ATHolme
FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S PEN: Coming holme
What an extraordinary joy and privilege it is to write to you as the 14th Principal of this exceptional school. From the moment I stepped onto the campus, I have been welcomed with warmth, grace, and an unmistakable sense of belonging.
The smiles of the students, the genuine conversations with parents, and the deep care shown by staff all speak to a school community that is not only thriving but grounded in something truly special.
Moving to the Darling Downs has, in many ways, felt like coming home. I was brought up in the country and the values I learned as a child – authenticity, resilience, kindness, and a strong sense of responsibility to one another – are the same values I see woven through the tartan of this College.
They are lived daily through the actions of our students and staff, especially our boarders whose strength of character and sense of connection enrich the whole school.
Celebrating National Boarders Week recently was a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the significant place boarding holds in our history and in our hearts. The stories, spirit and laughter that filled the week were a beautiful reminder of the importance of community and belonging.
In just a short time, I’ve been privilege to witness the heart of this
school in action. The recent FACETS Art Show was a perfect example – a celebration of creativity, courage, and excellence.
To walk through the gallery and see the work of the artists, including our students, was to be inspired by their talent and joy.
In just a short time, I’ve been privileged to witness the heart of this school in action...
- Dr Leigh Hobart
Excellence here is not simply about achievement, but about growth, engagement, and the pursuit of God-given potential. This is a school that understands the importance of enjoyment in learning – and in life.
Our Christian-centred faith is the foundation upon which everything stands. It informs our approach to care, character, and community. It reminds us of the worth of every individual, the hope we carry into each day and the call to live our lives with purpose and service.
I see this in the way our students support one another and in the respectful and nurturing relationships that define our school culture. Faith here is not an add-on, it is the lens through which we view education, leadership, and life.
I have been deeply moved by the commitment and passion of our staff. It is evident that this is more than a workplace – it is a vocation. The love they have for the school, for their students and for their craft is palpable. It is the careful planning lessons, the words of encouragement, the coaching in the early (or late!) hours and the quiet presence beside a student in need. Their collaboration and tireless dedication make this a place where young women are empowered, supported, and celebrated.
As I look towards the future, I am filled with optimism and hope. This is a school grounded in strong traditions and clear values, yet one that is not afraid to embrace innovation in how we teach, care, and grow.
With a rich sense of purpose and a commitment to excellence, collaboration, respect, and joy, we will continue to nurture a community where every student can thrive.
As John Steinbeck is attributed to writing, “A great teacher is a great artist… teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit.” I believe the same can be said of leadership in schools. It is both a privilege and responsibility to walk alongside young people as they discover who they are and who they are becoming.
I look forward to sharing in that journey with you and building upon the remarkable legacy of this community, together.
Dr Leigh Hobart | Principal
The Fairholme Open Art Prize 2025 facets
10 minutes with Ebbeny Williams Cherry
What is your role in Midnight: The Cinderella Musical?
I have the honour of playing the lead role – Cinderella. I’m really excited to bring this character to life on stage.
Describe your character - how different/similar is she from you?
Cinderella is very head strong and always looking to make the world a better place, not necessarily for her own gain, but for those around her. I admire that quality, and she’s definitely someone I aspire to be more like as I move through life.
How do you get into your character?
To step into character, I try to fully imagine the situation my character is facing and try to picture myself in their shoes. Understanding how they would feel in those moments.
Have you had a lot of previous experience in theatre?
Yes, a lot of experience. I’ve been fortunate enough to perform in at least one musical every year for the past 13 years. Performing has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember.
How have you found the coproduction experience with Toowoomba Grammar School?
It’s been a great way to make new friends with people who share a love for the performing arts. It’s also fun to work with a different group of people who you wouldn’t normally have the opportunity to work with.
What has been your favourite part of the experience so far?
My favourite part of the experience has been watching my fellow cast members grow into their characters. Seeing everyone gain confidence and get more comfortable with themselves and their roles has been really rewarding. Watching them come alive makes it all more fun.
