Spirit April 2021

loreto kirribilli Number 86, April 2021

loreto.nsw.edu.au

• justice • sincerity • verity • felicity • freedom • justice • sincerity • verity • felicity • freedom •

Year 7 First Day

Junior School Swimming Carnival

Big Sister Little Sister Program

Dux Assembly

Junior School Opening Mass

Senior School Swimming Carnival

Shrove Tuesday

Ash Wednesday

Year 6 Character Building Workshop

Year 5 Camp

Year 9 Dance

Year 12 Mass

Senior School Swimming Carnival Assembly

Year 6 Tech Girls

Year 12 Jerseys

Senior School Opening Mass

Ethics Olympiad

Year 6 Canberra Visit

Year 11 Excursion to ArtExpress

Senior School New Student Lunch

Year 12 Leaders Wellbeing Activity

Senior School Yoga

Year 9 Visual Arts Incursion

Years 3 & 4 Excursion

Brainstorm Productions 'Cyberia'

Lenten Reflection

Kindergarten Technology

Year 6G Performance Assembly

Mary Ward Connect

Year 11 Geography Excursion

Stay up to date on the latest Loreto Kirribilli news by following us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn @Loreto_LK

loretokirribilli

Loreto Kirribilli

contents

THE PRINCIPAL 2

Junior School Yoga

New Parent Dinners

Year 3 Science Incursion

Junior School Robotics

Scientist in Residence

Archbishop's Student Leaders Lunch

Dance Night

Interhouse Theatresports Competition

Year 7 Mass

SHARING OUR FAITH

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

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2021 YEAR OF FELICITY

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2020 HSC RESULTS

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DUX ASSEMBLY

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FUTURE OF LEARNING

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FAREWELL MS ALISON BRENT

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JUNIOR SCHOOL LEARNING

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SENIOR SCHOOL LEARNING

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EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

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STUDENT WELLBEING

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DANCE NIGHT

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JUNIOR SCHOOL SWIMMING CARNIVAL 26 SENIOR SCHOOL SWIMMING CARNIVAL

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TENNIS 28 GYMNASTICS 29 Junior School CIS Swimming Carnival

Scientist in Residence

Senior School Robotics

ROWING 30 WATER POLO

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EXTRA-CURRICULAR HIGHLIGHTS

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INNOVATION CENTRE BUILDING UPDATE

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INNOVATION CENTRE STUDENT LEARNING 35 Year 4 Class Pet

Parents & Friends Luncheon

Junior and Senior School Leaders

Senior School Hoodie Day

Junior School Crazy Hair Day

Junior School Easter Liturgy

Contributions for inclusion in Spirit should be sent to: Communications at Loreto Kirribilli 85 Carabella Street, Kirribilli NSW 2061 Phone +61 2 9957 4722 communications@loreto.nsw.edu.au Cover Illustration by Meredith Gaston ('02), see article on page 39

PARENTS AND FRIENDS

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LK CONNECT: WOMEN IN SCIENCE

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SHARING OUR COMMUNITY

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EX-STUDENT PROFILES

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EX-STUDENTS' UNION

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SPIRIT MAGAZINE NOW DIGITAL

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The Principal mrs anna dickinson

The first term of 2021 has seen the return of many of the events and activities which contribute to the strong sense of community we cherish at Loreto Kirribilli. This strength of community engagement, described by many as our Loreto Spirit, inspired us to respond swiftly and creatively when given the opportunity to have parents and ex-students back on site, albeit with strict NSW Health COVID-19 protocols for schools. Examples of the events we were able to hold included Orientation Days, attendance at Friday morning Mass, P&F Father Daughter Mass, New Parent Dinners, Dance Night and parent meetings including our P&F Committee meetings to name a few.

Although restrictions set by NSW Health still limit numbers in attendance on site, we creatively utilised our livestreamed facilities to ensure parents could also access these events remotely if unable to attend in person. I will be forever grateful for the generous spirit of our staff for enabling the New Parent

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Welcome Dinner and Dance Night to be held twice to maximise the numbers attending, enabling us to formally welcome all our new parents and offer our girls the opportunity for all parents to attend as a live audience on Dance Night. As the term progressed, and NSW health restrictions eased considerably for external venues, we were delighted to be able to hold the annual P&F Luncheon with inspirational guest speaker Meredith Gaston (’02), an internationally acclaimed artist, bestselling author and wellness coach. We are so blessed to have very generous ex-students and family members willing to share their experiences with members of our school community.

These events and activities are important to us, because they reinforce the values of our school.

Each year we focus on a particular value, bringing it to life through prayer, word, symbol and action. This year we focus on the value of Felicity.

Accordingly, we are called to be people of hope and optimism; joyful, friendly and courteous. Living out our

other Loreto values of Sincerity, Verity, Justice and Freedom of Spirit leads us to the true meaning of Felicity in our daily life.

As well as marking the commencement of our new school year of Felicity, this year our Opening School Liturgy was also an opportunity to celebrate a very significant milestone - the Bicentenary of Catholic education in Australia. For 200 years, children have been able to be educated at Catholic schools in our country and the Loreto Sisters and schools are an integral part of this important tradition.

Term 1 has seen many acts of Felicity.

The keynote speakers at our P&F Father Daughter Mass and LK Connect ‘Scientists around the Globe’ event were also inspirational and reinforced the benefits of the enduring values and the steadfast culture that exists at our school. We were moved to an emotional response when Phil Walburn and his daughters Rosie (Year 12) and Lucy (’16) spoke about how grateful they are for the very special

relationship they share. Our Parent Daughter reflections are always an annual highlight. We look forward to the Mother Daughter reflection which is offered annually at the Ex-students' Union Mother Daughter Mass. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, which limits numbers attending in Centenary Hall, our Mother Daughter Mass will be held this year at St Mary’s Cathedral on 2 June, commencing at 7pm. The size of our beautiful Cathedral enables 1,200 to attend while maintaining COVID-19 requirements so we look forward to welcoming all who are hoping to attend.

During the term, we heard from four ex-students who shared their passion for Science at the LK Connect ‘Scientists around the Globe’ event. These inspirational women demonstrate leadership in their fields, highlighting new frontiers in research and the impact of applied science-based professions, especially in developing countries that suffer from societal and political instability.

Helen Dalley (’74) skillfully facilitated this LK Connect event, reinforcing the positive impact Loreto graduates are having on the lives of others. We have posted a video recording of the event on our website (https://www.loreto. nsw.edu.au/lk-connect-women-inscience/) I am also very proud of the difference our current students and staff make in the lives of those who need support and care. Examples this term include the funds raised for Caritas Australia and the donations received for Jesuit Refugee Services supplying food for refugees and asylum seekers. Funds were also raised for The House of Welcome, to transport families in need

to Taronga Park Zoo for an outing.

These actions further demonstrate that Loreto is a community of faith, hope and love, with a vigorous belief in the capacity and responsibility of women to contribute significantly to society and to the church.

I thank the students and ex-students who participated in the first of a series of Consent Education Listening Circles.

At both sessions, we were provided with excellent suggestions for the development of our school and parent Consent Education programs. I look forward to further contributions from parents and staff as these suggestions will enable us to be agents of change in true Mary Ward style, with a full commitment to not only our own needs, but also those of society as a whole.

I invite you to explore the myriad of other wonderful activities and achievements that have been highlighted further throughout the pages of this edition of Spirit.

You will read of examples of faith in action, curricular and extra-curricular achievements and the strength of our school spirit resulting from all of this, as well as the engagement of parents, ex-students and our Loreto Sisters.

While I have this opportunity, I thank Celia Sheldon and the Ex-students' Union for the significant contribution they make to ensure the Loreto Spirit of the ex-students remains vibrant and all-encompassing. These include:

• the social events offered each year

that keep ex-students connected and supported the support offered each year to our Year 12 graduands through prayer and celebratory events offering a Loreto voice at important

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government forums

• substantial acts of social justice

and donations to the school for important projects and causes providing the financial resources so that we can offer Student Bursaries for those suffering financial hardship

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So many individuals and so many groups work to benefit our students and the broader community in a variety of different ways – all with one spirit and I express my gratitude to all.

