Verity - May 2024 - Issue 48 by Loreto College Ballarat

MAY 2024 ISSUE 48

Cover Image

2024 Loreto College Value of Sincerity artwork created by student Ellie Cowland.

Inside Cover Image

Loreto College students cheering on the Spit Crew for Head of the Lake Rowing Regatta.

Editorial Team

Jayde Harrington, Narelle Mulrooney, Kellie Rudlin, Michelle Brodrick & Blaise Katherine

Photography

Liz Crothers, Paul Shire, MSP, H Studios, staff and student photos

Design

Narelle Mulrooney

Revolution Print

Contributions to Verity can be sent to: Loreto College Ballarat

The Marketing & Development Office 1600 Sturt Street Ballarat VIC 3350 or verity@loreto.vic.edu.au

FEATURES

MARY WARD CONNECT AND THE LORETO PILGRIMAGE 14

Two programs that unite all Australian Loreto schools, aiming to strengthen the deep connection with Mary Ward, following the path and learning about her innovative ideas on women’s roles in the church and education.

WOMEN IN TIME - INSPIRING ALUMNI INDUCTEES 2024 20

The Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni Initiative is now in its fourth year and it continues to recognise the remarkable accomplishments and inspiration provided by 149 years of Loreto College Ballarat graduates.

Loreto College’s Year 12 student, Erin Almeida, embraces our theme of Sincerity in 2024 by turning her real-life experiences into fits of laughter, performing at the 2024 Melbourne Comedy Festival. 24 20

28 14

THE GREEN LITTLE FLOWER 24

Converting the 1930s church into a modern and sustainable education facility is a key feature of the Strategic Plan and paramount for complicance heading into 2024.

ERIN PILOTS TO THE MELBOURNE COMEDY FESITVAL 28

In 2024, the Loreto community in Australia celebrates the value of Sincerity. At Loreto College Ballarat our motto for the year is ‘We walk as one’.

As a theme, this can be interpreted in many different ways, but ultimately we can all be encouraged to come together as a united team and ‘Walk as one’ to face our challenges and celebrate our successes.

Ellie Cowland (pictured above), currently in Year 11, worked with the Faith and Identity team to bring these understandings to an artwork featuring on our badge that all students received at the beginning of the year.

Ellie represented our College through the use of our traditional Loreto symbols depicted in a mordern setting, encouraging us all to remain authentic and ‘Walk as one’.

We walk a s one

From the Principal

Words by Michelle Brodrick

Sincerity is the value of truth, and the value of being truthful. Sincerity in our communication and relationships with others is an essential characteristic...”

Our Loreto College values are at the heart of all our endeavours. We embrace the values of Freedom, Justice, Sincerity, Verity and Felicity and through them foster a mutual respect and deep understanding of the individual, and a compassion for the broader community. This year Loreto College celebrates the year of ‘Sincerity’ alongside our theme: ‘We walk as one.’

Sincerity is the value of truth, and the value of being truthful. Sincerity in our communication and relationships with others is an essential characteristic of the personal integrity Mary Ward envisaged. Her ideal was that we should:

‘Be such as we appear and appear such as we are.’

Loreto College has a strong and proud tradition of educating students. Our history lies in the spirit of Mary Ward –a courageous and determined visionary who recognised the critical difference education could make to young women – and in Mother Gonzaga Barry, who was an exemplar for expansion and innovation when she arrived in Ballarat in 1875 and established the first Loreto College in Australia. Mother Gonzaga Barry’s vision was as ambitious as it was brilliant. She embraced educational initiatives and had a profound influence on those around her, urging them to: ‘Leave after you something on which others may build.’

It is with that spirit and ambition that Loreto College is embarking on its vision for the future. Following the initial master

planning of our Lucas site, our attention is now on the beautiful heritage buildings at our Mary’s Mount campus that remains an important part of the Loreto College Ballarat story. Preserving these buildings and ensuring they meet the current and future demands of our students will form the basis of our Mary’s Mount master plan.

Our framework to guide the development of our master plan aims to inspire, innovate and empower future generations of Loreto College students, emboldened by our sense of faith and community to enable our students to thrive.

As you may know, some of these works have already commenced. Our Lift Project is well underway to provide greater accessibility to the St Anne’s Wing, Residential Wing and Quadrangle, as well as underpinning work to ensure the structural integrity of the building at 1536 Sturt St; a residential property purchased by the College in 2007.

What began nearly 150 years ago is now being reimagined. We now have the opportunity to continue to develop the Mary’s Mount campus with the courage of Mary Ward and the ambition of Mother Gonzaga Barry. As we look towards our 150-year celebrations in 2025, I know that what we do today will continue to make a difference in the education of our Loreto College students well into the future.

MESSAGES FROM LORETO

From the College Captains

Words by Isabella Davies and Stephanie Jenks

As College

Captains, we are honoured to lead our College, as we walk as one Community into a bright future.”

2024 is our year of walking as one, with Sincerity being our focus value.

Sincerity allows individuals to be their true, authentic selves and encourages our actions to reflect our words. As College Captains, we are honoured to lead our College, as we walk as one Community into a bright future. Continuing a legacy created by College Captains before us, it is our privilege to build our own legacy, one we hope radiates school spirit and unites all year levels.

Our 2024 Senate has created a trademark – ‘H.E.R T.I.P’, which stands for ‘have trust, embrace inclusivity and radiate passion’. This not only reflects how we hope to lead our College, but also how we treat each other. We feel so privileged to get the opportunity to collaborate with the incredible Senate members in 2024, bringing new ideas, passion and perspectives to our College. Our College is in its second year of a new student leadership structure, which includes

16 members on the Senate. Working alongside 14 other amazing portfolio representatives is an exciting opportunity. The energy, enthusiasm and love for Loreto College that is shared amongst this group is something that we believe will empower us to make 2024 a memorable year for all. This love for Loreto College and its Community is something that guides the student leadership team in all that we do. Bringing individual ideas to life as a team, and having an enthusiastic approach to College events has been amazing. We look forward to working together with our fellow Senate members and leading our College for the remainder of the year.

Term 1 has seen the whole College embrace and celebrate our Loreto Spirit at some of our most loved events. Celebrating old traditions and introducing new ones. The Loreto Community has not disappointed, with their unwavering spirit and enthusiasm. Both the Swimming Carnival and Athletics Carnival proved

once again how competitive House Spirit can come to life! Whether it was participating in events, or on the side of the pool and track cheering with fellow students, embracing the true House Spirit and creating a successful day. Additionally, College retreats and camps, as well as inter-school competitions such as the Respect Cup football match, have seen Loreto College students proudly representing the College with enthusiasm and passion. Our hearts have been so warmed, and we are filled with pride as we see how each student embraces the Loreto culture in the year of 2024.

As Year 12s, we have been extremely excited to experience the Year 12 traditions we have been waiting for since we were young Loreto College students. From spreading love on Valentines Day, where we danced together in the front gardens, to receiving our Year 12 hoodies and Year 12 badges from the Past Pupils’ Association, the unity and desire to leave a lasting legacy in 2024 has been felt.

Head of the Lake has been a major highlight so far, characterised by the enthusiastic and resounding support

exhibited by our Year 12 Spit Crew for our Loreto College rowers, alongside the dedicated athletes from fellow Ballarat schools. The Loreto College and wider Ballarat community rallied together to support and share our respect and admiration for the committed rowers, and our Spit Crew certainly showed up! There is nothing quite like a boat race to bring people together (and to lose your voice from the cheering)!

Our International Women’s Day breakfast presented us with the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of inspiring Loreto College Alumni, which filled us with immense pride to be a part of the Loreto Ballarat story. These remarkable individuals exemplified resilience and determination as they navigated challenges in pursuit of their passions. With their endeavours aligning with the attitudes of Mary Ward, they embody her spirit of service, passion and compassion. With this year’s theme of International Women’s Day being ‘Count Her In’, we aspire to ‘count in’ all Loreto College students to walk as one throughout this year. It highlighted to us how privileged we are to experience

a Loreto College education, and has motivated us to continue to work hard, so we too can make a positive impact on those around us, and be empowering women in society.

