SIONIANS
From the College Captains Contents
At Sion, we’re incredibly lucky to be part of such a close-knit and supportive community, where students across all year levels have countless opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow together.
Through our involvement in various leadership teams from Year 7 to Year 12, we’ve had the privilege of meeting so many inspiring individuals who have not only shaped our understanding of leadership, but have also been powerful role models for us along the way.
Upcoming
Sionians: Beyond the Cherry Red Gates is produced by Our Lady of Sion College 1065 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill, Victoria 3128.
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Licensed under NEALS. The NEALS licence permits Australian schools and educational bodies to reproduce print and digital materials for educational use in schools free of charge.
Acknowledgments
Thank you to those who contributed to the articles and photographs in this issue.
Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Our Lady of Sion College. The editor reserves the right to amend or reject any item submitted for publication.
Correspondence is welcomed to:
Tina Apostolopoulos, Principal, Our Lady of Sion College PO Box 254 Kerrimuir, VIC 3129
E: principal@sion.catholic.edu.au paststudents@sion.catholic.edu.au
T: +61 3 9890 9097
W: sion.catholic.edu.au
Front cover image
2026 College Musical - Mamma Mia!
From a young age, we aspired to become College Captains. We fondly recall looking up to those who once stood where we are now, leaders who carried themselves with confidence, compassion, and purpose. During last year’s captaincy application process, the 2024 student leadership team guided us with support and encouragement. This gave us hope and the self-belief to pursue our goals, no matter the challenges.
These older students were more than mentors, they were friends and cheerleaders through both the highs and lows. Over the past six years, our involvement in music ensembles, drama, arts, and debating helped us form strong bonds with past students. Many played a vital role in helping us find our feet, and feel at home, especially in our younger years.
We characterise these women as ‘big-sisters’; guiding lights who believed in us when we struggled to believe in ourselves. As we now prepare to move on, we hope to have made a similar impact, providing all students with inspiration and hope that they too can achieve all that they put their minds to.
Sara Kolovos & Zoe Frankensteiner, 2025 College Captains
From the Desk of the Principal
The Sion legacy we celebrate and cherish
Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:9
From the moment we are born we inherit from our parents and families the traditions, values and way of life they uphold and within which we are immersed. Their legacies help to shape who we are and how we navigate life. Aside from our families, the next most important formative time of our lives is often our school experience.
In many ways, this edition of Sionians celebrates the importance of the Sion legacy and its ability to shape our lives long after we have left the school that has formed us.
As featured in this issue, the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion have formally transferred the governance of the College to Mercy Partners, who now assume civic and canonical responsibility. By joining a wider community of Mercy Partner schools, this transition ensures our charism and legacy will be preserved and nurtured into the future.
The Sisters of Our Lady of Sion have left a significant and enduring tradition spanning 97 years of commitment to the education of young women and they will continue to be our bedrock through the values of compassion, inclusivity, and the pursuit of justice and peace they have instilled in generations of women.
The imminent 100th anniversary in a few years’ time is further evidence of a legacy that spans many generations of young women who make up the strong community spirit that students, past and present, have enjoyed. Our stories resonate with gratitude for friendships formed, knowledge and experiences gained, and values embedded.
The strength of the Sion legacy is also witnessed in the many alumnae whose daughters, granddaughters, and nieces have attended the College, and in those who return each year to share their journeys with our students.
One of the 2025 College Captains’ key goals was to deepen every student’s sense of belonging. Amongst many things, this comes to life through House events and co-curricular opportunities such as our Social
Justice, Arts and Sports programs and the way in which we prioritise naming and knowing each student. As I approach retirement and prepare to walk through the cherry red gates for the final time, I do so with deep gratitude. The past ten years as Principal have been a rich and rewarding culmination of my professional life; a legacy I will carry with pride.
