Boarders
Celebrating Change and Community
This term, we find ourselves at a wonderful crossroads—farewelling our much-loved Year 12 Boarders while welcoming the fresh leadership of our 2026 Year 12s. Our departing Boarders, shaped by unique challenges and shared experiences, leave us with lasting memories and immense gratitude for their camaraderie, sense of fun and resilience.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to introduce our new Prefects, whose energy and commitment promise a bright future for our Boarding family. I hope you enjoy learning more about them and I am confident you’ll agree—we are in excellent hands going forward.
Former Boarder Julie Pilcher, captures beautifully the remarkable qualities that define our Boarding community – qualities you will see reflected in the outstanding achievements of our sports stars, Summer, Allegra, Siri, Lucy and Selina. It is equally heartwarming to see these same values exemplified by our dedicated staff, including Grace Collins, who has recently been named National Rural Ambassador.
This edition also invites you to travel with us, from Bolwarra in the Hunter Valley to Denver, Colorado, as Stella and Phoebe offer us a glimpse into the world through their own eyes. Thank you for sharing in our stories - I hope you find joy and inspiration in these pages.
Carolyn Burgess DIRECTOR OF BOARDING
Signing off with love and thanks
SOPHIE LAING, TULLAMORE AND CELESTE MCDERMOTT, BOORGANNA, HEAD BOARDERS 2025
This year has been our biggest yet, filled with memories, growth and opportunity. During our time as Head Boarders, we have both grown in more ways than one and for that we are truly grateful. Our role hasn’t been easy but with the support and efforts of our amazing Prefect team, it has been made that bit easier. Alice, Lola, Dezi, Jemma, and Evie, we are extremely grateful for you.
We also want to acknowledge the sacrifices, countless hours, and unwavering commitment of Mrs Burgess and Ms Mimmo. Mrs B, since Year 7 you have been an important presence in our lives, helping us to grow, learn and mature, getting us ready to take on life after Pymble. Ms Mimmo, your seamless transition into the Boarding community has been a true reflection of your caring nature. Together, you have both shaped our time at Pymble, making it not only memorable, but truly special.
Dr Hadwen, your leadership is something we are yet to truly understand, how you do so much so well, it never fails to inspire us and every Pymble girl. Ms Rockwell, you always have our best interests at heart and we appreciate the deep care you consistently show to our Boarding family. Mr Raymond, your calm, respectful and
humble nature makes you the perfect person for leading the Wellbeing team. Mrs Kenny, you have a big job to do and it shows with our results how effective you are. We can only hope to achieve as much as you have as leaders or have half as much strength of character as you all.
To the Boarding staff, our time here at Pymble would not have been the same without your dedication, support, care, and guidance. You truly are invaluable role models who are the best forms of mothers whilst we are away from our own. Anne, we deeply appreciate the way you approach everything with our best interests at heart. Vicki, your wise life advice and calm presence has been a source of reassurance for us all, and Deb, your kindness and, of course, prompt restocking of the kitchen does not go unnoticed! Kate, as our Head of House in Year 10, we appreciate how you prepared us for Senior School. And who could forget Laurel - the work you do behind the scenes ensures our Boarding community runs seamlessly. And to the casual staff, our built-in big sisters. The way you turn Boarding into a home away from home is a true testament to the people you are. You bring such warmth and joy into our lives.
Thank you to our Heads of Year, Mrs Richter and Mr Levin, for always supporting us with warmth and respect. Mrs Wiedemann, your tireless work, whether for Boarders Get Baking, helping with events, or backing our initiatives, never goes unnoticed. To Rev Danielle and Rev Dr Cass, thank you for making Chapel engaging and inclusive. We’d also like to acknowledge the health care team, facilities, security, gardeners, and everyone behind the scenes who look after us and keep Pymble Boarding running smoothly.
And finally, to our Boarding ‘sisters,’ without you, this experience would not be complete…
To the Year 7s, value the friendships you make now and do your best to nurture and sustain them, because by the time you reach Year 12, you truly realise how much your friends mean to you and how much your Boarding sisters shape your Pymble journey.
Year 8, you are such a kind and intelligent year group, I wish you could see how much you’ve grown up in the past year. You are a special year to us because we got to be your Big Sisters so make sure you keep in touch and remember to do the same for another Year 7 one day. You’re at a point in your life where you’re not the youngest anymore, but you’re certainly not the oldest, so be a sponge for everything your peers and school want to teach you.
To Year 9, you’re a good bunch, you are intelligent and sometimes cheeky. Stay humble and treat everybody as you would want to be treated.
Some advice Year 10, as you step into Senior School, embrace every opportunity, challenge yourselves, and support one another along the way. These next years will help shape your time at Pymble, so make the most of every moment.
Year 11, the leadership is placed in the good hands of Phoebe and Rose. Make sure you work as a team to make Boarding the place YOU want it to be because you have great influence. The way you act every day will set the standard for all the younger girls because you are their role models. Please treat Anne, Deb and Vicki with the utmost respect because they will go to the ends of the earth to make you comfortable and safe. Get to know their wisdom and stories.
And to our Year 12 sisters, words cannot describe how much we will miss you all. You have truly become the sisters we never had, and these last six years have been an incredible experience that we will cherish forever.
From 2020 when the first seven of us arrived, all excited and full of life… to now, with many more girls joining along the way, we have turned our cohort into a tightknit group who will, I hope, be friends for life and together we have made countless memories. As this part of our schooling life writes its final pages and comes to a close, we want to wish you guys all the best in writing your next chapter. We cannot wait to see the incredible things you all do. And finally, remember that our time at Pymble has built a foundation that will support us as we move forward. The bricks we’ve laid here, in friendships, leadership, and growth, are just the beginning of what we’ll build in the future.
We are so proud to call ourselves Pymble girls, but now it is time for us to go make Pymble girls proud.
And just like that... ...we farewell Year 12
2025!