Reflecting on our first term, we are so proud of students for embracing opportunities and striving to be the best version of themselves.

Guided by Mary Ward’s vision to ‘be such as we appear and appear such as we are’, it is our vision to empower our fellow students to be their true authentic selves and be positive change makers within the Loreto College and wider community.

It is our hope that every member of the Loreto College Ballarat Community feels valued, respected and included. Above all, particularly in our year of Sincerity, it is our goal that all members of our College Community feel that they can be their true selves.

We look forward to continuing the year with Sincerity and may the year bring new experiences, nurture friendships, provide new learning opportunities and provide a chance for goals to be achieved.

The 2024 Senate – Top Row: Olivia Parnell, Ella McCormack, Remy Callender, Stephanie Jenks, Isabella Davies, Georgia Halstead, Tia Kinnersly, Chloe Cook, Demi Anwyl. Bottom Row: Holly Boyd, Lucy Eales, Rosie Hunt, Bridgette O’Brien, Phoebe Crawley, Milly Wakefield, Hannah McCrum.

Around Loreto

First Day of School

All our students were warmly welcomed for the first day of school in person by our Senate on the morning of Thursday 1 February, 2024. Popular music was played on the loud speaker, providing a very fun and engaging atmosphere to the morning. We welcomed our new Year 7s for the very first time, and they were personally guided to their lockers by the Senate where they were treated to some welcoming post-it notes with some words of encouragement.

We also celebrated the day with an Indigenous Smoking Ceremony and Opening College Mass, where the new students received their House badges as well as celebrating our Year 12s in their final year.

Swimming Carnival

The 2024 Swimming Carnival, as always, was a highlyspirited occasion. The Houses battled competitively throughout the day in the assortment of swimming events and fun novelty events. Mornane was crowned the overall House Champion and the coveted Year 12 synchronised swimming prize was as fierce as ever, with Mulhall Miami taking out this year’s win. Barry won the Spirit Stick for their cheer and good spirits throughout the day.

Athletics Carnival

When you looked around at Llanberris on Wednesday 13 March, it was a hard choice of which event to watch at our annual Athletics Carnival. With field, track and novelty events happening throughout the day, it was a fantastic day filled with plenty of House Spirit. Barry showed off their House Spirit, winning the Spirit Stick. Congratulations to Ward who had an impressive clean sweep of the Junior, Intermediate and Senior aggregate, taking out the 2024 Athletics Carnival overall!

The Western Bulldogs Visit Loreto College

At the end of February, our Year 10 and Year 11 students received a visit from two Western Bulldogs AFL players, Bailey Dale and Taylor Duryea, who talked about the Youth Leadership Project and their AFL careers. The students were then treated to a Q&A with the players –a very rewarding experience for all.

Environmental Science

During February, our newly-formed elective subject for 2024 – Year 10 Environmental Science – ventured to Lake Wendouree to gather scientific samples for further analysis back in the College Lab. Those who were game, in the name of science, donned some waders and ventured into the marshy shallows. Testing water turbidity, pH and salinity levels while catching insects and noting wildlife ware the aims of the day.

It is planned that this subject will be offered in VCE from 2025 following a growing demand for Environmental and Agricultural Sciences.

The Head of the Lake (Ballarat) Regatta in late February was extremely successful with Loreto College recording 11 wins and the Premiership Cup for the best girls school, including a clean sweep of all Year 9 events. The next major regatta was the Head of School Girls at Geelong. With over 2000 girls competing across the three-day event, it was sure to be a test for the crews. Again they performed with distinction; 14 of the 17 crews making either A or B finals and medalling in five, including three gold medals in the open senior fours events. This placed Loreto College Ballarat second in Victoria. We look forward to another amazing season starting in Term 4 this year.

Head of the Lake

The Lift Project Progress

During Term 1, we saw (and felt) the demolition of part of the 1950s concrete balcony and staircase to make room for the new lift. The floor levels of the remaining balconies have been raised to meet educational standards for better accessibility, with windows added for weatherproofing.

Some new paint and minor renovations will make the St Anne’s Wing classrooms feel like new (well, almost). The quad concrete was removed to allow for a new base that will provide better accessibility all around the area. It has been fantastic to see the old and original features of the Residency Building, which haven’t been in clear view for over 70 years.

What’s New

Welcome to Adele

We are pleased to welcome Adele Ryan as Assistant Principal: Learning and Innovation to Loreto College Ballarat. Adele has held a number of senior leadership positions in the area of Teaching Learning and Innovation in the Middle School and Senior School at Ballarat Grammar, along with research roles and the Director of Leadership and Service. She has also taught at St Patrick’s College, St Martin’s in the Pines (Damascus) and Ballarat and Clarendon College. Adele has significant expertise in the area of staff professional growth programs, instructional coaching, leading instructional learning models across multiple schools and leading chairs of faculty through many significant projects.

“My journey as a teacher has been guided and supported by my family and the many outstanding leaders, teachers and students that I’ve worked with over the years. Having been educated by the sisters of Mercy in Warrnambool and then mentored by the Loreto sisters, whilst residing at St Mary’s College at the University of Melbourne, I was privileged by a faith-based, well-rounded education.

I moved to Ballarat over thirty years ago and have had the opportunity to teach in Catholic and Independent Schools, most recently at Ballarat Grammar. During that time, I have been fortunate to work in a number of pastoral, academic and leadership

roles and have taught mainly in the areas of Science, Biology and RE.

I am thrilled to now be a part of the Loreto College Community with its focus on educating, supporting and inspiring the next generation of young women to walk in the footsteps of Mary Ward.

After one term as a member of the Loreto College Community, I have been struck by the way in which the entire Community embraces and honours the legacies of Mary Ward and Mother Gonzaga Barry.

This is a College that reflects on its past with pride, lives out its values in the present, and is conscious of paving a path for the future. As a

result, the core values, Freedom, Justice, Sincerity, Verity and Felicity, will continue to be lived out in the present and in the years to come.

I am very excited to be a part of this dynamic community, where my focus is on Learning and Innovation with the strategic priorities of Learning Culture, Learning Growth and Student Agency. Through these priorities, we are maintaining Mother Gonzaga Barry’s pioneering broad curriculum and holistic education, so that our students will continue to ‘make the world a better place for having lived in it’.”

Adele Ryan

Assistant Principal: Learning and Innovation.

Students in Action

Top Class Dance 2024

Top Class Dance 2024 presents the strength, energy, beauty and passion of dance.

Showcasing and celebrating young dancers from across Victoria, Top Class Dance 2024 presents exceptional performance solos from the 2023 VCE and VET Dance programs. Compered by Chief Assessors, the concerts provide diverse examples of top performing students and offer insights into the process of preparing for VCE performance examinations. The program highlights high-achieving performances from a range of VCE and VET Dance styles.

Lions Youth of the Year

Lions Youth of the Year is a prestigious competition for wellrounded students who are looking for challenging opportunities. Isabella Rossato – Year 11 and Lucy Eales –Year 12 represented Loreto College Ballarat at the Buninyong Club on Monday 19 February.

The competition involves rigorous interviews discussing their extensive involvement in school and extra curricular activities, leadership

positions and awards they have received. They also need to speak about current issues in our local area and global topics. The competition concludes with a prepared speech. Isabella spoke about gender equality while Lucy spoke about ‘Yarning’.

We congratulate Lucy, who was awarded Best Speaker and Overall Winner at both the local event and the Regional Final held in March.

Number One in Tennis

A huge congratulations to Charlotte Prendergast, who won the Senior Henderson Shield Grand Final on Thursday 29 February. Charlotte won the semi-final against Grammar, scoring 8-4, and then the grand final against Damascus, scoring 6-2 and 6-2! Last year, Charlotte was runners up, so she is very

VCE Dance student Millie Wakefield was selected for the Top Class VCE Performance. Students nominated for this performance are selected because they are deemed the top 2% in the state for their work in this discipline. Millie worked with themes and ideas personal to her, used practised and refined dance technique and contemporary choreography.

