550-seat auditorium spanning two levels, complemented by dedicated music and drama classrooms, practice and ensemble rooms, and a black box studio. Together, these spaces will provide students with opportunities to step into the spotlight, find their voice, and connect with audiences through the transformative power of performance.
This will be a place where girls are encouraged to take creative risks, collaborate with confidence and discover the strength of self-expression.
Along with PV cells on the roof, the School is also undertaking a significant upgrade to its electrical infrastructure in partnership
with CitiPower, an important investment that will help future-proof Fintona for decades to come.
As this exciting project continues to rise, so too does the promise of what it will make possible: a place where imagination is nurtured, talent is developed and Fintona girls are inspired.
If you would like to help set the stage for generations of Fintona girls to come, we invite you make a donation or select a seat to have your name or your family name proudly displayed. This is a lasting way to be part of a transformational space for future generations of Fintona students.
To find out more about this project or to support our Performing Arts Centre Capital Campaign scan the QR code below.
AN ENDURING CULTURAL PARTNERSHIP WITH YOKOHAMA EIWA
For 30 years, Fintona’s relationship with its Japanese sister school, Aoyama Gakuin Yokohama Eiwa, has provided students with meaningful opportunities to connect across cultures, develop language skills and build lasting friendships.
The exchange program began in 1996, at a time when Japanese was still a relatively new subject at Fintona and was being offered through to Year 12 for the first time. Recognising the value of authentic cultural experiences, Fintona sought to establish a partnership with a school in Japan that would enrich students’ learning beyond the classroom.
From the outset, Yokohama Eiwa proved to be an ideal partner. Shared values, a similar approach to school culture and a strong sense of mutual respect helped the relationship develop naturally and, over time, grow into a deeply valued partnership between the two schools.
Today, the reciprocal exchange program offers a range of opportunities for senior students. As part of the biennial Japan Tour, Year 10 and 11 students spend five days at Yokohama Eiwa to experience Japanese school and home life with their host sisters and families. In January each year, a small number of Year 12 students are also selected to participate in a summer exchange before commencing their final year of Japanese studies.
The partnership is equally enriched by the annual visit of Yokohama Eiwa students to Fintona for a two-week homestay. During their stay, students are immersed in Australian family and school life, practise their English skills and form connections with Fintona students and families.
Over the years, the exchange has evolved from an educational partnership into a program grounded in continuity, trust and genuine connection. Through everyday interactions, shared routines and new experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of each other’s cultures while developing confidence, adaptability and independence.
According to Fintona’s Language Learning Leader, Yoko Kirkman, who was instrumental in setting up the partnership, ‘some of the most memorable moments with Yokohama have often been the simplest — students helping one another navigate unfamiliar situations, finding ways to communicate despite language barriers, and forming friendships that continue long after the exchange has ended.’
The enduring success of the program reflects a shared commitment between Fintona and Yokohama Eiwa to foster intercultural understanding and create opportunities for students to engage with the world in meaningful and lasting ways.
INSPIRING CREATIVITY THROUGH CONTEMPORARY THEATRE WORKSHOPS
At Fintona we value opportunities for students to engage with contemporary theatre practice and develop their skills through collaboration. The willingness and ability to look outside oneself for inspiration and guidance are key to fulfilling one’s potential as an artist.
In Term 1, Year 4, Year 8 and VCE Drama students worked with Red Leap, an internationally acclaimed New Zealand theatre company known for its physical and visually engaging storytelling.
Across a week-long residency, artists Ella and Paddy guided students through key stages of drama learning, supporting them to explore, develop and refine their performance work.
For Year 4, students participated in a fullday workshop exploring a selected story. Through activities such as brainstorming, improvisation and reflection, they learnt how to transform text into dramatic action. This stage of the process supported the students in building ideas and establishing a strong foundation for performance.
For Year 8, the focus shifted to audience perspective which is foundational to their theatre-making style. Students developed an understanding of how to shape meaning and mood through composition and staging choices, expanding their ability to engage an audience.
