Newsletter

Dear Parents and Caregivers

As we come to the final days of the 2025 school year, it’s hard to believe just how quickly these months have unfolded. Soon, your daughters will step into the welcome pause of the Christmas holidays, a time for celebration, rest, and treasured moments with family and friends.

Throughout the year, in partnership with you, we have walked alongside our AHSisters as they explored new learning, discovered passions, weathered challenges, and celebrated achievements. Our school theme, Ignite hope with compassionate hearts, has quietly shaped every corner of school life. My hope is that each student can look back with pride at her growth, her courage, her compassion, and all the small moments that have strengthened her sense of self and her capacity to bring hope into the world.

None of this is possible without you. Thank you for the trust you place in us and for the countless ways you support your daughters and our community. Together, we continue to create a school where joy, justice, compassion, and integrity are lived values, not just spoken hopes.

As we prepare for a well-earned break, may we pause to acknowledge all that we’ve achieved and look ahead with hearts full of hope for the year to come.

There seems to be a bit of a Hallway Christmas Decoration competition happening around the school this year and I applaud the desire to get into the Christmas spirit. The joy that comes from fairy lights, coloured tinsel and Christmas trees is like no other experience - it heralds the fact that something special is just around the corner.

This weekend sees Christians around the world begin to mark the season of Advent - a time of anticipation and hope. It is a time where we are called to a deeper awareness of our lived reality - the ups and downs of our daily lives. It is a time to give context to that reality and measure it against the joyful hope embodied in the image of the infant Jesus.

The significance of Jesus' birth is captured beautifully by Sister of Mercy, Mary Wickham who writes in her poem entitled 'Christmas':

Jesus, mercy,

In the wideness of the world,

In the hidden strictures of our own hearts,

Your face is found.

Your gaze will meet ours.

Lead us to look in the right places

This year of years,

O Emmanuel,

God is with us.

He is indeed "Mercy made human" (Mary Wickham again) and God's love present to us in the form of a child full of promise and hope. In holy stillness we open our hearts to 'God with us'. 

As we light the first Advent candle - the candle of hope, we are reminded of the Hebrew prophets who foretold the coming of Jesus. Their words and actions were infused with a profound hope – hope for a kinder, more just world and hope for the arrival of love in a humble Bethlehem crib. May we come to know the healing, liberating and life-giving mercy of God. 

Our Year 5 and 6 students were filled with enthusiasm during the annual Christmas hamper packing session for CommonKind. After four weeks of collecting donations, the students packed hampers and designed beautiful cards to distribute to many people in our community who are facing challenges this Christmas.

Before packing, the students learned about the realities of homelessness and financial hardship. They discovered that more than 750,000 children live in poverty in Australia, over one in five Australian children face food insecurity each year, and approximately 10,000 people are homeless each night in Brisbane.

In response, the students took meaningful action: they tested, sorted, cleaned, and packed more than 7,000 donated markers; donated 287 kg of food, which was packed into hampers; and created 400 “Kind Cards” with thoughtful drawings and messages of support.

Carolina Puleston, CEO of CommonKind, shared this message:

“A huge thank you to the wonderful Year 5 and Year 6 All Hallows’ students who enthusiastically participated in our Learn By Heart service learning sessions as part of the Mercy Action Program. We were so energised by your passion for giving back and also impressed with the incredible impact we achieved together in a relatively short time—helping over 1,000 Australians doing it tough. Thank you! To parents and guardians who supported your wonderful children through shopping for donations for the hampers—thank you for finding the time and for giving so generously. This food will directly support local families facing food insecurity. Finally, to the brilliant staff at All Hallows’—thank you for getting involved and being wonderful role models, clearly demonstrating to the students that anyone can volunteer when given the right opportunity.”

This year we have been called to Ignite Hope with Compassionate Hearts. Our Mercy Action program was instrumental in providing tangible avenues for this goal to be achieved. At our Mercy Action Thanksgiving Liturgy on 12 November, we gathered to give thanks for the opportunities we had to give to the community in the spirit of Mercy and the opportunity to grow as people through our acts of service.

