Newsletter

Dear Parents and Caregivers

Thank you for your continued support and prayers as we hold the Medeiros-Hodge family close in our hearts. Your compassion has been a source of strength and comfort as we continue to support our students, staff and community at this sad and difficult time. 

I have taken great comfort in the many messages of prayer and support that we have received and our whole community is being held in the loving embrace of the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Partners and so many people near and far.  May we continue to walk gently with one another, upholding each other in compassion and grace in the days ahead.

Educating Girls, Transforming Futures – A Global Perspective

During the recent term break, I was privileged to travel to the United States, where I participated in a series of events that underscored the global strength and shared vision of Mercy education and girls’ schooling.

In Philadelphia, I met with Sr Lisa Griffith rsm, Executive Director of Mercy Education of the Americas, and members of her leadership team. We explored ways to strengthen collaboration between Mercy schools across the Americas and Australia. We discussed opportunities for shared formation, student mission experiences, and leadership development opportunities for students and staff. I look forward to bringing this partnership to life in the years to come.

I also attended my first Board meeting as a Director of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS). This was followed by the ICGS Annual Conference, where over 700 educators gathered to share research and innovation in girls’ schools. All Hallows’ was honoured to be represented through two presentations: my own session on collaborative strategic leadership, and an outstanding presentation by staff member Ms Crawford on her action research into how our students are using AI to enhance their learning.

I then travelled to New York to host the All Hallows’ Past Pupils’ Association’s first-ever New York City reunion, as part of the Association’s centenary celebrations. It was a joyful gathering that reaffirmed the global reach and enduring spirit of All Hallows’.  I also had the privilege of visiting Marymount School of New York, where past pupil Tamara Nozik (O’Callaghan, AHS 2006) is Director of Music.

Each of these experiences offered a meaningful reminder of the enduring importance of our shared Mercy mission. I return with a deep sense of gratitude for our community and the strength that comes from walking together in hope, purpose, and compassion to bring Catherine McAuley’s vision for the education of women to make the world a more just place a reality.

The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy

National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year, to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth. It is a time to feast on the joy and pride of culture and connect with community.

This year NAIDOC Week marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. The 2025 theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of the ancestors.

At All Hallows' School we have marked NAIDOC Week by playing music by First Nations artists over the PA to signify the end of lessons, we have included themed prayers in the Daily Notices and celebrated in liturgy as part of the liturgical program. Other events included a presentation to the Year 7 students by Sean Choolburra and an On-Country Day for our First Nations students.

Sean Choolburra, born and raised in Townsville, used humour, movement and storytelling to explain to our students how the creative arts are used to pass on stories and ethical teachings from generation to generation. He involved the students in the storytelling and taught them about how instruments and clothing items have been incorporated int the storytelling techniques across the country.

The On-Country experience offered our First Nations students the opportunity to learn a little more about the Yugambeh people of the Gold Coast area. We explored the myths and legends that are deeply tied to Jellurgal that have been passed down through generations, learned how the Yugambeh people lived in harmony with the land and learned about the plants crucial to everyday life and rituals for the local people.

A Journey of Cultural Discovery

Over the break 20 students, accompanied by Ms Vallely and Mr Lane, enjoyed a Red Earth immersion to Cape York. The trip to Cape York was an unforgettable journey into the heart of First Nations culture and spirituality. From the moment they arrived in Guurriill, they were warmly welcomed by traditional owners Lillian and Richard, who shared their rich cultural stories. Students immersed themselves in the local language, Guugu Yimithirr, and participated in traditional activities like fishing, cooking a Kup Murri, and creating a community mural.

Exploring Hope Vale and Cooktown, students learned about local history, bush tucker, and participated in a smoking ceremony. The adventure continued with snorkelling at Fitzroy Island and the Great Barrier Reef, where students gained insights into marine life and indigenous conservation efforts.

This trip fostered a deep appreciation for First Nations traditions, emphasising the importance of sustainability and community. It was a transformative experience, highlighting the profound connection between culture, nature, and spirituality.