Education at Loreto Kirribilli challenges and supports our girls to develop the capacity and motivation to make a valued contribution to their local community and wider society through loving and responsible service. Service that we know will bring felicity to their lives.

I conclude with a quote from Mother Gonzaga Barry taken from one of her famous letters to Loreto students within one of the earliest Australian school magazines, ‘Eucalyptus Blossoms’, published in 1897:

All around you are possibilities for doing good and making the world richer for your having lived in it. Let the worth of your life and daily conduct speak for you; that is a language all understand. Aim at something excellent; our life is largely influenced by what we aim at – our ideals often make our realities. Have enthusiasm for your cause; nothing of much is attained without enthusiasm.

Be earnest, be persevering, be humble, and then with God’s aid you will succeed.

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Sharing our Faith HELEN THOMAS | DIRECTOR OF MISSION

OPENING SCHOOL LITURGY

As well as marking the commencement of our new school year of Felicity, this year our Opening School Liturgy was also an opportunity to celebrate a very significant milestone - the Bicentenary of Catholic education in Australia.

Two hundred years ago the first official Catholic school opened in Australia. Since then Catholic education has grown to the point that it educates around 770,000 primary and secondary students in more than 1,750 schools. In 1875, Mother Gonzaga Barry founded Loreto in Ballarat, the first of the Loreto schools in Australia. The contribution of the Loreto sisters to Australian Catholic Education has been profound.

During Mother Gonzaga Barry’s time alone, ten girls’ boarding schools were opened, ten-day schools, six primary schools, three kindergartens and two teacher training colleges were founded and the responsibility for running a further eight parish schools was undertaken. We celebrate being part of a very rich tapestry of Catholic education in our country that we know will go from strength to strength.

The music at the Opening School Liturgy was especially a highlight, in particular the new song written by Fr Rob Galea and Luke Batterbury for the Bicentenary of Catholic Education, Faith in the Future. The lyrics resonate in this year of Felicity.

We will live, love, reach out to the world Bringing joy, hope and peace in God’s Name As your people, We have faith, Faith in the Future Copyright © 2020 Fr Rob Galea The full song performed by Fr Rob Galea can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/zjSD-QPS16Q

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YEAR 12 MASS

Our graduating Class of 2021 marked the commencement of their final year at Loreto Kirribilli with a special Friday morning Mass in the school Chapel.

The celebrant was Fr Nico Lariosa SJ from St Aloysius’ College. Parents, still unable to attend in person at that stage due to COVID-19 restrictions, were invited to join the Mass via livestream. The students were grateful for the opportunity to come together for this special Eucharist.

FATHER DAUGHTER MASS

Fr Peter Hendriks celebrated our annual Father Daughter Mass in Centenary Hall. The Mass was also livestreamed to members of our community who were unable to attend in person.

STUDENT LEADERS' LUNCH WITH ARCHBISHOP

First Councillor Rosie Walburn and Liturgy Councillor Anjuna O’Loughlin attended the Archbishop’s Student Leaders' Lunch at Cathedral House. Discussions centred around consent education, social media and our secular society.

We arrived at the beautiful Cathedral House to enjoy a lunch with Archbishop Anthony Fisher as well as fellow students from Catholic schools in the area. We started the lively discussions by introducing ourselves to those seated nearby us before conversations sparked to the role of the Catholic Church in a changing world. Over a tasty lunch of chicken schnitzel and salad, we discussed at our tables how we, as young students and leaders, balance our spiritual lives with our other commitments, the relationship between our faith and social media, and what we find to be the biggest influences on how we express our faith.

As we ruminated on these topics, as well as the dessert, the Archbishop joined us at our table. Engaging in a personal conversation, he told us about the decline in young Australians identifying as Catholic and invited us to provide him with ways in which the Church could combat this decline. Our proposals focused on providing more spaces for young Catholics to meet other young Catholics through youth groups and interschools events.

The questions asked in the Q&A session ranged from those presently topical, such as the question about how the Church can fit a more inclusive society, to broader questions that have been asked for millennia: specifically, the question ‘Why do good things happen to bad people?’.

Those were answered adroitly by the Archbishop - the former with a reminder of God’s love for all people, the latter by explaining the consequences of the gift of free will. We are grateful to have had this opportunity to connect with our faith through these discussions. Not only do we have a deeper understanding of the Church’s teachings and workings, but we also gained a sense of hope for the future of our Church in Australia.

Anjuna O'Loughlin & Rosie Walburn, Year 12

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Sharing our Faith

ASH WEDNESDAY

Shrove Tuesday marked the first fundraising initiative of the year for Project Compassion with pancakes on sale before school.

Our Ash Wednesday Liturgy marked the beginning of the Lenten Season. Chris Nolan, Social and Ecological Justice Animator for Caritas NSW/ACT, spoke to students about the work of Project Compassion and of how generosity can change the lives of the most vulnerable.

The theme for Project Compassion in 2021 is 'Be More'.

Saint Oscar Romero, the Patron Saint of Caritas, challenges us to step up for those who do not have the essential resources they need for their survival. Through our generosity and aspiring to 'Be More', we are assisting some of the world's most vulnerable people to build better futures for themselves, their families and their communities.

Each Thursday morning at 8am throughout the season of Lent, staff and students gathered near the Mary Ward statue to reflect and pray together before the busy school day. Following the theme 'journey', a focal point was the recently released Mary Ward Pilgrimage app.

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We thank our community for their generosity in support of Project Compassion during Hoodie Day!

Sharing our Faith MARY WARD CONNECT GOES GLOBAL

Year 10 Loreto students from around the globe participated in the Mary Ward Connect Program which took place online for the first time ever this year.

With a theme of 'Engaging with the Bigger Picture', students were excited to connect virtually with Loreto communities in Australia, Europe and Asia.

During the session, Sr Orla Treacy spoke on the topic of ‘The impact of a Loreto Education’ and following her talk, students had the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with Sr Hoa and Sr Trang from St Mary’s Hostel in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

What an incredible and inspiring afternoon gathered with our Loreto family, to deepen our understanding of the Loreto heritage and the compassionate nature of our IBVM school community. Group 9

IGNATIAN INTERSCHOOL STUDENT FORUM

Year 11 students from Loreto Kirribilli, Loreto Normanhurst, St Aloysius’ and St Ignatius Riverview gather as an Ignatian community each year to discuss and share ideas in a collaborative, respectful and safe environment.

The first of these sessions took place in March with a topic of Healthy Relationships.

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International Women's Day Helen Thomas | Director of Mission International Women’s Day was celebrated around the world on 8 March 2021 and students participated in a number of awareness-raising activities at school and around Sydney to mark this global event.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS NSW INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BREAKFAST

School Vice-Captain, Sophie Bateman and First Councillor Isabella Tooher attended the Catholic Schools NSW International Womens' Day Breakfast at Doltone House with Mrs Dickinson. Sophie and Isabella share a reflection below: We listened to Her Excellency, the Honourable Margaret Beazley AO, Governor of New South Wales, discuss, in the shadow of the many years in a maledominated industry, the power of autonomy and the, perhaps unconscious, attempts of her co-workers to silence the voice of an increasingly powerful, ambitious young woman. “I was a senior lawyer sitting at the bar table with a male junior [lawyer], and the juniors are supposed to take notes from the deposition. Anyway, the junior leans over to me and says, ‘did you get that one down, sweetheart?'” There was a loud chorus of groans from the women sitting around us. This had been a universal experience that had somehow permeated through years of legislative and cultural progress towards equality, years of loudening discourse about women’s injustice, years of women finding a voice to share their experience.

We go to a school where voice is fostered, promoted and celebrated. When we leave the confines of the school grounds, it is a harsh reality that they do not want to hear when you speak. It is in these moments that autonomy or authenticity to oneself is crucial in maintaining your identity and felicity.

It was an honour for Bella and me to attend the International Women’s Day breakfast with Mrs Dickinson, and we hope that their message of ‘choosing to challenge’ finds its place in the year 2021 and the lived experiences of those in the Catholic Schools system.