In his recent weekly address to a general audience in Rome, Pope Leo XIV reminded us that, being a Christian means recognising every person as a brother or sister and always being ready to lend a helping hand. He said, “Brothers and sisters support each other in hardship, they do not turn their back on those who are in need, and they weep and rejoice together in the active pursuit of unity, trust and mutual reliance”.

At our liturgy, we were reminded that Jesus calls us into community with others where we love, work, support, inspire, enthuse and heal one another. We also heard from students who reflected on their Mercy Action opportunities. 

Emme said:

"By simply donating my time, I've received the gift of perspective. In stepping out of my own world and witnessing the challenges others face, I've learned how small acts of kindness can ripple, creating real change. And perhaps most importantly, I've received the gift of purpose". 

And Delphine added,

"I'm really grateful for the lessons I have learnt through these experiences and for how they've increased my awareness and shaped the way I see the world around me".

I share with you our final prayer from the liturgy:

Loving God, bless the work of all involved in Mercy Action this year at All Hallows’. 

May we live our lives in a way that allows us to be 

the compassionate face of Jesus to all those we meet. 

We give thanks for the opportunities given to this person. 

Help us to know that in giving we receive special graces and wisdom 

to walk humbly with others especially those in need. 

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen 

At the Year 12 Final Assembly, our School Captains, Bella and Katherine, proudly announced the outstanding results of our 2025 Whole School Project: Project THREADS. Thanks to the incredible generosity and dedication of our community, we surpassed our fundraising goal by over $5,000, raising a total of $55,000. This remarkable achievement will make a significant difference to two very deserving communities.

This year, Project THREADS supported two important mini-projects:

• Renovating the community area at Mater’s ADAWS unit, providing therapeutic support for young people facing addiction.
   
• Empowering women in the Kiunga Province of PNG, enabling them to launch and sustain their own business ventures and enabling them to store much needed clean water.

Our fundraising success was truly a team effort. Contributions came from bake sales, sausage sizzles, dress-up days, Magnolia Market Day, raffles, and sustainable initiatives. The Facilities Team joined in by selling scrap metal from school projects, while our rummage sale and basil seed sales added to the total. Our Containers for Change program also played a part. Special thanks go to our P&F and Past Pupils Association for their generous donations, which helped make this a truly community-wide endeavour.

During the assembly, we received a heartfelt video message from Sr Sally Bradley, Executive Director of Mercy Works, expressing gratitude for our support. We were also honoured to hear in person from Kimmy Hoang (Day Program Coordinator and Senior Occupational Therapist) and Kim Finlay (ADAWS Program Coordinator and Clinical Nurse Consultant), who shared the impact of our $25,000 donation. They highlighted the hands-on involvement of our School and Social Justice Captains in designing and implementing elements of the community area, including the outdoor mural.

We are deeply proud of our entire community—students, families, parent groups, and staff—for your ongoing commitment and generosity. Your collective efforts have ensured that both projects can reach their goals and make a lasting difference. Thank you for your support, enthusiasm, and compassion. Together, we are igniting hope.

Students are encouraged to wear a plain white shirt tomorrow as we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. This day is annually part of the United Nations' significant days and is a reminder to all that real equality will only be reached once women can feel safe from the scourge of gender-based violence. By wearing a white shirt (with appropriate length bottoms and closed in shoes!), our community can send the message that violence of any kind is not OK!

Mrs. Claire Easton (Dean of Mission)

Each year, students at All Hallows’ School have the opportunity to participate in the ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) program – a globally recognised series of academic assessments designed to challenge and extend students in a range of subject areas. Developed by UNSW Global, ICAS enables students to demonstrate their skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and subject knowledge across English, Mathematics, Science, Writing, and Digital Technologies.

All Hallows’ students participation in ICAS is entirely voluntary, and we are incredibly proud of all those students who chose to take part this year. Their enthusiasm to extend their learning beyond the classroom reflects our school’s commitment to academic excellence, curiosity, and perseverance – qualities that align strongly with the All Hallows’ spirit of lifelong learning and the pursuit of personal best.

We are especially delighted to recognise Mila Carrick, who achieved a High Distinction in Year 7 English, placing her among the top 1% of students nationwide. This is an outstanding accomplishment and a reflection of her dedication and effort she has applied to her learning. 