While on the immersion students spent time in reflection at the end of each day. Here are some reflections by participant Charlotte Godbolt:

• Throughout our stay, we had the pleasure of language lessons with Lillian. Each time we meet with her in a group she would ask, “Yurru Wanhtharra?” (How are you all?), which we would reply to with “Nganhtaan Ganaa” (We are all good).
• Eating green ants straight from the trees around camp. They taste sour, almost like sherbet. In Richards words, “You have to bite them before they bite you!”.
• We ate freshwater turtle (a delicacy) which was cooked on hot coals which tasted like tough chicken. 
• The Red Earth immersion was an incredible experience, and I recommend it to all students looking for a fun opportunity with fellow AHS sisters. Going into the trip, not many of us knew each other, many were just familiar faces from around school, but by the end we were like one big family, and with the help of our leaders and teachers the immersion was one big home away from home.

Mercy Action rosters begin in Week 2. 

Please check the lists on Moodle here: Semester 2 2025 Mercy Action Rosters.pdf and let Ms Hayes or Mrs Easton know if you are unable to make your rostered commitment. It is especially important that you notify Ms Hayes if you are unable to make one of the rosters external to the school, and a reminder that if you are unable to attend Eddie's Van, Jimmie's Van, Villa Maria or Brisbane Central Tutoring, you contact the reserve on the list to invite them to attend in your place.

Mrs. Claire Easton (Dean of Mission)

Stella Medeiros-Hodge, Year 9 (Whitty).

In our prayers, we remember the beauty and gift of Stella Medeiros-Hodge's life, and we give thanks for her life among us. Stella is the beloved daughter of Lucia and Iain and the sister of Isabella (Year 12). As we hold Stella, her family and friends in our thoughts and prayers, may we also support one another with the gentleness and care that defines our All Hallows’ community.

Loving God,

In times of sorrow and loss, you are with us.

May your love surround the Medeiros-Hodge family, bringing comfort and strength.

Help us to trust in your mercy and to carry Stella’s memory with love and grace.

Be near to all who are grieving and grant us your peace.

We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Amen.

Wednesday 30 July

Liturgy will be celebrated in the Sophia Centre at 8:00am. 

The prayer will be led by Cathy Jensen’s Year 11 RML class. 

All are welcome.

Please note there is no onsite parking.

Wednesday 6 August

Liturgy will be celebrated in the Sophia Centre at 8:00am. 

The prayer will be led by Luke Cahill’s Year 9 RE class and will focus on the “Feast of the Transfiguration through the Rosary” through ritual prayer of the Rosary with a focus on the Luminous Mysteries.

All are welcome.

Please note there is no onsite parking.

Please check the School App for any rescheduling of events.

Year 10 Subject Selection interviews will be conducted from Monday, 4 August to Friday, 8 August. The link for interview selections will be sent directly to Year 10 students and will open at 7:00 pm, following our Year 10 Parent Information Evening on Tuesday, 29 July. 

Interviews are to be made by the evening of Thursday, 31 July.

Subject Selection Interviews are held with our Heads of Department, other Middle Leaders as well as some Senior Leaders. Students are welcome to select any interviewer and any time from the list available. Interviews are held predominantly in the afternoon during the week of 4 August to 8 August, with some interview times available within lessons from Monday to Thursday. 

Students are reminded not to book an interview during any assessment preparation period, during any off-site activity, such as in HPE double lessons, or sports training or ensemble rehearsals. Parents are encouraged and most welcome to attend these 15-minute interviews by phone. Year 10 students will be able to bring their phones with them for the period on the day of the interview, returning their phones to their lockers at all other times. There are a range of times available so that you are able to select a time that suits you and your parents. 

I recommend that students select their interview times at home on their device with their Parents/Caregivers this evening (Tuesday, 29 July).

We look forward to working with you as you make your informed and thoughtful selections of senior programs.

Mr. Sam Yeats (Acting Dean of Teaching and Learning)

Click here to purchase tickets.

We are holding a raffle to raise funds for Project THREADS.

The raffle will be drawn at the whole school assembly on 1 August. Raffle purchases close at 8am on Friday 1 August.

There are limited tickets so get in early. 

Click here to purchase tickets.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our whole school project this year.

Parents can again contribute to our fundraising efforts while satisfying their coffee cravings! We are opening our portal for orders of 1kg coffee bean bags from Merlo Coffee. 

Each bag costs $38, and $10 from each bag goes toward our whole school project, Project THREADS. 

Please place your orders here.

Loretto Pink Parade was held on Friday 18 July, raising funds for our 2025 Whole School Project - Project THREADS.

Recognition of Special Achievement Awards – Applications Now Open!