Loreto College, Mrs Lindy Crowe and the Arts Faculty commend Millie for her determination and creativity.

Millie performed at Top Class Dance on Wednesday 6 March at the Melbourne Recital Centre.

proud to finally achieve this feat in Year 11, leaving one more year to win it again.

Loreto College Ballarat can proudly display this huge plaque for the 2024 season in their trophy cabinet!

Respect Cup

On Friday 8 March, we hosted the Respect Cup that saw Loreto College Ballarat, Sacred Heart College (Geelong), St Joseph’s College (Geelong) and St Patrick’s College (Ballarat) take to Mars Stadium for the fourth Respect Cup competition. In a day focused on building respectful relationships and promoting International Women’s Day, it was great to see each school celebrating each other.

Our students always look forward to being involved in this event, particularly with the important message behind the day. Shoutout to all our footy superstars who did us proud, with a special mention to the Loreto College best-on-ground player and captain, Isabella Davies.

In the end, St Patrick’s defeated St Joseph’s and Sacred Heart won against Loreto College. After combining the scores of both games, the Respect Cup heads back to Geelong.

POW Memorial

On Sunday 11 February, College Captains Stephanie and Isabella represented Loreto College at the 20th anniversary of the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial in the Botanical Gardens. The memorial opened on 6 February, 2004 and was established to remember Australians who became Prisoners of War during the 20th Century. As a College, we were proud to be involved in the ceremony by laying a wreath of remembrance alongside the broader community. Pictured are Stephanie and Isabella with the wonderful Year 6 representatives from Siena Catholic Primary School, Lucas.

Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute

During April, two of our Year 11 students, Bethany Atherton and Danielle Graafmans, attended a work experience program at the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Centre.

Recognising that young people are the future star scientists, the Centre has developed a program that engages students in the reality of day-to-day in a working laboratory.

The students are pictured here processing patient samples, which will be stored as live cells in liquid nitrogen at a temperature of -200° Celsius and used for research at a later date. This is a fundamental component to research into the immunology of cancer, benefitting the treatment of all cancers.

Mary Ward Connect

Words by Emma Kilpatrick

The program offers students the chance to share in the kindred spirit of Mary Ward and the legacy she has left for us all.”

Established in 2009, the Mary Ward Connect Program is intended to develop further connectedness between the Loreto schools in Australia. The annual three-day program sees each school welcome visitors from two Loreto schools. This year Loreto College Ballarat was paired with Loreto Mandeville Hall (Toorak) and Loreto Normanhurst. 16 students from Loreto College Ballarat were selected to visit Toorak and Normanhurst, and another 16 students assisted in our buddy program held here in Ballarat for the respective Colleges.

The overarching intention of the program is to provide visiting staff and students the chance to gain a firsthand insight into life at the College, and the opportunity to experience some of what Ballarat has to offer. The program offers students the chance to share in the kindred spirit of Mary Ward, and the legacy she has left for us all. It was wonderful to see our students wholly engage in the activities offered through the week.

Our Year 10s engaged in tours of the College, an online session with the other Loreto schools, an excursion to Sovereign Hill and a Moonlight Cinema held in our beautiful Antoinette Hayden Library. Each of these activities were ably supported by our Ballarat buddies.

One of the most encouraging outcomes of the week was the connections developed between our students and the friendships we hope will continue over the years.

Here is a reflection from one of our students who experienced Loreto Toorak:

‘My experience in Mary Ward Connect was nothing short of amazing, from the teacher, my peers and the other Loreto girls that I met were all an experience that I will value deeply. Loreto College Ballarat is an amazing school to be a part of but nevertheless the difference from our College to other Loreto Schools are sometimes unnoticed. My experience at Loreto Toorak was quite contrasting from our Ballarat Loreto, from their cafe to their school uniform you can notice how we are so similar, but different. I enjoyed getting the opportunity to explore the College grounds with my Toorak buddy who showed their amazing pools, gym, gymnastics area, basketball courts as well as their kinder and primary school area all in one large area of the College.

My Mary Ward Connect experience would have not reached the amazing extent it did without the amazing company of my fellow peers who joined me. To say the least, we made amazing memories with our teachers, exploring Melbourne, navigating our way through the trams, eating amazing food and always finding a way to have a good laugh. The teachers that accompanied us on this experience were the most comforting, collaborative and wonderful two teachers we could have asked for. We created connections not only with the Loreto Toorak school and the girls there, but within our peers and teachers.

To any students in the coming years that are curious about participating in Mary Ward Connect, I would only say do it! There is nothing to lose in this opportunity but everything to gain, the memories with peers and the connections and friendships you make with other Loreto students are so deeply valuable. To all the students that are considering or planning to attend Mary Ward Connect in Year 10, 100% apply, get involved and have an amazing experience.’

Mahima Sara-Moncy – Year 10

Pictured from top left: students at Loreto Normanhurst. Students visit the beach in Sydney. Centre: students cruise Sydney Harbour. Students at Loreto College Ballarat. Students at Loreto Mandeville Hall (Toorak).

Loreto Pilgrimage

Words

by Christine Shaw and Felicity Knobel

There is no such difference between men and women that women may not do great things...” Mary Ward

In all Loreto schools we feel the deep connection with Mary Ward. Her legacy lies in her advocacy and pioneering work for women’s education and unique role in religious life and in the founding of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A courageous and intrepid pilgrim of the 17th century, she faced significant opposition and persecution for her unconventional ideas and approaches.

We recently attended the first Mary Ward Pilgrimage since COVID with 21 other pilgrims. An inner exploration of our hearts and souls, we physically travelled important places in the UK and Europe together on a journey of spiritual development. Along the way, we learned much about the path of Mary and her innovative ideas on women’s roles in the church and education.

Locations, lessons and reflection of significant places travelled, where Mary Ward’s life unfolded and developed revealed her life and legacy. We visited, houses and Convents of the Loreto Sisters and historical sites, such as her birthplace, where she lived and worked, sought refuge and found peace. The many Churches and shrines we explored showed us the importance of each stage of a spiritual journey where we pieced together the discerning and pivotal moments in Mary’s reflection and decision making. Educational Institutions and the

many connections she made revealed her passion for education and the need for girls to have opportunities with appropriate provisions for these.

We commenced our journey at the Bar Convent in York (UK), established in secret in 1686 when Catholicism was illegal. Now home to the order known as the Congregation of Jesus, they opened the first school for girls in England all whilst hiding their true identity. Here we spent time in the Hidden Chapel, and the Convent piecing together this historical chapter and its important place in the story we were to uncover. Our guided pilgrimage through the streets of York and then through Yorkshire allowed us to visit the buildings and reflective spaces

Pictured from top left: Chris and Felicity with Mary Ward’s tombstone in Osbaldwick Church. The Bar Convent in York. Below left: the tour group in Rome. Middle: plaque in St Michaels –The Cross Chapel in Munich. Bottom right: Church in Munich.

known to Mary Ward and her early companions. From here, it was on to London to immerse ourselves in one of the busiest cities in the world, where Mary’s strong will to release herself from any suggestion of marriage was realised, and she was free to make plans to enter religious life.

Next we journeyed by ferry from Dover to Calais and on to Saint-Omer (France) exploring the small and winding cobble-stoned streets where Mary found herself in the monastery of the Poor Clares. This was not a fit for Mary, who suffered greatly during this time as it unfulfilled her spiritually. Here laid the foundations of her own order, as she gathered significant women around her who were prepared to be active and productive in the community free from enclosure. Eventually, departing

for Liege (Belgium), we learned of the troubles and challenges faced with the Institute, and it was not lost on all of us that the weather had turned dark and stormy to emulate this time. On to Munich (Germany) where the snow began to gently fall, seeming to identify a change in Mary’s fortunes where she was again able to rebuild before the huge setback of suppression of the Institute, and her gracious imprisonment as a heretic. Here we viewed the Painted Life, gaining further understanding of her life’s journey. Our final destination – Rome – enlightened us all to the dogged determination of Mary to cross Europe on foot to seek support from the Pope and form an active religious life for women, and for her Institute to have a definitive place in the Church.