For VCE Drama students, the workshop marked the beginning of their Ensemble Performance. Working with texts including The Odyssey, Blithe Spirit and Lord of the Flies, students collaborated in small groups,
applying Red Leap’s devising methods to create new works. The use of physical theatre, design elements and varied stimuli supported a dynamic and productive start to this major assessment.
Working alongside professional artists provided students with practical insight into contemporary theatre-making and the creative process of developing new work. It also encouraged them to apply these approaches within their own performances. Learning collaboratively with these worldclass artists was an extraordinary experience for all students and teachers involved and provided a practical insight into Red Leap’s philosophy of devising new works and supported them in applying these ideas to their own performances.
Bronwyn Bye Drama Learning Area Leader
A DAY OF CONNECTION ACROSS GENERATIONS
Fintona’s Grandparents and Special Friends Day is a valued event on our school calendar.
The day provides students in the Early Learning Centre, Junior and Middle Schools with the opportunity to welcome grandparents and special friends into the school, sharing their learning and
offering insight into what it is like to be a Fintona student.
Whether through a tour of the playground, classroom activities, assembly performances or lunch together, students take great pride in showing their guests around and sharing their school experiences. In turn, grandparents and special friends often
share their own reflections and stories about school life from many years ago.
We thank all grandparents and special friends who join us each year to help celebrate the connection between generations and strengthen the partnership between home and school.
Fintona
MEET OUR STAFF
KEVIN CHRISTOFELSZ
Forensic Science or Food Chemistry were other plausible career options for Kevin after completing his undergraduate degree. Had he opted for a different career path, he believes all roads would eventually have led back to teaching, for which he is deeply passionate.
How do you inspire Fintona girls to reach their full potential in STEM?
I believe in creating a culture of empowerment amongst the students in two ways, breaking any perceived stereotypes and by establishing a strong sense of belonging.
The students at Fintona are remarkable young women who put great effort into everything they pursue. I aim to inspire them to believe that anything is possible in the field of science and that no opportunity is beyond their reach. My goal is to foster a sense of curiosity and wonder, ensuring that all students are actively engaged in every aspect of STEM. By combining both theoretical learning and hands-on experiences, I hope to encourage them to embrace all STEM-related opportunities with enthusiasm and confidence.
One way to foster a sense of belonging is by celebrating student successes— whether academic or non-academic, big or small. Recognising these
achievements helps keep students motivated and engaged in their pursuits. However, I also value the other side of the coin—the invaluable lessons learned through challenges, setbacks, and perseverance. These experiences are essential for student growth, resilience, and the development of a strong work ethic.
What fascinates you most about science?
The constant evolution of science over time is truly remarkable, from the ever-changing principles of the past to those that remain unexplained today. Science inspires a sense of wonder, captivating those who explore it. It allows us to uncover the mysteries of the universe, from the tiniest atoms to the vast expanse of space. Being a chemistry teacher at heart, I might have a bit more bias within my field but every single science is truly amazing in its own merit.
If you weren’t a Science Teacher/Head of Science, what would you be instead?
I think I might have gone either one of two pathways that were presented to me after my undergraduate degree, Forensic Science or Food Chemistry. Eventually conducted more research and maybe worked my way to a PhD in either field. But I strongly believe, by that point I would I eventually work my way back into education in some way shape or form. I think the teacher gene is strong within me!
How has science education evolved since you started teaching?
My teaching career began in 2017 and over time its remarkable to see how the development of many different regions of science. The strides in AI from a student and teacher perspective have been quite remarkable too with custom videos, custom texts showcasing a scientific principle that may have been challenging to simulate in the past is now quite accessible. With some coding becoming easier and more accessible, simulations of concepts are also being more prevalent as well. Through COVID we learnt that interactions with people across the world can happen in real time through video hosting platforms so meeting professionals/experts in the field of science has never been easier!
What would you like your legacy to be at Fintona?
I would like to think it would be one that instils a strong passion for young women to embrace science boldly not just for those that have chosen careers in science but also for those that didn’t.
‘The students at Fintona are remarkable young women who put great effort into everything they pursue. ’
BELINDA KENNEDY
Belinda’s interests extend far beyond the garden. Belinda has an active visual arts practice and is invested in animal rights issues. She is an avid writer and as a teenager became heavily involved in the spoken word scene.