Applications are now open for the Recognition of Special Achievement awards in Academics, Culture, and Sport.

These awards celebrate students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in significant activities external to the school’s programs.

Students can apply via Moodle through the Awards@AHS page or directly through this link Course: Awards@AHS | AHS . 

Please read all information carefully and ensure you apply through the correct category.

Important

Students must submit applications.

Submissions from parents or caregivers will not be accepted.

Applications will close at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 22.

If you have any questions, please contact Gabby Hines at gabby.hines@ahs.qld.edu.au.

The Careers Moodle Page: Course: Careers (ahs.qld.edu.au) provides information and resources, as it becomes available, for students and their families.

Options Careers Information website provides detailed information on pathways,  https://optionscareers.com.au/welcome/AHS and sign in using the password AHS.

Study Work Grow provides weekly careers news and the latest careers info and resources for students and parents. Access here, and our School Code is: AHS2019

Please click here to peruse the latest Career Bulletins for more detailed information, which provides students and parents with up-to-date careers, tertiary and training information.

Key points in the Careers Bulletin 5:
Announcements: P7
Events and Webinars: P7
ACU and QUT Scholarship: P 11
School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships: P13
ADF:  Want to become a pilot: P15
Competitions: P19
Employment, Job and Labour Market: P22
Financial Assistance & Scholarships: P25
First Nations People: P29
Interstate and International: P31
Open Days, Expo’s and Career Markets: P 38
QTAC & Tertiary Entry: P43
TAFE & Universities and Early Offers: P50
Additional entry requirements for Nursing and/or Midwifery: P52
Pathways to Universities: P53
Upcoming Events: P64

All Hallows’ School Careers Expo – 29 July 2026

Come along to our Careers Expo & find out more about university, courses, apprenticeships, gap years and more. 

Talk to industry experts, draw upon their experiences & specialist knowledge & find out more about your chosen industries. 

Where: AHS – Piazza
When: Tuesday 29 July 2025
Time: 12.30pm-3.30pm

TAFE at School 2026 Courses and Applications: Year 11 & 12 2026

Certificate II to IV Qualifications:
Students interested in undertaking a TAFE qualification (Certificate II–IV) while still at school as part of a senior studies program. Please note that these programs are offered on a fee-for-service basis.

Applications open at 9:00 AM on 21 July 2025 and can be submitted via tafeapply.com using the course codes provided in the linked document below:

TAFE at School Courses and Price List 2026 – Greater Brisbane (TAFE Queensland, Issuu)

Diploma of Business:
CTA Training Specialists, in proud partnership with the Broncos Leagues Club and Clubs QLD, are excited to offer an outstanding opportunity for Year 11, 12 or 13 students (2026 cohort) to complete a BSB50120 Diploma of Business, including elective units from the Diploma of Hospitality, all while still attending high school. Register here: Information Session on 30th July 2025 at 5:30pm at the Brisbane Broncos Leagues Club. 

Program Highlights:
Who Can Enrol: Year 11 (2026 cohort), open to Year 13 students
Program Cost: $2,500 per student
Delivery: 2 units per term; 9:00am–4:00pm; starts February 2026
Training Location: Broncos Leagues Club
Bonus: Responsible Service of Alcohol (SITHFAB021) certification

Why This Program?
Students gain real-world experience in hospitality, event operations, and venue management, supported by:

• Career mentoring with industry experts
• Workplace observation at Broncos Leagues Club and events
• University articulation pathways

JCU - Important Changes to 2025 Medicine and Veterinary Science Applications
It’s important to note the following changes to our 2025 application process:

Medicine Interview Process Now Includes a Fee: Selected applicants will be invited to participate in an interview using an online system managed by Kira Talent. Interviews will be live with two panel members, and applicants will be responsible for paying Kira Talent a fee of USD $18.12 plus tax for the use of the interview platform.

Veterinary Science Introduces Interview and Casper Test: All applicants will be required to complete a Casper test and participate in an interview. All interviews will be conducted using the Kira Talent online system. Applicants will be responsible for paying the associated fees:

• Casper Test: AUD $59 base fee + $30 distribution fee
• Kira Talent Interview: USD $38.84 plus tax

Key dates and resources can be found on the JCU website, or feel free to contact me for assistance: Domestic Applications for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science - JCU Australia

Health Experience Day Taster 
Join us at our upcoming Bond in Brisbane session; Health Experience Day Taster. 