To Year
12 2025, with thanks and every good wish
PHOEBE ROBERTS, NARROMINE, AND ROSE, MOREE, HEAD BOARDERS 2026
Our Year 12 Boarders, a group of young women who have shaped, inspired, and led our Boarding community throughout their time here.
Year 12, you have been the heart of Boarding, the Big Sisters we have looked up to, from when we were in year 7 and even now, the ones who showed us what true leadership, kindness, and resilience look like. From the little moments in the common room or the kitchen to the latenight chats after prep, you’ve created memories that will stay with all of us long after you leave.
Your presence has brought so much energy and spirit to our Boarding life. Whether it’s cheering the loudest in Boarders’ Week, lending a hand when someone’s had a tough day, or simply being there with a smile, you have set the standard for what it means to be a Boarder at Pymble
Saying goodbye is never easy, but we know that each of you is ready for what comes next. You have faced the ups and downs of Boarding life with courage and grace, and we are so proud of the women you have become. As you move into this next chapter of your lives, we hope you carry with you the lessons, friendships, and memories you’ve made here.
On behalf of every Boarder, thank you for the laughter, the leadership, and the love you’ve given to this community. We will miss you more than words can say, but we know you’ll go on to do incredible things.
Meet our new leaders
PHOEBE ROBERTS HEAD BOARDER, NARROMINE
Hi, I’m Phoebe, I am extremely excited to be one of your 2025–2026 Boarding Head Prefects. I am from Narromine, NSW, and I live on a small farm around 10 km out of town, about five to six hours from Sydney. I started boarding in Year 7 in 2021 and have truly loved my time at Pymble The subjects that I currently study
are Maths, English, Business, Legal Studies, Food Technology, and Health and Movement Science.
My time at Pymble has included trying a lot of different sports while also sticking to my favourites. I have participated in Rowing, Netball, AFL, Rugby 7s, Basketball, Water Polo, Touch Football, and Triathlon. Over my years at Pymble, the sports opportunities outside of school in Sydney have also been at my fingertips. I have played club netball and club water polo while also coaching club netball, which really allowed me to expand my connections with friends in Sydney, meet new people, and play my sport in a different environment. These opportunities would not have been possible without Pymble, so to say I am grateful is an understatement.
When I go home, I drive through my driveway full of eucalyptus and pine trees and along the dirt road which I know will lead me home. At home I have my mum and dad, one younger sister Emma who is in Year 9 and lives in Marden House with me as well, two dogs Frank (a corgi) and Zeus (a Labrador) as well as two cats, Peaches and Hazel. When I go home, there is normally a yummy cheese board awaiting my sister and my arrival, which is definitely not our only one of the holidays. On special occasions, we have fireworks that light up the sky, a huge bonfire, cheese boards, and chit-chats. When I’m at home, I love to go on long walks with my dogs and eat lots of yummy food. I love spending time with family and friends, and in the summer we have a boat so we go water-skiing a lot. Emma and I
recently got our boat licences, so watch out!
In the holidays I love having my daygirl friends out, teaching them how to drive a manual ute and how to ride a motorbike, and enjoying lots of beautiful sunsets and sunrises. I love having my day-girl friends out at home, as well as my boarding sisters, it’s always my favourite part of the holidays. A lot of our family also live on farms, so in the holidays I often find myself helping out and doing lots of farmwork, from mustering, marking, or vaccinating cows to starting siphons every now and then, there’s always something to do.
Although I enjoy my holidays, I do miss Sydney, I miss Boarding my Boarding sisters, tea times, movie nights, and all of our chats. Whenever someone asks me what Boarding is like, or what my favourite thing about Boarding is, without a doubt I always say: living with my best friends, as they are always just a hallway away.
Ever since I started Boarding in Year 7, I looked up to the Head Boarders with deep admiration and hoped that someday I would be in the same position to lead by example with kindness and compassion. Now as Head Boarder, I strive to be the same positive role model for my younger Boarding sisters. I am greatly committed to ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard in Boarding and that there is no such thing as a silly question, and in my position as Head Boarder I am determined to ensure that everyone feels respected and that they can speak up and have an opinion. Together with my Co-Head Boarder, Rose, we are passionate about fostering a culture of respect within our Boarding Houses in 2026, not only for one another but also for the staff and the wider community. We are equally committed to encouraging our Boarders to give back to the community and inspiring everyone to
contribute and give back in their own meaningful way. By initiating and continuing giving back and respect, we hope that it will be ingrained in our Boarding culture, paving the way for the next generations of Pymble Boarders and the Pymble community. I am so incredibly excited for the year to come, to give back to the College and community, as well as being a part of the beautiful atmosphere that is Pymble Boarding and somewhere I call home.
ROSE KIRKBY HEAD BOARDER, MOREE
I am absolutely delighted to be Head Boarder for the 2025-2026 year. I am from a farm about 40 kilometres north of Moree NSW, about seven to eight hours northwest of Sydney. I started Boarding here at Pymble in Year 7, 2021. At school, the subjects I study are Maths, English, Modern History, Business Studies, Legal Studies and Hospitality. Since Year 7 I have played various sports such as AFL, Rugby, Netball, Rowing, Touch Football and Basketball, all of which I have absolutely loved. Being here at Pymble also opened up the opportunity for me to play club AFL for three years, where I met some of my best friends outside of school. Team sport is a massive passion of mine and I am incredibly grateful for all the sporting opportunities this incredible school has provided.
By the end of the term, I am always looking forward to coming home. At home it is me, my younger brother
George, my Mum and my Dad. Surrounding our house are endless plains of crops, either filled with wheat, barley, faba beans or cotton, depending on the season. Thankfully, for the past two years we have been blessed with rain, so our crops are looking better than ever, super green and luscious! These crops usually sit below beautiful sunsets and one of my favourite things to do when I come home is to go on sunset walks and runs with my Mum. Another one of my favourite things is to spend my time by our pool which is very loved in the summer, especially when my day-girl friends come to stay. We somehow manage to spend all day around the pool. Irrigating in the summer with my Dad is also another favourite thing to do when I come home, only I’ve just grown to love it. Night shifts laying siphons used to be the worst! Although I do love going home, I love Sydney just as much. Even though going home at the end of the term is pretty exciting, being able to come back here to see all my Boarding sisters at the end of the holidays is just as good. I truly cherish our dinner times, tea and gossip sessions before bed or movie nights as I am able to spend time with my best friends. I seriously believe being a Boarder means you are never bored as your friends are always just a room away.