Thank you to the past and present students, families, and staff who have been part of this journey. I look forward to hearing how the College will continue to flourish and wish the Our Lady of Sion College community many blessings for the future.
Tina Apostolopoulos, College Principal
Mentors’ Breakfast
Our annual Mentors’ Breakfast is a highlight on the College calendar. This year, we had the privilege of welcoming over 30 alumnae who generously shared their career journeys since graduating from Sion with our Year 12 students. The event gave students the opportunity to hear first-hand and actively engage in meaningful conversations with our alumnae and to be inspired by their stories.
Our keynote speaker this year, Amy Griffin, spoke to our students about being strong, confident women.
“Believe in yourself. Be bold enough to ask because the worst thing they can say is ‘no’. Be brave enough to try - you create your future through action. Be kind enough to lead.”
This invaluable event continued to inspire our students. Hearing from past Sionians about their journeys since leaving the cherry red gates excited and motivated them as they looked ahead to their own futures. The morning offered meaningful insights into the world of work and highlighted the many pathways that can lead to finding a place in it. We thank our alumnae for volunteering their time and continuing to be part of our Sion community.
Vale to Sr Mary Barry nds
(Sr Pierina)
June 24, 1932 - July 14 2025
Sr Mary was born on June 24, 1932. She was the second eldest child and the oldest girl in a family of 12—14 children in total, though sadly, two passed away shortly after birth. She attended primary school in Drouin and upon leaving school, continued to support her family. Mary spoke fondly of helping her father on the farm—one of her most treasured memories. She loved the beauty of Drouin and its surrounding hills.
At just 16, Mary left home for Sale to begin her postulancy and her journey with the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion. Throughout her life, she remained deeply devoted to her family. Her brother Michael recalls that when Sisters of Our Lady of Sion in Australia were first allowed home visits, Mary chose to attend his wedding—57 years ago—to his beloved wife, Mary.
She entered the congregation in January 1949 and professed her first vows in August 1951, taking the religious name Sr Pierina—a feminine form of Peter, meaning ‘rock.’ And indeed, Mary was a rock: reliable, cheerful, and always interested in others.
In 1952, she was sent to Box Hill, and in 1956 to Ascot Vale, where she made her final vows in 1957. She later returned to live in Sale, where she cared devotedly for the Sisters in the infirmary. Her care was meticulous. She also visited patients in the Sale hospital, always ready to lend a helping hand. In all she did, Mary connected with people, built relationships, and nurtured lasting friendships.
In 1992, she returned to Box Hill and soon began volunteering at Caritas Christi Hospice in Kew. Mary was kindness itself. People who knew her always mentioned her smile and her kindness. She truly lived the biblical values of hospitality, compassion, and mercy. She welcomed everyone she met with warmth and grace.
The Sisters of Our Lady of Sion see their charism as one
of respect, dialogue, and welcome. Mary embodied all of these in every encounter.
In 2020, recognising she needed more care, Mary chose to move to MacKillop/St Vincent Care. There she participated in as many activities as possible and chose to watch the news with other residents rather than alone in her room. She often spoke of the kindness shown to her by the staff, mentioning the lady who brought her laundry, the man who cleaned her room, the woman who delivered her daily newspaper. She noticed and appreciated every small act of care.
Mary lived a life of quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering kindness and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
May she rest in peace.
A past pupil and her baby often visited Sr Mary Barry
Sr Mary Barry received a certificate for her volunteer work from the City of Whitehorse City Council
Mercy Partners Partnership
Our Lady of Sion: A Legacy of Faith, Education, and Love
In 1847, Theodore Ratisbonne founded the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion in Paris, France. The Congregation expanded rapidly, with the first foundation outside France established in Jerusalem in 1856. By 1884, seven of the 21 communities were located in Muslim countries. Parents of all faiths trusted the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion to educate their children, knowing their religious beliefs would be respected. This inclusive spirit became a cornerstone of a Sion education that has endured to the present day.
