Verity Issue 51 May 2026

Cover Image

2026 Loreto College Value of Felicity artwork created by student Lily Matthews

Inside Cover Image

Loreto College students rowing at the St Catherine Regatta by David Barker

Editorial Team

Narelle Mulrooney, Kellie Rudlin, Jayde Harrington and Blaise Katherine

Photography

Paul Shire, H Studios, David Barker, Medadesign, staff and student photos

Design

Narelle Mulrooney

Print

Revolution Print

FEATURES

THE OPENING OF ST ANNE’S WING LIFT AND SENSORY GARDEN

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We proudly celebrated the official opening of the St Anne’s Lift, a transformative project made possible through the generous support of the Federal Government, whose contribution helped bring this vision to life.

Contributions to Verity can be sent to: Loreto College Ballarat

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

WOMEN IN TIME – INSPIRING ALUMNI INDUCTEES 2026

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The Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni Initiative is now in its fourth year and it continues to recognise the remarkable accomplishments and inspiration provided by 151 years of Loreto College Ballarat graduates.

ALUMNI PHILANTHROPY IN ACTION

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The cycle of giving back is the heartbeat of the Loreto College Community. Our Alumni are returning to the College in waves to inspire the next generation of rowing, performing and sporting protégés.

LORETO LAUNCHPAD

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Past Pupil Karly Flood (Class of 2023) founded By Freya Infant Wellness after making several trips to Melbourne with her baby, where she recognised the need for a local infant wellness centre – a supportive community for parents to cherish special moments with their babies, and connect with others on a similar journey.

The Year of Felicity

In 2026 our College Community proudly enters its 151st year with joy as we celebrate our Year of Felicity.

Felicity calls us to approach our learning, leadership, and relationships with optimism, courage, and a deep trust in God’s presence. It reminds us that joy is not fleeting, but a way of living and engaging with one another each day.

This joyful spirit is beautifully reflected in an artwork created by Year 12 student Lily (pictured above – her artwork on the front cover), and has been used to create our 2026 value badge and a suite of marketing tools, capturing the happiness and hope that will guide us throughout the year.

Welcome Christine Shaw

Words by Narelle Mulrooney and Christine Shaw

Under her leadership, Loreto College Ballarat enters an exciting new chapter – one that honours its rich legacy while embracing the opportunities of the future.”

We congratulate Loreto College Ballarat’s newly-appointed Principal Christine Shaw (Chris), a passionate advocate for girls’ education who brings a distinguished career in educational leadership across both regional and metropolitan independent and Catholic schools. Chris commenced as the College’s 32nd Principal in January 2026, following four years of dedicated service to the Loreto Community as Deputy Principal. Prior to joining Loreto College, she held the roles of Deputy Head and Head of Senior School at Ballarat Grammar School. Having grown up in Ballarat, Chris was always familiar with Loreto College, intrigued by what lay beyond its iconic red brick fence.

Reflecting on her early days at the College, Chris shared:

‘Each day walking through the College gates, I am a beginner – a new learner, absorbing the life created by those who have come before me. I marvel at the gardens, the buildings and the rich history. Mary Ward greets me, instilling confidence, just as she does for our students with optimism, integrity, sincerity, a passion for justice and a freedom of spirit. As I pass the gentle sound of water flowing over ‘the great bell’ and make my way to my office, I feel the legacy of Mother Gonzaga Barry everywhere and experience the deep sense of belonging within her school. When I describe this walk to family and friends, it can be difficult for them to fully grasp. But anyone who has stepped through these gates, wandered the

grounds, or stood in awe within the Chapel understands immediately. The stories of those who have shaped this remarkable place are both captivating and inspiring.’

Five years later this sentiment has only strengthened.

Chris completed her studies as a teacher in Ballarat and maintains strong ties to the local community. She and her New Zealand-born husband, also a teacher, raised their two children on a hobby farm on the outskirts of Ballarat, where they embrace a vibrant and active family life.

Chris has played a pivotal role in shaping the College’s strategic direction, educational vision and inclusive culture. Her leadership has been marked by a commitment to

developing strong organisational culture, with a focus on curriculum, wellbeing, and pastoral care. She is deeply passionate about holistic and purposeful strategic planning that enhances the student, staff and community experience.

Her vision is to lead with faith and purpose, fostering a learning environment where every student is known, valued and empowered to thrive as a confident and compassionate learner. In stepping into the role of Principal, Chris carries not only the responsibility for academic excellence, but also the privilege of nurturing the confidence, faith and aspirations of the next Loreto College generation of young women. The stewardship of the Loreto charism is something Chris deeply values.

At the heart of Loreto College is a commitment to developing curious, creative, compassionate and ethical women of action. It is this mission – alongside a culture grounded in inclusivity, respect and trust – that Chris finds most inspiring about the College.

Under her leadership, Loreto College Ballarat enters an exciting new chapter – one that honours its rich legacy while embracing the opportunities of the future. With Chris at the helm, the College is well placed to continue empowering young women to lead with courage, purpose and integrity in a changing world.

From the Board

One of the great privileges of serving as Board Chair is the opportunity to attend and experience the many moments that bring the spirit of Loreto to life.”

Words by Melanie Robertson – Board Chair

As we move through another exciting year at Loreto College Ballarat, I am constantly reminded of the extraordinary strength of our community and the shared commitment that continues to shape the future of this remarkable College.

On behalf of the Board, it is my great pleasure to formally welcome Christine Shaw as Principal of Loreto College. The appointment of a Principal is among the most significant responsibilities entrusted to the Board, as this role is central to preserving and advancing the vision of Mary Ward and Mother Gonzaga Barry for generations of Loreto girls to come. Christine brings deep educational leadership experience, wisdom and a clear commitment to the values that define Loreto. We are delighted to partner with her as she leads the College into its next chapter.

With a strong focus on our Alumni and their significant contribution to the College, we also acknowledge that our Board and committee structures are strengthened by the richness, insight and generosity of our Alumni community. Loreto College’s past students carry with them not only treasured memories, but also a deep understanding of what makes this College so special. Their ongoing contribution to College life, including through service on committees and engagement across the wider school community, enriches our decision-making and ensures that governance remains grounded in both heritage and vision.

This year we are also pleased to welcome new Board members Amanda Mooney and Andrew Edmonston. Their expertise, experience and fresh perspectives will further strengthen the stewardship of the College.

A recent Board values workshop provided an important opportunity for reflection and alignment. Together, we explored how our governance work must not simply support strategic outcomes, but reflect the values that sit at the heart of Loreto: freedom, sincerity, justice, verity and felicity. It was a meaningful reminder that governance is not only about oversight and accountability, it is about how we show up in service to our students, staff and broader community.

One of the great privileges of serving as Board Chair is the opportunity to attend and experience the many moments that bring the spirit of Loreto to life. From the warmth and connection of the Mother’s Day Breakfast to witnessing students confidently perform and lead the Mass at our opening Board meeting, these occasions are powerful reminders of the culture, faith and sense of belonging that define this College Community.

Across the College, we continue to see Loreto values come alive in inspiring ways. From the energy and teamwork displayed through our rowing program, to the creativity and confidence evident in this year’s outstanding school production, our students continue to demonstrate what it means to flourish in a Loreto education. The enthusiasm and House spirit on display during the Loreto College Swimming and Athletics Carnivals were a joy to witness, while the determination and pride shown by students competing in BAS athletics reflected the courage, resilience and camaraderie that are hallmarks of a Loreto Girl.

The recent opening of the new St Anne’s Wing Lift was another proud milestone. This important development reflects our commitment to accessibility, inclusion and ensuring that our physical spaces evolve to meet the needs of every student. It is one of many ways we are

building for the future and creating an environment where every Loreto Girl can prosper and thrive.

When we connect all these pieces of strong leadership, engaged Alumni, value-driven governance, enriching

The 2026 Loreto College Ballarat Board

opportunities and future-focused infrastructure we see the continued unfolding of a College that is deeply grounded in its heritage and boldly preparing young women to lead with courage, compassion and purpose.

Melanie Robertson – Board Chair

The 2026 Loreto College Ballarat Committees

Finance and Audit Committee

Laura Westbrook (Chair)

Laura Avery

Andrew Edmondston

Nicole Loader

Amanda Mooney

Cathy Oakley

Melanie Robertson (Guest)

Christine Shaw

Brenton Riordan

Felicity Knobel

Alex Lannan

Risk and Compliance

Rebekah Foster (Chair)

Elizabeth Burns

Annmarie Elijah

Luke Fong

Cathy Oakley

Parry Singh

Anthea Stevens

Melanie Robertson (Guest)

Christine Shaw

Brenton Riordan

Kerryn Boyko

Naomi Hrymakowski

Kelly Taylor

Strategy and Investment

Marnie Papst (Chair)

Kevin Deane

Kate Duggan

Melanie Robertson

Rebecca Smail

Christine Shaw

Brenton Riordan

Sue Hinchliffe

Adele Ryan

Board

Melanie Robertson (Chair)

Laura Avery

Elizabeth Burns

Annmarie Elijah

Rebekah Foster (Deputy Chair)

Marnie Papst

Laura Westbrook

Christine Shaw

Brenton Riordan

Sue Hinchliffe

From the Principal

Words by Christine Shaw

One of the things I love about working in a school is the variety that each day brings. Schools are complex places created and sustained by more than a busy calendar of activities. My first term as Principal, has been shaped by the relationships and shared purpose along with the knowledge that we are all learning together. This has been made easier by knowing the College and its wonderful community. There is a deep pride that we all share for a Loreto education, and I am grateful to be a part of it.

In our 151st year we continue to be committed to growth that rests in strong foundations and traditions. The gift we

have at Loreto is that our values are so prominent and meaningful, reflecting the Gospel and grounded in the vision of Mary Ward. In 2026, the Year of Felicity brings an enduring sense of joy that comes from our collective efforts. In the words of Mary Ward, ‘God loves a cheerful giver’. Felicity teaches us that through an open disposition of our hearts, we are called to share joy and hope with others.

Talking to excited Year 7s about new experiences such as their Da Capo lessons never grows old. They enthusiastically tell me about their new instruments and what they are learning and struggling with. Later in the week, similar conversations with the Year 12s hosting karaoke in our newly-opened quad where students of all year levels danced and sang together. Down at the pool, the House synchro was hotly contested and the VCE Legal Studies

The gift we have at Loreto is that our values are so prominent and meaningful, reflecting the Gospel and grounded in the vision of Mary Ward.”

classes delighted in meeting with Alumna Judge Sara Hinchey (1986). Every week, there are countless moments of Felicity in learning that are shaped and presented in meaningful ways. We continue to aim for something excellent and this is excellence in all its forms. The culture of our College is important as it shapes who we are, how we act and learn and creates conditions where wellbeing, engagement and success are embedded in a shared understanding of what makes Loreto College unique. It is something that we are all very proud to be a part of.

At the annual Ballarat Associated Schools Head of the Lake Rowing Regatta in Term 1, our Spit Crew cheer squad epitomised the spirit of Felicity as they proudly marched to Lake Wendouree to support the rowers. Loreto excelled that day in every aspect, including our first back-to-back Head of the Lake, but what was more important was the Felicitious spirit we saw from our community, so well referenced in the photo above. How wonderful that our students brought Mary Ward and Mother Gonzaga with them to cheer on the crews!