From the moment I began Year 7 and had the privilege of spending time with the Head Boarders, I knew that becoming a leader here would be a dream come true. Year after year, the Head Boarders have been a source of inspiration and guidance for me, and I aspire to be that same role model for my younger Boarding sisters. I am deeply committed to ensuring that everyone has a voice in Boarding, and in my position as Head Boarder I will make it my mission to make sure every Boarder here has a say. Together with my co-Head Boarder, Phoebe, we are passionate about building on the culture of respect
within our Boarding Houses, respect not only for one another, but also for staff and the wider community. We are equally committed to encouraging Boarders to give back, strengthening our connections with the community, and inspiring everyone to contribute in their own meaningful way. Excited is an understatement, I am truly looking forward to the year ahead and the opportunity to give back to this remarkable school and community in every way I can.
SUMMER PHILLIPS AVONMOORE PREFECT, BRISBANE
My name is Summer Phillips, and I am so privileged and excited to be announced as the new 2026 Avonmoore Prefect! I was born and raised on the beautiful Sunshine Coast and ended up moving down to the city of Brisbane when I was a bit older to be closer to my mum’s family. I have been fortunate enough to have been boarding at Pymble since Year 10, and while the past year has absolutely flown, my short time in Boarding has been one of the biggest blessings in my life. At school, I study English, Maths, Modern History, Legal Studies, Health and Movement Science, and Society and Culture, as well as balancing the sport of Rowing, where, last season, I was fortunate enough to be selected in the Pymble 1st VIII. Being a rower, Boarder, Avonmoore Prefect, and (soon-to-be) Year 12 student means I have to be very diligent and organised with my time and
schoolwork, whilst also sparing time to have fun with my day and Boarder friends.
Now, my home might not seem as adventurous as some of my other boarding sisters’, but it’s still a place I truly love. I spend my days at home, catching up with my friends, walking along the river, and watching the most gorgeous sunsets the city has to offer. But my absolute favourite part about going home is seeing my family, who consist of my Mum, Dad, sister, dog and Grandad. Whether it’s beach trips to the Gold Coast, cheering on a Brisbane Lions game together after dinner, or competing in our family Sunday afternoon tennis matches with my cousins, granduncles, and aunties (who may be older but are still fiercely competitive), I always cherish the time I get to spend at home with my family. I’ve always held the saying, ‘home isn’t a place, it’s people,’ close to my heart, and as cringey as it sounds, I truly believe in these wise words. Returning to Boarding at the start of each term, I am always so incredibly excited to see all of my Boarding sisters and hear about their holiday adventures. In Boarding, I have made some truly unbreakable connections with girls, not only in Goodlet but in all the other Houses as well. Whether it’s lying down in a common room, listening to Harry Styles, and looking back on memories with one another, or attempting to bake cookies in the kitchen, hoping to produce a somewhat edible final product, there is truly never a boring moment in Boarding with my Boarding sisters.
When I was in Year 7, I remember high school being this big, exciting, and overwhelming concept and reflecting back on my Year 7 year, I really wished I had an older role model who could have guided me through the obstacles that Year 7 presented. This is the reason why I applied to become the Avonmoore Prefect in 2026. In my leadership
period, I want to be a positive role model for the younger Boarders through empathy and care, while also being an encouraging voice for them during their transition into the Boarding lifestyle. So far, in Term 3, I have already attended regular Avonmoore House meetings each week, whilst also mentoring the Avonmoore girls through simple day-to-day issues that arise. My vision for Avonmoore in 2026 is to create an uplifting culture where each member is valued, as well as incorporating more big-sister, little-sister events and visits up to both Goodlet and Marden Houses. I can’t wait to serve our Boarding community in 2026 and look forward to seeing the legacy that our grade can work together to create!
CHLOE BROWNING HOUSE LIAISON PREFECT, MUDGEE
My name is Chloe Browning, and I’m so excited to be your new House Liaison Prefect for 2026. I’m from Mudgee and have been Boarding at Pymble since Year 7, although I spent Year 10 abroad in Brazil on a Rotary Youth Exchange. On this life-changing adventure, I learned all about the culture, language and people of Brazil. Back at Pymble, I study English, Maths, Economics, Business Studies, Legal Studies and Italian. I have to say that my favourites are definitely Business and Italian. It is often on the weekends that you will catch me playing sport with my friends. I might not be very good, but I love to give everything a
go. One of my friends and I recently started playing golf together, just to have some fun in the afternoons. We sometimes miss the ball more than we hit it! I love to try new things and spend time with my friends.
When I think of home, I picture time spent with my family, our animals, and life on the farm. I love waking up in the morning, and riding around the paddocks looking at all the new calves with my Mum. She always amazes me with how well she knows every detail about each cow. I love spending time with my family and I enjoy everything we do together, even if I act like I don’t, when we are fencing. Although I miss the farm, I am always counting down the days to return to Pymble I love catching up with the girls at dinner, hearing about everyone’s different days, or crowding into the common room to watch horror movies (which sometimes doesn’t feel like something I love). I love the connection I’ve made with all my Boarding sisters. Life is never boring in the House and it’s the spirit and excitement that always makes me so happy to come back.
Applying for a leadership role was important to me because I really value the sense of community we share in Boarding and hope to amplify it where possible. As House Liaison Prefect, I want to help strengthen those connections and ensure everyone feels included, supported, and heard. My focus is on creating open and positive communication between students and staff, while also encouraging the girls to get involved and make the most of every opportunity like Love It. I hope to bring people together through interhouse activities, shared conversations, and being a leader the girls feel comfortable talking to if needed. Most of all, I want every Boarder to feel valued, connected, and proud to be part of our Pymble community.