Tell us a little about your background; how did you become the Head Gardener at the School?
Heading into my third decade in the horticulture industry I have had many diverse roles within the field from working for boutique landscaping companies, running my own design and maintenance business to teaching short courses and workshops.
Prior to joining Fintona I spent 13 years at CERES Environment Park in Brunswick East as the Head Gardener progressing to Park Manager towards the end of my tenure.
As much as I loved my work at CERES my position as Park Manager had me exchanging my secateurs for a desktop and I felt the need to return to where my passion lies, the garden. This led me to applying for the Head Gardener role at Fintona, a role which not only allows me to return to the garden but to also continue work within the sustainability field which I am equally as passionate about.
How do you incorporate sustainability into the garden management?
I have been working to create a closed loop system within the gardens at Fintona which
involves things such as mulching all our garden pruning’s and autumn leaves and using this mulch in the gardens to suppress weeds, and feed and insulate the soil.
Food waste and weeds are currently collected through the council’s FOGO system and, in the coming months I am hoping to change this to an in-house composting system using both worm farms and cold and hot composting systems. Once in place the gardens will hopefully be self-sufficient and waste free.
A lot of work has been carried out this year to improve the irrigation systems at the school to make them more efficient and ensure we can utilise rainwater where possible. We are also currently working towards ensuring all garden beds are mulched and contoured to retain as much water as possible.
We have begun seed saving and will be propagating several of the plants in the gardens for future use, filling in a few bare patches (plants have a lifespan too!).
Many of the maintenance systems being implemented into the gardens are based on permaculture design systems, these systems look at both the macro and micro elements of the space both in the short and long term to ensure sustainable outcomes.
How does your work in the gardens integrate more broadly with the school curriculum and/or co-curricular activities?
I feel that the work I and the maintenance team do in the gardens helps to create a sense of well-being for all students and staff at the school by creating a place for connection with the natural world.
Regarding the school curriculum, during my short time at the school we have held several planting days at the Junior School campus, something which we are hoping to continue seasonally. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about seasons, growing food, composting and harvesting, as well as broader topics such as the circular economy, the soil biome and how gardening can have an impact not only on the individual but also communities and local wildlife.
The Middle School garden club has been on a short hiatus due to a reduction in the gardens to make way for the new Performing Arts Centre. We have however found a new garden club hub which we are hoping to open to students in the coming months.
Do you have a favourite aspect of Fintona that you would like to share with us: this could be an area, a time of day, a season, a particular plant?
The trees! The school is blessed with some beautiful specimens, from the welcoming purple blooms and soft fronds of the Tourmont Jacaranda to the out of this world hot pink seed pods of the Annie Houston lawn Magnolia and the gnarled yet graceful twisting limbs of our Eucalypts and Corymbias.
It would also be remiss of me if I failed to mention the mornings – walking through the campus at 7am as the sun is rising, the dew glistening, birds calling – it’s a very special time – often bitterly cold but equally beautiful.
Can you tell us a little about a special project or success story during your time at Fintona?
Transplanting the memorial Banksia marginata from the Cherry Road lawn area to the Balwyn Road gardens. Banksias are renown for being temperamental – I often give transplants a 50/50 chance – this one was a 20/80 chance (20% survival) yet it is thriving in its new home (touch wood!).
What are your interests outside of gardening?
Outside of gardening I have an active visual arts practice, my work often gravitates toward environmental and animal rights issues as well as family bonds and connections.
I became heavily involved in the spoken word scene during my late teens. I don’t perform very often these days, but I am still an avid writer and often weave my words into my visual art practice.
OLD FINTONIANS’ ALUMNI
REUNIONS
INTERSTATE REUNIONS
NSW/ACT
Thursday 10 September
QLD
Saturday 24 October
SA
Sunday 22 November
SPECIAL EVENTS
OFA High Tea
Sunday 25 October
Leonda By The Yarra
OFA Golf Day
Monday 16 November Sorrento Golf Club
BIRTHS
Congratulations to Mackayla Hanney (’10) and Adam on the birth of their daughter, Louisa Catherine in January, a sister for Genevieve.