Sophie Bateman, School Vice-Captain & Isabella Tooher, First Councillor

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2021 Year of Felicity 2021 Student Executive This year, Loreto schools around Australia will focus on the value of Felicity. Mary Ward expressed Felicity as being a cheerful giver and having a cheerful mind.

UN WOMEN AUSTRALIA, INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY LUNCH

JPIC Human Rights Councillors, Olivia Stowe, Emma Sheller and Bianca Douroudis, together with Mrs Ellem and Ms Koster, had the opportunity to attend the UN International Women’s Day lunch at the ICC at Darling Harbour.

Australian of the Year, Grace Tame, was the headline speaker, along with a diverse range of inspirational women leaders. The students share their reflection below: The theme for the day was 'Women in Leadership', which was highly evident in the range of diverse and youthful speakers. Of inspiration to us was Grace Tame, whose powerful leadership skills and influence can be seen trickling down into our own world, with the discussions surrounding consent education happening across Sydney high schools now. We had the privilege of briefly speaking to Grace at the end of the event and were struck by her warm and open nature, as well as her fantastic speaking skills, and inspiring message of empowerment.

The Felicity Prayer 2021 below was written collaboratively by the Loreto School Captains around Australia at the remote online LSAC Student Leadership Conference: God of generosity and joy, who gifts us with open minds and large hearts, Help us to: delight in the beauty of creation, affirm the goodness in all people, create a community of kindness and lead with empathy and courage.

As friends of Mary Ward, may we serve God with great love and liberty of mind and trust in God’s grace and goodness.

May felicity brighten the lives of people everywhere.

We make this prayer: in the name of Jesus who inspires us with good news, and the Holy Spirit who moves us ever outwards.

Amen.

ON CAMPUS AT LORETO KIRRIBILLI

MARY WARD WEEK 2021

Loreto Kirribilli girls came together showing their pride as women leading and shaping the future. The Quad was a sea of purple ribbons as girls demonstrated their passion for female empowerment. Year 12 students who are active members of the Benenson Society gathered together on the front drive to raise awareness of female inequality in the world and the workplace, highlighted through sobering statistics written in chalk. Junior School students congregated as well, engaging in conversations with the senior students about the significance of International Women’s Day at Loreto Kirribilli. We hope that a conversation was sparked amongst students, and that we were able to share the feeling of empowerment, and desire for change that we feel so strongly.

Mary Ward Week is celebrated from 23 January, the date she was born in 1585, until 30 January, the date of her death in 1645.

Olivia Stowe, Emma Sheller & Bianca Douroudis JPIC Human Rights Councillors

During this time we pray especially for all the IBVM and CJ sisters, especially those in the Kirribilli community. May their commitment to living out Mary Ward’s vision be shared in ever deeper ways. #marywardweek

2020 HSC Results ANNE Gripton | Director of Teaching & learning 2020 was the most extraordinary of years. We are pleased to share our students’ extraordinary achievements.

It was a year that began with bushfires and ended with flooding rains. There were all things COVID-19: lockdown, online remote learning, physical distancing, sanitiser, but there was also the dedication of our students to rise above these challenges and realise their potential. Their resilience and care of each other was wonderful to behold, and we are so proud that their commitment and capacity were well rewarded.

These students were supported by each other, their families, and Loreto Kirribilli in achieving their goals.

They grasped with both hands the opportunities to learn wherever and whenever they could; extended library hours in the afternoons and on weekends, bookable teachers, mock exams, seminar week, learning coaches and more. Their teachers worked tirelessly to support them through online learning, through feedback, MS Teams chats and emails to ensure that the students felt confident walking into the Ward Block for their HSC in October, and confident they were.

HSC results are released as a combination of assessment marks and examination marks which are added together to give the final HSC mark for the student in that subject. School assessment marks are moderated against the student’s HSC examination mark. The final HSC mark is then

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awarded a grade or Band. For all 2 Unit and 1 Unit courses the top Band is Band 6 and the lowest is Band 1. In Extension courses, the Bands are from Extension 4 (E4 = top) to Extension 1 (E1 = lowest).

We are also pleased to report that of this cohort, 313 Distinguished Achievements (attaining a Band 6) were shared among 122 students and that 53 students attained 3 or more Band 6 results.

HSC RESULTS

HSC SUBJECT ACHIEVEMENTS

We congratulate the eleven students who placed on the NSW HSC All Rounders list with ten units or more with a Band 6 or E4 result. They are:

In 2020, we ran 32 courses, all of which exceeded the state mean.

Courses that were significantly above were: Ancient History, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Chinese Continuers, Design and Technology, Drama, Economics, English Advanced, English Standard, Food Technology, French Continuers, Geography, History Extension, Italian Continuers, Legal Studies, Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Standard, Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Extension 2, Modern History, Music 1, PDHPE, Physics, Science Extension, Studies of Religion 1 Unit and 2 Unit, Visual Arts.

Isabella Barkus Saige Conners Lucy Court Alice Cullen Anneke Eales Charlotte Hattersley Sophie Lawrence Meg Lonie Caitlin O’Farrell Isobel Oxenham Charlotte Ross TOP ACHIEVERS IN NSW

Emily Adler 10th Design & Technology Lucy Court 4th English Standard Alice Cullen 7th Studies of Religion 1 Unit Charlotte Hattersley 11th Business Studies Georgia Landon-Smith 6th Studies of Religion 1 Unit Grace Moore 16th Business Studies Charlotte Ross 4th Modern History

Subjects where students achieved exclusively in the top Bands, that is, Band 5/6 or E3/E4, included: Chinese Continuers, Design and Technology, Economics, English Extension 1, English Extension 2, Food Technology, French Continuers, History Extension, Italian Continuers, Mathematics Extension 2, Music 1, Music 2, Science Extension, Visual Arts.

Other subjects that achieved over 80% of their students in the top two bands included: Ancient History, Drama, English Advanced, French Extension, Legal Studies, Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Extension1, Modern History, and Studies of Religion 1 Unit and 2 Unit.

We had 98% of students who achieved a result in Bands 5 or 6, while 91% of students achieved all Band 5 or 6 results.

In recognition of courses with practical components the following students were nominated in their various fields for:

ONSTAGE INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE (Drama)

Anneke Eales Eleanor Marr Phoebe Price Amelia Warburton

year, Loreto Kirribilli was placed 23rd, the highest performing Catholic girls' school and second highest Catholic school overall.

ATAR RESULTS

Dux: Charlotte Ross ATAR 99.9

SHAPE (Design and Technology,

4 students with an ATAR over 99

Industrial Technology, Textiles and Design)

21% of students with an ATAR over 97

ARTEXPRESS (Art)

Ava Bernardi

Emily Adler

60% of students with an ATAR over 90

Isabelle Berry

Madeleine Croker

Charlotte Collins - Selected

Isobel Delany

Josie Connaghan

Charlotte Hattersley

Lily Eales

Sophie Klem

Georgie Eggleton

Cella McGrath

Kara Howard

Faith Michael

Zoe Hutchinson

Isobel Oxenham

Sophie Klem

Ellen Russell

Meg Lonie

Isabella Shirley

Mimi O'Brien

Cassidy Wood

Abbey O'Donnell

Lily Young

Lucy Owens Ellen Russell - Selected

OVERALL RESULTS

Sophie Shirriff - Selected

The Sydney Morning Herald each year releases a ranking based on the number of Band 6/E4 results as a percentage of the overall number of examinations sat by our students. This

Jessica Tannous Charlotte Tiffin

30% of students with an ATAR over 95

Many of our students had already applied for and received early entry into university, but this only spurred them on to work even harder. We are absolutely delighted for each and every one of our students; they all faced their own struggles this year. They have every right to be so proud of all that they have achieved in spite of such difficulties this year.

The students remained true to themselves in our year of Verity, and worked together with each other, their families and teachers to prepare themselves not just for the HSC, but for their wonderful lives to come.

Go forth, Year 12, as inspiring women, as seekers of truth and doers of justice!