ELKE PAYNE COMMUNITY SPIRIT PREFECT
Hi, my name is Elke Payne. I’m from Walcha, a small rural town in the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales. If you’re heading up from Sydney, it’s about a five-hour drive north, past Tamworth, into a region known for its farming and tight-knit community. I started boarding in Year 7, and over the years, I’ve really grown to love the independence, friendships, and opportunities that come with Boarding life. I’m passionate about sports, especially Touch Football, Hockey, and AFL. Being part of a team has always been important to me, not just for the competitive side of things, but because of the way sport brings people together.
Back home in Walcha, life revolves around the land. I love being out on the farm, helping with the cattle and sheep, and getting stuck into the hands-on work that comes with life on a property. Whether it’s mustering, yard work, or just early mornings moving stock, I enjoy the challenge and the connection it gives me to our way of life. It’s hard work, but it keeps me connected to where I come from. As much as I love the farm, I also really look forward to returning to Boarding. There’s nothing like seeing my friends again, catching up after the holidays, and being part of such a supportive and energetic environment.
I applied for a leadership position because I want to give back to the Boarding community that has shaped me into the person I am today. Over
the years, I’ve looked up to older students who showed kindness, integrity, and strength and I hope to do the same for younger Boarders. I understand how challenging it can be to live away from home, especially at first, and I want to help others feel welcome, supported, and seen. In this role, I aim to lead by example through hard work, encouragement, and respect for everyone around me. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back to a Boarding community that’s supported me through so many important years.
Our future Hockeyroos?
LUCY CHAPMAN (YEAR 9), GLENTHORNE AND SELINA KERIN (YEAR 9), OBLEY
Lucy
Hi I’m Lucy, I started at Pymble as a Boarder in Year 8 and have been playing hockey for about 10 years. When I was 13, I was selected for the Combined Independent Schools CIS hockey team and played in Tamworth against teams from across NSW, which was an amazing experience. I’ve also represented my hometown of Taree at the State Championships.
Since joining Pymble, I’ve been involved in several hockey squads and currently play in the Pymble igsa team, training twice a week to improve my skills. In Term 2, I played in the Mollie Dive team, and we were excited to win the grand final against Abbotsleigh. I also represent the Northern Sydney Beaches team, and earlier this year we had an exciting grand final win against Forbes. I also play for Gordon Hockey Club, training at Ku-Ring-Gai High School on Tuesday nights and playing games across Sydney on Friday nights.
Hockey has been a big part of my life and I really enjoy being part of different teams, improving my skills, and creating many unforgettable memories along the way. And I’m so grateful for all the opportunities it has given me.
Selina
Hi, I’m Selina! I started at Pymble as a Boarder in Year 7 and have been playing hockey ever since. I really enjoy the strong community, and all the opportunities the sport has given me. It has not only given me something to do on the weekend, but it has also given me some amazing friendships both in and out of school.
I first started playing hockey in Year 5 for Parkes Hockey Club, but I then stopped for a while and then didn’t start again until I came to Pymble. Since then, I’ve loved being involved in the sport. Last year I joined Gordon Hockey Club and it has been such a great experience. We train twice a week at Ku-ring-gai High School and through the club I’ve made new friendships with both boys and girls. At school, I’ve been playing in the igsa competition since Year 7, and in Year 8 I also began competing in the Mollie Dive competition. This year, our team was lucky enough to win the Grand Final against Abbotsleigh!
Hockey has become such an important part of my life, and I’m excited to keep improving my skills, making new connections, and being part of the community both at school and beyond.
CAROLYN BURGESS, DIRECTOR OF BOARDING
The Margaret Brooke ‘Brooksie’ Award Congratulations
Sophie and Celeste
The Margaret Brooke, “Brooksie”, is awarded to a Boarder who exemplifies the spirit of a tenacious, courageous, compassionate and giving woman. This Boarder consistently upholds and demonstrate the College values and actively contributes to the Boarding community while demonstrating dedication to her studies. A Brooksie recipient consistently displays ‘Pymble Pride’ including wearing appropriate school uniform, being punctual and maintaining a tidy room.
It felt as though this description was written for our Head Boarders - Sophie Laing and Celeste McDermott, hence our ‘double header’ award to these two exceptional young women.
Celeste and Sophie are very different individuals, but they share remarkable personal qualities—displaying these in their own unique ways.
Head Boarders are always exemplary, and without exception, they step up to lead the Boarding community. However, Sophie and Celeste have elevated this role to new heights. Yes, they are wonderful role models—wearing their uniforms with pride, maintaining an ordered and beautiful personal space, applying themselves diligently to their studies, and demonstrating deep respect in
every interaction. They fulfill their duties with both courage and integrity. They are approachable, always making themselves available to others. These are qualities we expect from our leaders, but there are a few exceptional traits that truly set them apart.
They have shown great steadfastness in their duties, they have maintained their momentum right through to the very last day—leading, always, with grace and dignity. They do what they say they will do, without fuss and without seeking accolades. They started the year with excitement and big ideas and they delivered, every time. With three areas of focus— warmth, growth, and service—they systematically worked through the year to achieve their goals, leaving an indelible mark on our Boarding family.
Some highlights of their leadership include:
• Introducing mixed tables at dinner, fostering inclusivity across the years.
• The Inaugural Boarders’ Week Senior and Junior Interschool Challenge Cup – another wonderful opportunity for us to showcase our netball skills!
• Alumni visits to Chapel—connecting with exstudents to share stories and the lasting legacy of Boarding at Pymble
• Mentoring younger Boarders – using their experience as Boarders to enhance the experience of others.
• The Colour Run—raising over $3,000 for the Country Women’s Association Emergency Relief Appeal, and generating both fun and camaraderie across Boarding Schools across the Sydney metropolitan area.
• Boarders Get Giving—mobilising Boarders across year groups to cook for a local refuge.
• And, of course, Goodlet and Marden Merch—a real winner!