Another Felicitious moment I reflect upon was at our Reunion Day in March when we welcomed back our Alumni to Loreto. The spirit of Felicity was palpable as our Past Pupils joyfully reminisced about their school and boarding days. Their animated stories and experiences build on the legacy of generations of Alumni who have come before them. To live with Felicity calls us to embrace optimism and positivity. The lightness of spirit, good humour and the friendships formed marks Felicity as a unique virtue in opening our hearts to others around us. Those stories told at Loreto Reunions of the future will one day be the stories of Da Capo classes and dancing in the Quad or marching to the Lake with great determination and pride. The spirit of Felicity will continue to help us build a place here at Loreto where learning is shaped by a generosity of spirit and a culture of joy shared and purpose lived.

Christine Shaw – Principal

From the College Captains

Words by Bonnie Burt and Jemima Knobel

We set a clear vision for our Year of Felicity to promote whole-school involvement, to be active and engaged leaders in our community...”

2026 is the Year of Felicity, a value that celebrates the vibrancy and joy of our Loreto Community. As College Captains, we are leading our community to see Felicity in the ordinary of everyday, encouraging students to embrace an open mind, a gracious heart and a joyful spirit. Alongside Loreto Captains from across Australia, we explored our value in writing our 2026 Felicity Prayer at the annual Loreto Schools Australia Committee Conference. We have called our communities to be felicitous in acting out of love, serving others and bringing hope to our world. It is a privilege to lead and serve our Loreto Community in this Year of Felicity.

As College Captains, we lead the 2026 Senate who are confident, capable and enthusiastic leaders. Together, we model our leadership on Mary Ward’s ‘open circle of friends’ and Mother Gonzaga Barry’s

idea that we ‘leave something behind on which others can build’. At the end of 2025, we marked the beginning of our leadership journey with the inaugural leadership camp with our Senate and House Executives. Here, we set a clear vision for our Year of Felicity to promote whole-school involvement, to be active and engaged leaders in our community and to increase the leadership capacity of all Loreto College students.

The Senate are empowering our community to participate and contribute to the life of Loreto. We joyfully marked Valentine’s Day with this year’s celebration of Galentine’s Day, honouring the power of friendship with students joining us for a disco and friendship bracelet making in the Quad. In the lead up to Head of the Lake, our community rallied around our dedicated and hardworking rowers in War Cry Week. Each lunchtime the Senate, House Executives and Spit Crew Captains led each year level to passionately chant our War Cry in preparation for

the successful weekend. Alongside the Mavericks group, we celebrated International Women’s Day where we invited students to a picnic in the front gardens. House Representatives also supported our community to bring House Spirit alive at our Swimming and Athletics Carnivals to encourage students and staff to wear their House colours with pride in competition for the sought-after Spirit Stick. To end each week, the Senate are also handing over the choice of Friday Song to different Mentor Groups where the community enjoys their musical contribution to begin our weekends.

The 2026 Senate are proud Loreto students who embody Felicity, as they are active and engaged in the community. We have formed a strong relationship with St Patrick’s College and Damascus College, inviting them to join us in a liturgy followed by an afternoon tea where we shared our experiences of being leaders of Catholic schools. We also supported Loreto students in the Respect Cup against Sacred Heart College Geelong to promote respectful relationships, gender equality and to celebrate the achievement of women in our world.

As College Captains, we were the Masters of Ceremony for the opening of the St Anne’s Wing Lift and Sensory Garden, as well as the International Women’s Day Breakfast where we were joined by the wider Ballarat and Loreto communities for these events.

We have honoured Mary Ward’s ‘open circle of friends’ with the Senate, providing opportunities for our Year 12 House Executives and Year Level Representatives to fulfill their potential as leaders in our community. Successfully led by our Sports Representatives and Executives, our Year 7s participated in a House Netball Tournament during lunch in late 2025.

Our Social Justice Representatives have been leading change in JPIC through last year’s Christmas hampers for St Vincent de Paul to directly support Ballarat families. During Lent, they have also been fundraising and raising awareness for the domestic and global work of Caritas Project Compassion. Our community has been led in Liturgy by our Liturgy Representatives for Ash Wednesday and for Easter where students reflected on the last days of Jesus Christ’s life. Students also gathered for ‘Karaoke in

the Quad’, an activity led by our Arts Representatives to see Loreto’s talented musicians bring the joy of music into the heart of our College and bringing all year levels together.

In the spirit of Felicity, we are courageous in serving and uplifting others, particularly our junior students. As College Captains, we will continue to lead our Senate, House Executives, Year 12 Cohort and Loreto Community to be empowered in seeking truth and doing justice. We look forward to continuing our leadership journey and leaving behind a legacy on which others can build.

Around Loreto

Farewell to Michelle

After five and a half years of dedicated service to Loreto College Ballarat, we farewelled our outgoing Principal Michelle Brodrick at the end of 2025. Beginning her tenure in the midst of COVID was far from ordinary, yet Michelle guided our community through uncertainty with strength, integrity and grace. Throughout her time at Loreto, Michelle has made a considerable and lasting impact on the College. She has led us through growth and change with a commitment to justice and inclusion, and she has shown remarkable resilience during challenging times.

At our final assembly for 2025, as students finished their school year, our Year 11s formed a guard of honour to mark Michelle’s final address to the College community. The teaching staff also came together to acknowledge and celebrate the influence Michelle has had on our College.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms Brodrick for her dedication and calm leadership throughout her time at Loreto. She will be greatly missed, but we know there are plenty of exciting adventures ahead.

Swimming Carnival

The 2026 Swimming Carnival, as always, was a highlyspirited occasion. The Houses battled competitively throughout the day in the assortment of swimming and fun novelty events.

Barry was crowned the overall House Champion and the winners of the Year 12 synchronised swimming prize. Mornane won the Spirit Stick for their cheer and good spirits throughout the day.

What a fantastic (and fun-filled!) day on the track at our Athletics Carnival on 19 March! From hurdles and relays to tug-of-war and egg-and-spoon races, there was something for everyone to enjoy. With great participation and even a few records broken, the energy was incredible throughout the day! Congratulations to Mornane for taking home the Spirit Stick and Ward for claiming the overall win!

Sister Veronica Fuhrmann CJ Visit

On Friday 6 March we were delighted to welcome Sister Veronica Fuhrmann CJ, General Superior of the Congregation of Jesus, to Loreto College Ballarat.

Sister Veronica travelled to Ballarat with Sandra Perrett CJ and was warmly hosted by our Principal Christine Shaw and Robin Scott, IBVM Archivist. During the visit, they explored our Archive Centre and Chapel, learning more about the rich history of our College and its connection to the wider Loreto story.

Sister Veronica also met with our student leaders and spent time learning about our vibrant College Community, our place within the global Loreto network and the continuing influence of Mary Ward International.

Head of the Lake Champions

Japanese Exchange Program

During March, we welcomed 18 Year 9 students from Shibuya Kyoiku Gakuen, Tokyo, as part of our ongoing exchange program with Japan. We loved having these students join our College Community. During their stay, they attended the ESL Program each morning and enjoyed excursions to Sovereign Hill and Newington Primary School. One of the highlights of the visit was the homestay experience, where students were able to immerse themselves in the Australian way of life while using English in everyday situations. Homestay is reciprocated when Loreto College students embark on their tour to Japan –often reconnecting with the same students.

Congratulations to our history-making Division 1 crew who won the Head of the Lake Open Division 1 Girls title and to our entire squad for winning the overall Head of the Lake Girls Aggregate Champions in Ballarat for 2026!

Not only is this an incredible win, it marks a truly historical moment for Loreto College, as for the first time ever we have gone back-toback in the Division 1 title. Congratulations girls on an outstanding achievement.

There was plenty of Loreto Spirit provided from our incredible community on the day who showed up and supported our rowers. Our families, Spit Crew, staff and Alumni provided our crews with the courage and energy to win the day.

This result reflects the dedication of everyone who is, and who has been, part of our rowing program, helping shape it into what it is today. Go Loreto!!

Students in Action

Loreto College’s Sporting Elite

Congratulations also to Eliza (Year 11), who has been selected in the Victorian Country Basketball Representative Team for the second year in a row. She has also been named in the Australian Sapphires squad for the Women’s U17 World Cup in the Czech Republic after a recent tour in Samoa playing in a 10-day tournament for the Oceania Cup. An outstanding effort and testament to her dedication to basketball.

Congratulations also to our National U18 Women’s 100m Athletics Champion, Grace! Her time of 11.68 seconds not only marked a new personal best but also secured a World U20 Athletics Championships qualifying time, a huge milestone for this talented sprinter at the All Schools National Championships, while proudly representing Victoria as a Loreto College Ballarat student.

Grace was also a finalist in the 120m Stawell Gift, her second Stawell Gift final. She was awarded the Junior Athlete of the Year Award after a stellar season in 2025/26 and has achieved a qualifying mark for the World Youth Championships in the United States to be held later this year.

We also congratulate Jazmyn (Year 11) who won the Stawell Gift U18 100m.

BAS Golf

Loreto College was well represented in the BAS Golf competition in March and won two silver medals – one in the Senior Girls and one in the Junior Girls. Our team, including Pearl (Year 10) and Olivia (Year 7), battled some strong winds and narrowly escaped a storm. Pearl went on to compete at the AGSV Invitational Golf Championship in Melbourne on 27 April and came equal third – an outstanding result with 23 schools and 86 students taking part, both females and males (only 6 females participated overall).

Harriet (Year 8) has been selected to represent Pony Club Australia in the 2026 International Alliance Virtual Dressage Training Challenge.

This unique international event brings riders together from around the world in a development-focused format, where feedback, reflection and measurable improvement are key.

2025 College Production – Pippin

Congratulations to all our staff and students, along with St Patrick’s College, who worked hard to bring together the 2026 College production of Pippin

Pippin wasn’t just a musical, it was a show within a show. Pippin invited the audience into a dazzling world of illusion, ambition and the pursuit of something extraordinary.

Well done to Emily in the lead role as Pippin; Baeli, Johanna and Zoe as The Court Jesters and Josh, Dylan, Brigette,

Loreto College Rowers at Nationals

Our rowers had an incredible time in Tasmania at the 2026 Australian Rowing Championships, making the most of both the racing and the experience. With each race, they put in all the hard work built across the season, displaying outstanding effort, determination and commitment every time they hit the water.

In the Schoolgirl’s Coxed Four we had one crew deliver a silver medal and another crew finishing 5th in the A Final.

In the U17 Coxed Quad we had one crew finish 6th in the A Final, displaying strong grit and perseverance. The other crew just missed out on the Final, coming 3rd in the repechage.

In the Sprint Eight we had the Senior Eight & Inter Eight go up against one another; both crews progressed to the Final! The Seniors came home with a bronze medal and the Inters placed 7th against strong senior opposition.

The U17 Eight placed 2nd in the B Final, demonstrating strong performances across their races and the U19 Eight showed a promising and encouraging start but were unfortunately forced to scratch before the final after the semi.

We are incredibly proud of all our rowers for their effort, commitment, and determination throughout the regatta.

We congratulate Jessica (Year 11) who has been chosen to represent Victoria in the Pathway Rowing Girls’ 8+ and Eliza who has been selected to cox the U22 Oceana Victorian crews.

Autumn, Addison and Riley as other main characters. We congratulate them as well as the other cast and crew members who made this production so memorable.

It was wonderful to see a number of Alumni working behind the scenes using their leading and managing skills with confidence – skills developed through their time at Loreto College.

Students in Action

Respect Cup

On 11 March we were proud to take part in the 2026 Respect Cup, joining students from Sacred Heart College Geelong, St Patrick’s College Ballarat and St Joseph’s College Geelong for an event centred around unity, gender equality and respectful relationships.