Is singing and acting something you would like to pursue in the future?
Music is definitely a passion of mine, particularly singing, and I’d love to continue with it in the future. While acting isn’t my focus,
I’ve grown to enjoy it through my theatre experiences.
What is the best part about being involved in The Arts at Fairholme?
Being part of The Arts at Fairholme means being part of a close-knit, supportive community you can rely on. No matter what’s happening in your school or home life, you know you have people around you who understand and uplift you.
Catch Ebbeny and the talented cast of Midnight: The Cinderella Musical on stage at The Empire Theatre 5-6 June. Tickets on sale now from the Empire Theatre Box Office.
National Boarding Week
Dynamic Dramatic Duo
School mates cast in lead roles for the Empire Theatre’s 2025 Junior Impact Production
When Phoebe Hohn and Sammy Cheetham auditioned for this year’s Junior Impact Production, Soul Trading, they had no idea they’d be cast opposite each other in two of the show’s leading roles. Set in the year 2079, Soul Trading is a futuristic play that explores a world where every child’s future is shaped by their personal learning robot – except for one.
Phoebe plays Geri, a quirky and fiercely independent girl who refuses to follow the AI-dominated path everyone else is on. ‘Geri doesn’t have a bot like the others. She’s different, and she’s proud of it,’ says Phoebe. ‘I love playing someone who questions everything and isn’t afraid to go her own way.’
Her co-star, Sammy, takes on the complex role of Neutron, a clever and rebellious robot who doesn’t quite fit the mould. ‘Neutron is actually an illegal robot that Geri secretly 3D printed,’ Sammy explains. ‘She’s bright, ambitious, and wants to live a free life – but Geri tricks her into thinking she’ll die if she leaves.’
Throughout the show, Neutron cleverly manipulates both humans and bots to bend the rules and follow her lead.
For Sammy, this is her second year involved in the Junior Impact Ensemble. ‘Last year, I was part of Our Egg Named Larry, and I absolutely fell in love with the program,’ she says. ‘That experience made me want to audition again this year, and I was thrilled to receive one of the main roles.’
Phoebe and Sammy, who are also speech and drama partners, supported each other through the audition process and have relished the opportunity to bring this fast-paced, futuristic story to life together. Their characters’ dynamic is central to the narrative, and their real-life friendship brings depth and energy to every rehearsal.
With the production set to hit the Armitage Centre stage this July, both students say the experience has pushed them creatively and helped them grow in confidence. ‘Performing in a space like the Armitage is a dream,’ Phoebe says. ‘It’s exciting and a little bit surreal.’
We can’t wait to see Phoebe and Sammy shine on stage as Geri and Neutron – two bold characters in a brave new world.
AROUND THE GROUNDS
Swimmers make a splash!
QRSS State Swimming Championships
Congratulations to all 18 Fairholme swimmers who represented the Darling Downs with pride at the Queensland Representative School Sport State Championships, a sensational effort by all!
It rained Gold for Mackenzie Grimes who placed 1st in the 50m, 100m and 200m Backstroke in the 17-19yrs age group and Bronze in the Medley Relay Team. Mia Geise took out the Bronze medal position in both the 50m & 100m Breaststroke.
Best of luck to Mackenzie and Mia who will now represent Queensland at Nationals to be held in July.
Australian Age Championships
An exciting week at the Australian Age & MC Nationals for our FAST Swimmers. Mia Geise made four finals and broke two Open Australian Records for her class in the Breaststroke events. She achieved Bronze in 50m Breaststroke, 4th in 100m Breaststroke, 5th in 50m Backstroke and 5th in 100m Backstroke.
Mackenzie Grimes claimed two podium finishes with 3rd place in the 100m Backstroke in a new personal best of 1:03.71, and 3rd in the 50m Backstroke.
