Newsletter

Dear Parents and Caregivers

As we approach International Women’s Day on 8 March, we do so in a year of particular significance for our community as we celebrate our school’s 165th anniversary. This anniversary invites us to reflect with gratitude and clarity on the progress made toward gender equality and on the enduring purpose that has shaped our school since 1861. From the beginning, our mission has been to educate young women to embrace their future with confidence and self-knowledge, and to make a difference in our world by living Mercy. That commitment, first imagined by Catherine McAuley in Dublin almost 200 years ago and then by our founding Sisters of Mercy here in Brisbane, remains both their legacy and our responsibility as we continue to lead this legacy of Mercy and justice.

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, #Give to Gain, speaks powerfully to our Mercy tradition. Catherine McAuley understood nearly two centuries ago that “No work of Charity can be more productive of good to society than the careful instruction of women.” When we invest in women, when we support one another with courage and compassion, the whole world gains. Across our faith life, curriculum, cocurricular programs and social justice initiatives, we seek to form AHSisters who know their worth, who stand with integrity, and who lead for and with others. In doing so, we honour our past and step with hope into a future shaped by justice, joy and service.

I look forward to gathering tomorrow morning with our community at the Past Pupils’ Association’s annual International Women’s Day Breakfast and to celebrating this important occasion together. I also extend my sincere thanks to our Past Pupils’ Association President, Claire Cummins, the Executive, the organising team, guest speakers and our generous sponsors for their leadership and commitment in bringing this annual highlight to life.

International Women’s Day is a significant moment for our All Hallows’ community because it invites us to look honestly at the world as it is, and to consider how we are called to respond as a Mercy school.

The 2026 International Women’s Day theme — “Balance the Scales.” — shifts the focus beyond celebration towards responsibility. It is is a call to act on the structural inequalities that shape women’s lives.

Domestic and family violence is a national crisis. Women in the justice system continue to face significant barriers to housing and employment. Financial insecurity continues to trap women in unsafe situations.

We know change is possible. When communities invest in prevention, when workplaces shift culture, when safe housing is funded and accessible—the scales begin to tip.

Closely connected to this is the global campaign message “Give to Gain,” which highlights that when we invest in women — through education, opportunity, advocacy and support — the benefits extend far beyond individuals to families, communities and societies. This emphasis on generosity and shared responsibility resonates strongly with our Mercy understanding that justice is relational and collective, not individual or self‑serving. 

While Catherine McAuley lived in a very different time, her response to injustice offers us a lens through which to engage with this year’s theme. She recognised that dignity and opportunity must be actively protected, particularly for those who are vulnerable or excluded. In the Mercy tradition, faith is expressed not only in belief, but in practical action — in noticing need, standing alongside others and working for lasting change.

At All Hallows’, International Women’s Day encourages us to reflect on how we are forming young women who understand both their rights and their responsibilities. Through leadership opportunities, mentoring, advocacy and community engagement, we seek to empower students to use their voices with courage, compassion and integrity. We are called to ensure that justice is not an abstract idea, but something lived out in daily choices and relationships.

Eliza Evans Year 12RML

Throughout the beginning of Term 1, our Year 12 Religion, Meaning, and Life class has been preparing a liturgy about how we can live out our school values in the season of Lent. We did this by finding scripture passages that speak on each of our school values and reflecting on how this relates to Lent. As we read, discussed, and reflected, we realised that these passages offered practical invitations to shape our attitudes, our relationships, and the way we show up in our community. This informed our key message for our liturgy: instead on focusing on what we should give up, we should focus on what we can take on this Lent. 

At the conclusion of our liturgy, we had an opportunity to think on this and make a commitment by writing it down. This was a wonderful and reflective way to spend our morning, and I have found that setting an intention for my Lent has inspired me to make a difference in my community. 

For me, the reflection on Psalm 30:5 resonated most deeply. Its reminder that “weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” encouraged us to release anger, resentment, and negativity - things that quietly weigh us down - and instead, turn our attention toward the good that is already present in our world. Carrying this message into Lent has inspired me to approach each day with more gentleness and to look for ways I can make a positive difference in my community.

Year 5 students recently took part in their retreat that introduced them to the importance of service and community within our Mercy tradition. Throughout the day, students were encouraged to reflect on how they can act with mercy, kindness and compassion, and how living out our shared values strengthens relationships within our school and beyond. Through prayer, discussion and symbolic activities, students explored what it means to serve others and to recognise the gifts they have been given.

The retreat concluded with a beautiful liturgy held in the All Hallows’ Chapel, celebrating the students’ learning and reflections. Parents and grandparents were warmly invited to attend and join the cohort in prayer. Many family members also generously supported the retreat by helping students knit squares, which will be made into blankets for those in need. This activity marked the students’ first Mercy Action activity, bringing faith, service and community together in a practical and meaningful way.