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Dux Assembly We were delighted that girls from the Class of 2020 were able to attend our Dux Assembly given the COVID restrictions in place at the time. Charlotte Ross, 2020 Loreto Kirribilli Dux and School Captain gave a superb speech which offered excellent advice and encouragement to all the students present. We are pleased to share some excerpts from Charlotte’s speech below: "Never before has the Prime Minister been watched so eagerly by an HSC class. With daily updates on the news and as a result everyone’s group chats about whether or not school would be cancelled on Monday, and hence whether or not we should start studying for the dreaded English and Maths tests that were scheduled for the day, the year was defined by unpredictability.

The HSC is a team effort, and this mind-set was one of the determining factors in our successes as a cohort, especially following lockdown.

On behalf of both me and my cohort, there are a few thank you’s that are due. Firstly to Parto [Ms Partington], and all of our class teachers whose commitment to us got us over the line, thank you. …to say we couldn’t have done it without our class teachers is an understatement. We quite literally would not have made it to the final exam with our heads screwed on if it wasn’t for your constant guidance and reassurance, and Loreto is so lucky to have all of you.

My final message to all of you when your HSC year comes, is to live every HSC year like it’s 2020, and don’t worry, I will explain. The year brought incredible hardship to so many, and for that reason it’s a year the world would probably rather forget. But the year also showed us all that we are more resilient than we think we are, and taught us not to take anything for granted. For us as an HSC cohort, having so many things that we would normally take for granted taken away, taught us to make the most of every opportunity, in a way that we probably would not have, had it not been 2020.”

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Future of Learning Linda Walburn | Assistant to the Head of Junior School

Play is how children explore, discover, fail, succeed, socialise, and flourish. It is a fundamental element of the human condition. It’s the key to giving schoolchildren skills they need to succeed–skills like creativity, innovation, teamwork, focus, resilience, expressiveness, empathy, concentration, and executive function. Professor Pasi Sahlberg

Professor Pasi Sahlberg joined us on campus to share his play-based learning research with our Junior School Team. Professor Sahlberg has worked as a school teacher, teacher-educator, researcher, and policymaker in Finland and advised education system leaders around the world. He has served as Senior Education Specialist at the World Bank in Washington DC, Lead Education Expert at the European Training Foundation in Italy, Director General at Finland’s Ministry of Education and Culture as well as Visiting Professor of Practice at Harvard University.

Professor Sahlberg’s visit enabled a wonderful professional dialogue as he shared his research and learnings on the importance of play for all children.

He was able to workshop with the Kindergarten - Year 2 teachers on specific strategies to engage the girls with more play-based learning experiences in and out of the classroom.

We thank Professor Sahlberg and look forward to implementing our learning with our students in the classroom and beyond.

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Farewell Ms Alison Brent

An emotional yet uplifting Farewell Assembly took place in February to mark the end of Ms Alison Brent’s tenure as Head of Junior School after 14 years of dedicated service to the Loreto Kirribilli community.

The theme of the special Assembly was ‘You have touched our hearts’.

Every student in the Junior School wrote a personal letter to Ms Brent and these were presented to her in a box full of love hearts during the Assembly.

Musical highlights included a most beautiful rendition of Hail Mary, Gentle Woman by Stella Constable and Claudia Healey, former Junior School students now in Years 10 and 8 respectively, as well as The Prayer, sung by Genevieve Nolan-Uzcilas of Year 5. Year 3 students Channelle Leon-Gularte, Mia de Vere White and Alexandra Gorman sang the Annie Lennox and Al Green 1988 classic, Put a little Love in your Heart and the Irish Blessing was performed by Chanelle Wilson, Year 5. The formal part of the morning was fittingly concluded with an uplifting performance of Queen of Loreto by Year 3 student, Josephine Foo.

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The Assembly was filled with lighthearted, yet touching, tributes from student representatives and staff members. Mrs Dickinson also shared words of gratitude for the gifts that Ms Brent shared as an outstanding educator both at Loreto Kirribilli and other schools within the Broken Bay Diocese.

Ms Brent was sent off on a high note with a surprise dance to Donna Summer’s toe tapping Last Dance performed by students and staff.

On the steps from the GBC, Ms Brent was met by a rousing 'Guard of Honour' formed by Senior School students who had been through the Junior School in the last six years.

We thank Ms Brent for her dedication and service to Loreto Kirribilli and wish her God’s blessings in the next chapter of her journey.

Junior School Learning WELCOME TO JUNIOR SCHOOL!

We were delighted to extend the warmest of welcomes to new students and families joining our Junior School community in 2021.

JUNIOR & SENIOR STUDENT LEADERSHIP AFTERNOON TEA

In order to highlight the importance of student voice in our community, a special afternoon tea took place to bring together our student leadership teams across both Junior and Senior School campuses. The girls were able to exchange details on projects happening on each campus, and discuss the challenges and highlights of their leadership roles so far.

The afternoon concluded with goal setting for whole school projects from Kindergarten to Year 12 for Term 2.

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Junior School Learning

YEAR 5 CAMP

The Year 5 camp to Milson Island was a much anticipated opportunity for students to interact with peers and teachers outside of the classroom.

The girls embarked on the adventure with enthusiasm, bravely fostered new connections and friendships and made the most of the chance to bond as a cohort.

YEAR 6 GO TO CANBERRA!

Year 6 students were excited to visit Canberra and stay overnight.

The focus of the excursion was to gain a deeper understanding of our system of government. The girls learned about the importance of voting at Old Parliament House and experienced a debate between politicians in the House of Representatives first hand. They even had the opportunity to ask questions of Federal Member for North Sydney, Mr Trent Zimmerman.

During their trip students also visited many significant places including the Institute of Sport, where they engaged in handson activities, The Royal Australian Mint, to learn about where all Australia’s circulating coins are produced, and the National Art Gallery, where the girls were able to appreciate a range of different artists and styles.

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Junior School Learning CRAZY HAIR RAISING FUN!

Junior School was awash with crazy hair raising fun as students and staff alike embraced the Crazy Hair & Mufti Day in aid of Project Compassion.

The day was an occasion of great felicity and fun, and we thank our community for their generosity in support of Project Compassion.

LIVING PLANET IN THE CLASSROOM

Year 1 budding scientists had a wonderful time investigating how living things grow and change.

Firstly, they planted broad beans and watched on in eager anticipation of the first sprouts. As a continuation of their life cycle learning, they also (not so) patiently awaited the arrival of eggs that they would observe hatching into chicks in their very own classroom!

Meanwhile, Year 5 enjoyed some rainy day fun with their much loved stick insect class pets.

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Senior School Learning SCIENTIST IN RESIDENCE

We welcomed Dr Haydn Allbutt as our inaugural Scientist in Residence. Dr Allbutt is an expert in animal behavioural studies and has worked in the fields of spinal cord injury and Parkinson's Disease.

Dr Allbutt worked with Stage 6 science students, challenging their thinking on a number of topics and assisting them with their research projects. He also held a session for staff on neuroscience and the teenage brain.

We thank Dr Allbutt for his residence and look forward to welcoming him back to Loreto Kirribilli in the future.

Pictured right, is a Science Extension student conducting a research project using drosophilae (fruit flies) to develop a neurodegenerative disease model. She is anaesthetising the fruit flies in order to sort them by gender to conduct tests on one gender at a time so the reproductive cycle does not affect the experiment.

PI DAY

Students in Year 7 Mathematics competed in a Pi reciting competition to mark Pi Day which is celebrated around the world on March 14, the 14th day of the 3rd month, 3/14 for short. The Pi Day Champion was Rosalind Colla. She was able to write Pi correct to 160 decimal places which is an outstanding effort!

Congratulations to all students who took part.

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Senior School Learning YEAR 10 FOOD TECHNOLOGY Year 10 Food Technology participated in what is always a popular and rewarding cake decorating incursion providing them with an opportunity to demonstrate their outstanding creative skills as part of their Event Planning Portfolio Assessment. The students worked through a unit of work from the Stage 5 syllabus called ‘Food For Special Occasions.' In this unit, students examined a range of special occasions and prepared foods unique to specific celebrations.