Cross Country success
Queensland All Schools
Our Fairholme Cross Country squad had a muddy day out at the Queensland All Schools Cross Country meet. Our 13-19 Years girls placed a fantastic 3rd in the Secondary Girls competition!
Special mention to our top individual performers:
11 Years: Eden Broksch – 4th
13 Years: Lucy Barnes – 1st
16 Years: Abi Barnes – 9th
18 Years: Mackenzi Schefe – 4th
Andrews Cup Cross Country
Our Junior School Cross Country team
brought the Fairholme spirit to Ipswich for the Andrews Cup Cross Country! We’re so proud to share that our girls placed third in the Percentage Cup – an outstanding achievement that reflects their determination and teamwork.
DD Cross Country Champions
Fairholme is once again the Darling Downs Cross Country Champion Girls School! Congratulations to our Cross Country squad on a sensational day at the Darling Downs Trials yesterday. Fairholme took out the team medal in every age group!
Best of luck to our 20 athletes who’ve now been selected to represent the region at the Queensland Representative School Sport State Championships in July.
11 Years: Eden Broksch
13 Years: Lucy Barnes, Kate McDonald and Lucy Doolin
14 Years: Hannah Barton
15 Years: Addison Attrill, Ava Buckley and Amara Clemens
16 Years: Abi Barnes, Layla Magarey and Lexi Davey
17 Years: Julia Wainwright, Evie Armstrong, Alex Edwards and Rose Ramia
18 Years: Mackenzi Schefe, Adelaide Taylor, Georgia Mann and Priya Garcha
Multi-Class: Mia Giese
Range Zone Cross Country
Well done to our 10-12 Years team that competed at the Range Zone Cross Country Carnival. Special mention to our three runners who placed in the Top 6 and have been selected to attend the Darling Downs trials.
10 Years: Adeline Martin – 5th Place, Jaimee Sessarago – 6th Place
11 Years: Eden Broksch – 2nd Place
Range Zone Cross Country teamAdeline Martin, Jaimee Sessarago, Maya Roberts, Kitty Davies, Eden Broksch, Madison Conwell, Maggie House, Ella Pauli, Pippy Miller, Zara Frame, Evie
Brassington, Annie Campbell, Grace Grams, Evie Nairn, Chloe Roughan and Rory Southern.
Australian Athletics Championships
Gold medals for Year 7 student
Over the holidays Year 7 student Emily Carrigan won two gold medals at the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth!
Emily won both the U13 Women’s Discus and Shot Put. With a throw of 37.27m in the Discus, Emily broke the Queensland Record and Australian Athletics Championship Record. Year 9 student Amara Clemens made the final in the U16 Women’s 800m, placing 7th in Australia as well as competing in the 400m and placing 15th.
Netball Australia National Squads Selection celebration
A very big congratulations to Year 11 student Simoné Botha, and recent Fairholme Old Girl Amy Williams, on their selection in the Netball Australia National Squads!
Their standout performances at the National Championships have earned them a spot among the next generation of elite netballers. Simoné will come together with the 17/U Squad at the Australian Institute of Sport in July, with Amy to attend the 19/U camp in September.
Fairholme Interschool Equestrian Event
Annual interschool competition
Congratulations to our Equestrian families on another fantastic Fairholme Dressage and Show Jumping competition.
The annual Interschool competition held at the Pittsworth Showgrounds over the weekend was a big success and we are proud to announce that after two days of competition, our girls were awarded Champion Dressage team and Reserve
Champion Show Jumping team.