Theodore’s inspiration came from the Word of God, which he described as characterised by ‘love, truth and sovereign beauty.’ Through deep contemplative prayer, he sought to understand God’s will for creation. He was particularly drawn to the biblical word ‘Sion,’ which held spiritual and symbolic meanings linked to God’s presence and desire for redemption. He also found inspiration in Mary, the courageous woman of Scripture who trusted in God and lived a life of faith, service, and love. It was fitting that his congregation would be named the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion.
A passage central to Theodore’s spirituality was: Listen, O Israel… You will love the Lord your God… and your neighbour as yourself (Deut. 6:4–9; Mk 12:28–32). For him, love was life’s only absolute. He taught that ‘love is the very essence of the human heart’ and insisted that each student be treated as an individual. In 1860, he told the sisters, ‘You must love your students very much; it will be the secret of your success in education.’
This legacy continued in Australia when, in 1890, at the request of Bishop James Corbett, the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion arrived in Sale, Victoria. They began teaching at the parish primary school and soon opened a secondary school with ten students. Over the following decades, schools were established in Bairnsdale (1898), Warragul (1905), Ascot Vale (1927), and finally Box Hill in 1928.
Our Lady of Sion College, Box Hill began with 15 students in renovated stables. Since then, thousands of young women have received a holistic education grounded in Scripture and inspired by Mary’s example. In 1974, the College welcomed its first lay Principal, Mrs Pauline Malady. Governance was further strengthened in 1990 with the incorporation of the College as a company.
Transition Ritual of Governance of The Collect from the Sisters to Mercy Partners
Sisters, staff and students of Our Lady of Sion College (Sion Day Eucharist 2025)
Today, the College remains firmly embedded in the Sionian charism. Students are encouraged to explore their gifts, pursue excellence, live justly, and be compassionate. A Year 12 student recently described Sion as ‘a place where sisterhood and compassion come together… inspiring us to grow in faith, show love to others, and stand up for justice.’
In 2012, Sion schools around the world formed an international network, fostering collaboration and shared formation. In 2025, the College opened three key facilities: the Ratisbonne Discovery Centre, the Colmar Centre, and the Ein Karem Centre—each embodying Sion values such as faith, learning, wellbeing, and justice.
With fewer sisters able to serve, governance of the College was transferred to Mercy Partners on 10 June 2025. This group, known for respecting diverse charisms, was seen as the best option to protect the mission, vision, and educational philosophy of Sion.
The symbolism of the olive tree, representing peace is central to the Sion story. Theodore believed unity was vital for the life of the congregation. In 1875, he wrote that Sion could only thrive through unity, despite geographical distances. In 1849, he emphasised peace as central to the Gospel: Peace is the first word… and the last: “Peace be with you!”
Year 12s in pyjamas for Pyjamas for a Cause Day
Transition Ritual of Governance of The Collect from the Sisters to Mercy Partners
Staff and Sisters of Our Lady of Sion College
The generational bonds: Sion alumnae and their daughters walking the same path
The Sion community is truly special and a great source of pride for our College. Every Daughter of Sion is known and valued, and from the moment they walk through the cherry red gates to graduation, we hope their connection with the College endures. It is humbling to welcome back past students who now return with their own daughters, continuing a cherished generational bond. This is a beautiful testament to the lasting impact of a Sion education and the strength of our community.
Two families share their story of the special generational bond they share through Sion: Amanda Ingrosso (Class of 1998) and her daughter, Evelyn Ingrosso (Year 9) and Lisa Bravington (Class of 1995) and her daughters, Olivia (Year 9) and Dani (Year 12).
Amanda:
What did you love most about Sion?
The friendships I made and the sense of community really stood out to me.
Did you always hope to send your children to Sion?