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Experiential Learning

YEAR 11 FIELD TRIP TO THE

YEAR 7 VISIT CHAU CHAK MUSEUM

BLUE MOUNTAINS

Our visit to the Chau Chak Wing Museum was an amazing experience, teaching us about the history of the ancient past. We gained exciting knowledge and interacted with artefacts from some incredible past civilisations including Greece, Rome, the Middle East and Egypt.

Year 11 Geographers spent two days in the Blue Mountains studying the impacts of bush fire and management strategies. The inclement weather did not dampen their spirits and students returned to the classroom with a deeper understanding of the challenges bush fires present and the risk mitigation strategies available to authorities and emergency services.

Keith Hopkins Social Science Coordinator

We were able to examine many ancient artefacts first hand to help us create a clear and detailed picture of what life was like back then. We explored sculptures of Ancient Greece and Rome and marvelled at a LEGO representation of the volcanic eruption of Pompeii.

We ‘travelled’ into the realm of ancient Egypt learning about key roles in society and the process of mummification - how the brain is pulled out through the nose and how modern historians have tried to identify the mummies.

It was amazing to see these relics of the past. We learnt so much and took our new knowledge and experiences back to the classroom to improve our learning.

Sarah Huynh, Antonella Lo Surdo, Olivia Sircelj, Charlotte Wood and the Year 7 Historians

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ARTEXPRESS

Year 11 Visual Arts students viewed ArtExpress artworks as an opportunity to model best practice and as inspiration for their own artmaking. Included in the exhibition were the works of Charlotte Collins, Ellen Russell and Sophie Shirriff, nominated and selected from our own Class of 2020.

MODERN LANGUAGES

Year 10 students of Languages were extremely excited to be out and about, enjoying Italian, Chinese and French culture around our very own Sydney.

After enjoying a crêpe, the students of French watched a Gérard Depardieu film, Fahim, the Little Chess Prince, as part of the French Film Festival.

Students of Chinese appreciated learning about the architecture, history and geography of the Chinese Gardens. The Marigold restaurant then welcomed them with generous servings of prawn dumplings, fried noodles, chicken spring rolls, BBQ pork and mango pancakes.

Haberfield was the destination for the Italian class. After a presentation by the proprietors of Paesanella and Peppe’s pasta, the students explored the bread shop, fruit store, cake shop and supermarkets and discovered the delights of this Italian community in Sydney. They then enjoyed a pizza and pasta lunch at Napoli in Bocca.

Liana Trevisan Languages Coordinator

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Student Wellbeing ROMALINA ROCCA | Director of student wellbeing

LUNCH FOR NEW STUDENTS IN YEARS 8 – 11

As part of the new student wellbeing program, Mrs Dickinson hosted a lunch alongside Miss Romalina Rocca, Director of Student Wellbeing, for new Senior School students who joined or returned to Kirribilli in Years 8 to 11. This was a welcome opportunity for students to connect, share experience and reflect on their journey so far.

YEAR 7 PASTORAL DAYS

Year 7 students enjoyed the opportunity to make new connections and explore the Senior School campus during two days of pastoral activities as part of the transition to Senior School program. Students participated in a range of activities including a dressmaking challenge and a discovery question hunt where they navigated their way around the campus, visiting significant landmarks along the way. Students also reflected on the differences between primary and secondary school and were able to workshop the skills needed to navigate the first year of Senior School.

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JUNIOR AND SENIOR SCHOOL YOGA

An important part of the Student Wellbeing program in the Junior School is the ‘Life Skills Yoga to Go Program’ which is a 10 week program attended by all Junior School students. During the program, students learn and apply positive physical fitness skills through a range of visual and auditory stimuli and movement exercises.

The program develops fundamental movement skills, increases concentration, coordination and energy levels and enhances health and wellbeing.

During Term 1, a Yoga and Meditation program ran in the Senior School on Wednesday and Thursday mornings to support student wellbeing and spiritual enrichment. Many students enjoyed the opportunity to begin the day with Yoga stretching and relaxation techniques, ending with a gentle Ignatian Examen.

I hope to teach Loreto Kirribilli students that yoga and meditation is a useful tool to tackle whatever challenge, no matter how big or small, with calmness and confidence.

Sinead Costello ('14), Program Instructor

SUPPORTING HSC STUDENTS

PEGGY THE THERAPY DOG RETURNS!

Year 12 enjoyed two insightful workshops with Clinical Psychologist, Jenn Hawken from The Kidman Centre at UTS about preventative strategies to support them as they navigate their HSC year. The workshops equipped students with relevant and supportive strategies to help maintain wellbeing throughout Year 12 and beyond.

Due to the success of Peggy the therapy dog’s visits in 2020, the much-loved Groodle has returned to Loreto Kirribilli! She visits the library each Monday afternoon and all Senior School students are encouraged to enjoy her canine companionship via small group sessions facilitated by ex-student and vet, Angela Hill ('92).

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Dance Night ADRIENNE GRIMES I HEAD OF PERFORMANCE

We were treated to two incredible nights of Dance this year. The talented members of the Loreto Kirribilli Jazz and Modern Troupes performed with skill and grace and the House Dances, led by the Dance Captains, were a display of joy and energy. Having rehearsed for so long, it was wonderful to see the Houses in costume, under the lights, dancing up a storm. The solo and duet performances by our adjudicated entries demonstrated the passion for a range of dance styles including ballet, jazz, lyrical and contemporary and the dedication to their craft by our talented dancers. Taking place over two nights, Wednesday’s event was enjoyed in Centenary Hall and by the audience at home via livestream.

The Spirit Cup was won by Ward and the House Dance Shield by Ward.

Congratulations to all our performers!

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Junior School Swimming Carnival SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIP OPEN 50M 1st. . . . . . . . . . . . . Eliza Damian 2nd. . . . . . . . . . Camilla Squire 3rd. . . . . . . Carla Pavlopoulos JUNIOR CHAMPION 1st. . . . . . . . . . Alexandra Bova 2nd. . . . . . . Hannah Jamieson 3rd. . . . . . . . . . Eloise Christian SENIOR CHAMPION 1st. . . . . . . . . . . . . Eliza Damian 2nd. . . . . . . . . . Camilla Squire 3rd. . . . . . . Carla Pavlopoulos CHAMPION HOUSE. . Ward SPIRIT TROPHY . . . . . . Barry

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Senior School Swimming Carnival SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIP OPEN 50M 1st. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ava Garrett 2nd. . . . . . . . Gabrielle Perkins 3rd. . . . . . . . . Charlotte Aubin INDIVIDUAL POINTSCORE JUNIOR 1st. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ava Garrett 2nd. . . . . . . . . . . . . Alice Austin 3rd. . . . . . . . Gabrielle Perkins INDIVIDUAL POINTSCORE INTERMEDIATE 1st. . . . . . . . . . Charlotte Aubin 2nd. . . . . . . . . . . . Olivia Jacobs 3rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . Sofia Duran INDIVIDUAL POINTSCORE SENIOR 1st. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jatali Brown 2nd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lily Foster 3rd. . . . . Madelaine Schmidt SPIRIT 1st. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ward 2nd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barry 3rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Heaton ​4th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Milson WATER BALLET 1st. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barry 2nd. . . . . . . . . . Ward & Milson 3rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Heaton OVERALL POINTSCORE 1st. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Heaton 2nd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Milson 3rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barry ​4th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ward

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Tennis Yolande Jury | Tennis Convenor

The middle of March is a special time for our Tildesley Tennis squad, with over 6 months of training leading up to the tournament. Tildesley Tennis has been played since 1918 and is always a special occasion. Six out of nine singles players progressed through to the second round and two of those progressed through to the third. Special mention to Alice Denison (Year 10) and Harriet Hurley (Year 12) who both made it through to the third round.

Doubles commenced under very wet conditions and unfortunately, the rain was the winner in the end and doubles matches were suspended at the beginning of Round 2. Three teams progressed through to the second round of the rescheduled doubles competition which took place on 31 March at Pennant Hills Park.

It has truly been a stellar Tennis season and with much anticipation, we await the 2021/22 season!