Champion Dressage Team - Isabella Ostwald, Geneva Searle, Jemima Southwood, Hayley Richter
Reserve Champion Show Jumping Team - Adelaide Gilbert, Lucy Doolin, Jemima Southwood, Geneva Searle
Dressage:
Isabella Ostwald - Champion Secondary Advanced and Secondary Medium
Hayley Richter - Reserve Champion Intermediate Novice
Geneva Searle - Reserve Champion and 3rd Senior Secondary Novice
Jemima Southwood - 3rd Secondary Elementary
Bianca Bruggemann - 3rd Senior Secondary Preliminary
Lucy Doolin – 4th Intermediate Novice
Show Jumping:
Adelaide Gilbert - Champion Secondary 100cm
Felicity Piccini - 3rd Secondary 60cm
Lucy Doolin - 3rd Secondary 90cm
Arabella Muenster – 4th Secondary 60cm
Kate McDonald – 5th Secondary 60cm
Hayley Richter – 5th Secondary 90cm
Jemima Southwood – 5th Secondary 110cm
Representative School Sport Selections
Congratulations to the following students who have been selected in Representative School Sport teams: Queensland Swimming
13-19 Years – Mia Geise and Mackenzie Grimes
Darling Downs Rugby 7s
15-16 Years – Scarlett Sippel, Ella Williams
17-18 Years – Carla Nobbs, Gracie Johnston, Issy Johnston
Darling Downs Touch Football
13-15 Years – Ruby Richardson, Lucy Dewar, Romy Wilson, Sophie McMaster
16-19 Years – Tayla Kauter, Maggie Walker, Carla Nobbs, Gracie Johnston,
Scarlett Sippel, Julia Wainwright
Range Zone Cross Country 10 Years – Adeline Martin, Jaimee Sessarago 11 Years – Eden Broksch
Ria Thompson Motivates Junior Girls to Dream Big
Our Junior School girls had the incredible opportunity to meet Olympic Bronze Medallist, Ria Thompson! Ria shared her inspirational journey from a country girl who loved every sport, but didn’t find
her true success until she discovered rowing. Her story reminded our girls that perseverance and resilience are just as important as talent.
Her favourite quote, “I never lose. I either win or learn” (Nelson Mandela), set the tone for an afternoon full of encouragement and grit.
The visit wasn’t all talk, Ria also put the girls to the test with a squat challenge, giving them a taste of the strength and stamina it takes to be a rower!
Thank you, Ria, for inspiring the next generation to dream big, work hard, and embrace every challenge.
IN THE ARTS
Ebbeny’s Vocal Victories
Over the Easter Weekend, Year 12 student Ebbeny Williams-Cherry competed in no-less-than 11 vocal sections at the 130th Queensland Eisteddfod in Ipswich. Winning the Mezzo Soprano/Contralto Championship for 18 years or over, she went on to compete in two other over 18 Championship sections, taking third place in both the Art Song and Oratorio / Sacred Contata Solo finals against other competitors some 20 years her senior. Ebbeny has also the most of her last Toowoomba Vocal Eisteddfod, winning a swag of awards, including:
• Winner of the Miss Madge Chamberlin Memorial Trophy Aggregate (Open Music theatre, Open Australian Solo and Open Italian Solo)
• Winner of the John Penny Memorial Trophy Aggregate (Grade 11 and 12 Vocal Solo, Australian Solo and Music Theatre Solo)
• 1st Year 11 or 12 Music Theatre Performance Solo and Winner of the Mary and Ron Bradley Trophy
• Runner up Years 10 to 12 Vocal Championship
• 1st Open Australian Composer Solo
• 2nd Year 12 Vocal Solo
• 2nd Open Oratorio
• 2nd Open Music Theatre Performance Solo
• 2nd Open Sacred Solo
• 2nd Adult Any Other Genre Solo
• 3rd Year 11 or 12 Australian Composer Solo
• HC Open Modern Ballad Solo
Choral Music Camp
Members of our College and Chamber choirs travelled to the QCCC Brookfield for our annual Choral Music Camp. The College Choir girls were focused on their repertoire for the upcoming Eisteddfod, whilst our specialist Chamber Choir enjoyed the challenge of new repertoire. Guest Opera Singer and Conservatorium Lecturer, Mrs Ireni Utley, provided a wonderful masterclass on how to enhance our vocal performances. Thank you to Mr Dixon, Mrs Lebsanft, Mrs Thomson and Mrs Wighton for giving their own time to provide this fabulous opportunity for our girls.