I had thought about it, especially because my mother attended Sion in Year 7. Luckily Evelyn was quite happy that she too wanted to attend Sion. Her confidence in the decision made it easy for us to support her choice. I also attended the 90th year anniversary Open Day with an old classmate (and still to this day one of my closest friends) and we loved how much the school had developed and grown since we left.
What was it about your experience at Sion that inspired you to enrol your daughters?
My experience at Sion strengthened my sense of self, my values, and how I approached the world. I wanted Evelyn to have that same foundation and to be part of a community that encourages young women to grow in strength and self-belief.
How does it feel to have your daughters attending the same school you once did?
There’s something meaningful & nostalgic about seeing Evelyn walk the same halls I once did. It brings back memories and gives a lovely sense of continuity.
In what ways did attending Sion impact you personally or professionally?
Attending Sion gave me a great education, a clear sense of personal values, and friendships that have lasted a lifetime.
Evelyn:
Which values from your time at Sion have stayed with you, and do they still guide you today?
What I learned at Sion was being respectful, honest, and resilient. These qualities still guide me every day.
Do you still keep in touch with friends from your Sion days?
Yes! I’ve been fortunate that some of my closest friends have been by my side since Year 7!
How does it feel knowing your mum went to the same school?
It’s pretty cool hearing her stories and seeing what’s changed and what’s stayed the same.
Has your mum shared any stories or memories from her time at Sion? Yes! She’s shared a few stories — mostly funny ones about her friends and what school was like back then.
Do you think the school feels the same or different from how it was in your mum’s day?
Different because all of the classrooms minus one building is the same. Also, there’s more and different subjects offered to when my mum attended Sion. Evelyn in Year 9
What does it mean to you to continue your family’s Sion story?
It makes my experience more special as I can compare it to a different time and exchange stories with not just my mum, but my Nonna, and my two Zia’s who have all attended Sion.
Are there any traditions your mum experienced that you’re now part of too?
Yes, I’m in Fatima House - just like mum!
What does it mean to you to continue the Sion journey across generations?
Being a third-generation Sion student, as my Nonna also went to Sion. I’m proud to be continuing that legacy — it feels special to be part of a school that’s been meaningful to the women in my family for generations.
Amanda in Year 9
Lisa:
What did you love most about Sion?
My cousin was in Year 12 at Sion when I started, which made the transition easier. My grandparents lived on Dorking Road and were part of the parish, so the area felt familiar and close to home. I went to St Clare’s, so I already knew many of the girls from primary school all the way through to Year 12. It was very comforting to be in a place where both the people and surroundings felt so familiar.
Did you always hope to send your children to Sion?
Sion was always my first choice. The Catholic girls’ school was so good for me I figured it would be kind and nurturing for my children as well. It has improved so much in the area of subject variety and technology and is in keeping with all the other schools in the area
What was it about your experience at Sion that inspired you to enrol your daughters?
I always wanted my children to have something to believe in and pray to when they felt stuck and that is what Sion gave me as well as friendships and teaching me how to live outside of school in a meaningful way.
How does it feel to have your daughters attending the same school you once did?
I am happy to still be a part of the Sion community through my girls. I still have one more child to start in 2028 so I’ll be around for a while.
In what ways did attending Sion impact you personally or professionally?
I have always been very independent and confident in my abilities and work wise I have tried many different things and thrived in different areas. I think Sion gave me the confidence and self-assurance. I went the
Olivia and Dani:
How does it feel knowing your mum went to the same school?
Olivia: When first coming to Sion it felt good to know my mum went to the same place.
Dani: When I first started at Sion it felt really comforting to know that my mum also came here. It made the school feel familiar even before I knew my way around.
Has your mum shared any stories or memories from her time at Sion?
Olivia: She has shared memories of her now lifelong friends, memories of her teachers and how they guided her as well as fond stories about her subjects and education.
Dani: Yeah she has talked about her best friends from Sion and how they are still close now. She also told me about her teachers and some funny moments in class. It’s cool hearing what it was like for her.