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Gymnastics World Acrobatics Gymnastics Championships Acrobatic Gymnastics has taught me the importance of teamwork, dedication and commitment and enabled me to push myself to the absolute limits of my abilities. I have loved competing internationally and the pride in representing my country has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the sport. Katie Rose, Year 10

Year 10 student Katie Rose and her gymnastics partners were selected to represent Australia at the sport’s pinnacle event, the then planned 2020 World Acrobatic Gymnastics Championships in Geneva, Switzerland. Katie and her team mates were selected as the Australian Senior Trio and were considered strong contenders to podium.

Katie’s pathway to selection spanned over a decade. She had previously achieved Australia's first ever bronze medal in the sport as a pair at the 2018 Junior World Championships which took place in Belgium, and the trio won a silver medal in a warm-up competition, also in Flanders, in 2019.

Due to COVID-19, the 2020 Worlds were postponed until July 2021 and Gymnastics Australia has since made the difficult decision to officially withdraw the Australian Team, putting a premature end to Katie’s journey.

She is now looking forward to becoming more involved in the many sports on offer at Loreto Kirribilli.

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Rowing Lachlan Allen | Head Rowing Coach NATIONAL ROWING CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Loreto Kirribilli 1st VIII compromising of 9 rowers and 2 coxswains were selected to represent the school at this year's National Rowing Championships in Tasmania.

By the end of the week the team had delivered the best performance by a Loreto Kirribilli rowing squad in the history of the program - every crew made the A finals; two gold medals; one bronze medal; and joint point score champions for National Schoolgirl Rowing.

Among the many highlights was the Under 17 2X (Double) A Final. The Kirribilli team came from fourth place at the 1000m mark to close in on first place in the last 100m and take the Gold Medal, and the Australian National Championship, in a time of 7:52.26, a margin of only 0.52 seconds to second place, and a further 0.64 seconds back to third place. An impressive victory that went down as one of the best finishes in the history of this regatta.

book their spots in the A final on the last day of racing, and the biggest day of the regatta.

Towards the end of the week, we witnessed another performance that will go down in the history of rowing at Loreto Kirribilli. Our two coxed SG 4+ crews raced hard and strong but missed out on progressing straight through to the final and were relegated to the repêchage. Undeterred, the girls took first and second place in the repêchage to

squad of rowers who fought all week, never gave up and displayed the resilient nature of our Loreto Kirribilli rowers.

What unfolded was one of my proudest moments at Loreto Kirribilli. By the 500m mark, both Loreto Kirribilli crews were leading the field. With the coaches and Mrs Donna Baker OAM standing nervously on the river bank, the cheers and screams began to rise as our rowers clocked through the 1000m, then 1500m and down to the last 250m with both LK crews fighting for podium finishes.

Then came confirmation from the commentators, “Loreto Kirribilli has taken Gold and Bronze”.

It was a race we will never forget, particularly for this

Then came the announcement that we had also been awarded joint point score champions for National Schoolgirl Rowing with Radford College - a fitting conclusion to an outstanding rowing performance.

NSW SCHOOLGIRL HEAD OF THE RIVER 2021

Our mighty Loreto Kirribilli rowers had an incredible season, despite the challenges COVID-19 presented. They persevered with their training with a steadfast focus and relentless drive to be competitive, as well as their best.

For some of our Year 12 rowers, the NSW Schoogirl Head of the River was the last regatta of their school rowing careers and we cheered them on with pride!

We acknowledge the dedication, hard work and commitment they have given to this sport and wish them every success.

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Water Polo Chris Hook | Water Polo Convenor

WARD MCAULEY CUP SUCCESS

OLYMPIC GOLD AT INAUGURAL WATER POLO CAMP!

The Ward McAuley Cup is without doubt the highlight of the Water Polo season.

In late January, excited players from the Loreto Kirribilli Firsts teams gathered at Drummoyne Pool for the inaugural Loreto Kirribilli Water Polo Camp. Students enjoyed three days of training, overseen by members of the Australian Women’s Water Polo team who were in attendance to offer technical advice to our players.

This annual match between friendly rivals, Loreto Kirribilli and Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College has become the most eagerly anticipated match of the season involving the two Senior Firsts teams from each school.

This year's game lived up to all expectations. Spectators from both schools created a fantastic atmosphere and the players responded with a goal-fest, though neither team was able to gain the ascendancy.

With just minutes remaining, Monte inched ahead 10-9 and seemed set to win the coveted trophy for the first time. It was in these dying minutes that Year 10 student Layla Smith stepped up. Having already scored five of Kirribilli’s 9 goals, she scored the tying goal and went on to throw in the winner with just five seconds left on the clock.

A victory to Loreto Kirribilli 11-10!

Keesja Gofers, a Rio 2016 Olympian capped 201 times for Australia, worked on the players’ driving and shooting skills.

Gen Longman, current goalkeeper for the Aussie Stingers, worked on the players’ leg positioning and defensive tactics.

Our girls were privileged to receive such high level advice and training not frequently accessible to school players. The tactics learned were put into practise during training games and at the end of each session against Monte.

On the final day the girls and coaches were thrilled when Sydney 2000 Olympic Gold medallist, Bronwyn Smith, ran a session and relived her experiences of the Gold Medal game - Olympic Gold Medal in hand!

Extra-curricular Highlights

AUSTRALASIAN MIDDLE SCHOOL ETHICS OLYMPIAD FINAL

Our Gold Medal NSW team consisting of Sybilla Delaney, Josephine Leete, Annabelle Ross, Georgia Thompson and Emma Turner were fluent, engaging and used wellreasoned arguments to put their various positions forward in each of the three rounds of the competition. Each team had to thoroughly understand a total of eight cases

MODEL UNITED NATIONS

Initiated by three students keen to expand their knowledge of International Relations, Model United Nations (MUN) is a new extra-curricular activity available to Senior School students. MUN simulations are popular worldwide with school and university students alike and provide participants with the opportunity to investigate and debate United Nations resolutions within the Security Council and General Assembly.

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and our team was soundly prepared for this event. Their communication and cooperative skills were outstanding and the judges’ feedback was especially complementary in terms of how the team answered questions and presented their arguments. Our team was richly rewarded for it efforts and finished in 11th place out of the top 22 teams.

Marisa Virtich Senior School Teacher, Gifted & Talented

As part of the planning and preparation process, the student organisers met with a United Nations Association leader via Zoom to coordinate contacts, initiatives and resources.

VEX ROBOTICS NATIONALS SUCCESS

Two Loreto Kirribilli teams battled it out with their own engineered robots at the VEX Robotics Nationals which took place at Barker College in March.

Congratulations to Isabella Dunstan, Claire Menzies, Cordelia Morton, Eliane Champ and Ella Flanagan from Loreto Kirribilli’s CICE Robotics team who came away with a qualifying spot at the Worlds with the Excellence Award, VEX’s highest award and the first team from our community to make the World Finals.

Congratulations also go to Olivia Thorn, Grace Pospisil and Sophie Nixey from Loreto Kirribilli’s Disney Magic team who took home the Design Award, which is an award for the best application of design process in building and implementing robotic solutions.

Both teams demonstrated their outstanding collaboration, problem-solving and time management skills as well as boundless creativity and steely perseverance.

The students were ably supported by staff, coaches and parents throughout their robotics journey so far and we wish them continued success in the future.

Maria Emmi & Jonathon Mascorella E Learning Teacher Educator & Coordinator of Innovation

CSDA PUBLIC SPEAKING ZONE FINAL

Congratulations to Lydia Colla (Year 11) who made it through to the CSDA Public Speaking Zone Final.

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Innovation Centre Building Update Daniel Mahon | Deputy Principal

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021

MARCH 2021

Our builder, Richard Crookes Constructions, utilised the Christmas period to complete detailed excavation work, while also constructing and installing steel reinforcement cages which form the foundations of our new Innovation Centre. Tonnes of reinforcement was installed, and the Lower Ground 4 slab was poured on 21 January 2021.

A significant milestone in the realisation of the Innovation Centre was reached in March as we commenced the connection of our new building with the Junior School.

FEBRUARY 2021

Following the first concrete slab pour, the vertical walls, columns to Lower Ground 3 and suspended slab formwork were completed. Immediately following this work was the installation of reinforcement and post-tensioning to the Lower Ground 3 slab on top of the formwork deck.