Organisation: Bond University 
Location: Bond Brisbane Campus 
Date: August 6, 2025 

Explore what it’s like to manage the care of a real patient from start to finish through this experience. This free event is your opportunity gain an understanding of the different career options available in the health sciences. 

Find out more and register 

QTAC has changed their fees for 2025/6 applications.  They have now introduced a cheaper Early Bird fee schedule. The $70 Early Bird fee schedule closes on 30 September 2025. Applications from 1 October 2025 is $150. You have 3 free changes to your course preferences included in your application fee. If you make 4 or more course preference changes, each change will cost you $70. Check page 19 in your 2026 Year 12 Guide or the electronic version online. 

Ms. Ronél Bothma (Head of Department – Careers and Vocational Education)

A Joyful Moment with Genevieve Brady

Reflection by Ms Cathy Jensen - Teacher and Portrait Subject

During the recent school holidays, I had the absolute honour of visiting the Young Archie Exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, where one of our incredibly gifted students, Genevieve Brady, had her artwork shortlisted. Even more humbling – Genevieve had chosen me as the subject of her portrait.

I met up with Genevieve and her family at the Gallery. Standing side by side before her beautiful portrait, the moment felt both surreal and deeply moving—a shared celebration of talent, trust, and creativity.  Milling around watching us were a number of gallery visitors and one man tentatively approached me and asked, “Excuse me is that you in the portrait?” I jokingly replied, “No, that’s my twin!” – before proudly directing the spotlight to Genevieve, saying, “But this is the very talented young artist behind it.”

It was a beautiful moment of recognition for Genevieve who is one of the humblest students I have taught – I was full of pride, quiet laughter, and awe. A small group even looked tempted to ask for her autograph!

It reminded me of when I worked with students in leadership programs and how I would often reference Nelson Mandela, who implored — When we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same — and that’s exactly what this moment with Genevieve captured so beautifully for me.

It was a joy for me to see one of our students celebrated on a national platform - congratulations to Genevieve!

A Creative Arts Department incursion for all Year 8 students at All Hallows’ School on Wednesday, 30 July 2025.

Aim 

To provide an opportunity to work with professional artists who will be in residence for the day and to experience how The Arts can animate our joy. The workshops aim to enhance student wellness, their connection to our AHS Creative Community and inform students about the impact The Arts can have on our lives.

Details

On Wednesday, 30 July, all Year 8 Students will be involved in our annual Creative Arts Day workshops. Each Year 8 student will be allocated three creative workshops, depending on the Creative Arts subject they have already studied in 2025.

Students will be emailed their workshop information before the event and will familiarise themselves with their schedule for Wednesday, 30 July. Lists will also be available on Moodle and will be posted outside your Head of House offices and Student Services on the day. 

Our chosen artists/presenters will be in residence for the day to conduct workshops in Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Art. These workshops support students’ immersion in and understanding of creativity in its many forms, as offered by the Creative Arts Department at AHS. 

A letter will be sent to parents and students with all necessary instructions. Information and details will also be shared in the Year 8 Year Level Assembly on Monday, 28 July.

Student Timetable for Wednesday 30 July 2025

8.25am - 8.45am       HG, roll marking and lanyard collection

8.45am – 10.25am    WORKSHOP Rotation 1

10.25am - 10.45am   Morning Tea

10.50am - 12.30pm   WORKSHOP Rotation 2

12.30pm - 1.25pm     Lunch

1.25pm - 3.05pm       WORKSHOP Rotation 3

At Potter Library we have an inspiring collection of resources supporting the teaching and learning of First Nations’ Perspectives. 

Students and staff can explore the wide selection of books, eBooks, ClickView videos, research guides, lesson ideas, and other immersive materials designed to create meaningful learning experiences. 

Potter Library resources include:

• Science, seasons and knowledge
• Caring for Country
• Culture and Spirituality
• Inspiring People and achievements
• Reconciliation and activism
• Yarning mats and cards
• Weaving workshops
• Great stories and graphic novels by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors

Click here to view resources.