Celeste and Sophie, thank you. Our Boarding family is richer for your compassion, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to others. You are well deserving of the Brooksie!
Dynamic Duo on the Downhill
ALLEGRA AND SIRI TAUBENSCHLAG (YEAR 10 AND 9), CRACKENBACK
My name is Allegra, and I’m a Year 10 Boarder from the Snowy Mountains. I have been at Pymble since the start of Year 8. Skiing has always been a huge part of my life, and I feel very lucky to be able to compete in the sport I love. Over the Australian ski season (June to September), I train with the Perisher Winter Sports Club (PWSC) in the Alpine Program, a ski-racing club that helps athletes refine their technique and improve their speed on the slopes.
This season, my sister Siri and I competed at regional competitions over the holidays, the State Championships from 18–25 August, and most recently travelled to Mt Buller in Victoria for Nationals. Siri raced in the cross-country individual and cross-country skate relay events, while I competed in the downhill events, including Giant Slalom and Skier-X. Competing at Nationals is always an incredible experience, and I’m already looking forward to next season!
And over to Siri… Hi, I’m Siri and I’m Allegra’s sister. Skiing has been a part of our lives for as long as I can remember — Allegra started at three and I started when I was just two and a half! I also train with PWSC, which has been amazing for helping us improve and push ourselves each season. We love skiing so much that our family even moved to the Snowy Mountains in 2023 so we could spend more time in the mountains and on the ski slopes as well as the mountain hiking tracks in the summer.
This year at Nationals, I raced in the cross-country individual and the cross-country skate relay. Our team came 6th and 7th in our races, and I was really happy with my own individual results too. Allegra absolutely smashed it in her events — she came 12th in Giant Slalom and 16th in Skier-X against the best athletes from all over Australia. We’re both super proud of what we achieved this season and can’t wait to get back on the snow in December for a training program in Italy!
Thank you to our Pink Ladies
Year
12 2025
BOARDERS
Term 3 was our last chance to celebrate our Pink Ladies and we went big! As you’ve read before, Pink Ladies are special people in the lives of our Boarders who go above and beyond to make our time in Boarding easier and more connected. And seeing as it’s Term 3 and we’re on our way out, who better to dedicate it to than Year 12!
Year 12, we want to say on behalf of every Boarder in our year, thank you for the kindness you have shared with us over the last six years. Whether that’s offering lifts to sport, welcoming us into your homes, or offering some delicious food. Our time in Boarding wouldn’t have been the same without your support and care towards us, and for that we are extremely grateful.
We’d also like to extend a massive thank you to all the Day school staff. To all the teachers, thanks for giving us the best education possible. To Facilities, the Gardeners and Security, thank you for keeping this College turning and making it a beautiful environment for us to live in. Thank you to the Healthcare staff for always looking after us and Chartwells for providing delicious and nutritious meals. As a token of our appreciation, we have a huge barrel of pink lady apples for both the Day school staff and the all the Year 12 students. Please be sure to take an apple as a symbol of our gratitude. All the best, from Sophie and Celeste
SOPHIE LAING, TULLAMORE AND CELESTE MCDERMOTT, BOORGANNA, HEAD
Meet our National Rural Ambassador
LILY BARTZ (YEAR 9), NARRABRI, LUCY CHAPMAN (YEAR 9) GLENTHORNE AND MARGAUX MARCET (YEAR 9), HONG KONG
Hi everyone it’s Lily, Lucy and Margaux (LLM) here and today we’re here with one of our Boarding staff members, Grace Collins (GC) who won the 2025 National Rural Ambassador award. We were lucky enough to interview Grace and we hope you enjoy reading about this incredible young woman. As background, Grace is a determined advocate for agricultural education and is eager to widen her knowledge on Australian foods and fibre for those living in urban areas. With a background in cattle showing, leadership in Herefords Youth programs and a Bachelor of Agriculture from the University of New England, she now mentors students while completing her Master of Teaching. In her new role, Grace aims to strengthen school partnerships with agricultural shows, support teachers and advocate for National Agriculture Education funding to secure the future of Australia’s $187 billion food and fibre industry.
LLM: So Grace can you tell us about the Rural Ambassador Competition?
GC: The Rural Ambassador Competition is held at local shows around NSW and Australia and it’s a competition that recognises young people aged 20 to 29 in rural communities and/or in agriculture. It recognises them for commitment to their community, and these could be things like volunteering and community involvement with shows involvement with schools. I was lucky enough to be chosen for the 2024 Royal Agricultural Society Rural Achiever Competition and was named the NSW representative to compete at the National finals in Adelaide in early September this year where I was named the 2025 Agricultural Shows Australia National Rural Ambassador.
LLM: What motivated you to apply for the rural ambassador competition?
GC: I am originally a city girl and went to Pymble Ladies’ College. As a student at Pymble, I joined the Cattle Team, and we would participate in the Sydney Royal Easter Show each year. Next year marks my 10th year of exhibiting cattle at the Sydney Royal and now I also enjoy stewarding in the Beef Cattle section. I saw and heard about the rural achievement competition through these experiences, and I was motivated to apply.
LLM: What steps did you have to go through to earn the title of National Rural Ambassador?
GC: There is an application process with some questions and an interview for the state competition, and then at the national finals in Adelaide there is an interview with a panel of four judges and a three-minute on-stage interview with unsighted questions. The judges were people very high in Australian Agriculture including the President of the National Farmers’ Federation. There were also opportunities to speak in the broadcast box at Royal shows and to give interviews on social media which was very exciting.
LLM: What excites you most about the role?
GC: I have completed a Bachelor of Agriculture and now I’m doing a Master of Teaching and I’m very passionate about teaching agriculture in secondary schools in NSW and also across the nation. I believe that the government needs to do more to help teachers feel confident in teaching Agriculture especially if they don’t come from a rural background. I am excited to use this platform to have conversations with Federal and State ministers to talk about how we can better support teachers
teaching Agriculture in the classroom to provide broader opportunities for high school students.