Do you think the school feels the same or different from how it was in your mum’s day?
Olivia: I think the school has changed a lot since she attended, yet it still feels like the same Sion as my mum has said; a place with a warm, caring community at its heart.
Dani: I think it has changed a bit with new buildings and technology, but the spirit of the school still feels the same. My mum says it still has the same welcoming vibe.
What does it mean to you to continue your family’s Sion story?
Olivia: For us to continue the Sion story after our mum, seems right. Being able to attend the same school makes it special and forms a sense of comfortability.
business path and always knew what job I wanted in high school even though I ended up in the family business, I later went into office work.
Which values from your time at Sion have stayed with you, and do they still guide you today? Kindness, family values, faith and hope are some that have stayed with me.
Do you still keep in touch with friends from your Sion days?
Yes, the class of 95 was awesome!
Dani: It is special being able to go to the same school as my mum, I am connected to her in a new way and continuing something meaningful.
Are there any traditions your mum experienced that you’re now part of too?
Olivia: Our mum was in Fatima, so we are too. We experience the same traditions and House chants. Dani: Yes we are both in Fatima. Some of the events and assemblies are still the same which is pretty cool.
What does it mean to you to continue the Sion journey across generations?
Olivia: We are both proud to be Sion students just like our mum. We feel this way because we can see and hear how the community has grown and we are a part of it.
Dani: It makes me proud to know that I am part of something that’s been important to my family. Seeing how Sion has stayed strong and hearing mum’s stories makes me happy to be here too.
Lisa in Year 7
Olivia, Lisa and Dani
A glimpse into the future: Sion students on work experience
Each year, our Year 10 students have the opportunity to participate in work experience placements across a wide range of industries — from education, healthcare and law, to business, science and retail! Over the course of the week students gain real-world insights into future career pathways, build valuable employability and communication skills, make meaningful industry connections, step outside their comfort zones and grow in confidence.
Three students share their recent experiences.
My work experience placement was at Forest Hill Veterinary Hospital, and I was lucky enough to participate in tasks such as shadowing vets throughout procedures and consultations, assisting the vet nurses set up the procedures, looking after the animals themselves and maintaining the general cleanliness of the clinic. This work experience aligned greatly with my interest and love of animals and health, allowing me to see all aspects of being a vet, from helping the animals through to communicating what was happening to the owners.
My days followed a very similar structure, procedures in the morning, and cleaning and consults in the afternoons, with a lunch break in the middle. Each day at 10 am, the operating nurse came in for the day and shortly after procedures began. These procedures could have been dentals, desexings, enemas, x-rays, urine samples or sedations. These were always my favourite part of the day because I found everything so interesting and all the vets encouraged me to ask as many questions as I liked, so I learnt the most in procedures. I also had the opportunity to participate in some of the procedures, from comforting the pets to cleaning a dog’s teeth. What I did before and after these treatments was highly dependent on schedules. If there was a consult running I was able to sit in and observe or I would help the vet nurses set up the clinic for the procedures.
This is a pathway that I would love to pursue as a career and work experience really consolidated this for me. It allowed me to observe and participate in all areas of being a vet, from consults to procedures. The experience confirmed to me that healthcare, either human or animal, is the path I would like to take as I enjoyed talking to people and being able to help the animals live a better life.
The most important lesson I learnt throughout the course of the week is to always ask questions and be inquisitive, no matter what the question is. I found that I learnt so much more when I asked questions and sought clarification. Everyone always answered in such detail and it made my experience so much better. A highlight of this experience was definitely all the procedures as they cover such a broad array of issues. I felt as if I learnt the most in these hands-on elements and it was amazing to see the vets work with these animals.
Violet Dymond, Year 10
I had such a great time doing my work experience at Yarra Ranges Museum. I have always thought it would be a great fit for me to work in an historical space such as a museum, and this experience both confirmed and challenged my thinking around that.