Bands Concerts

Eilish Johnstone and Ingrid Kerr (2025 Bands Captains)

On Monday, June 16th, all bands, including flute, clarinet, brass, and jazz ensembles, performed at two impressive concerts, featuring performances from our youngest band members to our oldest. The concerts showcased both the students’ and teachers' hard work over the last three terms. Ranging from the classic Somewhere Over the Rainbow performed by Flute Ensemble 2, to Seal Lullaby from Wind Symphony, to Jazz Ensemble 1's energetic take on Respect by Aretha Franklin, it’s amazing to see the variety of music repertoire in our AHS ensembles.

It was wonderful to see so many students from different year levels come together, supporting each other on and off stage. For many, this was one of their first major performances in front of a full audience, and it showed just how far they’ve come this year. With just one term left in the performing arts season, we’re looking forward to playing together one last time at QCMF.

Thank you to everyone who made this concert possible including all performers, ensemble directors, stage crew, parents and supporters. Congratulations again to everyone who performed - you should be incredibly proud!

Choral Concert
Joey Tsan & Amber Montesin (2025 Choir Captains)

The 2025 Choral Concert marked the first choral showcase of the 2025 season. Being nothing short of spectacular, all six choral groups performed, showcasing their dedication and teamwork throughout the year. The night was truly made more special by being surrounded by an audience filled with family and friends, and the performers being able to share their love for singing with the community. With QCMF only a few weeks away, it was the perfect opportunity to prepare!

Chloe D’Hage & Ruby Strutton (2025 Athletics Captains)

Hi everyone! 

We are incredibly proud to be your Athletics Co-Captains for 2025. We have been involved in the athletics program since Year 7, and over the years, the program has cemented itself as a big part of our school lives.

I (Ruby) personally enjoy the track side of athletics the most, with the 800m and 1500m being my favourite events to compete in. While I (Chloe) enjoy the sprints, like 100m and 200m, as well as some field events, like long jump and discuss. The All Hallows’ athletics community is supportive, competitive, and demonstrates the true spirit of All Hallows' girls who constantly encourage each other to strive further, and for that, it is truly something special. 

Each year, our athletics journey begins with interhouse competitions and training, culminating in our interschool meets every Friday evening at UQ, where we compete against other Catholic schools in the lead-up to the CaSSSA Cup. The CaSSSA Cup event brings together Catholic high schools from across Brisbane. This is an incredible opportunity to showcase not just our talent, but also our teamwork, dedication, and the true spirit of AHS sportsmanship. It is always a proud moment witnessing the sea of blue come together and support one another with so much heart!

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking to give something new a go, we really encourage you to get involved in our 2025 Athletics Program! 

AHS Athletics is a place for everyone, no matter your experience or skill level! 

We always bring unmatched team spirit, high energy at training and the fun competition at meet days, making it a memorable experience! We can’t wait to see more of you at training and out on the track this season! 

Let’s make this year our best yet and bring home the Cup!!! 🏃‍♀️💙 

Ruby O’Brien & Harriet O’Leary (2025 Hockey Captains)

This term, our AHS Hockey players will take part in a special game against Easts Hockey in memory of Emily Deldot, a beloved AHS student and Easts Hockey player. The game will be held on the 27th of July at 10.40am, with JT2 AHS taking on JT2 Easts at Easts Hockey (401 Stanley Road, Carina, QLD 4152). 

Emily was a cherished member of the AHS Class of 2019, who sadly passed away in 2017 during Year 10. She was a proud Gorry Goldstar, so we especially invite every Gorry girl—past and present— along with our entire school community to come together in support of the Deldot family. There will be a brunch provided to mark the celebration. 

Some of you may also remember her sister, Lauren Deldot, who graduated a few years ago and continues to be part of our AHS community through several dedicated years of coaching our hockey teams. 

Each year, the Emily Deldot Award is presented to a graduating student who best embodies Emily’s values, serving as a lasting tribute to her constant selflessness, happiness and empathy to others. 

Let’s come together to celebrate Emily’s legacy and support her family through this meaningful event. Everyone is welcome. 

Ayaan Daveson & Sarah Hill (2025 Netball Captains)

On Saturday, our AHS Netballers returned to the court for Round 11 of the season. DPNA hosted an Indigenous Round, and it was wonderful to see the community come together in support of such a meaningful initiative. With just four regular rounds remaining, teams are now entering the final stretch of the season, with many working hard to secure their place in the finals. 