Following the matches, students from all four schools heard from Deb Harris (CoRE Consultant & Youth Lead – Women’s Health Grampians) about the impact of gender-based violence and the importance of driving cultural change to build safer, more respectful communities.

Our Sports Captain Eliza also spoke about the power of sport to build confident, resilient leaders and the importance of ensuring every girl feels she belongs on the field. She encouraged everyone to support women in sport by challenging stereotypes and language that diminish their contribution.

Congratulations to all of our Loreto footy legends and coaches, and to Tilly who was named Loreto Best on Ground. A big thank you also to the umpires for their support throughout the games.

After two fantastic matches, Sacred Heart College Geelong and St Joseph’s College Geelong took home the Respect Cup, with the combined scores seeing the trophy return to Geelong.

Well done to all students involved for making it such a supportive event!

Girls in STEM

During Term 1 of the Girls in STEM Program, the focus was on drones and clean energy. Participants engaged in a range of hands-on activities, including a virtual reality simulation and drone flying exercises to inspect wind turbines. They also took part in challenges such as ‘Imposters’ and ‘Blind Origami,’ where they were required to design and create objects that would be tested in an unknown environment. The only feedback provided was which designs ranked in the top two during each testing round. These activities highlighted how certain features perform well in specific conditions, while others are less effective.

The program provided an opportunity to explore new experiences and connect with peers who share similar interests. Participants were inspired by guest speakers from organisations such as the Australian Defence Force and the ADF Drone Racing Team, gaining valuable insights into career pathways they may not have previously considered. Overall, Term 1 was an engaging and rewarding experience, leaving participants eager to return for the next term.

Student Leadership Collaboration

Initiated by our 2026 Senate, we had the pleasure of hosting student leadership teams from St Patrick’s College and Damascus College on 26 February.

This gathering provided an opportunity for our student leaders to connect, get to know one another, share ideas and build relationships across our Catholic secondary school community.

Our Senate is excited to continue growing this initiative and to explore authentic, student-driven collaborations that create meaningful impact across our schools. We can’t wait to see what’s next for this wonderful group of young leaders!

Lions Youth of the Year Winners

Lions Youth of the Year is a prestigious competition for well-rounded students who are looking for challenging opportunities. Eliza and Elena (Year 12) represented Loreto College Ballarat at the Buninyong Club, while Charlotte (Year 10), Mia and Mahima (Year 12) took part in the competition at the Alfredton/Lucas Club in February.

Both competitions involved rigorous interviews discussing their extensive involvement in school and extra-curricular activities, leadership positions and awards they have received. The competition included a five-minute prepared speech and two impromptu speeches.

After careful deliberation, the judges awarded Best Speaker and Overall Winner to two Loreto College students – Elena (Buninyong) and Mahima (Alfredton/Lucas).

Both Elena and Mahima will move onto the Regional Finals held later in the year.

Caritas Project Compassion

During Term 1, our students attended the launch of Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion for 2026, marking the beginning of our Lenten journey with a focus on action, service and leadership, supporting and empowering those experiencing poverty around the world.

On Shrove Tuesday our JPIC team took the lead, hosting a pancake sale and kicking off their fundraising for Caritas through Project Compassion. It was great to see such strong participation and generosity from our students and our JPIC team for leading by example and helping our community put faith into action.

The Opening of St Anne’s Wing Lift and Sensory Garden

Words by Jayde Harrington and Narelle Mulrooney

This new lift and precinct has opened doors in every sense, improving access to learning and office spaces, enhancing amenities, and strengthening the communal heart of our College.”

On 20 February we proudly celebrated the official opening of the St Anne’s Lift, a transformative project made possible through the generous support of the Federal Government, whose contribution helped bring this vision to life.

This new lift and precinct has opened doors in every sense, improving access to learning and office spaces, enhancing amenities and strengthening the communal heart of our College, the Quad. It will serve as a vital gathering space and connection point to our learning wings, allowing us to create environments that better reflect contemporary learning and working needs, while supporting our ever-growing community.

For some time, Loreto College has understood the need to find solutions to continuing population growth and intense pressures on enrolment numbers each year. This, combined with the necessity to bring 100-year-old buildings into a time of inclusion and accessibility, highlighted a dire need to plan and fund several projects to provide adequate facilities to meet the demands of the community and fully maximise every available space.

The first stages included the removal of the 1950s addition of concrete staircases and balconies, revealing the original Residential Building built in the 1800s. Once this was completed, rebuilding could begin with careful consideration made to the original structure. The quadrangle levels were raised to provide ease of flow between all three wings leading from the courtyard without the need to navigate small and intricate stairways. Accessibility ramps were added to ensure the College meets

the needs of all our students, bringing the building into the modern era. Extra seating and structured garden beds were also a welcome addition to the tired, old courtyard area.

This significant project has had to navigate complex access and heritage requirements and has spanned the leadership of three Principals. We acknowledge and thank former Principals Judith Potter and Michelle Brodrick for their vision and drive, former Business Manager Jeff Primmer, our current Business Manager Brenton Riordan and our dedicated Maintenance team for their persistence and commitment.

At the opening we welcomed Catherine King MP to officially open the lift and Fr Justin Driscoll to offer a blessing – both reflecting that they had never had the privilege of opening a lift before. Alan Morton from Morton and Co Architects spoke about the journey the company had with the design and construction of the lift, reflecting on challenges and achievements while acknowledging architect Peter-John Di Michiel who sadly passed away during the process.

Past Pupils were also invited to attend, many expressing their wonder at how the College has progressed and how wonderful the day was. Attendee Ann Scally wrote later,

‘My mother Pat Scally (nee Fitzsimmons – Class of 1946) attended the event on Friday. At 96, having spent seven years boarding at Loreto Ballarat, the experience brought back many happy memories.

We were impressed with the kindness extended. Year 12 girls met Mum at the gate while I parked and escorted us to chairs in ‘the lift’ quadrangle. After morning tea, a lovely woman Kirsty (the College Registrar) showed us around parts of the school, including the Chapel, which is

quite beautiful. Mum was able to talk about what these areas were like when she was a young girl. Her memory really is remarkable, an important oral history of those joyful days. Mum boarded at eleven years of age, her sister Aileen at nine and says it was a truly happy time. We would like to congratulate those involved.’

As part of the day, we were also honoured to officially open our new Sensory Garden alongside our Learning Diversity Hub. This beautiful and thoughtfully designed space provides students with a calm, restorative environment that supports wellbeing, regulation and inclusive learning. The Sensory Garden offers opportunities for quiet reflection, sensory engagement and supported learning experiences. It is a place where every student can

feel supported, grounded and ready to learn.

Learning Diversity Leader, Ginelle Polanske welcomed everyone and Year 10 student Zara talked about her own personal experiences of how the new garden has helped her learning since opening.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our generous donors who made the Sensory Garden possible. Your support has created a space that will positively impact our students for years to come, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to our College Community.

This day marked not just the opening of new spaces, but the beginning of new opportunities for learning, connection and growth.

Sensory Garden Donors

Loreto College Ballarat wishes to acknowledge the generosity of the following donors:

Shane & Victoria Cook

Catherine Tripp –In dedication of Sr Denise Desmarchelier CJ

Annette Currie –In dedication of

Sr Marie Kelly IBVM

Sharon & Don Moss

Jan Stephen

Lynette Browne

Patricia Scally

Elizabeth Delahunty

Nicholson Construction

Louise Moneghetti

Maryanne Krall

Meg Barry

Linda McDonald

Joanne O’Loughlin –in memory of

Brendan O’Loughlin

Carolyn Re

Belinda & Rodney Walton

Helen Beckham

Belinda Hope

Judy-Ann Quilliam

Janet Canny

John Koopmans

Suzana Sullivan

Nicole Loader

Anne Sarros

Leeanne Beaston

Elizabeth Gyory

Joylene Fletcher

Ann Nathan

Clare Beaston

Melissa Pearce

Kate Thomas

Irena Green

Judith Sacco

Gabrielle Jarvis

Cheryle Ryan, Helen Morcombe & Jacinta Clegg

Leah Monaghan

Amelia McGlade

Eliza Clayworth

Fiona Lauritz

Thea Hubble

Wendy Guest

Michael Kearney

Robina Maconochie

Reverend Peter Connors

Katrina Leehane

Emma Newman

Kylie Barnett

Jo Russell

Ebony Corden

Amy Licheni

Christine Liston

Cassandra Griffin

Megan Clark

Suzanne Collier

Cassandra Tuffen

Tamra Foster

Brenda Verbeek

Deana Cameron

Annaliese Cosgriff

Leah Ferguson-Grieve

Clare Ryan

Jodie Bridges

Anne Halloran

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

2026 Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni

Words

by Jayde Harrington

In 2026 we once again celebrate two truly inspiring women at our annual Women’s Day Breakfast.”

This year, we hosted our annual International Women’s Day Breakfast back at Loreto College with the celebration of our two 2026 Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni inductees.

Hosting the celebration at Loreto College created a more accessible and connected experience for our students, giving them the opportunity to engage directly with our inductees and the broader alumni community, and to leave inspired by the diverse paths they have taken.

In this edition of Verity, we are proud to honour these two remarkable Loreto graduates and share their stories.

Championing the Power of the Arts

Genevieve Lacey (Class of 1990) is driven by a deep belief that arts and culture are central to any thriving community. A

musician and arts advocate, she creates, performs, and curates work that can be experienced in festivals, museums, parks and gardens, and the digital realm. She tours internationally, has an extensive recording catalogue and is the subject of the ABC film Recorder Queen.

As a recorder virtuoso, Genevieve’s performed at the Lindau International Convention of Nobel Laureates, as concerto soloist in the Royal Albert Hall for BBC Proms, and on Thursday Island with First Nations ensemble The Black Arm Band. Her own creative works include Breathing Space (a permanent sound installation at the National Museum of Australia), Soliloquy (a communal reinvention of the solo recital) and Pleasure Garden (a listening garden).

Genevieve curates Utzon Music for Sydney Opera House and serves her community in countless voluntary ways as a board member, mentor and advisor.

An ARIA, Helpmann and Green Room award winner, she has received Churchill, Freedman and Australia Council Fellowships, the Melbourne Prize for Music (Outstanding Musician Award) and the Sidney Myer Individual Performing Arts Award.

At our IWD Breakfast, Genevieve spoke to the audience in an immersive way, weaving music throughout her address and intertwining performance with reflection. Guests also had the privilege of hearing her perform two musical pieces, sharing the meaning behind each work. Students listened in awe, captivated by her talent and passion.

When reflecting on her time at Loreto, Genevieve spoke about the profound impact of the Loreto Sisters and her teachers, who instilled in her a belief in the power of educating women and the importance of nurturing dreamers and hope in the world.

We were proud to recognise Genevieve in the category of Arts and Cultural Excellence in our 2026 Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni initiative, celebrating her distinguished international career in arts and culture.

A Rising Voice in Historical Research

Dr Catherine Gay (Class of 2014) is an award-winning historian and curator. After she graduated from Loreto College Ballarat in 2014, she completed a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and a PhD in History at the University of Melbourne, the latter funded by a Hansen Trust Scholarship. Her forthcoming book, Australian Girls: Growing Up in the Nineteenth Century (Monash University Publishing, 2026), draws on her doctoral research to explore the histories of Indigenous and settler girls and young women in the colonial period.