Congratulations to 2025 ICAS High Distinction recipients:

English

Mila Carrick (Y7 ME7)

We also warmly congratulate the students who received Distinctions, placing them in the top 10% of participants across Australia. These impressive results are a testament to their hard work, curiosity, and commitment to learning.

Congratulations to 2025 ICAS Distinction recipients:

A sincere thank you also goes to all students who received Credits and Merits for their performances, and to every student who took on the ICAS challenge.

Students can collect their certificates from student administration before the close of the academic year.

At All Hallows’, we celebrate the courage it takes to participate, the humility to learn, and the joy that comes from striving for excellence. Congratulations to all our ICAS participants - you have represented our community, and we look forward to seeing your learning journeys continue to flourish.

Mr. André Ockerse (Head of Academic Operations)

Last Friday was a special day for our Year 5 students! They enjoyed a fun-filled day brimming with Christmas cheer as they put their best crafting skills to the test. Some activities were easier than others, but every student rose to the challenge.

A big thank you to Ms Carey, whose creativity made all the difference. The Year 5 teachers also joined in the festive spirit with matching shirts for the day - the ibis design was a perfect nod to AHS!

Students loved the freedom to sit wherever they wanted while working on their crafts. Here are some highlights from the day:

• “My favourite activity was making the gnome.” - Isabelle Bonifant (Y5.1)
• “I loved creating the star. Following the pattern and tangling the wool was frustrating at times, but with persistence, the end result was amazing!” - Emmie Asplin (Y5.1)

The craft day was followed by a wonderful Year 5 Christmas Celebration Afternoon, organised by our amazing Year 5 Student Representative Councillors: Rosie McGarrity (Y5.1), Aggie Mulholland (Y5.1) and Sierra Barker (5.3).

The afternoon began with a delicious afternoon tea before students formed mixed groups of five, with members from each of the five classes. Together, they enjoyed two exciting activities: a scavenger hunt and cookie decorating.

The scavenger hunt was a real highlight! It featured cryptic clues leading to different parts of the school and fun puzzles, including rebus challenges, “guess the animal,” and “finish the lyric.” The energy and excitement were contagious as students raced to solve each clue.

Next on the agenda was the much-anticipated Talent Show.
It wasn’t quite “AHS Has Talent”, but it was every bit as fun and inclusive! Every student who wanted to participate had the chance to shine, and the audience was full of encouragement and applause.

To wrap up an incredible day, we finished with a pizza feast—just what we needed to keep the energy going until dinner!

Here’s what some students had to say:

• “I loved seeing everyone being so encouraging during the talent show. So many people gave it a go and stepped out of their comfort zone.” — Rosie McGarrity (Y5.1)
• “I loved how excited everyone was about the scavenger hunt. We raced around the school together, met new people, and discovered their talents as they worked out the puzzles.” — Eleanor Vella (Y5.3)

It was truly an afternoon filled with joy, teamwork, and festive spirit!

Today, we gathered as a community to mark a significant milestone; the movement of our Year 6 students from Primary School into Secondary School. Our “Stepping In” liturgy provided a meaningful and tangible way to recognise this important transition.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms Ashley Prisk for her thoughtful liturgical guidance and to our dedicated Year 6 teachers for coordinating this special occasion.

At the conclusion of the beautiful liturgy, our Year 6 students were greeted by a guard of honour formed by Year 5 students. This symbolic gesture was followed by a small but meaningful ritual: Year 5 students presented each Year 6 student with a pair of white socks, a simple nod to the uniform change that awaits them in Secondary School.

The celebration continued with the much-loved tradition of the Jump ’n’ Jive on the Terrace, performed with energy and joy as parents and caregivers looked on. This vibrant finale captured the spirit of the day - honouring the past, embracing the future, and celebrating the journey ahead.

Hey everyone! ❤️

Can you believe it’s already the end of the year? It really does feel like just yesterday when we were putting on our ties for the first time in Term 1. 

And what a year it has been! From dress-up days, to fundraisers, to carnivals – 2025 has been a year filled with smiles and spirit.

There are so many things to look forward to these holidays, but I certainly know what I’m most excited for. Christmas! 

Christmas is a truly special time of the year – and not just because of the candy canes, Mariah Carey, and late nights watching cringey Netflix movies (shoutout to The Princess Switch). What’s truly special is the spirit of Christmas. 