All along the journey we learned of Mary’s strong connection with her companions and the Jesuits, and it was fitting that our final Mass be held in the Venerable English College in Rome, where we were welcomed with open arms.

Opposition to Mary Ward’s vision, suppression of her religious order, imprisonment and exile and the struggle for recognition might seem like reasons to give in. Yet we learned that Mary did the exact opposite, she remained steadfast in her beliefs and her unwavering dedication to her mission continues to inspire us all.

Left: ruins in Rome. Top right: Rome. Bottom right: the Ward Family Crest in York.

Top: Chris and Felicity in Rome. Middle: Mt Grace Chapel in Yorkshire. Left: walking the streets of Rome. Bottom right: St Maria Maggiore Church in Rome.

Watch our interviews with our three inductees here or scan the QR code

2024 Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni

Words by Jayde Harrington

In 2024 we once again celebrate three truly inspiring women at our annual Women’s Day Breakfast.”

At our International Women’s Day Breakfast earlier this year, we had the honour of inducting three outstanding Alumni into this initiative. Whether it’s navigating male-dominated industries, helping those in need or contributing to a sustainable future, the following inductees have it covered:

Margot Serch nee Podger (Class of 1955) –Community Service Leadership

Andrea Dennett (Class of 1981) –Community Service Leadership

Grace Mulcahy (Class of 2016) –Young Achiever in STEM

Devotion to those in need

Our first inductee has dedicated her life to helping others. At our breakfast, Margot Serch (Podger) from the Class of 1955 was inducted into the category of Community Service Leadership where she has spent decades volunteering in her local community. Following her time at Loreto Convent, Margot started her career as a nurse at St Vincents Hospital, Melbourne. Not long after she started, a nun spoke to Margot about a gentleman who had a bed card with N.F.P.A. after their name. On inquiry, Margot learned that this meant ‘No Fixed Place of Abode’, which distressed her.

‘I found out this man lived in the gardens across from the hospital. That set a seed in my mind that this is what I wanted to do in later life.’

Once Margot’s children were older, Margot went on to spend 25 years volunteering at St Vincent de Paul Soup Van, which she says were ‘probably the best 25 years of my life’ and became known as a ‘special Vannie’. The manager of the Soup Van, Joseph White, said Margot impacted those in need ‘with love and kindness they will never forget’.

In addition to this, Margot also volunteered with numerous organisations such as Hanover Welfare Services, De Paul House and Wellington House, where she helped rehabilitate people with alcohol use disorders.

Margot’s passion for serving the homeless and underprivileged also led to her being awarded the 2010 Caroline Chisholm Award for volunteer services to the community.

Margot reflected on her time at Loreto Convent, recognising the privilege of attending. In line with this, Margot’s advice to guests was to be aware of this privilege and ‘treat everyone equally. Never believe you are better than anyone else’ and that those in need are often the hardest on themselves.

Margot is a remarkable individual who reminds us that we are all human and can all offer something to those in need, beginning with a simple conversation.

‘So, if you can only reach out and sit and talk, you will be amazed at what you hear and I think it will make you a better person and certainly the person you are talking to.’

Above: the 2024 Women in Time Inductees, Louise Leighton (Margot Serch’s sister who was representing her on the day), Andrea Dennett and Grace Mulcahy.

Caring for the environment

Our second inductee for 2024 is Andrea Dennett (Class of 1981), who joins Margot in the category of Community Service Leadership.

Andrea has shown extraordinary volunteer leadership to the Bellarine Peninsula community in addition to her 30-year career in nursing in Acute Psychiatry, Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Extended Care.

Andrea credits her experience at Loreto College as a time in her life that shaped who she is today. In particular, Andrea reflects on the impact of Sr Margaret Noone who was Principal during Andrea’s middle-school years.

‘She taught us to always think of those less fortunate than us, and there is no doubt that through her example I developed my love of fundraising and my sense of social justice.’

Alongside these passions, Andrea has always been passionate about the environment. Andrea has led environmental programs on the Bellarine Peninsula including Clean Up Australia Day, National Tree Day and established ‘ReMoonahation’ to increase awareness of the Indigenous Moonah tree by offering to plant the trees in householders’ gardens.

Andrea received her first environmental award for adopting and naming Moonah Park. In what was once a neglected space is now a thriving wildlife corridor where Andrea has organised numerous working bees to plant thousands of indigenous plants, removing weeds and rubbish as well as new paths and benches. In addition, she also works to protect local mangroves and has

effective membership with groups, including Friends of Moonah Park, and Friends of the Bluff.

Her commitment to BirdLife Australia’s Beach-nesting Birds Project has been pivotal to protecting the endangered hooded plover. The hooded plover was heading towards extinction and so, the Friends of the Bellarine Friends of the Hooded Plover was established. Andrea has been pivotal in engaging and training volunteers, raising awareness, and making the conservation of these birds possible on the Bellarine.

‘With the measures that we used, their breeding success rate, which was the lowest of any birds, has gone from as low as 2% to 55%.’

In addition, Andrea sits on committees including the Bellarine Catchment Network, Friends of the Ocean Grove Nature Reserve, and participates in fundraising events, including the Great Cycle Challenge for the Children’s Medical Research Institute and the Million Paws Walk for the RSPCA.

As a generous, respected and multiaward-winning leader in community service, environmental protection and sustainability, Andrea left our guests with this:

‘The accumulation of the very simple things I do, such as picking up rubbish, pulling out weeds, planting trees, and caring about wildlife, over time, has been shown to have a profound impact. Caring about others through fundraising is second nature to me.

I would like to encourage all of you to do what is second nature to you. Be true to yourself, live authentically and follow your passion.’

Following a passion for science and maths

Our third inductee, Grace Mulcahy (Class of 2016) has been busy forging a surveying career in the Western Australia Pilbara region, which has seen her inducted into the category of Young Achiever.

Grace always knew her love for science and mathematics would help her pursue a career full of adventure. When speaking at our IWD Breakfast, Grace encouraged students rather than looking at a career field in isolation, to look inward and consider their passions, how they work best and what values they want within a job first.

After marrying her passions, interests and values, Grace is now enjoying her career as a fly-in fly-out surveyor. Grace’s career has already taken her around Australia: building train tunnels in Melbourne, mining for gold in rural NSW, and now exploration in the Western Australian Pilbara. An average day at work often includes flying drones, hiking mountains, wading rivers, crunching numbers and making maps.

In this male-dominated industry, Grace has had her fair share of challenges, which she probably didn’t expect after leaving Loreto College.

‘I’ve had to show grit, determination and levels of persistence that I wouldn’t have anticipated when it comes to establishing myself as a professional.’

Having grown from these experiences, Grace noted that she felt the next step for women in these industries was ‘not so much getting a seat at

the table, but keeping it and making an impact’. Grace is determined to make the next young girl in surveying feel even more welcome, whether it’s inspiring students to explore STEM careers or volunteering on surveying committees, Grace continues to pay forward the support she has received from those around her.

‘Being a Loreto student has had a profound impact on the woman I am today and the career choices I’ve made so far. I knew and felt so empowered by the women around me and staff, students, parents, and past students. I knew I had all the support I needed in my Community at Loreto to help me get wherever it was that I wanted to be.’

As our young achiever, Grace’s professional success proves that curiosity, grit and a passion for learning will take you further than you’d ever expect to go!

2024 Student Award

As part of our Breakfast, we always look forward to celebrating one of our current students with the Women in Time – Student Award. This award continues to be sponsored by our previous Women in Time Inductees and seeks to recognise and encourage a senior student who has demonstrated the vision of Mary Ward throughout their time at Loreto College Ballarat.