Alongside academic roles, Catherine has worked as a curator on projects for Museums Victoria, the Australian War Memorial and the National Trust of Australia (Victoria). In 2025, she was a visiting scholar at the Department of History, Ethics and Theory of Medicine, University of Magdeburg, Germany, and is currently a Research Assistant at the University of Newcastle.

At our IWD Breakfast, Catherine reflected on the rich history she encountered each day as she attended Loreto, surrounded by the stories of students who had been

part of the College since 1875. She spoke of stories from the boarding community and Loreto bread, which connected her to generations of students before her.

She shared that her time at Loreto was shaped by the influence of dedicated and inspiring teachers, who fostered her love of learning and prepared her well for future study. Now, with a passion for combining arts and history, Catherine continues to pursue her interests, driven by a fascination with the histories of girls and young women who have too often been overlooked in Australian history, and a commitment to ensuring their stories are recognised.

We were proud to induct Catherine as a Young Achiever in our 2026 Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni initiative, celebrating her outstanding contribution to history and research.

Our 2026 inductees beautifully complement one another, having pursued different fields yet are united by a shared passion for arts and culture. At our IWD Breakfast, Genevieve and Catherine reflected on the impact of their Loreto education in shaping their journeys, as well as the strong sense of community that has supported them both during and beyond their time at Loreto College.

2026 Student Award

This year, the 2026 Women in Time –Student Award was presented by Ebony Monson (Class of 2010 and inaugural Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni inductee). This award recognises a senior student who embodies the vision of Mary Ward, making a meaningful impact during their time at Loreto College and encouraging this attitude into the future.

This year’s recipient, Idaho (Year 11), is recognised for her academic excellence, leadership, compassion and commitment to community. She has received multiple Excellence and Endeavour Awards across Years 9 and 10, and has extended her learning through competitions such as the Australian Mathematics Competition, where she earned a Certificate of Distinction.

Beyond the classroom, Idaho demonstrates strong leadership and service, including as a Mary Ward Prize recipient and Liturgy Representative. She is actively engaged in the wider community, participating in initiatives that promote inclusion, cultural awareness and social justice.

Alongside her academic and service achievements, Idaho is a committed co-curricular participant in sport and the arts. She leads with both excellence and empathy, embraces opportunity and shows kindness, integrity and leadership in everything she does.

Who Inspires You? Nominate for 2027

Is there someone you know who deserves special recognition for their positive impact on society since leaving Loreto College? We want to celebrate their achievements.

Nominations for 2027 are now open in the following categories:

• Arts and Cultural Excellence

• Sporting Excellence

• Community Service Leadership

• Religious and Social Justice Leadership

• STEAM & Innovation Excellence

• Young Achiever & Entrepreneur

• Verity Award

To learn more about these categories or to nominate someone you know, please visit www.loreto.vic.edu.au/alumni/ women-in-time for more information.

Alumni Philanthropy in Action

Words by Kellie Rudlin and Narelle Mulrooney

Philanthropy is often associated with financial giving, yet at its heart it means something far richer: the active and voluntary promotion of human welfare, defined as the ‘love of humanity’ –generally expressed through donations of money, time, or resources to support social causes. At Loreto College, this spirit is vividly alive. Our Alumni are coming together not through monetary gifts, but through something equally powerful – the gift of themselves.

This cycle of giving back is the heartbeat of the Loreto College Community.”

There is something profoundly meaningful about former students returning to the very places that once shaped them. In the rowing sheds and on Lake Wendouree at dawn, under the theatre lights in the Performing Arts Centre and out on the football field, Loreto College Past Pupils are stepping back into College life – not as students, but as mentors, coaches and role models for the next generation. Their presence is a testament to the enduring impact of a Loreto education, and to the gratitude that inspires them to give back.

For Lily Delaney, Amelia Ridley (both Class of 2023) and Tia Kinnersly (Class of 2024), the call to return was a natural one. Since graduating, they have dedicated themselves to the College’s highly successful Rowing Program, their commitment unwavering through early mornings, Ballarat’s bitter weather conditions and long hours spent nurturing both skill and spirit.

‘I loved my rowing experience at Loreto College and wanted to give back to the program,’ Lily shares.

‘My motivation for coaching is seeing the girls we work so closely with find joy in the sport both socially, as they form new friendships, and personally, as they develop their skills.’

Amelia echoes this sentiment: ‘I wanted to give current students the same opportunities I had at the College, continuing the legacy of the program.’

Tia’s experience is especially meaningful, with rowing becoming something of a family tradition. Her younger siblings have also been involved in the program – Abby joined Tia at Nationals in 2024 while Tia was completing Year 12, and now Milla is part of the program while her sister is coaching. Reflecting on her return, Tia shares, ‘I chose to volunteer because, ever since I first signed up for the Juniors program in Year 8, I’ve valued everything it has taught me and the opportunities it has given me. It has always meant more to me than just a sport. From my early days in Juniors through to my time as a cox in the senior squad, it has been a truly special community built on determination, friendship and support.’

What Tia values most is witnessing the growth of the athletes she coaches.

‘What I enjoy most is seeing the girls improve and grow in confidence and belief in themselves – especially the juniors who are just learning the sport,’ she explains. ‘Watching them on the water and seeing them succeed after so much training is incredibly rewarding and makes me so proud.’

She also emphasises the importance of balancing challenge with enjoyment. ‘I try to be a positive figure for the girls, especially in such a demanding sport,’ Tia says. ‘It’s so important for them to enjoy it, build amazing memories, and still achieve so much. I love Loreto rowing and the beautiful community around it, and I’m so grateful to be surrounded by such amazing people and to be part of such a great program.’

Their impact extends far beyond technique. They offer encouragement, understanding, and a sense of

belonging. ‘As a coach, being even a small part of the girls’ Loreto experience is incredibly special,’ Lily reflects. ‘I strive to be someone my crew members feel comfortable approaching, not just for rowing, but for support in other areas of their lives.’

In a world where pressures can feel overwhelming, the rowing program becomes more than a sport, it becomes a space to breathe, to grow, and to belong. ‘I know for many girls that school can at times be a key stressor for them, but watching them come to rowing, learn new skills and have fun with their friends is really rewarding as I believe we have created a space where they can switch off from other stressful areas of their life,’ Lily continues.

This same spirit is woven through the College’s creative life. In this year’s production of Pippin, Past Pupil Morgan Pengelly (Class of 2021) has returned as an Assistant to the Director, her fourth production post graduating,

helping bring the performance to life while guiding students through the exhilaration and challenges of the stage.

‘My decision to volunteer comes from a deep passion for the performing arts,’ Morgan explains. ‘Having the opportunity to share this passion with current students who hold similar interests is both fulfilling and motivating. I also value the opportunity to contribute to the Loreto College Production Team, where I can support both students and staff in creating meaningful performance experiences.’

‘One of the most rewarding aspects of this work is witnessing student growth. Observing their confidence develop and their passion for the arts become more evident over time is incredibly satisfying,’ Morgan continues.

‘My connection to the performing arts has been strongly shaped by my time at Loreto College. Along with

performing in A Chorus Line in 2021, I was actively involved in the music program, participating in junior through to senior band, and performing with the stage band at the Royal South Street competitions.’

On the football field, Past Pupil Bella Davies (Class of 2024) recently returned as assistant coach of the Loreto College team for this year’s Respect Cup against Sacred Heart Geelong. Bella, a member of the GWV Rebels and herself a captain of the Respect Cup team in her final year at Loreto College, has a deep understanding of the importance of the Respect Cup in promoting unity, gender equality and respectful relationships. Having previously represented Loreto College on the football field, Bella was able to connect with current students, fostering both skill development and team spirit. Her guidance reflected not only her knowledge of the game, but her commitment to building confidence and resilience in young female athletes.

What unites these Alumni is a shared story: each once stood exactly where today’s students stand. So far this year we have had more than 15 Alumni volunteering across the College in a variety of areas – each shaped by the same supportive environment, each now choosing to give back.

‘The Loreto College rowing program taught me that I am more capable than I think,’ Amelia reflects. ‘That mindset stays with me. When I volunteer, I think about how the coaches continued to stay to support my rowing journey despite having other things keeping them busy.’

Morgan also reflects, ‘Overall, my experiences have reinforced the importance of dedication, collaboration and passion within the performing arts. Supporting production is not only about assisting others, but also about contributing to an environment where creativity and growth can thrive.’

This cycle of giving back is the heartbeat of the Loreto College Community. It strengthens connections across generations, reinforces shared values and reminds students that their journey does not end at graduation, it evolves into something enduring.

More than anything, it is a powerful reminder that a Loreto education is not simply an experience, it is a lifelong bond. One that continues to inspire, to nurture and to connect. Through the generosity of its Alumni, the Loreto Spirit does not fade – it grows, carrying forward into the lives and futures of every student it touches.

Loreto Launchpad

By

Freya Infant Wellness

Past Pupil Karly Flood (Class of 2023) founded By Freya Infant Wellness after making several trips to Melbourne with her baby, where she recognised the need for a local infant wellness centre. More than just a spa, By Freya is a supportive community for parents – a calm, welcoming space designed to help families slow down, cherish special moments with their babies and connect with others on a similar journey.

What inspired you to start By Freya?

By Freya was inspired by my own experience as a new mum. My daughter was very unsettled in her early weeks. We went through extensive testing for allergies and intolerances, tried multiple reflux medications, and I still felt like I couldn’t get her comfortable.

I remember being up at 3am feeding her, trying to stay awake while researching anything that might help. That’s when I came across a paediatrician’s article on infant hydrotherapy. I had never heard of it before, so I looked into it and ended up booking a session in Werribee.

The change in her was almost immediate. She was calmer, more settled, and for the first time I felt like I had found something that genuinely helped.

After making multiple trips and speaking to other parents doing the same drive to Melbourne or Geelong, I realised there was nothing like this available locally. That’s when the idea for By Freya came about, to bring something that had such a meaningful impact on our own journey to families here in Ballarat.

Inspired by my daughter, By Freya is both her namesake and, in many ways, her gift to other little ones in our community.

What is a baby spa? What are the main benefits?

A baby spa combines infant hydrotherapy and massage in a calm, baby-led environment. During hydrotherapy, babies float in warm water using specialised, safetyapproved floats that allow for free movement.

While yes it is a cute photo opportunity, there is a lot happening beneath the surface. The water supports circulation, gently challenges breathing patterns, encourages muscle engagement and helps regulate the nervous system. Massage then complements this by supporting digestion, relieving tension and strengthening the parent–baby bond.

Many parents also notice improved sleep and a more settled baby afterwards.

Outside of the spa, what else does By Freya offer?

Alongside our hydrotherapy sessions, we offer infant massage classes and structured programs such as our Bond & Beyond package, which combines six weeks of hydrotherapy and massage for ongoing support and development.

A big part of what we do is also educating and supporting parents, whether that is around their baby’s

development, regulation, or simple, practical techniques they can confidently use at home.

We are also expanding into sleep support to offer a more holistic approach, so families feel supported not just during their session, but in their day-to-day routines as well.

What is your most memorable moment?

One moment that has really stayed with me was a baby who came in with hip dysplasia, which is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly and often requires babies to wear a brace for most of the day.

This baby was only allowed to have their brace off for 30 minutes a day, and their parents chose to use that time for hydrotherapy.

Seeing the difference in the water was incredibly emotional. On land, their movement was so restricted, but in the water they were able to kick freely, move comfortably and just be a baby without limitation. You could see the tension leave their body.