LLM: Can you think of ways that Boarders could be involved in the program?
GC: Having the opportunity to come to Boarding school in Sydney sets the Pymble girls up very well with life skills they can take back to their communities to volunteer or to be involved in local events. If the town that you are from has a local show, you could think of ways that you could be involved. You don’t have to necessarily be there on the day, but you could, for example, help with their social media which young people are very good at. Boarders can also sign up for Cattle Club and be a part of the community. It’s not just about Agriculture or cattle work specifically, it’s about meeting new people who have similar interests and who you can learn from.
LLM: How do you hope this role will influence your future studies or career?
GC: I am nearly finished my Master of Teaching, and I would really like to teach Agriculture in a rural or regional community. This role has given me many connections and opportunities to do so. I would also like to breed Hereford cattle at a lot, working with NSW and Queensland youth groups. LLM: What advice would you give to younger students who might want to follow in your footsteps?
GC: They don’t have to choose Agriculture as a subject at school but whatever else you’re interested in whether that is marketing, finance, data science, physio or medicine they can still be involved in the agriculture industry where your skills are valued.
LLM: Thank you for your time, Grace and for being such a great role model for us Boarders.
GC: I really like working in Pymble Boarding, it is such a welcoming environment, and I really enjoy talking to the girls about where they are from and their interests. It is an extremely rewarding job. Thank you!
Another gorgeous Garden Party!
MRS CAROLYN BURGESS, DIRECTOR OF BOARDING
Garden Party is truly my favourite day on the College calendar, and the Boarders’ Produce Stall is always a highlight. This year’s stall was brimming with a delicious array of offerings— from freshly harvested beetroot and Griffith’s finest pasta to Bourke’s specialty, Splashe Cola, and wonderful home-baked treats from all over New South Wales. Our signature gourmet pork rolls were another crowd-pleaser, perfectly complemented by an ice-cold cider from the fantastic Hillbilly Cider Bar. It was a gourmet showcase in every sense.
None of this would have been possible without the amazing Edwina Beveridge who coordinated the Boarders’ stall. Edwina worked tirelessly with her committee of Sarah Curry, Tessa McLaughlin, Kate Greenwood, Loretta Brown and Tara Taubenschlag to ensure the day was a huge hit. Thank you to all of you who contributed in so many special ways. It was a fabulous effort and even better to know that all profits will go to the Boarder Parent Scholarship Fund.
Australian Beach Sprint Rowing Championships
SUMMER PHILLIPS (YEAR 11), BRISBANE
Hi there! If you don’t already know me, my name is Summer and I am a current Year 11 Boarder from Brisbane. Recently, I was given the opportunity to compete at the 2025 Australian Beach Sprint Rowing Championships at Monterey Beach here in Sydney, where I proudly represented Pymble and my rowing club in multiple events.
Now, you are probably wondering what on earth Beach Sprint Rowing is. Well, it is a fast-paced coastal rowing event where you start on the beach, sprint down into the water, hop into your boat, row around buoys through waves, and finish with a run back up the sand. Very different to my traditional flat-water rowing, this newly-elected Olympic Sport has offered me the opportunity to learn some new skills, row more strategically, as well as train and compete at my favourite place, the beach.
After a challenging situation with my flat-water rowing in April, I was approached by the Australian Head Coach of Beach Sprint Rowing to go and try the sport. I have always been a firm believer in “everything happens for a reason” and to “always give everything a go,” so, with an open mind, I had a trial session to see if I liked the format of the sport back in May. Whilst there were many differences between flat-water and beach sprint, I thoroughly enjoyed the session and wanted to see if I was able to pursue the sport further. I was and still am so fortunate to have so much support here at Pymble from my coaches and the Sports Performance Staff, who were (and are) constantly encouraging me along the new, unpredictable, and changing sport of beach sprint rowing.
Flash forward to Nationals in September, I came away with two National Championship titles as well as two Silver medals. Even though it was my first competition, I walked away with so much more confidence, learning and determination to see the potential this sport has to offer. Growing up playing many sports, the most common question I would be asked would be, “Do you want to go to the Olympics?” and, after the announcement of Beach Sprint Rowing into the Olympic Cycle beginning in LA 2028, it’s exciting to know that my dream and vision have the potential to become a reality. Even if it doesn’t become my reality, it’s super exciting to be part of the sport while it’s still
pretty new and developing. It is fast, unpredictable, and so much fun, and being involved now feels like I’m helping shape its future. With it on the way to becoming an Olympic sport, it’s awesome to know I’m part of the journey from the beginning.
One of the things I love most about the sport is the strong sense of community. Much like our Boarding community, everyone in beach sprint rowing is always ready to help each other out. Since the sport is still so new, we’re all learning together, and whether it’s offering encouragement or lending a hand with boats in the water, both competitors and spectators create the fun, energetic, and supportive atmosphere that makes beach sprints so special.
I feel really lucky to be at Pymble with all the support from both Boarding and Day school to chase my goals in Beach Sprint Rowing. Being at an Olympic Pathway School has opened up so many opportunities, and honestly, it’s the little things that make a huge difference, like the nutritious food from Chartwells or Kate’s secret stash of Up & Gos that keep me going on those 4:00 am training mornings. Every bit of support helps me balance sport and school, and I’m super grateful for it.
So, I hope my journey shows that if you’re ever thinking about stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new, you should go for it. You never know what opportunities might come your way, and sometimes, amazing things, like a couple of national medals, could be waiting when you least expect it!
Loving Love It!
MS THERESA MIMMO, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF BOARDING
This term has been one of the busiest for the Love It program with a variety of activities aimed at bringing our Boarding community together. From the very first week, Boarders jumped straight into Boarders Get Baking, heading to the Food Technology room that would fill with delicious smells and laughter as treats were made, and countless milkshakes drunk.