This year’s well-deserving recipient was Bethany Ryan, a Year 11 student who has continually involved herself in many areas of Loreto College.

Bethany’s kind-hearted and compassionate nature shines in everything she does. Bethany has shown integrity and leadership where she continues to offer support, take initiative in planning College events, and fosters an environment where everyone’s ideas and opinions are valued. Aside from her involvement on multiple committees, Bethany has also helped lead the Year 10 Community Outreach Project with CAFS and assisting with activities for Mental Health Week, volunteering at the Fiona Elsey Dream Ball and helping raise money for ‘Assist a Sister’.

We are fortunate to have wonderful students such as Bethany who continues to lead by example at Loreto College. We look forward to following Bethany and all she will accomplish in the future.

Nominate now for 2025

Do you know someone who deserves to be formally recognised for their contributions to society? We’d love to hear from you!

Nominations for 2025 are now open in the categories of:

• Arts and Cultural Excellence

• Sporting Excellence

• Community Service Leadership

• Religious and Social Justice Leadership

• STEAM & Innovation Excellence

• Young Achiever & Entrepreneur

• Verity Award

To learn more about these categories or to nominate someone you know, please visit pastpupil.loreto.vic.edu.au for more information.

Above: Principal, Michelle Brodrick, with the 2024 Student Award recipient, Bethany Ryan.

The Green Little Flower

Words by Narelle Mulrooney

The installation of solar panels on the Little Flower not only made the facility more sustainable, but it also aims to enhance educational outcomes, particularly in areas of STEAM.”

One of the main focuses of the Loreto College Ballarat Strategic Plan 2022 – 2025 was to highlight the commitment to the future of our Loreto Community and to champion environmental, educational and fiscal sustainable practices for all resources entrusted to us.

‘To be Loreto, to be part of this Community, to attend our schools and work within these spaces means to commit to fostering a sustainable world. Not only should our day-to-day practices embrace this, but it should go to the very heart of who we are and how we exist in this world,’ wrote Michelle Brodrick, Principal.

One of the College’s more significant resources is the St Thérèse of the Little Flower Church (Little Flower), a beautifully designed, Italian Romanesque-style structure with touches of Spanish Mission, built by A.J. Wilson and was first opened on 17 April, 1938 by the Most Reverent D. Foley, the Bishop of Ballarat during that time. The church features stuccoed walls, rounded grille-covered windows, a doorway with a Spanish-styled cartouche above it, rounded terracotta tiles and a large round floral window in the main façade. Purchased by Loreto College in 2006, the Little Flower remained unchanged for many years, used mainly as a storage facility and a place that the band could practice, before the construction of the MMC. While very beautiful, the building was not particularly energy efficient.

Loreto College acknowledges that it has a responsibility to provide facilities that support a modern education to current and future students. With this in mind, over the past few years the Little Flower has been transformed into an amazing applied-learning space for our VCE and Vocational Major programs, to allow students to ‘learn through doing’ in areas of agriculture & horticultural science, art, hospitality, business management and media. The opportunity to pursue their strengths and interests through applied learning enables students to successfully move into apprenticeships, traineeships, further education or directly into the workforce.

Students and staff worked together to plan the new educational space, with one of the main requirements being the installation of a new commercial-style kitchen. Another was to level the uneven floor, creating an open-plan collaborative learning space. These were both part of stage one of the development, with further works bringing the facility up to current education standards, including the addition of accessibility ramps, handrails, upgraded toilets, a first aid room, a staff office area and a new concrete driveway.

The final stages included the decommission of old and outdated gas appliances, upgrading to new, more energy efficient, electric heating and cooling systems, and adding solar panels and a battery to successfully transform the old church into a state-of-the-art learning facility. They also brought the facility in line with the Loreto College innovation and sustainability goals.

The installation of solar panels on the Little Flower not only made the facility more sustainable, but it also aimed to enhance educational outcomes, particularly in areas of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Maths). Through the system, students can gain access to live data, allowing them to monitor solar production, battery levels, electricity exported to the grid and GHG emissions saved. The students are passionate about sustainability and acting on climate change, and this project has provided some agency in

their learning on these critical issues. The project has also been consistent with the City of Ballarat’s aim of net zero by 2025.

In recognising the heritage and historical significance of the Little Flower, Loreto College worked extensively with Bryce Raworth Conservation & Heritage and City of Ballarat heritage consultants, to ensure the project met the objectives and design guidelines of the Heritage Overlay.

It is believed the addition of the solar panels will deliver positive benefits, not only for the College but the wider community, by contributing to net zero targets and addressing the challenges of climate change all whilst educating our leaders of tomorrow.

‘Since the installation of the solar panels and battery, a noticeable change has been seen in energy costs,’ said the Loreto College Business Manager, Brenton Riordan. ‘We look forward to assessing new ways to meet our sustainability targets for a greener future.’

Annual Giving Appeal

This year, help make a difference in the lives of our students by supporting the Loreto College Ballarat Annual Giving Appeal. Through your support, you can help our students rise up by giving them the platform they need to thrive, whether that’s through our Scholarship, Bursary or Building Funds.

Every gift, regardless of size is valued and sends a powerful message that our Community believes in the vision of Mother Gonzaga Barry and our wonderful students.

Scholarship Fund

In 2025, we will expand our scholarship offering to include academic, performing arts, sport and music scholarships to both current and future students. We understand our students are diverse and have their own unique ambitions, and as a College, we look to support them where possible.

Building Fund

Help us continue to provide fit-for-purpose spaces by contributing a gift to the Building Fund. Our Building Fund provides funds for the construction of new buildings and learning environments, as well as the maintenance and upgrade of our existing buildings.

Through the Building Fund, we have been able to support the construction of the Lift Project, which will provide more accessibility throughout the College.

Bursary Fund

Through the philanthropic legacy of Dora O’Sullevan, the Dora O’Sullevan Bursary supports our most in-need students. Your support will help continue nurturing students, helping them achieve their best in a supportive environment.

A gift to the Dora O’Sullevan Bursary Fund supports students and their families encountering financial hardship that may otherwise prevent their daughter from attending Loreto College Ballarat.

Building Fund (Direct debit: BSB: 013516

Acc No: 837838067 Reference: your surname BUILD)

Bursary Fund (Direct debit: BSB: 013516 Acc No: 837970447

Reference: your surname BURSARY)

DIRECT DEBIT:

Scholarship Fund (Direct debit: BSB: 013516

Acc No: 837970447 Reference: your surname SCHOLAR)

DONATE ONLINE: via QR CODE or www.loreto.vic.edu.au/events

Erin Pilots To The Melbourne Comedy Festival

Words by Narelle Mulrooney

Coming up with material,

I draw inspiration from everyday life, jotting down funny observations that catch my attention.”

Erin embraces our theme of Sincerity in 2024 by turning her reallife experiences into fits of laughter.

Making quite an impact on the Stand-Up Comedy scene over the past few years, Erin has provided audiences with original routines focusing on her life as a young regional Victorian with Indian heritage, aiming to buck stereotypes.

Back in 2022, as a Year 10 student, Erin won the National Grand Finale at Class Clowns, a development program for teens involving workshops with professional comedians, as well as a mentoring program with competition rounds. More than 140 participants, from Years 9 to 12, entered the initial competition stages.

Erin’s prize at the time was $1500, plus an in-house workshop package for Loreto College that was held in 2023. A variety of other students were able to benefit from this workshop, honing their on-stage skills.

Since winning the title, Erin has appeared at a variety of different events, including as judge of the 2023 Class Clowns Competition and host of the 2023 Ballarat Youth Awards.

During 2024, she set her sights higher with a performance at the Melbourne Comedy Festival in Pilot – an exciting new program that supports young comedians to perform their first long-form work at the Festival. Erin said: ‘This is the first time they are putting on the show (Pilot) at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. It is a split-billed show designed to help young comedians transition to long-form comedy. This was the first time I have done a 25-minute-long show. My previous performances have all been 5–7 minutes with ‘Up Next Comedy’ at the Arts Centre in Melbourne’.