Last year, I was fortunate enough to be able to spend my summer holidays in Europe. Between Rome, Paris, and London, it was incredible to see how the Christmas season was celebrated in so many ways. But one thing was always similar – the collective compassion and care for each other in each community. And it really reminded me of an Aussie Christmas. There’s nothing more special than a way-too-hot day with togs on and a Zooper Dooper in hand, surrounded by family and friends. 

No matter if you believe in magic or not, we all know the magic of Christmas is real. Each laugh is a bit louder, each smile is a bit wider, and each head is repeating the chorus of Last Christmas a few too many times. 

Christmas is also a time to feel grateful. Every Christmas looks different, and for some in our community, it may not be as easy. That’s why it is so important to reflect on what we are thankful for and express this love and care back to the people around us.

Because that is the true gift we give and receive during the holiday season. Connection. Quality time. Small acts of kindness that may not feel like a lot but make such an impact. 

So, no matter how you may be spending this Christmas, take the time to appreciate the little moments, and be kind to yourself. 

Have an incredible holiday everyone – 2026 is going to be epic.

So much love,
Sabine x

Song of the week: In honour of summer being just around the corner, Summertime by The Sundays!

Eva Parisi & Sabine Thannhauser (School Captains)

The Christmas and summer break is the perfect time to slow down, relax, and share the joy of reading together as a family. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a chapter after lunch, or a quiet moment on the beach, reading together builds memories and keeps minds active.

Looking for ideas? 

Check out our Library Holiday Reading Newsletters below for great suggestions—including books that make wonderful gifts!

Years 5/6: https://secure.smore.com/n/enbqj

Years 7/8: https://secure.smore.com/n/634eh

Years 9-11: https://secure.smore.com/n/59f0k

In Year 9 this term, students have explored the themes of penance, prayer, and healing, examining their Scriptural foundations within the Catholic tradition. While the unit was primarily academic, students also engaged in an experiential dimension, participating in a variety of prayer practices such as Lectio Divina, walking the school’s labyrinth, and praying the Maranatha mantra.

The unit culminated in a group assessment where students were challenged to design and lead a Catholic Christian prayer ritual focused on forgiveness and healing in relationships. Each group selected a meaningful theme, including:

• Healing with our First Nations sisters and brothers
• Healing our broken environment
• Healing and forgiveness within the Year 9 cohort

The creativity and depth of these liturgies were remarkable. Year 9 teachers were continually impressed by the students’ enthusiasm and passion in crafting and delivering prayer experiences that were not only beautiful and reverent but also spoke powerfully to the lived reality of all who attended. These rituals demonstrated a genuine understanding of Catholic tradition while making it relevant to contemporary issues.

In 2025 our Creative Arts Department continued our unique focus on making, performing and responding. In the role of both artist and audience, students made and performed works of beauty and substance. Their curriculum tasks become something that revealed both creative thinking, deep analysis and solution seeking that they transformed into new creative contexts. Studies in the creative arts teach students how to work with time and process.  Creating something that starts with an idea that is able to inspire, connect and inform others.

Learning experiences in the Creative Arts Department ask each student to understand something fundamental about themselves as members of our Mercy Community. Our diverse curriculum encourages students to become confident, resilient, and adaptable. Our students work collaboratively and independently to process real life events and to express and communicate these events through the power of their imagination.

Please enjoy these photos of our Creative Arts students who have worked with our curriculum and created and performed amazing things.

Language Thrills in Seven Hills

The Languages Department congratulates Eva Romano (Y8 AD8) who has won first place in the XXV Settimana della lingua italiana nel mondo (Italian Language in the World Week) Online Video Competition. 

Eva won first prize in the Years 7-12 category, which asked students to produce a short video showcasing their Italian language skills and creativity. Eva made an informative and fun video about Italian language and culture in Brisbane, focusing on the suburb of Seven Hills, which was named after the Seven Hills of Rome. No doubt the judges were impressed by this creative and clever connection made by Eva and how aware she is of the significant contribution the Italian community has made in our city. 

We also acknowledge the encouragement and support for this competition of Prof Duncan, Eva's Italian teacher, which contributed to the language skills Eva drew upon to make and submit her entry. Brava Eva- congratulazioni!