The next morning I received a message from the parents saying it was the first time their baby had slept through the night and how much more settled they were afterwards. Moments like that really stay with you.

What do you love most about what you provide?

I love that we provide a space where parents feel supported and not judged. Early parenthood can be overwhelming, and having somewhere that focuses on both baby wellbeing and parent confidence is incredibly important. That sense of connection and confidence is something I really value being able to offer families.

Do you have any advice?

For parents, trust your instincts. There is so much information out there, but you know your baby best.

For those wanting to start a business, do not let fear of judgement stop you. If you had told me a year ago that I would be in my early twenties, a few months postpartum, opening a baby spa from the ground up, I would have said you were insane.

I had every reason to wait. Timing, uncertainty, and what people might think. But there is never a perfect time. Once you start, you realise most people are not judging you, and if they are, it does not matter. What matters is backing yourself and figuring things out as you go.

Mary Ward’s Vision Realised:

IBVM and CJ Merge into One Congregation

Words by Loreto Ministries

After more than 400 years, Mary Ward communities around the world became one Religious Institute on 4 November, 2025. The historic merger of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary with the Congregation of Jesus realised Mary Ward’s dream of a united congregation of religious women with the same constitutions as the Society of Jesus. So, why was a merger necessary?

Mary Ward’s vision was for one apostolic institute, with the same constitutions and charism as the Society of Jesus, including its own general superior. The Church suppressed this fledgling institute in 1631, but this did not deter Mary Ward and her companions from pursuing their desire for recognition by the Church to serve God in a new way.

As Mary Ward’s institute grew in numbers and spread across the globe over the centuries, it divided into various smaller institutes influenced by local bishops, politics, geography, poor communications and the need to compromise to continue to exist. Many political, cultural and geographical obstacles hindered progress. These widely-scattered groups all had much in common, but were independent from each other. What is extraordinary is that all the various groups clung to Mary Ward’s vision: ‘women, in time to come, will do much’. However, the cultures of Church and society remained hostile. In 1877, the Church eventually recognised Mary Ward’s Institute, but not its founder. This did not occur until 1909.

In 1900, the Institute, then known formally everywhere as the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, consisted of 11 separate ‘branches’. By 1953, after a series of amalgamations, the Institute consisted of only five branches.

Mary Ward had wanted her religious community to be named after Jesus, but strangely this was not permitted. Finally, in 2002 the biggest IBVM branch, the ‘Roman branch’, was able to change its official name to ‘Congregation of Jesus’ (CJ). By 2003 only the ‘Loreto branch’ remained separate from the larger CJ branch.

‘Throughout history, but especially during the last years, we have journeyed in close connection. We share the same charism, the same values and the same understanding of mission. Union of minds and hearts, which Saint Ignatius has so aptly described and held in the highest esteem, is the bond that deeply connects us.’ – Sr Veronica Fuhrmann CJ, General Superior of the Congregation of Jesus.

Important decisions were made at the General Congregations of both branches held in 2022. General Congregations are formal international gatherings of delegates to elect new

leadership and make plans for the future. Both General Congregations of 2022 voted unanimously for the two branches to become one. The decisions were followed by a formal petition to the Vatican, which then issued a decree of merger.

This historic decision was truly momentous, because it allowed Mary Ward’s dream for a single world-wide Institute to become a reality for the very first time. Her ideas were too advanced for the Church of her time, but the dream never disappeared.

‘Seeing this union now realised not only in sisterly and spiritual, but also in canonical and legal, terms fills us all with great joy and deep gratitude.’ – Sr Veronica Fuhrmann CJ, General Superior of the Congregation of Jesus.

Learn more about the Congregation of Jesus: https://www.congregatiojesu. org/who-we-are/being-one/

Fond Farewells to Loreto Staff

Natalie Howard

Words by Matthew Flight

I have been at Loreto now for around 12 years and in that time I have had the joy of watching long-standing members of the Loreto Community retire or move on to new and exciting opportunities. I feel privileged but sad about farewelling Natalie as one of our colleagues.

Back in 2012, I first met Nat in the Principal’s office for my interview, which I think I nailed but Nat informed me later on that I was one of the most nervous people she had interviewed!

After my appointment, Nat became an informal mentor to me – guiding me whenever I have needed help, which has been several times a day, every day. Her care, knowledge and support has allowed me to be a moderately good teacher, much better than I would have been without her in my corner.

I feel that my experience of Nat’s support is not a one off. She is always generous with her time and gentle in her professional guidance.

That said, Nat is a powerful and at times fierce woman who is incredibly intelligent and determined to always improve herself and those around her.

As is generally the nature of someone that has been in the school for a long time, Nat has played a number of key roles, including Science Faculty Leader (12 years), Head of House, part of the IT Committee, ran College Liturgies/ Masses, been a Year Level Coordinator, Student Extension and recently the Union Representative. I can’t think of a part of this school that Natalie hasn’t had an influence on.

Nat will leave an incredible legacy at the school, namely the organisation and documentation of the Science Faculty, but more widely of what she has been able to contribute towards the digital evolution of the College. This goes to show how innovative Nat is to her approach to learning and teaching. She was instrumental in the introduction of the NASA Space Camp trip to the USA that inspired many Girls in STEM. In maths, she was able to re-engage many of the students in her class through strong communication and clear/high expectations.

Nat brought an infectious enthusiasm to all her science, biology, RE and maths classes and brought that enthusiasm to her new classes of Agricultural Science and Environmental Science.

She is a Loreto Girl through and through and loves the deep place that the Loreto Charism is.

We will all clearly miss seeing Nat each day at work and our chats about all facets of life. We look forward to hearing all about her new adventures at the next Science Social Club.

Helen Jost

Words by Ella (Year 12)

Thank you, Madame Jost, for almost 24 remarkable years of dedication, passion and inspiration at Loreto College Ballarat. Your enthusiasm for the French language and culture has shaped the learning journeys of countless students, opening their eyes to new worlds and possibilities. You have brought energy, creativity, and genuine care into every classroom, making French not just a subject but an experience to look forward to. Your commitment to excellence and your belief in your students have left a lasting legacy within our College Community.

Classes with you were always so enjoyable, with your engaging stories and fun twist to even the most difficult grammar rules and vocabulary. We always enjoyed the competitions at the start of class where those stickers were always up for grabs.

As we celebrate your incredible contribution, we are filled with gratitude for the knowledge, warmth and joy you have shared so generously. Merci beaucoup pour tout, you will always be remembered with admiration and appreciation.

Enthusiastic, energetic, spirited, generous, animated, passionate, empathetic, humble and selfless. These are just some of the words that spring to mind when we think of Ms Baird.

Not long after each of us started our journeys here at Loreto, I’m sure we’d all agree that Ms Baird knew our names. Shortly after, we all had our own nicknames.

This simple gesture sums Ms Baird up. She wanted every student to feel seen, be heard and have the belief they were special and held an important place here at Loreto.

I was very fortunate to work with Kerri Loader for 36 years and to call her both a colleague and a friend. Over this time, we collaborated closely on curriculum development in Materials and Food Technology (formerly Home Economics and Textiles) as well as VCE Health and Human Development.

Kelli Baird

Words by Bonnie (Year 12)

Ms Baird has made an incredible impact on Loreto Ballarat in so many ways during her 32 years.

She has been a mentor to so many –not just those in her homeroom, her beloved Ward House or those she teaches. For both students and staff alike, she was always one to lend an ear, offer advice, support, encouragement and guidance when needed.

Ms Baird’s mentorship and passion shone particularly brightly whenever sports were involved. During Swimming and Athletics Carnivals, Spin, Friday Run Club, Bundoora, Cross Country and all BAS events, she always brought unmatched energy and lifted the whole team’s spirit and enthusiasm. She didn’t care about people’s ability; she just wanted everyone to take part and get involved.

Whilst taking part in these events, many of us came to learn many Ms Bairdisms.

For example, during a race when you feel like you’re dying, she’d yell – ‘look at me, look at me…tuck those arms in... that’s the way...that’s the way’. This was Ms Baird’s unique approach to try and make the experience a little easier and less torturous.

Kerri Loader

Words

by Thea Mooney

We spent many hours teaching side by side, planning coursework, developing assessments and attending professional development together.

Kerri’s thoughtful, wise advice was always something I valued, whether I was trying new ideas in the classroom or navigating student challenges. Her dedication, generosity and meticulous approach to teaching were evident in everything she did. She gave her time freely to mentor and support both staff and students, always striving to improve learning outcomes and create meaningful opportunities for growth.

She had a remarkable ability to break down complex tasks so all learners could succeed, using creative and hands-on approaches that made learning engaging and accessible.

Kerri’s impact extended well beyond

Another example related to her Mentor Group. When they had exams or SACs, and were stressed, overwhelmed and struggling to juggle everything she’d say ‘hold onto that trunk, don’t let go of Mamma’. This was her way of reassuring the girls that they would get through this time together – if they just kept holding on.

However, the saying we will all remember with great fondness is ‘just do something’. Be this sports related or in general life, she believed in every one of us – the fact we are capable of being the best versions of ourselves if we ‘just do something’ and have the courage to step outside our comfort zones.

There will be a large hole left in each of our hearts Ms Baird, but as we always say, ‘once a Loreto Girl, always a Loreto Girl.’

It’s now your turn to take some welldeserved time for yourself. You’ve had an incredible journey, and we feel blessed to have shared part of this with you. You’ll always be an integral part of the Loreto Community and we hope you know how much you are truly treasured.

the classroom – past students continue to speak of her with deep respect and affection, often recalling her kindness and exceptional teaching, and many reached out with care and support during her illness.

Kerri’s commitment to Loreto College and its values was unwavering. She contributed in countless ways, from classroom teaching to co-curricular involvement, always with generosity and care. Another long-term colleague Ian Stowe described her as ‘a true champion! Highly organised, deeply compassionate and always putting others first’.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Kerri on her retirement and wish her every happiness in the next chapter of her life.

Neil Buckland

Words by Jenny Stevenson

For nine years, Neil wasn’t just our accountant. He’s been the quiet strength behind so much of what we do. He’s been the person we could trust without hesitation. There’s a certain comfort in working with someone who brings calm into every room, someone who listens before he speaks, someone who chooses kindness every single time. That’s who Neil has been, especially for the Finance team.

He has definitely left an imprint at Loreto College that can’t be replaced. His patience, steady presence and willingness to help anyone who needed it (including parents), the things that don’t show up in reports or spreadsheets, but they are important qualities that will be dearly missed throughout the College.

And of course, we all know how much he loved fishing. He would often sit back (like he was on his deck chair on the Loddon River with hands crossed) waiting very calmly until we had finished arguing about an accounting issue – taking the long way to arrive at the same solution he had from the start.

Fishing is about stillness, about waiting for something meaningful, about knowing that good things take time. That’s how he approached his work, and honestly, that’s how he has approached his relationships at the College – with care, consistency and heart.

We did have our little bits of fun along the way...

For the last couple of years we encouraged every student who came into Finance to pick up cash or EFTPOS machines to say ‘Hello Neil, thank you Neil’, which progressed to students saying ‘Hello Neil’ whenever they walked past. He would politely respond, all the while wondering how all these students knew his name.

Neil also leaves as the undefeated champion of staff racquetball and his name will be forever etched on the trophy (if only we could find it!).

And as you all know, Neil would always start a story with ‘long story short’ but we all knew it was ‘short story long’! He certainly knew how to chat. A quick cuppa with Neil quite often meant you were missing for some time.