Gabrielle Ryan & Danielle Watt (2025 Rowing Captains)

Congratulations to the selected rowing students who competed at the South Queensland Secondary Schools’ Regatta on June 19 and 20. 

All Hallows’ School came away with some outstanding results including: 

• 10 Gold 
• 7 Silver 
• 5 Bronze 

Making a total of 22 medals across the two-day competition! 

We are so excited for our first Rowing Regatta coming this Saturday, July 26 at Wyaralong Dam! 

The 2025 New Zealand Netball and Volleyball Tour was an unforgettable experience that combined sport, culture, and connection. Over ten days, we played four competitive matches against New Zealand school teams, each bringing a unique, fast-paced style that pushed us out of our comfort zones and helped us grow as players. Alongside this, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in two amazing clinics with netball and volleyball stars, building our individual skill assets. 

We were welcomed with warmth and generosity, with each school hosting opening ceremonies that celebrated both sport and cultural exchange. These moments allowed us to connect with other grade 10–12 girls who share the same passion for netball and volleyball. A major highlight of the trip was attending a traditional Māori dinner, where we were immersed in Māori culture, from seeing cultural dances to sharing food. We were honoured to be part of such a meaningful tradition. 

In our downtime, we explored some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. A team favourite was the visit to Mount Eden in Auckland, offering breathtaking views. Another standout was the Rotorua luge, where we raced down the scenic track and took the gondola back up. What made this tour truly special was the bond we built as a group. The memories, shared challenges, and inside jokes will stay with us. We’re so grateful for this opportunity and know it's something we’ll look back on for years to come. 

All Hallows’ School will be trialling the use of EFTPOS machines in the Food Service Area (Café and Tuckshop) in Semester 2, 2025. 

From the commencement of Term 3, students will be allowed to use a debit/EFTPOS card to purchase items from the Café and Tuckshop. This will mean that students can use their own debit or EFTPOS card without needing their student ID. 

We strongly encourage students to continue to use their student ID cards for the tuckshop, as parents/caregivers will be able to monitor all purchases. 

This is a limited trial to collect data on the usage and monitor the continued importance of students using their Student ID. If they use their debit card, the student will be given a copy of the EFTPOS receipt and an itemised receipt with each transaction.  

Please note that students must use a physical card for payments; all mobile phone or smartwatch payment methods, such as PayID, are not permitted. 

If your child opts to use a debit/EFTPOS card, the school will be unable to track their purchases as it does with our current student IDs system. We advise parents and caregivers to monitor debit/EFTPOS card usage independently.

Students must continue to carry their student ID cards, as they are required for use in Student Services and for accessing certain areas around the school. 

Ms. Katie Castle (Food Service Manager)

As we reflect on the energy and spirit of our 2025 Giving Day, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible generosity and support shown by our remarkable All Hallows’ community. On behalf of the All Hallows’ Foundation, thank you to every person who donated, volunteered, shared the message or supported us in any way.

This year’s Giving Day was inspired by The Promise, a heartfelt commitment made by Josie, one of our Year 5 students, to help open doors for others, just as Catherine McAuley once did. With the love and encouragement of her mum Liesel, grandmother Patricia and sisters Maddie and Caitlin, Josie’s story touched hearts across our community and reminded us all that a single act of compassion can create lasting change.

Thanks to the extraordinary kindness of our match donors, the dedication of our volunteers and the collective effort of families, past pupils, students and staff, we raised $244,799 for the Catherine McAuley Bursary Program. This outstanding result exceeded our target and will fund two full bursaries, offering two young women the opportunity to access a Mercy education at All Hallows’ School. 

Throughout the day, there was a real sense of joy and togetherness. From the early morning calls in our Vollies Hub to heartfelt messages online and gifts made with deep purpose, each moment reflected the spirit of Catherine and the values that sit at the heart of our school. 

Your support, whether through time, talent or treasure, helped bring The Promise to life. Every conversation, every dollar, every share was part of a greater whole and reminded us once again of what is possible when our community comes together. 

To all those who contributed, thank you. A special acknowledgement to our Match Donors, whose generosity helped double the impact of every gift and inspired so many others to give. We are also especially grateful to our current parents, many of whom are past pupils, who continue to be our largest and most consistent group of supporters. And to our new donors, we’re so pleased to welcome you into the All Hallows’ Foundation community. 

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE RAFFLE TICKETS

What a day. What a celebration. What a magical moment in time.