Keeping Curiosity Alive Over the Holidays

As the school year draws to a close, the summer break offers a wonderful opportunity for students to explore science beyond the classroom. For our younger students, curiosity is the key to keeping their learning spark alive and the holidays offer many ways for families to share in that sense of wonder.

Asking “why?” and “how?” questions encourage children to think about the world around them and provide an opportunity for families to explore the answers together. Science is everywhere: in cooking (chemistry), gardening (biology), sports (physics) and the weather (earth science). Distract young ones during storms by asking questions like “I wonder why hail comes in different sizes?” or “I wonder why we hear thunder after we see the lightning?” Everyday moments can become mini science adventures!

With the social media delay for under 16s taking effect from December 10th, students could access online platforms like Questacon (Science museum in Canberra), ABC Education, and National Geographic Kids which offer great science games, challenges, and videos. If your child enjoys hands-on projects, a quick google search will reveal plenty of suggestions for nature-based crafts and outdoor, family activities.

By exploring, questioning, and noticing together, we not only create an environment in which curiosity and creativity are celebrated, but we help students see that science isn’t just a school subject — it’s part of everyday life.

Ms. Kerry McGregor (Head of Department – Science)

The school has partnered with Box of Books to provide home delivery of the start-of-school stationery list.

Purchasing stationery from Box of Books is optional, and stationery requirements can be purchased from any supplier/shop.

For a list of required 2026 resources, see the Stationery and Booklist section of the Parent Information page at (Section: Stationery & Booklists | Parent Information | AHS).

Box of Books stationery will be provided via Officeworks for 2026. The online portal is now open for stationery orders to be delivered to your home. 

Step 1: go to the website https://shop.boxofbooks.com.au/

Step 2: sign in with your email or phone number

Step 3: Add each student (nominating school and year group)

Step 4: Select items you wish to purchase, pay and check out

To ensure all items are delivered to your home before the start of the 2026 school year, orders should be placed by Sunday, 7 December 2025. Any queries about the use of this stationery option should be directed to the help systems provided by Box of Books, and deliveries need to go to home addresses.

The Careers Moodle Page: Course: Careers (ahs.qld.edu.au) provides information and resources, as it becomes available, for students and their families. Please sign in through the AHS Hub, parent lounge, then select the course ‘Curriculum’ and followed by the Career Development and Vocational Studies Course Tile.

The 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 career news and the latest career information 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 #13:

Announcements: P6 – CAS Hawker Scholarship; Whitehouse Institute of Design
Apprenticeships & Traineeships: P9
ADF: P11 
Careers Exploration: P12
Competitions: P13
Disabilities: P14
Employment, Job and Labour Market: P15
Financial Assistance & Scholarships: P20 – Scholarship Information Booklet 2026
First Nations People: P22
Holiday Programs and Short Courses: P23
Interstate and International Information: P24 – Change of Preferences Interstate
Post School Information: P29
Private Provider Updates: P30 – JMC Academy
QTAC, Key Dates & Tertiary Entry: P33
TAFE & Universities and Early Offers: P34
Universities: P36
Upcoming Events: P42

Release of Year 12 Results and ATARs

Queensland Curriculum Assessment Authority (QCAA) will release students' final subject results and Senior Education Profiles on their myQCE website on Thursday 11 December 2025 at 9am. QTAC will release students’ ATARs via the  ATAR Portal  on the 18 December 2025 around mid-day. You need to make sure you registered for the Student Portal and ATAR Portal well in advance so you can find out your results on 18 December. Ms Bothma will be available for support and guidance during offer rounds. Contact email: ronel.bothma@ahs.qld.edu.au 

Please note the key dates regarding QTAC offers and responses: ATARs will be released on 18 December, and there will be only one day available to make any preference changes in line with QTAC’s published deadlines.

UAC – New South Wales Applications: 

ATARs will be released on 18 December, and there will be approximately 12 hrs available to make any preference changes in line with UAC’s published deadlines.

Scholarships

C.A.S. Hawker Scholarship

Valued at up to $75,000 over three years, and open to Australian citizens, the C.A.S. Hawker Scholarship commemorates the achievements of one of Australia's most respected pastoral pioneers who served with distinction in the First World War and went on to become a distinguished scholar and leading figure in the Federal Parliament prior to his tragic, and untimely death in an aircraft accident in 1938.  