We’re excited for whatever comes next for Neil, and we hope there are plenty of calm lakes, early mornings and big catches in your future.

Farewell, But Not Goodbye

Words by Narelle Mulrooney and Mary Kelly

I just love teaching, especially at Loreto, I love the girls and will feel a bit lost not being there anymore. ”

Mary Kelly (nee Nunn) has been connected with Loreto College Ballarat for an incredible 76 years, first stepping through the front gates of Loreto Abbey Mary’s Mount as a five-year-old kindergarten student in 1950. It was the beginning of a lifelong relationship with a place that, even now, still feels like home.

Mary grew up on a 320-acre cattle and sheep farm just outside Ballarat, in what is now Winter Valley. The landscape has changed over the years, she reflects, just as the College grounds have – but the memories remain vivid. Her parents were deeply involved in the College Community, often bringing food for the nuns and helping establish the very first Mother’s Club. ‘They loved being part of Loreto,’ Mary recalls warmly.

From her earliest days, Mary was embraced by the Loreto Community. She still remembers being welcomed into kindergarten by Mother Francesca O’Loughlin, in a space that now houses the Archives Centre. It was the beginning of friendships, traditions, and a sense of belonging that would never quite leave her.

Loreto has remained a strong and steady thread through Mary’s family life. Her two daughters also attended the College, continuing a tradition that means a great deal to her. ‘My grandchildren are boys, all four of them, so they weren’t able to continue the tradition,’ she says with a gentle smile.

Over the decades, Mary has seen the Sturt Street campus grow and change significantly, witnessing the opening of every building post 1950. She fondly recalls the ‘Broadwalk’ that ran around the grounds, shaded by magnificent cedar trees, where the nuns would walk each day in quiet reflection. There were rotundas where the nuns and sometimes students would sit and talk, and the old hall nearby, alive with the sound of music.

Even the front gate had its own ritual: a bell to summon the gateman, then another at the Abbey door, where Sister Presi would answer before calling for the appropriate nun with a distinct sequence of handbell chimes. ‘And then,’ Mary smiles. ‘They would suddenly appear.’ These small rituals, once so ordinary, now feel like treasured pieces of another time.

Mary’s love of music began in Grade 2 when she started lessons with Mother Reparata Muirhead. ‘Learning music at Loreto was something you just did back then,’ she reflects. ‘Rep, as I called her, was like a mother figure.’ Under her guidance, Mary learned piano, recorder, orchestra, cello and music theory, completing her AMEB studies in both piano, cello and theory. She also fondly remembers being invited to sing with the nuns at special times such as Christmas and Easter.

Her talents extended to the stage as well, performing in school productions like The Pied Piper of Hamelin and Ruth, and even recording two LP Records of vocals for the ABC in the Chapel’s Organ Gallery – an experience that felt, at the time, nothing short of magical.

After graduating in 1962 as school prefect, Mary didn’t really leave Loreto at all. Instead, she stepped seamlessly into teaching, having already begun giving piano lessons to neighbours at just 14 years old. Over the next six decades, she would teach piano, cello and music theory at both Mary’s Mount and Dawson St campuses to countless students – often across multiple generations.

‘At one time or another, I’ve had students tell me I taught their mum,’ she laughs. ‘I’ve taught three generations over the years.’ It is a legacy that quietly speaks for itself.

One of Mary’s students, Bridie (Year 11), shared: ‘I learned music theory with Mrs Kelly for around two and a half years and always looked forward to my weekly lunchtimes with her. She made every lesson fun and interesting, and her dedication was unmatched. My mum and late grandfather also have very fond memories of Mrs Kelly and everything she has contributed to the Ballarat music community. She has been a part of my family’s lives for a very long time and we are all extremely grateful for her.’

Mary has also taught at Ballarat Clarendon College and privately from home. ‘At Loreto and Clarendon, I’ve even taught both of my bosses,’ she says warmly. ‘I used to make it a bit of a competition, challenging students to beat their mums’ exam scores. It was just a bit of fun.’ It’s these small touches that made her lessons so memorable.

She also remembers visiting nursing homes monthly with Mother Reparata, sharing music with residents – bringing comfort and joy through something as simple and powerful as a song. When asked what she loved most about her time at Loreto, Mary answered without hesitation: Mother Reparata and friendships. ‘My best friends were Marian and Kaye,’ she says. ‘We got up to a few shenanigans with the nuns, but always respectfully.’

She fondly recalls trips to Lal Lal Falls on Loreto Day, travelling on buses for Barry, Ward and Mulhall (when there were only three houses). ‘We would make up songs on the bus, sometimes poking a bit of fun at the Principal –it was all in good spirit.’ One memory, in particular, still makes her smile: ‘Marion and I fished one year on Loreto Day, and she caught an eel. It was slimy and ended up all over her uniform – and it didn’t smell too good on the ride home.’

Left: Mary’s First Communion photo, 1952. Below: Mary and the Loreto Orchestra, 1959. Right: Mother Reparata Muirhead – Music Mistress at Mary’s Mount 1943-1966, having fun with students, 1947 (Loreto Province Archives).

Discipline, too, was part of school life. ‘If we were caught doing something wrong, we had to write lines, “Do well what you do – Mary Ward” over and over again,’ she recalls. Even those moments now carry a certain fondness.

Mary also remembers the excitement of the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games, when scaffolding was set up along the school fence so students could watch. ‘We were allowed to go and get autographs from the Olympians, it was such an exciting time.’

Another cherished memory was travelling by train to Melbourne to see the original The Sound of Music in 1962. ‘It was a very big deal back then – there weren’t many opportunities to leave the Loreto grounds,’ she says. The nuns themselves rarely left, only allowed to go out in pairs and never entering shops. ‘Sometimes the nuns would send us senior girls to the shops, but often we’d be told the item had been out of stock for decades,’ she laughs.

Life beyond the school gates came with its own set of rules. ‘We had to wear hats and gloves and weren’t allowed to talk to boys in the street,’ she says. ‘Boarders could only see their brothers once a week.’ There were also dances with the boys from St Patrick’s College Ballarat, where dresses were carefully checked by the nuns to ensure they were appropriate.

‘In those days, the nuns were very strict,’ Mary says. ‘Uniform checks were common, if it wasn’t right, you were sent home or a note was sent. We even had to wear navy blue knickers!’ she laughs. ‘And before every class, we said the Hail Mary – that was just what you did.’ These routines, once so ordinary, now feel like echoes of another era.

Since COVID there has been a decline in students studying music and performing arts – unfortunately, with no students enrolled in Music Theory, Mary has been forced into leaving the College. While she will continue

teaching privately and at Clarendon College, she admits it won’t feel quite the same. ‘I just love teaching, especially at Loreto,’ she says. ‘I love the girls and will feel a bit lost not being there anymore.’

Mary continues to stay active in the community, volunteering with local theatre organisations, helping with programs and productions. And while she may no longer be found in the music rooms, her presence will always be felt. She remains part of the Loreto Community, attending Past Pupil events and staying closely connected to the place that has shaped so much of her life.

Her love for Loreto College has never faded, it has simply grown richer with time. ‘I am deeply grateful for the nuns, staff and students, throughout all my years, for making my time at Loreto so special.’

So for now, we say farewell, but not goodbye.

Loreto Weddings

Marriages

Madelyn Rothe (Class of 2017) married Mitchell Matheson on Saturday 23 November, 2024

Tara Sullivan (Class of 2011) married Peter Thompson on Saturday 22 February, 2025

Jessica O’Brien (Class of 2017) married Bailey Hayles on Saturday 15 March, 2025

Lauren Brodie (Class of 2017) married Bradley McDonald on Saturday 24 May, 2025

Olivia Van Gaans (Class of 2018) married Zack Fiegert on Saturday 22 November, 2025

Catherine Griffin (Class of 1989) married Dermot Morton on Saturday 13 December, 2025

Deaths

Angela Drum (Class of 1976) sadly passed away on 13 February, 2025

Donna Louise Rousch (Class of 1991) tragically passed away in Bali on 7 March, 2025

Kathleen ‘Kay’ Mary Richards (Class of 1958) sadly passed away on 22 July, 2025

Angela Rodoni (nee Fitzpatrick) (Class of 1975 and Past Staff) sadly passed away in October 2025

Constance May Brazenor (Class of 1967) sadly passed away on 20 January, 2026

Leonie Gudgeon (Past Staff) sadly passed away on 16 April, 2026

The Loreto Kirribilli Ex-Students’ Union invites all Alumnae, Past Pupils, families and friends across Australia to Federation 2026, held at the school from 9–11 October.

Loreto Federation is a biennial tradition bringing together Alumnae from all Loreto schools for a weekend of connection, reflection and inspiration.

The program includes a Friday cocktail party, Saturday official dinner, keynote speakers, workshops, panel discussions, activities, and Mass in the Kirribilli chapel, with sessions across the weekend.

Join for the full weekend or part of it –Federation is a chance to reconnect, celebrate shared values and engage in meaningful conversations.

More info: loretofederation.com.au

In Memoriam

Angela Rodoni (Ange)

It was with great sadness that we farewelled a true Loreto Girl last October with a memorial service held fittingly in the MMC.

Ange Rodoni (nee Fitzpatrick) was a much-loved past student, staff member and parent of Sarah. Ange was a Loreto Girl through and through and epitomised Mary Ward’s saying of ‘Be such as you appear and appear such as you are’. Ange’s interactions with everyone were authentic and genuine. She loved a laugh and to tell a story, especially if it involved what her beautiful family had been up to, a class she had taught or a place she had travelled to. A passionate teacher of RE, English and Humanities in her time at Loreto; past students have fondly told me that one of her favourite sayings was ‘girls this is what is really important’ and would go on to pass on essential life knowledge in Ange’s most sincere way. She loved sport (particularly supporting Carlton) and was a valued part of the Loreto Football and Cricket Teams in her time teaching at Loreto. Golf was a later passion which Ange and some of us, encouraged by her, embraced. She would be proud that our students can now represent Loreto College in golf.

We have lost a vibrant and generous friend and colleague who gave so much back to the school she attended. This was illustrated by her being President of the Past Pupils Association for several years where she passionately encouraged past students to maintain their connection to the College and their peers.

Our deepest sympathy to Terry, Sarah, Matt, Kristian and Ange’s grandchildren.

‘Once a Loreto Girl, Always a Loreto Girl’.

Kelli Baird – Past Loreto College Staff Member

In Memoriam

Leonie Gudgeon

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Leonie Gudgeon, a valued member of our Loreto College Community on April 16, 2026.

Leonie joined Loreto in 2010 as the Executive Assistant to the Deputy Principals and Business Manager, a newlycreated role at the time. She quickly impressed with her strong work ethic and the invaluable support she provided to the Leadership Team. In 2011, Leonie moved into the role of Office Coordinator, where she demonstrated her ability to learn new systems with ease and efficiency.

In 2018, Leonie began in the newly-created role of College Registrar, overseeing the enrolment process. Drawing on her expertise and initiative, she streamlined processes and implemented new systems that strengthened the College’s enrolment process, supporting future families along the way. When conducting tours for prospective families, Leonie’s love for Loreto shone brightly. As both a staff member and a Loreto parent, she shared her unique knowledge of the College and the daily life of its students in a warm and welcoming way.