VALE
The Fintona community is saddened to learn of the passing of the following Old Fintonians:
Alice Michell (Burmah ’49) 12/02/2024
Sue Keen (Porter ’72) 26/01/2025
Elizabeth Newton (Trenaman ’56) 6/08/2025
Gwladys McLachlan OAM (Beard ’48) 1/10/2025
Judith Acheson (Maddern-Wellington ’45) 4/11/2025
Celebrating Extraordinary
OBITUARY
Alice (Coralie) Michell (Burmah ’49) 22/03/1933 - 12/02/2024
Alice grew up in Deepdene and attended Fintona from 1943 to 1950, repeating Matric after first completing it at the age of 16. During her years at the school, she formed many lifelong friendships, maintaining close connections with Judy Sliferski (Hughes), Anne Gumley dec. (Lissendon), Esther Stump dec. and Jessy Lawlor, dec. (Ling).
After leaving Fintona, Alice studied science at The University of Melbourne before completing a Diploma of Education. She went on to teach science at several schools including Fintona, St Michael's and Rosebud High School.
Alice met her husband, Adrian, while they were both studying physics at RMIT University. Together they moved to Dromana on the Mornington Peninsula, where they raised their two children and became actively involved in the local community through Girl Guides, Scouts and the library. Alice was also in demand as a science tutor for local secondary school students.
In 1973, the family returned to Camberwell, where Alice and Adrian established an electronics spare parts business while continuing their strong involvement in community life. They also travelled widely, and in time both of their children became involved in the family business.
Later in life, Alice and Adrian returned to the Mornington Peninsula, where they enjoyed a quieter retirement while remaining active in a range of interests and community organisations, including Vision Australia and U3A. Alice also shared an interest in philately alongside Adrian through their involvement with the Royal Philatelic Society of Victoria.
Alice passed away at Rosebud Hospital and is greatly missed by her family and friends.
THE STORY OF THE FINTONA GIRLS’ SCHOOL COMPANY
From 1896 until the end of 1961, Fintona was, in every sense of the word, a ‘private’ school. That is, it was privately operated and wholly owned, originally by Annie Hughston, and then, Margaret Cunningham (but no doubt with the support of Deputy Principal, Beatrice Chilvers).
Miss Cunningham recognised that Fintona’s future would not be secure unless ownership passed to an entity that could not die. Fintona was her life’s work, and it needed to survive in perpetuity. Learning from the example set by the school she attended as a student, Miss Cunningham set about transferring Fintona to company ownership.
The transition from private ownership to a company began in 1960 with the establishment of ‘The Shadow Cabinet’,
a group of Old Fintonians selected by Miss Cunningham. Through regular meetings, she shared how the School operated and prepared the group to support a smooth transition to Company ownership. The initiative also gave Old Fintonians the opportunity to serve on a board and demonstrate to students that women could lead in all areas, including governing a school.
Miss Cunningham served as Board Chair until 1974. Since then, the role has been held by Old Fintonians, with the current Chair being Jackie Besley (Robertson ’86). The Fintona Girls’ School Company welcomes up to 100 members, including Old Fintonians and past staff, and provides the pool from which Old Fintonian Board members are selected.
Members are welcome to attend the AGM to hear about the School’s achievements, ask questions, and act as ‘shareholders’. It also provides an opportunity for women seeking experience serving on a board, while offering a meaningful way to connect with Fintona and give something back to the School.
Beginning in 2026, we are offering two positions annually to alumni, who are company members, to be Board Observers. This opportunity is open to individuals who graduated more than 7 years ago and up to 17, a 10-year window. It would be a one-year appointment from AGM to AGM providing the opportunity for alumni to have insight into the role of the Board and responsibilities of Board Directors, with the potential for them to join the Board at some time in the future or simply support their professional learning and possible roles on other Boards.
Company membership is $22 per annum, with Company Life membership set at $200.