Past awardees have studied law, politics, economics, medicine, and arts. Hawker Scholars are now working in Australia, Europe, the USA, and Asia.

Applications for the 2026 Hawker Scholarship will open on 3 November 2025 and close on 2 December 2025.  To find out which universities the successful applicants are required to study at, the value of the scholarship, the selection criteria, as well as details of former recipients, visit C.A.S. Hawker Scholarship. 
 

Current Year 11s

Australian National University (ANU) launched the Tuckwell Scholarship Program in 2013:

The Tuckwell Scholarship Program at the ANU is the most transformational undergraduate scholarship program in Australia.  A Tuckwell is not just about a students’ intellect.  It is also about their desire and determination to use their natural abilities to realise their full potential so that they can make a difference in the world.  All up one could say, this is no ordinary scholarship!

Although applications will only open on 2 March 2026 and close on 13 April 2026, current Year 11 students who are not only interested in studying at ANU, but also believe they meet the eligibility criteria for this scholarship, are encouraged to browse Tuckwell Scholarship and the link How to Apply to find out more.

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

(Annabel Grant Y9 ME1)

Throughout this year over 100 students (including myself) chose the option of a Speech and Drama exam and then busily prepared under the guidance of our Speech and Drama Teachers for AMEB (Australian Music Examinations Board) exams in grades ranging from Preliminary (Year 5+) through to Grade Eight (Year 11/12). 

Each exam is very different depending on the syllabus and the grade and then the individual performance choices made by each student in conjunction with their Speech and Drama Teacher.  I've just completed Grade Five in the Speech and Performance syllabus and for this grade students must choose a text that exists as both a novel and a play, and I selected Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay as the basis for my program.

My exam included the performance of both memorised and read drama from the play script together with a prose extract from the novel - each requiring a different approach to character, tone, interpretation and staging. I also wrote and delivered a “talk” on a topic of my choice where I explored the idea of Cultural Cringe and its influence on the Australian arts. In addition, I compiled an anthology of 8 poems around an associated theme and then, at the Examiner's choice, performed one of these poems before moving onto an impromptu improvisation (which stemmed from my focus story). I then finished with an in-depth discussion about the theoretical concepts behind my pieces and the text and play script itself.

I went into my exam feeling supported and well-prepared (and excited to show the Examiner my work) after months of rehearsals and guidance from my teacher. The experience challenged me in the best ways, allowing me to refine my performance skills, and build confidence in my own voice and public speaking and communication generally. It was such a rewarding experience, and I can't wait to do it again next year.

On Thursday 13 November, the Performing Arts Department hosted their Year 5 Instrumental Music Finale Concert, led by our talented and hard-working ensemble directors. The Year 5 program has three ensembles, a Percussion Ensemble, String Orchestra and a Concert Band. Each of the groups performed several pieces that demonstrate the variety of skills they have learned over the year along with a bit of Christmas cheer sprinkled in.

It was fantastic to see how far our Year 5 musicians have come since beginning their instruments in Term 1. The sounds they produced were a testament to the hard work they have all put in over the year. With progress like this in a year, it’s exciting to imagine just how far they'll go in the future.   

Did you know that taking music lessons makes you smarter?  Here are just some reasons (backed by science) to continue your instrumental and singing lessons into 2026:

• Academic outcomes: Music learning has been shown to improve science, literacy and numeracy results
   
• Executive function: It helps students develop working memory, self-regulation, and flexible thinking
   
• Attention and focus: Learning music enhances students’ ability to concentrate and stay engaged
   
• Resilience and persistence: Music practice builds perseverance and a growth mindset
   
• Social development: It supports empathy, kindness, and positive peer relationships
   
• School culture: A strong music learning program fosters a sense of belonging, shared identity, and social cohesion across the school 

Kate Jones (Clarinet & Saxophone Teacher)

On Monday 17 November, the Concert Hall came alive with the joy of Christmas at our studio concert, Reed-A-Rama Christmas. Over thirty Year 5 – 7 Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe and Bassoon students, came together to present a delightful selection of Christmas carols and songs in solos, duets and small group items to an appreciative audience of family and friends. The concert concluded with all the young performers presenting a combined performance of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”, much to the delight of the audience.