In addition to the pouring of concrete, the old gym extension was demolished and demolition work under Centenary Hall was undertaken in preparation for the installation of the new change room and toilet facilities.

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For the safety of our students, staff and visitors, hoarding and overhead protection were installed in designated areas of our Junior School campus and several protective measures will remain in place for the duration of the project.

We look forward to sharing more information with our community as the Innovation Centre continues to take shape.

Follow the Innovation Centre Project Story via our website: https://www.loreto.nsw.edu.au/about/innovation-centre/ innovation-centre-project-story/

Innovation Centre Student Learning Update HARPER GRACIE | School captain

One very exciting Friday lunchtime, a group of Year 12 students, dressed in hi-vis vests and hard hats, were given the amazing opportunity to visit the site of the emergent Innovation Centre. There, we were introduced to the wonderful team of builders, engineers and project managers involved in the construction of the new building.

It was an incredible experience to visit the site in person, see the building take shape and learn about the construction process and the unique features of this state-of-the-art facility.

We were excited to hear about the new opportunities available to students throughout the building process, including the chance to learn about a career in the construction industry under the guidance of the exceptionally talented team currently on site.

We are very grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the amazing building which is being created for our learning. Thank you Mr Mahon for organising this visit which we hope will inspire many more students to get involved in this remarkable project.

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Parents and Friends Kim Turner & Leila Lai I JOINT P&F Presidents What a difference a year makes! Finally, life returns to be somewhat more normal in 2021 with our emerging relaxed school restrictions.

We are very grateful for this and all the support we have received from the teachers, the school executives and our school community during this time.

The energy and enthusiasm from our community are unmistakable as witnessed at our two P&F events to launch the year – the P&F Luncheon and the Father Daughter Mass, both filled to capacity.

The Father Daughter Mass was a wonderful celebration and a joy to be able to offer this event in person and via livestream with Fr Peter Hendriks as our Celebrant. Phillip Walburn and his daughters, Lucy (’16) and Rosie (Year 12) delivered a beautiful Father Daughter reflection, with everyone identifying with these special loving bonds.

On a glorious Sydney day in March, we finally held our P&F Luncheon with guest speaker, Meredith Gaston (’02). Meredith shared her talents with our guests, reinforcing the qualities and values gained through a Loreto education.

Our Loreto values shone from this inspirational ex-student providing a wonderful insight into the world of creativity and the opportunities awaiting our daughters. Whilst this event raised funds for the P&F, it was primarily a forum to reconnect and treasure the gift of community.

As Term 2 starts, we are preparing to host the second-hand uniform sale in support of Mary Ward International and the Ex-students' Union Bursary Program, as well as the inaugural Loreto Kirribilli Sports Lunch. Please keep your eye out for these and other upcoming events.

We hope to see you there!

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Women in Science Around the Globe LK CONNECT | mentoring and networking program Live from Iraq, Oxford University and Sydney, our LK Connect Women in Science Around the Globe evening on 24 March featured a panel of inspirational ex-student scientists who are forging new frontiers and making a positive difference in the lives of others, here and around the world.

SYDNEY

HELEN DALLEY (‘74) Helen is a well-respected television journalist, interviewer and podcaster, a Walkley Award winner with several decades’ experience on the Nine Network for 20 years, and more than a decade with Sky News Australia, Sky News Business and APAC.

OXFORD

SYDNEY

IRAQ

SYDNEY

THERESE POWELL (‘80)

REBECCA SCRENCI (‘13)

DR BRIANNA HEAZLEWOOD (‘02)

DR SALLY IOANNIDES (Eyers ‘00)

Therese is a physiotherapist working for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Iraq.

Rebecca is a founding Scientist of Vow, a cultivated meat start-up company in Sydney working in cellular agriculture.

Brianna is an academic in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Oxford, researching how chemical reactions occur under cold and controlled conditions.

Sally has a PhD in Medicine (University of Otago) and specialises in Public Health Medicine and Population Child Health. She is currently working with NSW Health on the public response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Expertly facilitated by Helen Dalley, our Kirribilli scientists showcased their diversity in the areas of communicable diseases, research in chemistry, cellular agriculture and physiotherapy in developing countries and discussed how globalisation has contributed to major scientific advancements through increased collaboration and communication.

Live from Iraq, Therese Powell highlighted the importance of values and community service required to support developing countries, and the understanding of global health issues required by the work of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Dr Brianna Heazlewood’s passion and curiosity for science shone through in her enthusiasm for new approaches and techniques to allow for further research in chemical reactions under cold and controlled conditions.

Fuelled by her interest in medical equity and accessible health care, Dr Sally Ioannides set out to explore chronic

Asthmatic diseases in children and communicable diseases including, most notably, COVID-19.

In addition, we were delighted to hear from Rebecca Screnci, a founding scientist in a startup cultivated Meat Company. Rebecca’s passion for science was first ignited by her Loreto Kirribilli teacher, Mrs Wilson.

Our ex-students have all forged new frontiers in scientific research and applied science in developing countries with curiosity, passion and drive for greater social justice.

They continue to inspire our current students and we look forward to the next stage in their diverse and impactful careers.

In the words of our youngest panellist, Rebecca Screnci:

If you want to go fast, go alone.

If you want to go far, go together.

For further information about LK Connect please contact Debbie Henry or Antoinette Darin Phone +61 2 9957 4722 or email lkconnect@loreto.nsw.edu.au

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Sharing our Community

2021 NSW REGIONAL WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

YOUNG ROCK

Ex-student Lexie Duncan (’17) has made her US primetime television debut in a new NBC series.

Lexie has been cast as a high-school sweetheart in ‘Young Rock’, a comedy about the formative years of American actor and producer, Dwayne Johnson. She plays Karen, a popular charismatic high school student with dreams of attending beauty school. Set in in the idyllic town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the series was shot on location in Brisbane and South East Queensland. Currently airing in the US and available in Australia in the coming weeks, according to the LA Times, “ ’Young Rock’ drew the largest audience among the 14 comedies that have premiered on NBC since 2017.”

With a background in musical theatre, Lexie is thrilled to have been selected for the role. “Loreto provided me with an incredible education that prepared me for this tough industry. Acting in 'Young Rock' has been an amazing experience and I’m looking forward to continuing to work in film, television and theatre. I’m delighted to share the news with the Loreto community.”

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Grace Brennan (Clark, ’01) has been awarded the 2021 NSW Regional Woman of the Year for her 2019 #BuyfromtheBush campaign, set up to unite city and country in support of rural businesses battling drought. The movement gained more than a quarter of a million followers on Instagram and breathed life into countless struggling rural businesses. Almost all were run by women with many now able to scale their business, hire staff and learn new skills.

A NSW Government initiative, the NSW Women of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding contribution made by women across NSW across seven categories. The NSW Regional Woman of the Year Award shines a light on the accomplishments of an extraordinary woman living in regional NSW. Grace was also a Regional Winner of Syngenta’s 2020 Growth Awards in the Community and People category.

Ms Brennan gave the 2020 NSW Australia Day Address and received a standing ovation.

Ex-Student Profile FIND YOUR SPARKLE | merEDITH GASTON ('02) Internationally acclaimed artist, best-selling author and wellness coach Meredith Gaston (’02) delivered the address at this year’s P&F Luncheon and firmly believes her years at Loreto Kirribilli have had a profound and enduring impact on her own quest to ‘find her sparkle’.

“It was the values that nourished, nurtured and inspired me as a student at Loreto Kirribilli that I have carried with me into every level of my adult life, into my further education, my work, my career and into my relationships with people in the community, my family, my friends and my loved ones.”

She looks back fondly on her teachers, who she said inspired and encouraged her enormously, mentioning her Art teacher Ms Guest and English Coordinator Ms Davis in particular. She acknowledges that all her teachers played a part in shaping her into the woman she is now. “All my teachers moved and inspired me, each and every one.”

She has many fond memories of her Kirribilli schooldays but favourites include an art excursion to Arthur Boyd’s home and studio in Bundanoon and ‘Street Retreat’, which involved staying at Mary McKillop lodge in North Sydney while volunteering in the community.