Last Sunday, the Past Pupils’ Association hosted its signature event in its 100th year calendar, the Centenary of Sisterhood, at the charming riverside venue, Officers Mess in Oxlade Drive, New Farm.

Not even an early afternoon sun shower could dampen the smiles or the spirit of all who attended. The sense of connection and shared experience was palpable across the generations and cohorts who joined us. Mothers, daughters, grandmothers, aunts, cousins, friends and classmates mingled and reminisced…old friendships were rekindled, new friendships were made. It was a stunning testament to the legacy and longevity of the Association which was formed by Mother Patrick Potter in 1925. 

Thank you to the many amazing members of the PPA’s 100th Committee who volunteered many months of hours and energy to help bring this event to life.

Thank you to Kristin Devitt who MC’ed the event with her unmistakeable style, humour and skill.

Thank you to All Hallow’s School Principal, Mrs Catherine O’Kane and Peta Goldburg rsm, Congregational Leader of the Sisters of Mercy, for their gracious presence, inspiring words and ongoing support.

Thank you to the many past pupils who took to the microphone to share their reflections...we laughed, we cried, and we will always remember when the whole room erupted into a rousing chorus of the Angeli. It was sisterhood at its best. 

Thank you to all who attended, thank you to School Archivist Cathy Clem for her historical display and finally thank you to our fabulous Celebration Raffle prize donors – Alemais, Boom Shankar, Double Cleanse, Il Verde and Brooki.

The Past Pupils’ Association is thrilled to officially launch the Patchwork of Sisterhood quilt — a bespoke legacy piece celebrating the Centenary of the Past Pupils’ Association. This unique ‘artwork’ will be gifted to the School and permanently displayed on campus. 

Featuring a bookshelf inspired theme, the quilt will be custom created from hundreds of embroidered book spines personalised with the name and graduation year of past pupils.

If you are a past pupil and your graduation year is from 1925 to 2025 you are invited to purchase a patch here – Patchwork of Sisterhood: Buy Your Book Spine and become part of this enduring tribute. Patch sales will close September 30 unless sold out sooner, so we encourage you to get in early!

Note: Images of quilt design are for illustrative purposes only.

All members of our extended All Hallows’ community – current students, past pupils interested family and friends - are invited to join us for the second in our 2025 Sisters in..Series. It features an amazing panel of past pupils at various stages of their career journeys who will talk PR, media, journalism, TV, print, strategy and all things comms. Plus, continuing our 100th Anniversary celebrations, the evening will commence with a special address from a communications trailblazer, Maxine McKew - broadcaster, politician, writer and more!

Tuesday, August 19, 2025
5.30pm – 8.00pm
Claver Theatre, All Hallows School

Purchase your tickets here now: Sisters in Communication

The All Hallows’ Past Pupils’ Association was delighted to organise a very special, first ever reunion in New York City for our alumnae living in the USA. This event was planned to coincide with Mrs Catherine O’Kane’s trip to the United States for the Coalition of International Coalition of Girls’ School Conference, and we are very grateful to her for hosting the event at the suitably named Daintree Rooftop Bar and Lounge in midtown Manhattan on behalf of the Association. 

The evening was filled with laughter, shared memories, and meaningful connections — a true reflection of the strength and reach of the All Hallows’ Sisterhood. In true AHSister spirit, the event lasted many hours longer than intended!

In this centenary year of the past Pupils’ Association, it was a wonderful reminder that the bonds of Sisterhood continue to flourish far beyond the green gates and around the world. 

Thank you to everyone who attended, especially those who travelled to be there and helped make the night so memorable. We hope that this event will become an annual event in future years.

An invitation to all members of our past pupil community, especially those from the Class of 2015, 2005, 1995, 1985, 1975, 1965, 1955 or earlier who are celebrating a milestone reunion year in this Centenary year of the Past Pupils’ Association.

Annual Past Pupils’ Memorial Mass at 9.30am

Morning Tea at 11.00am

This is the one day of the year when those iconic green gates are thrown open for past pupils of all ages and life stages to revisit our campus. Please join us for this special opportunity to re-connect, remember and celebrate the Sisterhood.

In addition to a very special Mass and Morning Tea, there will be opportunities for official group, family and friendship group photographs, self-guided campus tours, and to visit the new Heritage Centre and to purchase Past Pupils’ merchandise.