Erin’s bio read: ‘Barely surviving VCE, Erin Almeida is made of sugar and spice and all things mostly nice. However, with a childhood full of curries and kangaroos in rural Australia, there’s probably a bit more

Right: Erin winning Class Clowns in 2022

spice than usual. Erin considers herself a whitewashed brown girl, who is currently navigating the perks and quirks of being a seasoned enigma in a vanilla world. With her unique perspective, she challenges stereotypes with humour that’s as bold and flavourful as a plateful of biryani.’

(Comedy Festival 2024 – https://www. comedyfestival.com.au/2024/shows/pilot)

Erin reflected, ‘coming up with material, I draw inspiration from everyday life, jotting down funny observations that catch my attention. It’s a mix of spontaneity, observation and trial and error until I find the perfect punchline.’

‘I want my comedy to take me to different places and enable me to connect with all kinds of people, and bring light to matters related to race and ethnicity with a humorous take.’

Erin’s future is bright, as a current Year 12 student studying VCE she is certainly making her mark as one of the College’s success stories. ‘I studied Speech and Drama in Year 8 and I have had lots of supportive teachers at Loreto who have helped my comedy journey, and plenty of friends to test my material on during lunchtimes.’

A variety of staff and students went to see Erin perform at the Melbourne Comedy Festival, and it was a unanimous conclusion that she is the funniest class clown at Loreto College!

Erin plans to grace future stages at a more local level, stating: ‘I am in the process of planning a small comedy show in Ballarat with my friend and fellow comedian, Naomi, who is a Year 12 student at Ballarat High School. We have nothing set in stone just yet, but our vision is to have a place in Ballarat where young and upcoming comedians can have a place to perform and try out their material.’

Erin is also appearing at Comedy at the Grand – a fundraiser for the Ballarat Foundation Dancing With the Stars event. She will be one of five talented comedians to take the stage on the night.

We wish Erin all the best with her endeavours and look forward to seeing more of her on stage in the future.

Left: the poster for Pilot. Above: Erin with her fellow performers in Pilot.

Our Loreto Experts

My role is really varied, and no two days are the same, which is what I enjoy most.”

KELLIE RUDLIN

How long have you been working at Loreto College? 11 months.

Where were you before Loreto College?

I spent 11 years working in the tertiary education sector, most recently with Monash University where I worked for five years prior to starting at Loreto College.

What is your role and what does it involve?

I’m the Director of Marketing & Development which involves overseeing the marketing & development directorate here at Loreto College. I’m responsible for developing our overarching marketing and development strategies but my role is also very hands-on which makes it exciting. We are a small but dynamic team that look after range of marketing & development initiatives, including campaigns, digital & social media content, media, publications, Alumni relations, events, fundraising and enrolments.

Tell us something about your role that others may not know.

My role is really varied, and no two days are the same, which is what I enjoy most. One day I might be on camp with students doing a video shoot for a marketing campaign, and the next I might be dealing with a media request, writing for our publications, planning an event, or welcoming prospective families for a tour of the College.

Describe yourself in five words.

Easy-going, calm, empathetic, generous, quiet achiever.

Tell us something about yourself that others may not know.

I went back to university as a matureage student when my children were very young and I was working full-time. It was a daunting prospect, and it took me 8 years to finish my degree, but I got there in the end. My persistence definitely paid off and it taught me that learning is lifelong.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Watching my boys play sport on the weekend, running, going to the gym, and reading. I also love camping with family and friends. A trip around Australia is definitely on the bucket list.

What are some of your favourite memories or highlights of working at Loreto College so far?

Going to Melbourne recently to shoot a video of one of our Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni recipients, Margot Serch. Margot graduated from Loreto Convent in 1955 and since then has dedicated her life to helping the homeless and underprivileged. It was an honour to be in her company and hear stories from her time at Loreto College.

Trying to teach PE classes via Google Meet during Covid lockdowns –let’s just say that it had its challenges!”

KATE MARTIN

How long have you been working at Loreto College?

2024 is my 5th year.

Where were you before Loreto College?

I grew up on a farm in Boort, before coming to Ballarat to study Physical Education at Federation University. I have worked at schools in Melbourne, London and Cairns, and I have also worked at Federation University, Damascus College and Ballarat Grammar.

What is your role and what does it involve?

PE & Health Teacher – Year 7 PE & Health and Yr 12 Health & Human Development.

Student Leadership Coordinator –working closely with the Senate Student Leadership group to help facilitate various College events and student-led activities.

I also help to facilitate the Student Leadership nominations and elections, from Year 7 to 12. The portfolio representatives (Years 8 to 11) are elected for each Semester, so this is conducted twice per year.

Tell us something about your role that others may not know.

A hard question, I don’t think there is anything I can think of.

Describe yourself in five words.

Kind, sporty, loyal, enthusiastic, empathetic.

Tell us something about yourself that others may not know.

My family is full of teachers – my mother is a retired teacher, my two brothers are teachers, two of my sisters in-law are also currently teaching, and my other sister in-law is a qualified teacher, but has since changed career paths.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy being physically active – running and playing sport. I also enjoy watching my kids play sport. I love spending time with my family, travelling & exploring new places, catching up with family and friends.

What are some of your favourite memories or highlights of working at Loreto College so far?

Trying to teach PE classes via Google Meet during Covid lockdowns – let’s just say that it had its challenges!

Meeting new people & forming relationships at Loreto College –it has been great to become part of the Community.

Being a part of the amazing Health & PE Faculty.

Working collaboratively with our Senate Team each year – they are such an inspiring bunch of young people and it is fantastic to see them grow and develop year after year.

I have loved sharing all the Loreto College netball successes over the years.

Sharing in the joy of student achievements and the sense of Community at Loreto College.

Loreto Weddings

Emily Caulfield (Class of 2013) married Nicholas Lowry on 24 February, 2024 Photography by Sharna Sellers Photography

Adrianna Cann (Class of 2006) married Xavier Jones on 20 January, 2024 Photography by One Point Photography Emily Caulfield (Class of 2013) married Nicholas Lowry on 24 February, 2024 Photography by Sharna Sellers Photography

Photos from our Mother’s Day Liturgy – 4 May, 2024

Marriages

Penelope Compton (Class of 2013) married Luke Maddocks on 28 October, 2023

Stephanie Micallef (Class of 2014) married Dylan Lahey on 4 November, 2023

Adrianna Cann (Class of 2006) married Xavier Jones on 20 January, 2024

Jessica Lockyer (Class of 2010) married James Wallis on 17 February, 2024

Emily Caulfield (Class of 2015) married Nicholas Lowry on 24 February, 2024

Alumni Updates

Past Pupils’ Association

A warm welcome from the Loreto Past Pupils’ Association (LPPA) to the first edition of Verity magazine for 2024.

The end of 2023 saw a very successful AGM and Christmas drinks held at the Lake View. This was extremely well attended and it was lovely to catch up with new and old friends.

The 2023 Academic Awards were recently held with myself and Vice President Sally Eastwood in attendance. On behalf of the LPPA, we awarded $500 to both the 2023 VCE Dux Jessica Sheehan and Vocational Major High Achiever Ava Simpson. Congratulations again ladies and to the wider class of 2023 for your wonderful achievements and completion of your secondary education.

In March, the current cohort of Year 12 students were presented with a gold badge, which has the Loreto crest emblems, by myself and Michaela Prendergast, Secretary of the LPPA, as a gift from the LPPA. We began this tradition in 2023, a small token to serve as a reminder to the Year 12s that even once they finish at Loreto College, they will always belong to and are part of a special, wider Loreto Community – one that is local, national and worldwide.

Easter arrived with nice weather and we were able to host an Easter picnic in the front gardens. Facilitated with the help of Felicity Knobel and some wonderful students, it was a fun evening full of games, chocolate and of course the Easter Bunny (thanks Sally!).