2026 – May 2027
2027 – May 2028
2028 – May 2029
June 2029 – May 2030
June 2030 – May 2031
If you are interested in the Board Observer role, email principal@fintona.vic.edu.au, providing your name, graduating year and a copy of your CV. Expressions of Interest are open for the June 2026 – May 2027 and June 2027 – May 2028 positions.
To join the Fintona Girls’ School Company, a membership application can be downloaded at: https://www.fintona.vic.edu.au/community/alumni/company-membership/
2026 CAREERS BREAKFAST: PATHWAYS, CONNECTIONS AND ALUMNI INSIGHT
Fintona’s biennial Careers Breakfast is an important part of the School’s careers program, providing senior students with the opportunity to explore future pathways, ask questions and learn directly from professionals across a wide range of industries.
A valued feature of this event is the return of Old Fintonians, who generously share their career journeys. Students greatly enjoy hearing from those who were once Fintona students themselves, and these connections help bring future pathways to life. Old Fintonians consistently describe returning to Fintona as a rewarding experience, offering a chance to reflect on their journey while inspiring the next generation.
With 23 Old Fintonians attending this year’s Careers Breakfast, students were introduced to a diverse range of industries including medicine, law, engineering, cinematography, scientific research, aviation and AI.
Special thanks to Dr Jade El-Mohamed (’07), the keynote speaker, a surgical trainee and robotic surgery educator currently working towards becoming a consultant surgeon while also contributing to medical education and research. We also thank all Old Fintonians who generously volunteered their time, expertise and advice to support our students at this year’s Careers Breakfast.
If you are interested in attending a future careers event, please email Suzanne Hannebery, Careers Coordinator at shannebery@fintona.vic.edu.au.
L - R (rear): Suzanne Hannebery, Careers Coordinator, Fiona Scott (Sanderson ’80), Maiysha Moin (’19), Stephanie Lee (’13), Dr Katherine Tsigaridis (’14), Belinda Barton (Cheeseman ’87), Dr Tiffany Lewis (’03), Rachael Falloon, Principal
L - R (middle): Dr Catherine Jennings (’80), Freya Rayson-Hill (’17), Annie Di Censo (’17), Cathy Harper (’91), Fiona Glen (’84), Dr Melinda Jackson (’97), Jess Toop (Connell ’99), Sky Davies (’94), Dr Kathy Song (’10)
L - R (front): Dr Jade El-Mohamed (’07), Dr Violet Kieu (’01), Kate Metz (’93), Dr Alice Xu (’05), Krystina Constant (’05), Daphne Orchard (Hiew ’05), Annelis Bos (’98), Selina Thai (’15)
NEWS OF OLD FINTONIANS
AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS
Congratulations to Old Fintonian, Andrea Coote AM (Scoble ’69) who was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in this year’s Australia Day Honours.
Andrea was recognised for her significant service to the people and Parliament of Victoria, and to the aged care sector.
As a Victorian Member of Parliament for 16 years, Andrea also served as Shadow Minister for Ageing and Carers. She was later appointed inaugural Chair of the
INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS IN TEXTILE ART
Talented artist Fiona Lindsay (Terry ’81) has earned international recognition for her textile art and quilting.
After leaving school, Fiona studied, travelled and married her Year 12 sweetheart before returning to study some 20 years and two children later to complete qualifications in textile design. It was during this time that Fiona discovered her passion for textile art and found a creative community united by a shared love of art and stitching.
Having stitched from a young age in a family rich in generational creativity, Fiona gradually developed her own artistic style. Her work gained significant attention following an exhibition in 2011, which received rave reviews and encouraged her to pursue opportunities on the international stage.
Over four consecutive years, Fiona’s quilts were selected for the prestigious International Quilt Festival in Houston, USA, before she later set her sights on entering a quilt in the United Kingdom at The Festival of Quilts in Birmingham.
In 2024, Fiona was invited to submit an exhibition proposal for the 30th Anniversary Exhibition of Carrefour Européen du Patchwork et Arts Textiles in France, showcasing artists from across the Southern Hemisphere. Her proposal was accepted, leading to an exhibition of 14 quilts held across villages throughout the Alsace region, which attracted strong interest from visitors fascinated by the intricate hand stitching, design techniques and craftsmanship involved in Fiona’s work.