During my time at the museum I was given the opportunity to create a small display on the history of different hair tools over about 60 years. I had to select and research the objects, write up the labels for them, and then collect them from the offsite store where most of the objects are kept. In doing this task, I was able to experience what it was like working in different areas of the museum; from exhibit curation to offsite collection.
I realised that I really like the idea of being in the collections store, and working with all of the old objects as compared to crafting exhibits and writing labels. It was also incredible talking to the extremely talented staff at the museum. Everybody came from different university backgrounds and from different parts of the country, and it helped me to rethink what the best choice might be for me when I leave Sion.
My first experience of working at a dental clinic was initially overwhelming being in a different environment but was quickly introduced to my coworkers who then showed me around their sterilisation area where some of the equipment was, and infection control practices like wearing gloves, masks and goggles when a patient was in the room.
The workplace gave me varying tasks each day but it consisted mainly of setting up and cleaning barriers and instruments before and after a procedure, keying in sterilisation codes into the system, billing and file organisation.
Although I may not pursue this field, it did give me the opportunity to learn how they carry out infection control, in ways similar to how other healthcare fields would like hospitals and other clinics, opening up to a range of jobs that have it as a requirement. It was also a great opportunity to get to socialise with people in the field and have them share their knowledge and time to help me learn communication and organisation skills.
Through this valuable experience, I was able to gain respect for the behind the scenes efforts and gain experience on what being a part of the workforce means.
Amelia Wursthorn, Year 10
Kaelyn Foo, Year 10
A glimpse into the future: Sion students on work experience....continued
My work experience started at Rufus & Cooper, a photography and media studio in Hawthorn. I was only there for the first two days, but learnt a lot. I started in the studio, working on set, steaming outfits for the model to wear and shoot in. There was a lot going on at once, as people were taking pictures, styling the model, overseeing the shoot and cropping/selecting final pictures. It was organised chaos. I was shown how to take ‘invisible pictures’, and make it look like the mannequin is not there, and got to help out with styling too. The second day, I learnt how to edit and retouch pictures using Photoshop. It was quite interesting to get an insight into the fashion and media industry and to see how things happened.
My second workplace was a small architecture studio in Toorak, Davidov Architects. I was introduced to different architectural styles and learned about basic design elements. I was then given a brief to design a house for specific clients.
Over the next two days, I visited the site and, with guidance from co-workers, continued developing a design that met the constraints outlined in the brief.
By the end of the week, I had picked out samples of materials I would use in the house and presented my project to a panel of architects. Architecture does interest me after school and my time at Rufus & Cooper has encouraged me to keep my post school options open. Overall, the week was busy yet rewarding and I gained valuable experience in two very different industries!
Chelsea Payne, Year 10
It’s been inspiring to see our students’ passion and curiosity in action. A heartfelt thank you to all the employers and mentors who welcomed our students and made this experience possible. We’re proud of what they’ve achieved and look forward to seeing where this journey leads next!
5s Reunion
On Saturday 31 May, our College was filled warmth, laughter and nostalgia as we welcomed past students from 1955, 1965, 1975,1985, 1995, 2005 and 2015 for their 5s Reunion.
Our alumnae gathered in joy and laughter, reminiscing about their time inside the cherry red gates. Events like these remind us of the lasting connections formed at Sion and the profound impact the College continues to have on its students.
For some, it was their first time seeing our recent developments, and all were in awe as they toured the College and explored the impressive new facilities now available to our students.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special afternoon — we look forward to welcoming you to more events in the future.
College Musical - Mamma Mia!
Our Lady of Sion College boasts a rich tradition in the Performing Arts, with students consistently excelling in Music and Drama. This year, we were delighted to invite selected students from Whitefriars College to join in Our Lady of Sion’s 2025 Musical Production of Mamma Mia!