Leonie set high standards for herself and inspired those around her to do the same. She was a much-loved colleague to all, known for her loyalty, kindness, and deep commitment to the values of Loreto. She was someone colleagues could always turn to for support, and her cheeky sense of humour brought lightness and joy to day-to-day life at Loreto. She was passionate, principled, and always prepared to stand up for what she believed in. We also remember the many joys that were part of Leonie’s life, including her much-loved cavoodle, Freddie, and the fond farm stories she shared from her time in Boort.

Our thoughts are with Leonie’s beautiful children, Riley and Lain (Class of 2015), her loving husband David, and her extended family and friends, as well as all who had the privilege of working with her.

Leonie will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Jayde

Harrington – Loreto College Staff Member

Alumni Updates

Past Pupils’ Association

A very warm welcome from the Loreto Past Pupils’ Association (LPPA) to the first edition of Verity magazine for 2026.

Firstly, I would like to extend a warm welcome to our newly-appointed Principal, Christine Shaw. I am confident our strong relationship will continue to grow under your leadership, allowing for greater connections between past and present students.

Over the past year, the Association has enjoyed a number of different events. In November, we held our Annual General Meeting alongside Christmas drinks. It was well attended and is always so nice to catch up with new and old friends. We were delighted to welcome our newest committee member, Alexandra Grieve, School Captain from the Class of 2023. It is always encouraging to see recent graduates remain involved and contribute to the life of the Association. We always welcome new members, or any new ideas or thoughts you may have. Please do not hesitate to contact me via email faithaustin@hotmail.com

In March, it was my privilege to present the current Year 12 students with a special badge on behalf of the Past Pupils’ Association. This small token recognises that the students are in our thoughts and that they will always have a place within our community as they soon become Past

Pupils themselves. A special thank you to Christine Shaw (Principal), Rachael McNamara (Year 12 Co-ordinator) and Sue Hinchliffe (Deputy Principal) for welcoming me so kindly and making it such a special occasion for all.

I was also honoured to present the 2025 Dux Catalina Andrews with a $500 award, along with a $500 award to the VCE-VM High Achiever Lacie Smith, acknowledging their outstanding hard work and dedication. Congratulations to the entire graduating cohort on your achievements and the successful completion of your secondary education.

Another highlight was attending the opening of the St Anne’s Wing Lift and Sensory Garden. The lift will be invaluable in improving accessibility, and the Sensory Garden provides a beautiful, calming space for reflection and wellbeing. Both are wonderful enhancements to the College environment and a testament to its continued growth and care for its community.

Those who attended the International Women’s Day Breakfast on Friday 6 March, greatly enjoyed the occasion. Congratulations to Genevieve Lacey and Dr Catherine Gay who were recipients of the Women in Time awards – both remarkable Past Pupils who have excelled in their chosen fields and continue to inspire both the College and wider community.

LPPA Vice-President Sally Eastwood attended the Mother’s Day Liturgy and Breakfast on 1 May on behalf of the Association. It was a lovely morning celebrating all the mothers and special women in our Loreto College Community. The Past Pupils Lunch will be held on 5 June – further details will be communicated.

It has also been wonderful to see the strong turnout at this year’s reunions, celebrating 2, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 years, with lots of catching up with friends, past teachers and sharing memories – an incredible testament to the enduring connections formed at our College.

The Liturgy of Remembrance and The High Tea is always a date to pop in the calendar. This year it will be held on Wednesday 11 November. As with last year, the Liturgy will be coordinated by staff and students, led by Felicity Knobel and Jarrod Ryan. The talented students of VCEVM will prepare and serve the High Tea. It is always a wonderful afternoon.

Loreto Federation this year will be celebrated in Kirribilli (Sydney) from 9–11 October. Loreto Federation is the union of all six Loreto Alumni Associations across Australia. Federation weekend is our biennial opportunity to come together in person to connect our ideas, share our stories, be inspired and in 2026 unite with open minds. Loreto Past Pupils, student, staff, parents, family and friends are all welcome’. Please visit the Loreto College Ballarat website for further information.

The above is just a snapshot of the many activities and events the Past Pupils’ Association has organised or attended in the last few months. As always, the Past Pupils’ Association remains committed to maintaining strong ties with the College and supporting its future. I encourage all Past Pupils to stay connected and involved – it is through these connections that our shared legacy continues to thrive. Please ensure all your contact details are current with the College.

In closing, I would like to thank the members (and my friends) of the Loreto Past Pupils’ Association, who are listed, for their ongoing support. Also, Kellie Rudlin, Director of Marketing & Development, and her team who are always so helpful and willing to assist.

President – Faith White (nee Austin), Class of 1995

Vice President – Sally Eastwood, Class of 2001

Secretary – Michaela Prendergast, Class of 2012

Treasurer – Lauren Bromley, Class of 1995

Linda McDonald – past staff member 1986 – 2024

Trudi Kannourakis (nee Martin), Class of 1972

Dr Lily Corboy, Class of 2014

Gabrielle Keating (nee Grigg), Class of 1968

Mary Slater (nee Moran), Class of 1971

Carmel Bassett (nee Twomey), Class of 1965

Dawson St.

Abby Irving (nee Lovell), Class of 2002

Celeste O’Keefe, Class of 1993

Alexandra Grieve, Class of 2023

Faith White

President, Loreto Past Pupils’ Association

Past Pupils’ Lunch

Friday 5 June, 2026 Western Hotel

Loreto Federation 9-11 October, 2026 Loreto Kirribilli

Past Pupils’ AGM

November 2026 (TBC) (TBC)

2027 Reunions

2, 10, 20, 30, 40 & 50 Years

Loreto College Ballarat 60 plus Years (TBC)

Alumni Updates

Judge Sara Hinchey (Class of 1986)

During Term 1, we had the honour of welcoming back Judge Sara Hinchey (Class of 1986) to Loreto College to speak with our legal students and aspiring lawyers.

It was a special opportunity for students to hear about Judge Hinchey’s journey into the legal profession, what it takes to become a judge, and the many pathways available within the legal field. Having served on the bench for the past 11 years, she generously shared her experience and insights with our students, taking the time to get to know each of them and answer their questions.

Students even had the unique opportunity to try on judicial robes and experience what it feels like to be a judge.

Judge Sara Hinchey was appointed to the County Court in May 2015.

Prior to her appointment, Her Honour worked for almost 20 years as a trial and appellate barrister.

Her Honour’s practise as a barrister was wide ranging, and included commercial work, trade practices, occupational health and safety, construction law, medical and other professional negligence,

professional disciplinary matters and corporate and other crime.

During this time, she appeared in the higher courts of Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania and the ACT, as well as the Federal Court and the High Court of Australia.

Her Honour attended Loreto College Ballarat between 1981–1986. She is a proud Mulhallian and was Music Captain of Mulhall in her final year of secondary school. She studied Law and Science at Monash University between 1987–1991, after which she had a gap year, primarily travelling and working in the ski fields, first at Mt Hotham and later in Austria.

In her spare time, Her Honour still loves to travel as much as possible. She also adores being out in nature, working in her vegetable garden and hiking with her husband and two rescue dogs Pip Pip and Penny, whenever she can.

We are incredibly grateful to Judge Hinchey and her associates for taking time out of their busy schedules to visit us and provide such an invaluable experience for our students.

Alumni Updates

Dr Ebony Monson (Class of 2010)

Congratulations to 2021 Women in Time Award recipient (Young Achiever and Entrepreneur) Ebony Monson (Class of 2010), who was recently awarded the Basic Science Researcher Award at the Victorian Premier’s Awards for Health and Science. Ebony is an inspiring Alumna for our students, always generously giving her time to Loreto to encourage the next generation and highlight the many opportunities in science and research.

Rosemary Ash (Class of 2006)

Rosemary completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2009 and a Diploma of Education in 2010, then started teaching at Patterson River Secondary College in 2011. She then went on to complete a Diploma of Special Education to support her practice and passion.

Mid-2022 Rosemary took an opportunity to work closer to home at Beaconhills College K–12 Berwick Campus where she has been able to continue a passion for teaching art from Years 3–12. Much of her teaching career has involved leadership roles and she is currently Deputy Head of Middle School (Years 5–8) at Beaconhills College.

Rosemary married in the Loreto College Chapel in 2013 and now has two beautiful children. She is currently building her artist practice and profile, having recently illustrated a children’s book – co-self-publishing with the author. The book is called ‘Mum Dreams of Coffee Beans’ and is available on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com.au/Dreams-Coffee-Beans-AlyssaMcKenna/dp/B0FZTR2M1D

Alumni Updates

‘In

Their Shoes’ – Alumni return to inspire students

In April we welcomed back ten of our Alumni to share their career journeys with students in Years 10–12, offering valuable insight into life after secondary school and the many pathways available across a range of industries. Representing fields including Allied Health, Mental Health, Public Policy, STEM, Product Design and Small Business, the workshops provided students with insight into opportunities that exist beyond the classroom. Students attended three workshops of their choice and heard directly from Past Pupils who once sat in the same classrooms and faced many of the same questions about their futures. Each spoke about their educational journey, career progression and the lessons they learned along the way.

Past Pupils Sally Eastwood (Class of 2001) and Eliza Martino (Class of 2018) spoke about working in the Allied Health disciplines of occupational therapy and dietetics. They discussed the rewarding nature of supporting people to improve their quality of life and explained what a typical workday involves, from working with patients in hospitals and clinics to collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. They encouraged students to remain open to different pathways, highlighting that university study, placements and practical experience all play an important role in building a successful career.

Alanna Bennetts (Class of 2014) and Erryn Sculley (Class of 2012) represented Mental Health, including psychology and social work, and spoke passionately about the importance of empathy, communication and resilience in their professions. They described the challenges and rewards of helping individuals navigate difficult circumstances and improve their wellbeing. Students were particularly interested in hearing about the experiences they found most valuable to gain early career insights, including placements, volunteering and part-time roles.

Another workshop explored careers in Public Policy and government, with Eva Gillett (Class of 2016) and Clare McErvale (Class of 2014) sharing how their interest in social issues and community impact led them into roles focused on creating positive change. They explained how analytical thinking, communication skills and collaboration are essential in shaping policy and contributing to meaningful outcomes for society.

Students interested in STEM careers gained insight into scientific research from Ebony Monson (Class of 2010), one of our inaugural Women in Time – Inspiring Alumni recipients. Ebony discussed innovation, problemsolving and the rapidly evolving nature of her work. She encouraged students to embrace curiosity, develop strong foundational skills and not be discouraged by setbacks, emphasising that persistence is often key to success.

Another highlight was hearing from Jessica Kelly (Class of 2013) who is the Commercial Growth Manager at Ferndale Foods Australia, where she leads a technical team delivering new confectionery and snack products for supermarket shelves, and Annie Turner (Class of 2016) and Renee Debono (Class of 2010) who both now run their own businesses. Annie founded Art Social House, a creative marketing studio specialising in branding, social media and content, while Renee established The Law Collective, a bespoke legal and conveyancing firm in Ballarat. These speakers reflected on the creativity, adaptability and entrepreneurial mindset required to build a successful business or bring new ideas to life. They shared practical advice about taking risks, learning from failure and developing confidence in pursuing personal passions and goals.

Across all industries represented, a common message emerged: career pathways are rarely linear. Our Past Pupils reassured students that it is normal for interests

and goals to change over time and that success often comes from being willing to learn, adapt and seek out new opportunities.

The workshops were both informative and inspiring, providing students with a clearer understanding of the many possibilities available to them after school. By reconnecting with Alumni and hearing their experiences firsthand, students were encouraged to think broadly about their futures and approach the next stage of their journey with confidence and curiosity.