Toowoomba Eisteddfod Part 1
Please join us in congratulating our many students who participated in the Toowoomba Eisteddfod this weeK!
Choral Music Ensemble Results
Fairholme College Middle Voices: 1st Place Middle School Choir
Fairholme College Middle Voices: 2nd Place Middle School Vocal Ensemble
Fairholme College Year 5/6 Choir: 2nd Place Primary School B Grade Choir
Fairholme College Choir: 3rd Place Secondary School Hymn Singing Choir
Fairholme College Year 3/4 Choir: 3rd Place Primary School P-4 A Grade
Junior Choir
Fairholme College Year 1/2 Choir: 3rd Place Primary School P-4 B Grade
Junior Choir
Fairholme Junior Chorale: Highly Commended Primary School A Grade Choir
Fairholme Chamber Choir: Highly Commended Secondary School Folk Singing Ensemble
Fairholme College Choir: Highly Commended Secondary School Choir
Don’t missMidnight: The Cinderella Musical on stage on 5-6 June. Tickets on sale now from the Empire Theatre Box Office.
Choir Camp 2025
Grace’s grand jete into the world of ballet
From the moment she could walk, Grace Andersen was dancing. At just two years old, she took her first ballet class, not quite knowing that her tiny feet were stepping onto the path of a lifelong passion. ‘I didn’t always love it,’ she admits, ‘but I did it anyway.’ It wasn’t until a change of schools in Year 1, moving to JE Dance , that Grace fell in love with dance in a whole new way.
She thought ballet was the only style out there, until she discovered contemporary, jazz, and more. But ballet always held her heart. ‘There’s just something about it,’ Grace says. ‘I like the structure. With ballet, you need the right technique, it’s disciplined. That’s what I love.’
Now, ballet is more than a hobby; it’s a central part of Grace’s daily life. She trains nearly every day. Monday through Friday at JE, and on Thursdays she leaves school early to travel to Brisbane for coaching with Classical Coaching Australia. ‘It started this year,’ she says, ‘and I’ve already learned so much.’
This dedication recently led Grace to one of the most exciting moments of her young careerbeing cast in Queensland Ballet’s Coppélia during its regional performance in Toowoomba.
‘At first, Mum and I thought it would be like any other show,’ Grace recalls. ‘But then we had to fill out forms with bank account details, that’s when we realised it was something more.’
And it was. Grace was cast in not one, but two roles: the opening dancer as Little Coppélia, and a Smith sister in the village scene.
‘It was such a big surprise. When the curtain went up, I was the
first dancer on stage. It was amazing.’
Performing with Queensland Ballet offered Grace more than just a moment in the spotlight, it gave her a glimpse into the world she dreams of joining. ‘Just seeing everyone there… it showed me what it would be like to be a professional dancer, which is what I’ve wanted since I was really little.’
Her ultimate dream? To dance with the Paris Opera Ballet, and one day become a ballet mistress, coaching and mentoring future dancers in a top company.
‘But first, I want to get into a good ballet school or academy,’ she says. ‘It takes a lot of practice. On weekends, I bring my ballet ball out to the living room and stretch or do rises while watching TV.’
Grace doesn’t just talk about hard work, she lives it. Her weeks are full, her schedule demanding, but her love for ballet never wavers.
‘You definitely have to be strong and fit and flexible, but most of all, you have to love it.’
While she doesn’t have a famous ballerina idol, she finds inspiration closer to home.
‘My mum was a dancer. She went on pointe and everything. She didn’t perform in shows like I do, but she helps me, and I really look up to her.’
Up next, Grace is preparing for her role in The Fairy Queen with Brisbane City Youth Ballet this winter. It’s her third time with the company, and she’s already setting her sights on what comes next. Because for Grace, ballet isn’t just a series of steps, it’s the rhythm of her future.