A ladies lunch, will be held on 24 May, which should be very well attended and enjoyed. It will be great to hear much chatter and laughing! We will aim to host a few more of these lunches throughout the year.

The reunions for 2, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 years have been recently held. It was wonderful to see so many attend and the chatter and laughter was wonderful to see amongst old friends.

The annual Mother’s Day Liturgy, held on 4 May, is always a lovely afternoon and this year was no different. We had lots of current students, their mothers, grandmothers and special people attend along with Alumni, for a liturgy and afternoon tea served in the Mary’s Mount Centre.

We will hold a Past Pupils’ Gala Night on Saturday, 25 May, the final night of the College production, Mary Poppins. It will be great to catch up with friends and meet some of the extremely talented cast. Money raised at the event will go back into supporting students involved in the Arts. If you would like to be involved, please visit the College website.

Loreto Federation will be celebrated in Toorak at Loreto Mandeville Hall in October this year, over a weekend full of events. Loreto Alumni are invited to attend –to find out more information please visit the Loreto College Ballarat website – pastpupils.loreto.vic.edu.au/ upcomingevents

The LPPA are busy working closely with the College in planning for next year’s 150 Years of Loreto in Australia (with Loreto Ballarat being the founding school) celebrations. There will be more information to come, but please pop the first weekend of March 2025 in your diaries!

The above is just a snapshot of what the LPPA have been up to, but we always value new ideas and welcome new members. If you are interested in coming along to a meeting, please do not hesitate to contact me via email on faithaustin@hotmail.com

In closing, I would like to thank Ms Linda McDonald and the members of the Loreto Past Pupils’ Association for all your enthusiastic support.

Faith Austin President, Loreto Past Pupils’ Association

Alumni Updates

Ella Celebrates High Achievements at Fed Uni

Recently, Ella Donovan-Clancy (Class of 2020) received the Vice Chancellors Award for Excellence as she graduated from her Diploma of Nursing at Federation University.

The diploma is just the first step in her nursing career – she has already enrolled in the Bachelor of Nursing/ Bachelor of Midwifery at Federation University and she dreams of a career in women-centred care.

It’s something close to her heart, having undergone several surgeries for endometriosis.

‘I have been a patient myself with endometriosis. Having those surgeries and just realising how much you do rely on nurses, and my last surgery was during COVID so I couldn’t have any other support, made me realise I would love to go in to a role where I can support women and be that safe person for them, so that’s what prompted me into nursing,’ she said.

Her goal is to practise as a midwife in Ballarat and be part of midwifery group practice where expectant mothers receive their pregnancy care from a team of midwives.

During her diploma of nursing, Ella became one of the first TAFE student representatives on Federation’s

Learner Excellence Committee, providing a voice for TAFE students on how Federation can improve student experience and outcomes.

‘I’ve had some incredible support and mentors helping me with growth in leadership as well as my studies. Now, I’m really keen to delve into the double degree and receiving this award was very unexpected, but exciting,’ she said.

She credits a lot of her success to her secondary schooling by saying ‘Loreto exemplifies how patience and kindness can positively impact difficult teenagers. During my junior years, school life was challenging, but discovering the VCAL pathway transformed my experience, allowing me to appreciate school and the value of connections. Ms Baird, Mrs Spencer, Ms Helena Harrison, Ms Wheatland and the VCAL team provided incredible support, encouraging me to pursue my goals regardless of their nature. I’m grateful to the teachers who never gave up on me. Loreto College has equipped me with numerous skills I never imagined I would acquire.’

Ella has siblings still at the College, all achieving high marks, ‘I think the comparison shows the flexibility Loreto has to offer.’

Alumni Updates

Laura Represents Victoria

Congratulations to Laura Foley (Class of 2018) who was recently selected in the Victorian Teams Queens Cup race at the Rowing Nations in Sydney.

Victoria ultimately won this prestigious race, making Laura the first Loreto College Ballarat Alumni to not only be selected for this team, but to also win the event!

Laura was also recently at rowing trials earlier this year and was selected for the Australia A Team. This team is soon travelling to Varese, Italy to race at the World Cup 1. The Australia A Team is also a part of the development pool for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

It is wonderful to see Laura continuing to follow her love of rowing from her days at Loreto College.

Alumni Updates

Georgia in Paris

Loreto College’s own college basketball star, Georgia Amoore (Class of 2019), could be on her way to the Olympics, having been named in the Australian Opals squad in the lead-up to Paris.

This follows a fabulous season playing for her Virginia Tech team in the USA. Georgia’s strong senior year at College reaffirmed her position as the likely first-round WNBA Draft selection, but she has decided to follow her long-term coach to the Kentucky Wildcats for her fifth and final season in the NCAA.

Georgia is one of three Ballarat, or former Ballarat Miners players to be named in the initial 26-member squad, which will be cut to 12 for the the Olympic Games in Paris, in July and August.

The 26-player squad will participate in training camps, tours and fixtures both domestically and internationally against other Olympic-bound countries in the lead up to the Games which begin on 26 July.

The final 12-player team for Paris will be chosen from the extended squad.

Opals Head Coach Sandy Brondello said selecting the squad was an important step in preparations for Paris.

‘It’s always an exciting time to announce an Olympic squad, and I congratulate all the athletes. They all know what it means to play for Australia, and they all want the opportunity to represent their country at an Olympics,’ Brondello said.

We wish Georgia all the best during this exciting time in her career.

Alumni Updates

Crafting Ukrainian Identity Through Vyshyvanka

Past Pupil, Winter Greet (Class of 2018), is having significant academic success at the University of Melbourne, and her work has recently been published overseas.

Winter’s work was held in such high regard that it was published in the Czech Journal of International Relations. The article was titled ‘Spiritual Armour’: Crafting Ukrainian Identity through Vyshyvanka.

A quote from the article:

‘The brightly coloured and delicately detailed ‘vyshyvanka’, the traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt, has long been a marker of Ukrainian ethnic and cultural identity. In recent years, in particular, the vyshyvanka has become an internationally recognised symbol of ‘Ukrainianness’, and yet despite its importance in Ukrainian identity-building and independence movements, remarkably little scholarship exists on this topic…… Ukrainian history has often been overshadowed by Russo-centrism, while the significance of handicrafts practices, such as embroidery, has been dismissed because of their

association with femininity and ‘women’s work’. Yet the sheer number of digital images of vyshyvankarelated designs in light of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, make this a topic worthy of our attention.’

The seeds of Winter’s interests and passions were sown during her Loreto College years, where she excelled in the study of VCE subjects History, Global Politics, Literature, Psychology and Languages.

Since finishing school, Winter has successfully completed a Bachelor of Arts (2021) with a double major in History and Politics & International Relations at the University of Melbourne. She then went on to complete her Honours degree (2022) in History, graduating with First Class Honours. Winter’s thesis looked at the history of vyshvyanky which became the basis of the published article. She is currently studying a Master of Arts and Cultural Management with a concurrent Diploma in Languages (Russian). We wish her well in her future studies and will follow her path with great delight and anticipation.

Alumni Events

Past Pupils’ Easter Picnic

Easter Bunny was a great hit amongst the young children at the recent Past Pupils’ Easter picnic on Wednesday 27 March.

This year the weather was much kinder, and we held our first Past Pupils’ Easter picnic in the beautiful front gardens of the College. Current Loreto College students prepared Easter activities for the entertainment of our young visitors.

The highlight of the evening was the easter egg hunt prepared by the Easter Bunny herself (Vice-President Sally Eastwood) and President Faith White. The joy on the faces of the young children as they hunted for eggs hidden in Mary Ward’s statue and the magnificent gardens was a remarkable sight, and it provided much joy for the adults. It was a lovely family night that enabled Past Pupils to re-engage with each other and the College. We look forward to holding a similar event in 2025.

The Ultimate Gift of Giving

A gift to Loreto College in your Will means your memory will live on

How do you want to be remembered?