Year group evenings were a hit and opportunity to deepen friendships with dessert and a choice of movies, games or cards. These nights gave everyone a chance to relax and connect across and within year groups and across Houses. Our Little Sisters and Big Sisters enjoyed weekly dinners as well as games evenings. The variety of activities such as movie nights, bowling, dessert runs, and a trip to the driving range offered plenty of variety to keep spirits high. An outing to YoChi for our Boarders was one of the most popular outings and so much so, there were amendments to the program to accommodate the demand!
Social opportunities with other schools added another dimension to the term, with unforgettable outings to Luna Park, a pool party, and a lively trivia evening. These events gave Boarders the chance to make new friends, share laughs, and celebrate being part of a wider
community. Adventure was never far away either. A group set out on the Manly adventure day, exploring the markets and soaking up the sunshine. Other Boarders preferred the competition of the Rugby League.
Cultural celebrations this term highlighted NAIDOC Week which was marked with pride and reflection. A Mid-Autumn Festival dinner together celebrating a special time in Chinese culture. Our Burgers and Bowls afternoon was a exciting way to honour the important male figures in our lives with food, fun, and bowls.
In the weeks leading up to Garden Party, our activities shifted in preparation for our Boarders’ Stall. Treats were baked, cupcakes decorated and candle making sessions provided fragrant candles to sell. The Boarders all took turns in working the stall or selling raffle tickets.
The Love It program is a special way for Boarders to connect with others as well as provide opportunities to spend time away from the Boarding Houses. We look forward to encouraging further involvement by continuing to provide lots of variety to accommodate all our Boarders.
Cherishing our Boarding Alumni:
Julie
Pilcher (Frost) 1983
One of the initiatives of our 2025 Head Boarders, Celeste and Sophie, has been to invite Alumni to our fortnightly Chapel services. It has been wonderful to have glimpses of times gone by and to pick up on some common themes. This term, our Boarders were captivated by ex-Head Boarder (1983), Julie Pilcher (Frost). As you will read below, Julie shared stories of Angus Cup challenges, long term times and no leave! It was especially heartwarming to hear Julie reflecting on the wonderful qualities that Boarding helped her to develop and the beautiful friendships she formed and still enjoys today. I hope you enjoy reading the words Julie shared so eloquently in Chapel.
My first thought when Celeste contacted me was how on earth could I possibly be interesting to a Chapel full of beautiful young women in 2025 at age 60? But the more I pondered on it the more I figured that having an understanding of the past can help you shape the future and personal stories can be far more impactful, thoughtful and relevant than reading the history books or looking at the names on the wall in the hall – is the hall even still there?
There has been so much change
at Pymble since I left here in 1983 that it’s hard to even bring the past back to life. I suspect the physical environment that we grew up in is no longer standing apart from the Boarding Houses and the Chapel. I did have a walk around and it was nice to see the amphitheatre still there…The 9-hole golf course and horse paddocks, yes we had horses, are long gone to development but the heart of Boarding at Pymble I suspect is still here!
If I think about it, our life here in the late 70s and early 80’s was realistically like something out of Pride and Prejudice but without Mr Darcy. We had to perform homegrown plays and skits every term, we all had to play a musical instrument, sew, cook and play ALL sports. The idea of a well-rounded young lady was onerous indeed.
We developed a sense of HUGE competitiveness with our interBoarding house rivalries (the Angus Cup) in our yearly calisthenics competition where the sound track was played via cassette tape! No portable speakers back then.
We were allowed a champagne in the dining room when Charles and Di got married in 1981 and a champagne toast at breakfast after
we were allowed to stay up and watch Australia win the Americas Cup Yacht Race.
Our hems were measured by kneeling on the ground and having a ruler to make sure the hem was ON our knee, and we wore gloves to church on Sundays at St Swithun’s.
To great amusement and hilarity we often and I mean OFTEN had streakers on Lang Lawn on a Sunday night. Our watch dog German Shepherd, Ajax would see them off by chasing them around the lawn then swifty towards the gates on Avon Road. By then all girls were hanging over the balconies gawking!
We had hot chocolate before sleep and once we were in Year 11 were allowed instant coffee! Imagine.
We slept on open balconies until Year 10 and finally got our own room in Year 12. The relentless wake up bell at 10 to seven has been trauma imprinted in my body clock!
Our time was hilarious, fun AND funny.
Not without drama and even surrounded by 180 other girls it could be damn lonely at times. Some people missed their families
more than others but this was one of the best things about boarding at Pymble – everyone had your back no matter what.
If only the real world had this sense of empathy, understanding and compassion that we had, and hopefully STILL have, for each other, it would be a much better place.
What I can tell you is that the foundations for an adult life that I developed at Pymble have taken with me throughout the last 42 years. I honestly feel that the Boarding experience at Pymble has given me an edge which has kept me in good stead through relationships, career and all that life has and will continue to throw at me.
My Top Five Takeaways from life as a Pymble Boarder
Independence – being given independence at an early age is probably the most wonderful thing - it will be the one thing that gives you an edge pretty much over every other person you will meet in your lifetime. Thank your parents for this opportunity!
Creativity and Curiosity – love of learning and inquisitive mind. Pymble gave me a huge love of
history and to this day I am still studying and travelling learning about art, architecture, history, politics…the world in general. Never stop learning girls.
Resilience – along with independence, resilience is a massive value we learn at Boarding school. No-one else but you can solve your problems, pick up your pieces, navigate relationships and make good decisions. When everything goes to muck you have to get yourself back out of it. It’s an amazing skill to have.
Tenacity and Perseverance –
six years of Boarding teaches you patience, how to deal with frustrations and you develop an inner GRIT just get through….there will be times in your life when you draw on this experience. Life is not meant to be easy. It’s meant to have highs and lows - if you don’t have the lows you don’t recognise the highs – but the tenacity and perseverance you learn here will carry you throughout your life.
Fun and Laughter – more than anything from my teenage years at school, I learned the value of fun and laughter. Good times and the simple joys of fun with friends. As the class of ‘83 we have now had
our 10, 20, 30 and 40 year reunions. Within minutes it is as it was, we kick off where we left off and are reminded of the unique privilege and opportunity we had to Board at Pymble and how it has remained with us even now.