“I loved the creative and community service aspects of school life. I also took a Southern Cross exchange program to Italy in Year 10, a trip that changed my life completely. I learnt to speak Italian fluently in three

months, living in a very small country town north of Venice, and have since returned to visit my host parents regularly, even as recently as 2019…

20 years later,” she added.

Now based in the hinterland of Noosa, on the Sunshine Coast, Meredith has many talents. She has written and illustrated seven books, exhibited her artworks internationally and is a sought after health and wellbeing coach.

She is passionate about raising awareness and money (over $2 million to date) for women affected by breast cancer and does so via her longstanding commitment to Sussan Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) projects, which she describes as a career highlight. She creates giftware including stationery, sleepwear and wellness products from organic soaps to herbal teas, all beautifully illustrated and packaged, that are available through Sussan Corporation with proceeds going to BCNA. Meredith feels this drive to make a difference has its roots in her time

at Loreto Kirribilli. “My education both academically and emotionally at Loreto Kirribilli prepared me to live a richly creative, spiritual life in which I feel truly independent and empowered. I appreciate the value of loving service and have a toolkit of foundational resources from which to draw on at every level as I go about living and enjoying my life,” she explained.

If she has any advice for girls embarking on their careers it is,

Do what you love and love what you do. Listen to your own heart and be courageous as you follow it."

We strongly encourage you to watch Meredith’s sparkling address at the P&F Luncheon in its entirety via this link: https://vimeo.com/ 530130781/ 896c68276c

Ex-Students' Union Celia Sheldon | Ex-StudentS' Union President Calling all ex-students who are not official members of the Union!

Perhaps you never got around to joining, or you joined straight out of school but didn’t keep up with (what was then) annual fees. If that is the case, then you are probably now receiving correspondence as a parent instead of an ex-student.

Nothing wrong with that, except that we would love to have you officially registered as a life member so we can guarantee to keep in contact with you. Your (now one-off ) membership fee ($150) will provide a valuable boost to our bursary fund but, above all, becoming an official member is a clear demonstration of your support of our activities and our Union. This also applies to anyone from other Loreto schools now living here. If you are part of the Kirribilli community then we encourage you to join us!

We are also on the lookout for more enthusiastic members to join our committee, to help organise social and fundraising events, such as the recent very successful Film Night, Girls Can’t Surf. It’s not all organising though. Being on the committee is a fun way of getting together, sharing ideas and staying connected. Please contact me if you’re interested.

Tickets still available for our shared Kirribilli - Normanhurst Theatre Party, 17 June, Capitol Theatre. Come From Away, the Tony and Olivier Awardwinning new Broadway musical, is an incredible true story wowing

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audiences everywhere. Tickets include an exclusive Q&A with the cast following the show. Deadline is 30 April so don’t miss out!

Planning is underway for our major fundraiser and community gathering on 9 September Golf Day & Dinner. We will need players, volunteers, donors, sponsors and diners! The social side is just as important as the golf, so please put this date in your diary now and consider how you might like to be involved. More details coming soon.

musical

Loreto Normanhurst and Kirribilli Ex-students invite you to 'Come From Away' The Musical in aid of Mary Ward International.

Venue: Capitol Theatre Date: Thursday 17 June Time: 7pm To book click here: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing?eid=655870&

Federation 2020 - Loreto Marryatville (Adelaide) - which was postponed last year due to the pandemic has again been postponed to 2022 when organisers anticipate being able to gather to celebrate and further develop our Loreto connections. Full details yet to be released but keep it in mind.

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connected

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Instagram: loretokirribilli_exstudents Facebook: Loreto Kirribilli Ex-Students’ Union exstudents@loreto.nsw.edu.au 0412 383 330

Spirit Magazine now Digital a sustainable SPIRIT for the future

Loreto Kirribilli has always managed its resources carefully with the future in mind. As a result, you will now receive your copy of the Spirit magazine digitally via the email address we hold on file. Should you or a family member prefer to receive a printed copy, we encourage you to opt in by contacting us using the details below.

MANAGING FOR SUSTAINABILITY

TO CONTINUE TO RECEIVE A PRINTED COPY BY MAIL

Loreto Kirribilli is committed to continuing to work with staff, students and the broader school community to support the sustainability of our School and also the sustainability of our environment.

Opt in by contacting us via: • email info@loreto.nsw.edu.au • phone +61 2 9957 4722 or • mail C ommunications Office Loreto Kirribilli 85 Carabella Street Kirribilli NSW 2061 You only need to opt in once.

We will continue to send you each issue until you opt out.

Excerpt from Loreto Kirribilli 2020-2023 Strategic Plan Inspired Minds: Catalysts for Change

TO RECEIVE SPIRIT DIGITALLY BY EMAIL

You do not need to do anything. You will automatically be sent a link to the digital version.

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Ex-Students’ News ENGAGEMENTS

Mikaela Samios ('13) Stephanie Silva ('13) Laura Urwin ('10) Annalisa Ferraris ('07)

| Ellen Camenzind ('11) | Matthew Wales (LK '78) | Hannah Booth ('10)

WEDDINGS

Sarah Cogar ('04) to Anthony Nicita Juliet Hardman ('06) to Christopher Ensor Kate Mahony ('98) to James Petering

| Anna Church ('10) to Scott Mugglestone | Jacqueline Kernahan ('12) to Maximilian Cornwell

BIRTHS : DAUGHTERS

Frankie Sierra Hunter to Jessamine Walker ('99) Olivia Mary Betty to Sophie Oldham (Smith '09) Elliot Rose to Alice Hollier (Slaven '10)

| Emma Isabella to Louise Murray ('99) | Vivienne to Alexandra King-Perzi (King '99)

BIRTHS : SONS

Christopher Joseph to Rebecca Cocco (Lewis '05) DEATHS : EX-STUDENTS

Patricia Frances Lohan IBVM ('51), sister of Kay Dunford (Lohan '53), aunt of Mary MacMillan (Dunford '84), Gabrielle Pither (Dunford '87), Suzanne Dunford ('89) & Fiona Griffiths (Dunford '95) and great aunt to Lara Pither (Year 6) Kerry Bamford (Collins '56) sister of Sue O’Malley (Collins '51) and Clover Moore (Collins '63) Noni Rowland (Brauer '46), sister of Mary Brauer ('44) (dec) Elsa Wunder (Stumbles '44), mother of Margaret Cox (Wunder '72) and Alex Brown (Wunder '75) Deidre Connors (Bray '54), sister of Barbara Chamberlin (Bray '58), grandmother of Edie Hunter (Year 8) Tamara Ann Case (’91) sister of Tina Case (‘89) and Rebecca Case (’93), mother of Lucinda Case ('09) Willa Hagarty (Mannix ’54), sister of Margaret Green (Mannix '40), Laurie Mannix ('48) (dec), Dorothy Mannix ('45) (dec) and Mary Willoughby (Mannix '43) DEATHS : EX-STUDENTS' RELATIVES

James Doughty, husband of Carmelita (Hankins '51) Judge Anthony Garling, father of Emma Janssen (Garling '85) and Sarah O’Reilly (Garling '84), grandfather of Sophie Janssen ('17), Zoe Janssen ('19) and Samantha Janssen (Year 10), uncle of Antonia Garling ('00) and Lucinda Garling ('02) Joseph Sacco, husband of Peggy (teacher at Loreto Kirribilli), father of Marise Sacco ('79) and Jill Malone (Sacco '86) Susan Knight (Ball '59), daughter of Kathleen Ball (Crothers '30) (dec), sister of Helen Deane (Ball '55) and Andrew Ball (LK '53) Margaret Quinn (Thompson '43), mother of Rosemary Englund (Quinn '71), Domenica Edwards (Quinn '77) and Virgina Skelton (Quinn '83), grandmother of Kate Englund ('02), Eve Edwards ('06), Georgia Quinn ('10), Claudia Quinn ('13) and Amelia Skelton ('13) AWARDS

Dr Perry McIntyre (Brown '68), Member of the Order (AM) for significant service to history preservation and genealogy organisations, Australia Day 2021