For many of the students, this was their first solo performance and despite their nerves, they are to be commended on performing with confidence and the professionalism they brought to each performance and their impeccable concert etiquette.

Matilda Moore & Caitie Nolan (Percussion Captains)

The annual 'Percussion Soiree' was held on Wednesday 12th November, showcasing performances from all the percussionistas in the lesson program. 

This end of year concert was also the first opportunity for the 2026 Percussion Captains to step into their new role by compering and helping to organise the event. Everyone was invited to play our 'Guess the BPM' game before the Soiree - we played a snippet of a well-known song, and they had to guess the tempo for a chance to win. Audience members were also encouraged to participate in the compliment exchange, where they could write compliments and positive comments about the performances. It can be a little scary to get up and play a solo, but there were lots of cheers from the audience and plenty of encouraging words on the compliment cards. 

At the end of the evening, we watched the Year 12 performance video, which was a mash up of 'We Found Love' by Rihanna, and 'I Wanna Dance with Somebody' by Whitney Houston. The Year 12's had been working on this over the year and recorded it for the Soiree as they wouldn't be able to perform live. 

Some other performance highlights included Caitie Nolan's performance of 'Tank' on drum kit and Emma Hislop and Selena Chen’s rendition of 'You Belong with Me', complete with Junior Jewels t-shirts. 

Thank you to everyone who performed on the night, and those who came to watch - we've had a great year and can't wait for what's to come. 

Tessa Gibbons & Keva Robinson (Swimming Captains)

We are your 2026 Swimming Captains Tessa and Keva! We have both been competitive swimmers for a long time and have a strong love for the sport. We are very excited to bring our passion for swimming to leading our awesome AHS team for the 2026 season. The swimming season is a super short 6 weeks and begins with a bang in Week 1, so it's important that we make the most of every moment to ensure a fun, positive and memorable season for everyone! 

Key dates for the season include: 

Week 1. Thursday 29 January: Training Commences 

Week 1. Friday 30 January: CaSSSA Lead Up Meet 1 (Y5-12) 

Week 2. Tuesday 3 February: Andrews Cup Meet (Y5 & 6) 

Week 2. Friday 6 February: CaSSSA Lead Up Meet 2 

Week 3. Friday 13 February: AHS Twilight Age Championships 

Week 4. Friday 20 February: CaSSSA Lead Up Meet 3 

Week 5. Friday 27 February: CaSSSA Lead Up Meet 4 

Week 6. Wednesday 4 March: CaSSSA Cup Team Breakfast 

Week 6. Thursday 5 March: CaSSSA Cup Championships   

Further details are available on the AHS App. If you have any questions, contact Miss Murdoch at Swimming@ahs.qld.edu.au.

Dear Parents and Caregivers

We need your help to keep our tuckshop running smoothly! Volunteering is a wonderful way to support our school community, meet other parents, and make a real difference for our students.

When: You’ll be placed on a rotating roster depending on the number of groups available for your day.

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM on your rostered day.

What’s involved: Assisting with food preparation, serving students, and helping with general operations. No experience needed—we’ll provide guidance and training.

If you can spare a day or two each term, please email FoodService@ahs.qld.edu.au to sign up. Even one shift makes a big impact!

Thank you for considering this opportunity to support our school. We truly appreciate your time and effort.

Ms. Katie Castle (Food Service Manager)

Looking for a Christmas gift that feels thoughtful, joyful and full of meaning? Our limited edition All Hallows’ Foundation wine, The Harmony, is the perfect way to share the spirit of the season.

Carefully crafted in partnership with Krupinski Vineyard and St Judes Estate, this beautiful fifth-vintage field blend has become a special tradition for many All Hallows’ families. Each bottle celebrates connection, generosity and the Mercy values that bind us together.

By purchasing a pack or case for your own table or gifting one to someone special, you are supporting the Catherine McAuley Bursary Fund, helping open opportunities for young women who would not otherwise be able to attend All Hallows’. It is a gift that feels good, pairs perfectly with festive celebrations and makes a real difference.