For those of you new to our Boarding family, a little background on ‘A View From my Window’ – each week a Boarder shares stories of where she’s from and what’s special about her home. Some girls choose to present their story in Chapel, others elect to have them published in The College Compass for everyone to enjoy. These stories are a wonderful way to celebrate the diversity of our community and help to build connection and respect for each other. The stories are too good not to share, and each term we publish a couple in Keeping Up With Our Boarders
A View From My Window: Bolwarra
STELLA WALSH, YEAR 9, BOLWARRA
Hi, my name is Stella. I’ve been here, there, and everywhere, but since moving back to Australia, I have been living in the Hunter Valley, in a suburb called Bolwarra. I live in a lovely family house with my parents, my two brothers, and my dog, Bertie. My dad works in the trading industry, and my mum does part-time teaching at the grammar school near our house. (Fun fact: she used to work at Pymble.) I have two brothers—Johnny, who is ten years old and goes to school at home and Eddie, my older brother, who is 17 and currently in Year 11 at Joeys.
So far, my life has involved a lot of
moving around, and the view from my window has changed quite a bit—about ten times throughout my life. Each house and view has been different: from looking out over other apartments, to seeing farm animals, to gazing at a park, to my own backyard, and now finally looking out over my suburb while watching the sunset. When I do come home, I love the comforting feeling of seeing the sunset every night something I’ve learned to appreciate, after living in the city for a while. I can assure you, it’s much better seeing the sun lower over the river and the land too. It is also so quiet now. Where in the past I would fall asleep to the sound
of sirens and buses now it’s only the sound of Bertie snuggled up next to me.
What I have learnt after moving so many times is home is not so much about the house you live in but the family that surround you wherever you are. Coming to Boarding in Year 8 was one of the best things to happen to me because I now know that for the next three years of my life, I will always have that “home away from home” to come back to and friendships that are as close as family I will cherish for life.
YEAR 10, DENVER, COLORADO
Hi, my name is Phoebe and I started boarding at Pymble this year in Year 10.
I live in Denver, Colorado, a city right in the heart of the United States, best known for its world-class skiing, breathtaking mountain views, and crisp, dry climate. Denver is often called the “Mile High City” because it sits exactly one mile above sea level. It’s a high desert, so we don’t get much rain - something that’s been a big contrast to life in Sydney.
Back home, I live with my mum, Catherine, my dad, Mark, and my two sisters, Ella and Jess.
When I look out my bedroom window, I see a large maple tree
that I’ve grown up with. It’s always changing: fiery red leaves in autumn, bare snow-covered branches in winter, tiny green buds in spring, and a full crown of deep green leaves in summer. That tree is one of the first things I notice when I come home; it reminds me of Colorado’s distinct seasons, which I’ve always loved. Just below it, my dogs, Milly and Edna, can usually be found sunbathing on the rocks, and if you look just past that, you can normally find a bright blue sky and big fluffy clouds.
From the other window, I get a sweeping view of the Rocky Mountains. It’s one of my favourite places to be, and I spend a lot of time there. In winter, we often
head up for day trips, skiing from the first to last chair before making the long drive back home through snowy traffic. In the warmer months, we hike through canyons and up to mountain peaks, spotting deer, chipmunks, and occasionally even moose. We also spend time on the lakes, whether it’s paddleboarding under the sun or spending the day out on a boat, soaking up everything summer has to offer.
One of my absolute favourite places in Colorado is Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a massive outdoor concert venue carved into towering red rock formations. My family and I sometimes hike up there early in the morning to watch the sunrise. As the sun spills over the city and
PHOEBE MURCHINSON,
plains, everything is lit with vibrant orange and pink hues. With the view of Denver in the distance, the mountains behind, and the surrounding trees glowing in the morning light, it’s easily one of the most peaceful and special places I know.
But sometimes, it’s the simplest things that I love most—driving around with my sisters and friends, music playing, grabbing dinner at our favourite places like Chipotle or Cane’s, and ending the day watching the sunset at Daniels Gate Park. It’s moments like those that make me feel truly at home.
Coming back to Boarding after being in Colorado can be a big adjustment. The accents, the weather, the environment - everything feels different. But over time, I’ve learned to love both places in their own way. While Colorado is home, I’ve found another home here at Pymble. I’ve met incredible people, tried new sports, and experienced a life that’s completely different from the one I knew before.
Orange turns pink
CAROLYN BURGESS, DIRECTOR OF BOARDING
It is always a treat to visit families on their home ‘turf’ and Pymble events and Boarding Expos are the perfect opportunity to meet current, past and prospective families and to share the joys of life at Pymble. This year we have had the great pleasure of catching up with families in Scone, Dubbo, Rankin Springs, Griffith, Wagga Wagga, Moree, Narrabri and, most recently Orange.
Held at beautiful Printhie Wines and hosted by our very own Emily and Ed Swift, parents of Annabel in Year 9, the Orange event is an extra special one as it seems to draw in a huge range of ex-students. It was particularly wonderful to be joined by Meg Kierath, class of 1958, to share happy memories of Pymble Boarding and to hear updates on the numerous members of the wider Kierath, Beveridge, Green and Johnson families who have joined us at Pymble over many years. There were other Alumni of a similar vintage, and it was great to hear their enthusiasm for the 100th birthday celebrations for Goodlet – they are all signing up to sleep on the balcony at the sleepover!
There were also the more recent previous Boarders and Boarding staff who joined in the fun. It was especially wonderful have Pip Kensit share her memories of time at Pymble. Pip was a Boarder at Pymble from Year 7 and eventually an outstanding Head Boarder in 2012. She loved Boarding so much, Pip returned as an Assistant Head of House while studying nursing. Following her time as a time as a remote nurse, Pip went on to study medicine and is now enjoying life in Orange as a doctor at Orange Hospital. Everyone enjoyed hearing Pip’s fond memories of Boarding and the impact it has had on her life beyond Pymble