Our productions offer students opportunities to showcase their talents in various on and off-stage roles. Current and past students performed alongside professional musicians in the orchestra, refining their craft and drawing inspiration from seasoned professionals. On stage, students honed their acting skills, playmaking techniques, and developed essential collaboration, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Behind the scenes, numerous backstage roles provided invaluable experiences for personal growth and skill development. These opportunities allowed students to demonstrate their capabilities, take ownership of the performance-making process, and thrive in a supportive environment.
The enthusiasm surrounding this choice was high from the outset, and this excitement translated into four sold-out performances. The joy shared by our audiences, who left the theatre dancing, was truly heartwarming. The collective energy, laughter, and sense of community created an electric atmosphere, highlighting the power of theatre to unite and uplift.
Mamma Mia! was not only a spectacular showcase of our students' skills but also a transformative journey that built confidence and fostered a sense of accomplishment. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all students and staff involved in this memorable production. It was truly an experience to remember.
Alex Bleazby, Arts Learning Leader
News
We are thrilled to share more fantastic achievements from our Sion students in sport! Congratulations to Year 12 student Teagan Murtic on her selection in the AFLW Vic Metro U18 Girls Squad, an incredible accomplishment! A big congratulations also to Gabriela Tse (Year 10), who recently competed at the 2025 Australian Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Championships and achieved outstanding results.
Teagan:
When did you join Sion?
I joined in Year 7 and have stayed here ever since.
Have you always loved playing football?
I have always loved playing football ever since I started.
What have you done to help you get to where you are?
I have played footy since Under 12s at Templestowe and then started playing a few games for the Oakleigh Chargers in 2024 and then I came back in 2025.
How has Sion and our Sports Department played a role in your football journey?
Playing footy at Sion has been such a great experience, especially getting to play alongside my friends and connect with others who I wouldn't normally talk to.
Being part of the Herald Sun Shield was such a proud moment for all of us and a great achievement for Sion. Mr Cox and Jorja Livingstone have definitely helped me along the way through their support and advice.
What advice would you give to others?
Just to do everything to the best of your ability, and whatever happens, happens. Ultimately just control the controllables.
*Photos of Teagan by Lachie Chugg Photography
How did you feel when you heard the news you were selected in the AFLW Vic Metro U18 Girls Squad?
I never expected to make the squad, as I was just surprised to even get a trial, so I was quite shocked.
Who have been your key supporters or mentors during your football journey?
My dad and my mum are definitely my key supporters. My dad provides me with all my footy advice, and my mum is the one who takes me to every training and every game.
Gabriela:
How did you get into women’s artistic gymnastics?
I was 3 when I first fell in love with gymnastics, watching The Next Step on TV and being amazed by their strength and grace. I begged my parents to let me join a gymnastics club, but living in Brisbane, there weren’t many options. When we moved to Melbourne, my parents enrolled me at BTYC Gymnastics, where my gymnastics journey began.
What is it that you love?
Everything! Gymnastics brings me joy I can’t find elsewhere. It’s not just the physical challenge, but pushing myself and seeing my hard work pay off. Even when things get tough, my love for gymnastics never fades. I believe God gave me this gift for a reason. For me, it’s about using this gift to reflect something bigger than myself, showing His greatness through every flip, vault and beam routine.
Tell us about your journey.
My gymnastics journey began at BTYC, where I won my first Victorian Championship in Level 3. After moving to Atlas in 2019 and navigating COVID-19 and a club merger, I came back stronger. In 2023, I qualified for my first Nationals, and in 2024 placed 3rd all-around, 4th on floor and beam, and helped Victoria win gold. This year, as a Developing International athlete, I placed 6th all-around, won bronze on vault and floor, and was selected for the International Pathway National Camp at the AIS, training alongside Olympians.
What advice would you give to our current students who have sport aspirations?
My best advice is this: life doesn’t need to be perfect, and you don’t need to have it all figured out. When things don’t go as planned, see them as part of the journey God has for you. Challenges and setbacks help you grow stronger. In tough times, take a step back, pray for guidance, and trust that God is shaping you for something greater, with a purpose even if it’s not yet clear.