It is a lovely wine to enjoy during the festive season, with a balanced flavour that pairs well with summer celebrations. Whether shared at your festive table or wrapped up for someone special, The Harmony is a joyful way to give back and spread kindness this Christmas.

Limited packs of 2 and cases of 6 are available. 

Order now and collect this week to toast to harmony, hope and the AHSisterhood this festive season.

Justine Douglas (MNET President)

As we wrap up 2025, I would like to acknowledge the wonderful work our Mothers' Network committee has contributed throughout the year. Our aim is to provide hospitality and support to our school and extended community, bringing people together and fostering inclusiveness and belonging and we have certainly done that.

In the spirit of Catherine McAuley, we know how to host a morning tea, organise parent drinks, and run mothers’ retreats. The funds raised by the Mothers’ Network enable us to support our daughters’ journey through AHS, and we work closely with the school to identify the projects that best support their needs.

While our hospitality is very visible at All Hallows’, MNET is more than cups of tea and sandwiches. Our silent achievers include our Mercy Action group, who work selflessly for the wider community, as well as our Care and Concern team, who support families in need within our school community.

To our wonderful committee and the volunteers who help us throughout the year—thank you. Your generosity, time, and spirit make a meaningful difference, and we are truly grateful.

Have a safe Christmas with your loved ones.

A heartfelt thanks for Parent / Adult Supervision for AHS Mercy Action Activities for 2025

A big thankyou to all members of the parent and caregiver community within AHS that have helped support our girls in several Mercy Action endeavours through 2025.

Whilst the girls are involved in a broad range of Mercy Action activities parental support is only required for a small number of these.

For 2025 parental and caregiver support has been provided for Jimmie’s Van, Eddie’s Van and the Brisbane Central State School Tutoring.

The feedback from parents and caregivers involved in these activities has been overwhelmingly positive and because of this enthusiastic support we have been able to support the number of activities available for the girls in these endeavours.

For anyone interested in supporting these Mercy Action endeavours in 2026 details can be found on the AHS app or website.

Most of these duties are a commitment of only 1 to 1.5 hours at a time and can be once a term, once a semester or you can fill as many spots as we have available!

Many of the rosters work around busy parents and are either before or after school time.

Let us know if you are interested in joining us to support:

• Eddie’s Van - requires support before school (6:30 until 8:00 am on Tuesday AND Thursday mornings)
   
• Jimmie’s Van - requires support before school (6:00 until 8:00 am on Wednesday mornings)
   
• Brisbane Central State School supervision – requires support after school (Thursdays 3:15 until 4:30 pm)

Please note that a Blue Card is required for you to be involved in this supervision of our girls.

If you are interested in helping or have any enquiries, please email our Mercy Action Parent Co-ordinator Cassandra Griffin on cg.gd@outlook.com. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to add your name to the Patchwork of Sisterhood quilt — a bespoke legacy piece celebrating the Centenary of the Past Pupils’ Association and will include the names of past pupils who attended AHS between 1925 and 2025. It will be gifted to the School and permanently displayed on campus.

The quilt features a bookshelf inspired theme and will be custom created by award winning artisans from hundreds of hand embroidered book spines personalised with the name and graduation year of past pupils. What a wonderful gesture to include your graduate of 2025 as they begin their journey as a member of the ongoing AHSisterhood and past pupil community.

purchase a patch here – Patchwork of Sisterhood: Buy Your Book Spine  

Patch numbers are limited, so we encourage you to secure yours now! 

Some images of the quilt in progress below.

Please join us for the PPA AGM, Monday December 1 2025

As the All Hallows’ Past Pupils’ Association looks forward to its next 100 years it is the perfect time to get involved in shaping the future of the ‘Sisterhood’ and to play your part in keeping the spirit and intent of the Association alive in maintaining and growing connections, networking, events, fundraising and of course, friendship.

We invite you to join us here at All Hallows’ for the 2025 AGM at 6.30pm on Monday December 1 in the Potter Room, Level 4, Potter Building, when all Executive and General Committee positions will become available. 

Christmas drinks and nibbles to follow!

Please consider nominating as new faces, fresh ideas and energy are very welcome!

For more information contact Ms Tron Fisher, outgoing Past Pupils’ Association President, on 0400 273 174.

Ms. Maree Nugent (Past Pupils’ 100 Year Celebration Liaison)