If you are a Past Pupil interested in returning to speak to students about your own career, please email us at development@loreto.vic.edu.au

Loreto Reunion Day

On Saturday 7 March we celebrated our 2026 reunion cohorts with our annual Reunion Day. As part of the celebrations, we welcomed back the classes of 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006, 2016 and 2024, with over 180 past pupils joining us. Led by students, our past pupils toured the school, reminiscing while seeing how our College continues to grow. It was wonderful to see the joy on our past pupils’ faces as they spotted familiar faces and reconnected with one another. Thank you to all the former pupils and staff who joined us to mark these special occasions!

CLASS OF 1976

CLASS

Loreto Reunion Day

Reflection

Walking into my school reunion after 40 years was a peculiar experience. On the one hand, you are absolutely certain you know these people. On the other hand, you spend the first 15 minutes squinting politely at name tags while trying to reconcile the confident women in front of you with the vaguely-remembered teenagers who once sat beside you in a double maths lesson.

The first surprise is that everyone still laughs in exactly the same way.

The second surprise is that everyone looks… remarkably well, considering we are all, technically speaking, middle-aged.

And the third surprise is how quickly the years disappear.

My reunion was held recently at my old school in Ballarat, and walking through the grounds felt like stepping into a time capsule. The bluestone buildings, typical of the Gold Rush era in Ballarat, constructed in 1875, remain wonderfully solid and unchanged. Their chilly long corridors and high arched windows have witnessed generations of girls passing through – each convinced that their own cohort was the most important group ever to occupy those classrooms.

Standing in those halls again was strangely moving. Not because the buildings had changed, but because they hadn’t. The world of education has transformed dramatically since I left: technology everywhere, new approaches to learning, different expectations of schools. Yet in those old classrooms it was clear that the fundamental purpose of education has remained remarkably constant.

Schools are still places where character is formed. They are where you learn resilience after a poor test result, confidence after delivering a speech you thought you would never survive, and humility when your friends remind you – with great enthusiasm – of the questionable haircut (read perm) you once insisted looked excellent.

More importantly, they are where friendships are forged. The kind of friendships that form when people spend years navigating the awkward, formative period between childhood and adulthood together.

Those shared experiences have a way of sticking.

At the reunion, conversations began with the usual safe openers – careers, families, where life had taken people. But very quickly the stories returned to school: legendary teachers, sporting disasters, theatrical triumphs, and moments of adolescent decision-making that were, in hindsight, impressively misguided.

40 years on, the details are funnier and the consequences far less serious.

What becomes clear at a reunion is how profoundly those years shaped me, us. The values learned, the friendships built and the small everyday experiences of school life quietly helped form the adults we eventually became.

School reunions, it turns out, are not really about nostalgia.

They are about perspective.

They remind us that while time moves quickly, the relationships and lessons formed in those early years endure far longer than we might expect. And they provide the comforting realisation that, despite the passing decades, the people who knew you at 16 still recognise you immediately – even if it takes a moment to remember your name.

Forty years later, the buildings still stand, the laughter sounds the same, and the friendships remain.

Which, all things considered, is rather wonderful. Michelle Carroll nee Salmon (Class of 1986)

Academic Assembly

The best advice I can give you is that to live the life you want, all you need to do is give your best today.”

On 13 February we held our Academic Assembly to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements and hard work of the Class of 2025. The VCE Academic Honour Awards and Academic Excellence Awards were presented for each subject. We were able to share the journeys of our Class of 2025, College Dux Catalina Andrews and VCE-VM Award recipient Lacie Smith.

2025 Loreto College Dux:

Catalina Andrews

It is an honour and a privilege to be standing here today, having finally survived a year that was both the most exhausting and the most characterbuilding year of my life.

First of all, I’d like to offer my congratulations to the whole class of 2025 – it hasn’t been an easy few years for us, with COVID starting in Year 7 and following us through our years at school – but we made it, and I wish you all the best with your next adventures.

Our cohort consisted of some of the most dedicated, hardworking, and kindest people I know, and I hope that all of you – especially those who have received awards today – feel proud of your achievements and acknowledge just how deserving you are of them.

My time at Loreto, whilst it was a beautiful experience, was not without its challenges, but the incredible support of the teaching staff and leadership team was a guiding light through the difficulties I experienced.

I’d like to offer my thanks to the whole of the staff, the commitment that you demonstrated every day to make school as stress free as it can be when dealing with VCAA, and the time you dedicated every day – both in and out of the classroom – were instrumental in helping me get through this year.

I’d like to particularly thank Ms Baird whose enthusiasm and energy I’m sure will be sorely missed at Loreto. Having her as a mentor teacher over the past three years truly gave me something to look forward to when coming to school and always brightened my day.

Ms Hillman – thank you for being such an amazing Year Level Coordinator. It can’t have been easy having to face the last stretch alone, but you made the end of Year 12 a very memorable experience.

To all my teachers last year – thank you for putting up with my questions and hundreds of practice exams. The time that you spent making sure that we were prepared for exams was invaluable and greatly appreciated.

To my friends, thank you for all the fun memories we made this year. I know that I’ll cherish laughter, sitting outside in the front gardens, going for walks around the school and making playlists for every party for the rest of my life. Thank you for sticking with me for this long, especially after I kept disappearing off to the library at lunch or using break time for naps instead of socialising.

And of course, to my parents – I will never cease to be amazed at how lucky I am to have you as my parents. Your endless patience this year, helping through what has been probably one of the toughest years of my life, was absolutely incredible, and I love you both so much. Thank you for the endless supply of tea and coffee during my late-night study sessions, for listening to my rants about VCAA, and for staying up until 2am with me, desperately helping me try to understand redox reactions and calculus while I cried.

To all the students here today, I hope you all have a wonderful time throughout the rest of your Loreto journey. The best advice I can give you is that to live the life you want, all you need to do is give your best today. Some days it won’t be much, maybe it’s starting that assignment or messaging a friend ‘how are you doing?’. Your achievements are only defined by what they mean to you, and the effort that you put into them is what makes them worthwhile. Remember to ‘Have Courage and Be Kind’ and your high school years will be the foundation for a wonderful life.

To the current Year 12s, remember that your ATAR does not define your success. Enjoy Year 12 with all its ups and downs. Be aware of the people around you, and support your friends through their rough patches, but also remember to take time for yourself and rest when you need to. Don’t make the mistake of burning yourself out too soon. You all have so much ahead of you beyond Year 12, so focus on the good, and make the most of the time you have putting 100% into every day.

Thank you all for your time, and I hope you all have a lovely year!

Catalina Andrews – 2025 College Dux

By completing the VCE-VM Program

I have been able to walk away with certificates and qualifications in Business Management, Active Volunteering, Cookery and Agriculture.

Additionally, I have my RSA, First Aid and CPR, Barista and Safe Food Handling qualifications.”

2025

VCE-VM

& VET Award recipient: Lacie Smith

I’m incredibly honoured and grateful to be the recipient of the 2025 VCE-VM High Achiever Award. This recognition means so much to me, not just because of the award itself, but because of the journey it represents.

VCE-VM is a pathway that has taught me growth, resilience, and real-world learning. It has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, to develop practical skills, and to believe in my own potential. This award reflects more than academic effort – it reflects persistence, adaptability, and the willingness to keep going even when things felt tough.

My greatest challenge whilst completing VM was completing an external VET course on top of my school subjects. This meant that I would miss four periods of school per week, that I would catch up on in my own time. This showed me how important communication with my teachers and classmates was to ensure I was caught up and organised for the next class. I set myself challenges to complete and submit all work before due dates and made sure they were completed to a standard I was proud of.

I would like to sincerely thank all the teachers and staff at Loreto, but especially all the teachers involved in the VCE-VM Program. Your guidance, encouragement and belief in us has made a lasting impact. You taught us that challenges are not a step back, and rejection isn’t the end. You’ve supported us not only as students, but as young people finding our way into life after Loreto.

By completing the VCE-VM Program I have been able to walk away with certificates and qualifications in Business Management, Active Volunteering, Cookery and Agriculture. Additionally, I have my RSA, First Aid and CPR, Barista and Safe Food Handling qualifications.

It has been through this program that I have been able to secure my dream job and a traineeship with Elders Australia – a national agriculture company – to become a qualified Livestock and Station Agent in remote central NSW. This award is a reminder that success looks different for everyone – and all of it is valid.

Thank you again to Loreto for this honour, I will carry the lessons and values I’ve learned here with me into the future.

Lacie Smith – 2025 VCE-VM & VET Award recipient

Sponsors

2025 VCE, VCE-VM & VET Highest Study Scores and Award Sponsors

Academic Excellence

Subject

Loreto College Dux 2025

VCAL Award

VET Award

Agricultural & Horticultural Studies

Art Creative Practice

Biology

Business Management

Chemistry

Dance

English

English Language

English Literature

Food Studies

Health & Human Development

History: Revolutions

Japanese

Legal Studies

General Mathematics

Mathematical Methods

Specialist Mathematics

Outdoor and Environmental Studies

Physical Education

Physics

Politics

Product Design & Technology

Psychology

Religion and Society

Sociology

Theatre Studies

Visual Communication Design

Recipient

Catalina Andrews

Lacie Smith

Lacie Smith

Emma Allen

Penelope Goldsworthy

Laura Cordioli

Emily Armstrong

Catalina Andrews

Charlotte Major

Emily Armstrong

Catalina Andrews

Sophia Dalton

Lauren Armstrong

Ella Byvoet

Lily Woodland

Ruby Bradshaw

Hannah Dwyer

Emma Allen

Ella Byvoet

Eliza Dodd

Abigail Cartledge

Maja Czulij

Elena Ballinger

Madeline Sutton

Jemima Knobel

Gemma Fogarty

Catalina Andrews

Ella Cartwright

Amelia Phillips

Remy Clarke

Matilda Dean

Ava Hirth

Sponsor

Loreto Ballarat Past Pupils’ Association

Loreto Ballarat Past Pupils’ Association

Platinum Institute

Meg Barry (Class of 1962)

Dr Margaret Heffernan OAM (Class of 1970)

University of Notre Dame

Prudence Midgley (Brew) – (Class of 2007)

Melinda Unmack (Class of 1984)

Loreto College Ballarat

Anthea Stevens (Class of 2010)

The Stephanie Carswell VCE English Language Award

Sharon Moss (Class of 1976)

Dr Sarah Flynn – (Class of 2007)

Jill Fenwick (Class of 1964)

Margaret McGeever (Knowles) – (Class of 1964)

BJT Legal

Veronica Micich (Class of 1997)

Loreto College Ballarat

Trudi Kannourakis (Class of 1972) &

Rebecca Kannourakis (Class of 2009)

Loreto College Ballarat

Greta Stevens (Class of 2015)

Veronica Micich (Class of 1997)

Linda McDonald

Jessica Slade (Class of 2008)

Jessica Slade (Class of 2008)

The Sr Jennifer Collins Award –Principal of Loreto Dawson Street 1971-75

Anne Nathan (Smurthwaite) – (Class of 1961)

SLC – Sound & Light Concepts

MSP Photography

Morton+Co Architects

Honour Students

2025 VCE students who achieved an ATAR over 90

The Ultimate Gift of Giving

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

How do you want to be remembered?

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

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

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

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

In our 151-year history, there have been many Past Pupils, staff and parents who have left a lasting legacy towards the education of young women at Loreto College, and to each of them, we are eternally grateful.

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

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

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

https://www.loreto.vic.edu.au/ community/giving