Reflecting on her creative journey, Fiona describes textile art as the place where she finally found her ‘thing’, combining challenge, artistry and connection through a shared love of creativity.
Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council and was a member of the Aged Care Sector Committee, an advisory body set up by the government to help shape aged care policy and reforms.
Andrea credits her Fintona education as a guiding influence, particularly the strong focus on community service and the School motto, Age Quod Agis, 'do what you do well', a value that has guided many of her decisions.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR BOARD CHAIR
Congratulations to Chair of the Fintona Board, Dr Jackie Besley (Robertson ’86), on completing her PhD in Psychology and Board Governance.
Jackie’s thesis explored group dynamics on not-for-profit boards, drawing on social psychological theory to examine how board member diversity and ‘fault lines’ shape governance dynamics in Australian independent schools. This research closely reflects Jackie’s work as both a researcher and Board Chair.
FROM LOSS TO PURPOSE: SUPPORTING THE MND COMMUNITY
Jane Simpson (Gilbert ’80) has dedicated recent years to supporting and advocating for those affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND), following the loss of her husband to the disease just 10 months after his diagnosis.
MND is a progressive neurological condition that affects the nerves controlling muscle movement, gradually impacting mobility, speech, swallowing and breathing. After her husband’s passing, Jane felt compelled to make a meaningful contribution to the MND community. While recognising that scientific breakthroughs remain critical in the search for a cure, she identified another equally important need that she could make a difference to - connection and support for those navigating the isolation of the disease.
Guided by a belief in ‘I can’ that was instilled at school, Jane has become a passionate advocate for people living with MND, their families and carers. As an Ambassador for MND Australia, she contributes to public awareness and policy discussions at both state and federal levels.
Jane has served as Chair of the Lived Experience Research Advisory Panel, working alongside researchers and clinicians to help ensure lived experience informs and strengthens MND research. She also speaks across Australia to raise awareness and educate communities about the realities of MND.
Perhaps the most meaningful part of Jane’s work is her podcast, ‘Let’s Talk MND’, which provides a platform for conversations with
people living with MND, carers, clinicians and researchers. Through these discussions, the podcast has created a strong sense of connection and community for listeners.
If anyone within the Fintona community is affected by MND, Jane warmly encourages them to reach out, as connection matters and no one should navigate this journey alone.
DOYLE’S GUIDE RECOGNITION FOR LAWYER
Congratulations to Old Fintonian, Jess Toop (Connell ’99) on being recognised in the 2026 Doyle’s Guide as a Recommended Employment Lawyer (Employer Representation) in Victoria.
An independent directory of the Australian legal profession, Doyle’s Guide recognises Jess for her expertise, as endorsed by peers and clients.
Jess is a Partner at Justitia Lawyers & Consultants, a Melbourne-based boutique firm specialising in employment law and workplace investigations. She advises organisations on complex employment
matters and supports employers in navigating the legal and practical challenges that arise in modern workplaces.
Jess joined Fintona in Year 7 and went on to complete a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Arts at The University of Melbourne. She credits her time at school with building her confidence, strong academic foundations and a willingness to embrace opportunities across a wide range of cocurricular activities including debating, cross country, swimming and Shakespeare Day. And even though Jess rarely wears purple, as a proud member of Ower House, it is still technically her favourite colour!
REUNIONS
SA REUNION
Sunday 23 November, 2025
L - R (rear): Libby Roberts (Parker ’62), Diana Pinkney (Goodson ’65), Prue Jay (Love ’67), Primrose MacAlister (’62)
L - R (front): Sue Vandeleur (Leaver ’57), Liz Vines (’70), Louisa Rose (’87), Karen Anderson (Roper ’76), Kate deRavin (’70)
CLASS OF 1976
50 YEAR REUNION
Sunday 29 March, 2026
WA REUNION
Saturday 9 May, 2026
L - R: Rachael Falloon, Principal, Jenny Matthews (’77), Judith Williams (Gray ’63), Sarah Bentley (Smith ’94)