How do you manage gymnastics and school?
Balancing gymnastics and school takes discipline. I train five days a week for 25 hours, which means missing school daily. It’s tough, but I’ve learned to manage my time by planning ahead and prioritising—whether that’s doing homework between training or catching up on weekends. Ms Stott (Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching) has been very supportive in adjusting my timetable, and I couldn’t do it without the encouragement of my family, friends, teachers, and coaches, who keep me focused on growing as both a gymnast and student.
What has been your favourite thing?
Nothing compares to representing Victoria at the national championships. Standing on the floor with my teammates, knowing all the hard work led me there, is unforgettable. But it’s the everyday moments I cherish most—training with friends, sharing laughs, and pushing each other to improve. Gymnastics isn’t just about medals; it’s about the journey and the friendships I’ve made across Australia and the world that make this journey truly meaningful.
Have there been any challenges along the way? If so, what helped you to overcome them?
I’ve faced many challenges, from injuries and self-doubt to balancing school and gymnastics. At times, I felt overwhelmed, but I remind myself that God placed this dream in my heart for a reason. Romans 8:28 reminds me everything happens for a purpose. Before each competition, I ground myself in prayer, focus on doing my best, and trust God to guide me. Afterwards, I reflect, give thanks, and look for ways to improve, with my coaches helping me stay strong and focused.
Call out to mentors and Past Student involvement
Some of our alumnae who have returned to our College as keynote speakers at our Mentors’ Breakfast and Top Achievers’ Assembly
We remember the following people and their families in our prayers:
Gabriella Care (Class of 1993) 1975 - 2025
Carmel Geary nee Treacy (Class of 1974) 1957- 2025
Eternal rest, grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.
Mish Eastman (Class of 1988)
Sandra Rigo (Class of 1988)
Dr Christolyn Rajakulenthrian (Class of 1996)
Joanne Rock (Class of 1993)
Dr Kathy Wilson (Class of 1983)
Siobhan Brophy (Class of 1991)
Cr Tina Liu (Class of 1999)
Dr Roxanne Hastie (Class of 2008)
Deborah Lawrie AM (Class of 1970)
Dr Cindie Giummarra (Class of 1993)
Help us celebrate a century - share your memories, memorabilia and be part of our history
Our Lady of Sion College is approaching the 100 year mark, and we’re inviting our community to help make the celebrations truly special.
Our College archive is more than just a collection of old documents and yearbooks. It’s a living history shaped by the achievements of our students. By documenting academic successes, athletic victories, and creative milestones, our archive preserves the legacy of those who walked through the cherry red gates before us. But it’s true value lies in the connections it fosters between past and present students. By preserving records of student achievements, we inspire current and future generations to aim high. Alumnae success stories, whether in STEM, Sports, the Arts and beyond, remind students that excellence is possible.
As our school approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028, we are preparing to celebrate a century of excellence, growth, and student achievement. This milestone is not just about looking back, it’s about reconnecting with the generations of students who have walked these halls, achieved great things, and helped shape our story.
Our archive tells the story of countless alumnae who have left their mark. From championship victories to groundbreaking research, from inspiring performances to acts of leadership, every student has contributed to the rich history of our College. As part of our centenary celebrations, we invite all past students to share their stories, share memorabilia, and be part of the events that will honour this incredible journey.
Whether you have old photographs, trophies, uniforms, or simply fond memories to share, we want to hear from you! Your contributions will help us create a special centenary archive exhibit, ensuring that the legacy of past students continues to inspire future generations.
Join us in making this celebration truly special. Reconnect with classmates, revisit old memories and be part of history in the making. Contact the College Archivist to share your story and help us commemorate 100 years of achievement!
Matthew Roberts mattroberts@sion.catholic.edu.au