Is there something you would like to pass on to the next generation?

Throughout our lives we are influenced by the actions of the generations that came before us and our esteemed Loreto College history is one of the finest examples. Mary Ward, the Founder of the Loreto Order, embarked on a lifetime devoted to the recognition of women and girls as valuable human beings and important contributors to society.

Continuing the legacy is our Loreto Community. The Countess Elizabeth Wolff-Metternich’s goodness and

generosity famously enabled the completion of Mother Gonzaga Barry’s Loreto Chapel, which was restored in the 1990s thanks to a gift from Past Pupil Lucy Kerley, and is currently maintained with a gift from Past Pupil Eileen Macintyre. The Coghlan family have recently supported students who would otherwise not be able to attend the College through the establishment of the Dora O’Sullevan Bursary.

As we inch closer to celebrating 150 years of Loreto College in Australia, there have been many Past Pupils, staff and parents who have left a lasting legacy towards the education of young women at Loreto College, and to each of them, we are eternally grateful.

You too can continue Mary Ward’s mission by remembering Loreto College in your Will.

You may like to support our scholarship program to develop academic and gifted talents, or our bursary program to support students who may not otherwise be able to attend the College. Or, perhaps you would like to support our gardens, buildings and grounds, or our exciting new Loreto Lucas Campus.

To learn more about how you can leave a lasting legacy, please contact our Principal, our Marketing and Development Team or visit the Loreto College Ballarat website today.

https://loreto.vic.edu.au/loretocollege/heritage/philanthropy/

Loreto Reunion Days

During March and April 2024, we hosted our 2024 Reunions.

It was a fabulous opportunity for our 2, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60-ish year reunion Alumni to reconnect, explore the College and see how it has changed over the years. Approximately 260 class-mates returned, over the two days, to enjoy a glass of bubbles (or tea) and reminisce about old times. It was fantastic to see so much laughter throughout the day and everyone having a great time catching up.

CLASS OF 1984

OF 1963 CLASS OF 1974 CLASS OF 1965 CLASS OF 1964

CLASS

CLASS OF 1994

CLASS OF 2004

CLASS OF 2014

CLASS OF 2022

For me, the way to simply get through it was to try to be present in the moment –I like the saying by marathon runner Ryan Hall, ‘run the mile you’re in’.”

Academic Assembly

On 16 February we held our Academic Assembly to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements and hard work of the Class of 2023. The VCE Academic Honour Awards and Academic Excellence Awards were presented for each subject. We were able to share the journies of our Class of 2023, College Dux Jessica Sheehan and VCAL Award recipient, Ava Simpson.

2023 Loreto College Dux:

Jessica Sheehan

I’m incredibly grateful to be standing up here today after a somewhat chaotic year – but one I’ll forever be so appreciative for.

Year 12 is a crazy busy year, everyone says it, but they say it for a reason. For me, the way to simply get through it, was to try to be present in the moment. There’s a saying I like, by professional marathon runner Ryan Hall, that I think encapsulates what this idea is to me. It goes ‘run the mile you’re in’. For me, this is a reminder to focus on the here and now, to not be worrying about SACs or events five weeks ahead or three days behind when you cannot change anything. Year 12, and other parts of your life, can seem so overwhelming – for me, the commitment I made to both my studies and travelling for soccer seemed

pretty daunting when looking at it as a whole. However, I found that when you look at it one week at a time and are at least trying to be present, it mutes the voice in your head that tells you that you can’t make it to the next moment, and because of that, you can make it further and do more than what you thought you could by simply ‘running the mile you’re in’ at that point in time.

When I was trying to write this speech I did a bit of reflecting on my Year 12, and I can honestly say that I really did love it. That’s not to say that it wasn’t tough at times, because it could be, and honestly I probably spent most of it sleep deprived, but the ability to take a break, in whatever form, meant I could reset and if needed simply try again the next day. Often this meant going to soccer, something that I love, and simply getting away from school and SACs or revising. Other times, it meant the little moments you could use to reset, like drawing

with chalk and playing hopscotch in RE or watching little science videos at the start of every physics lesson with Mr Stowe and risking the 7/11 sushi during long lunch breaks during SWOTVAC as a reward. Those moments are not only the ones that let you get through a busy and challenging year like Year 12 while hopefully enjoying it, but are also the memories that you’ll treasure once it’s over. Sometimes taking these breaks isn’t easy, I often found myself rushing along from one thing to the next, even feeling guilty at times about taking them, but they are essential for both your schooling and most importantly yourself. And it’s a skill that will make you better off in the long run.

I would not be here or anywhere without a massive amount of support. A massive thank you to every one of the teachers and staff at Loreto College over the past six years who make this place what it is.

I will always be especially grateful to my Year 12 teachers and mentor Mr Foord, thanks for your support and your passion for your subjects.

Thank you to the Class of 2023 for the past six years worth of memories – congratulations and good luck to everyone. I can’t wait to hear about everything you all do in the years to come.

Thank you to my family and friends, I would not be here without all of your endless support and love. Mum and Dad, thank you for everything you’ve done and all the love you continue to give. Mon and Jack, thank you for being people in my life that I try to be a little more like each day – and as all older siblings do, keeping me well in my place should I ever need it. To my friends, thank you for all the laughter, support as well as lunchtime chats and downball. This year was what it was because of you.

To the class of 2024, enjoy the ride and good luck. Thank you.

Jessica with members of the Past Pupils’ Association, Faith Austin (President) and Sally Eastwood (Vice-President). Ann Mary Chalakkal, Honour Award for Philosophy with RE Faculty Coordinator, Virginia Green. Emma Monaghan and Rosie Bathurst, Honour Award for Visual Communication and Design with Arts Faculty Coordinator, Julia West. Rose Canavan, Honour Award for English and Sociology with English Faculty Coordinator, Cameron Smith. Matilda Waight and Sienna Bradley, Honour Award for Product Design and Technology with Faculty Coordinators, Thea Mooney and Kerri Loader.

Ava is a highlymotivated young woman and she excelled in all areas of her studies. She received Academic Excellence Awards in all of her Senior VCAL subjects, and was outstanding in her VET courses, which included a Certificate III in Business Management and Certificate II in Creative Industries,” Mr Andrew Blackwood.

2023 VCAL Award recipient: Ava Simpson

At our Academic Assembly we also heard from our VCAL Award Winner, Ava Simpson:

When I first started VCAL, I had no idea what I wanted to do after school, but at the time I was leaning towards doing a traineeship, apprenticeship or entering full-time work. This is what made me choose the VCAL stream. I thought it would provide me with the skills and knowledge to enter the type of employment I was looking for, and enable me to study areas of interest to myself, which it did.

Over my two years in the VCAL/ VCE-VM program, I have learned a range of skills to help me enter the workforce, including writing resumes, completing a Certificate III in Business and practising job interview skills. I have also been able to look into a range of different industries through doing a variety of VET subjects and work placements, including placement at a cafe, the animal shelter, a farm supply store, in the hub at Loreto College and working with Ms Crowe at her costume warehouse and on the College

production. I was also able to complete a range of VET subjects and other qualifications, which helped me greatly in identifying what my interests were and what I might like to do as a career after school.

Once I started to get towards the end of Year 12, I had realised that university was not the immediate plan for me, and I looked into a range of corporate/ business traineeship roles that were advertised around Ballarat. I applied for one of these positions and luckily for me I was successful.

As for this year, I will be completing a Corporate Services Traineeship and a Certificate IV in Business with the City of Ballarat. And although I have only been in this role for the past three weeks, I have already been using the skills I have learned from my time in the VCAL/VCE-VM program.

I would like to give a massive thank you to all of my teachers: Ms Wheatland, Ms Crowe, Ms Shortal, Ms Mader, Mr Blackwood as well as Ms Spencer and Mr Morris, for all of the support they have given me over the past two years. And I am very grateful for the opportunities and experience I had during my time at Loreto College.