I share with you the final prayer of the liturgy:

We pray for hearts shaped by love, 

so we may welcome others generously and offer forgiveness. 

We pray for respect in all our words and actions, 

shown through kindness and joy in every encounter. 

May we continue to grow as a community 

that reflects Christ’s compassion in all we do.

Amen

Our School and Social Justice Captains represented All Hallows' at the annual Iona Justice and Mission (JAM) Expo last Monday. They gathered with students from six other Catholic schools to showcase and share ideas about how we "do" Mission at each of our schools. From immersions to fundraisers to awareness-raising of social justice issues, the conversations flowed. 

Our students spoke enthusiastically about our extensive Mercy Action program, our whole school project and our support for Reconciliation and environmental justice. They also heard from Vinnies and Rosies about programs they run to foster leadership skills and meet the needs of those most vulnerable in our community.

Wednesday 11 March

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

The prayer will be led by Cathy Jensen’s Year 10 class and will focus on the theme “International Women’s Day”. 

All are welcome.

Please note there is no onsite parking.
 

Wednesday 18 March

Loretto House Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel at 8:00am.

The Mass will focus on the theme "United in Spirit, Alive in Action" 

All are welcome.

Please note there is no onsite parking.

Welcome to Teaching and Learning in 2026. We remain deeply committed to fostering a supportive, enriching environment in which every student is known, challenged and supported to grow. Our holistic approach, guided by the AHS Teaching for Learning Framework, centres on academic care, responsive practice and engaged professionalism. In particular, our commitment to Responsive Practice ensures that each student’s learning journey is acknowledged and supported. Teachers design learning experiences with clear intentions, regularly check for understanding and adjust their instruction in response to evidence of learning. Through the work of our Inclusive Learning Department and the provision of Personalised Learning Plans, we thoughtfully respond to students’ diverse needs — whether through varied instructional strategies, flexible learning environments or tailored resources. Our goal is simple: that every student thrives.

Just as teachers are intentional in their practice, establishing strong routines at home plays an important role in student success. There are many parallels between teaching and parenting, especially when it comes to building good habits early.

You may wish to consider the following:

• Establish routine: Create a consistent schedule for homework, activities and rest.
• Prioritise balance: Ensure time for study, co-curricular involvement and social connection.
• Emphasise self-care: Sleep, nutrition and exercise underpin effective learning.
• Encourage independence: Support your daughter in taking responsibility for decisions and commitments.
• Celebrate growth: Acknowledge effort and progress, not just outcomes.
• Set realistic goals: Work together to set achievable academic and personal targets.
• Maintain a positive mindset: Encourage perseverance and confidence when challenges arise.
• Stay connected: Engage with school events and communicate with teachers when needed.

Reflecting on our Year 12 Progress Interviews that have been occurring this week I am pleased to see so many of these habits enacted in real life.

Alongside strong routines, we remind students that practice makes permanent. Consistent, deliberate practice strengthens understanding and moves learning from temporary recall to lasting mastery. This is most powerful when paired with approaches that make thinking visible — encouraging students to explain their reasoning, reflect on their progress and refine their understanding. When students articulate what they used to think and what they now think, explore ideas through structured questioning, or connect new knowledge to prior learning, they deepen comprehension and sharpen problem-solving skills. Regular practice, thoughtful reflection and clear feedback together build a strong and enduring foundation.

Ultimately, the formation of confident, capable and hope-filled young women is a shared endeavour. When school and home work in partnership, students experience the consistency, encouragement and clarity they need to flourish. We also recognise that the journey is not always smooth. There will be times when learning feels challenging, motivation dips, or personal circumstances weigh heavily. In those moments, please know that you and your daughter are not alone. Our teachers, Heads of Department, Heads of Department and Heads of Year are committed to walking alongside our students and families — not only in times of success, but also in times of uncertainty or difficulty. We encourage open communication and early conversations. Whether the concern is academic, organisational or personal, reaching out allows us to respond with care, perspective and practical support. Together, we can problem-solve, adjust and ensure that every student feels known, supported and valued.

Thank you for your continued partnership and trust. We look forward to working together throughout the year — celebrating growth, navigating challenges and supporting each young woman to become her very best self.

Mr Scott Adamson (Dean of Teaching and Learning)

We are delighted to announce the appointment of the 2026 Student Council representatives. 

Thank you to all students who nominated and participated in the election process. The enthusiasm and courage shown by students willing to lead and serve their peers reflect the strength of our leadership culture. 

Student Council representatives play an important role in championing student voice, modelling our School values and contributing meaningfully to initiatives that shape our community. 

A formal Badge Ceremony will be held in Term 2 to acknowledge and celebrate these appointments. 

We look forward to the year ahead under their leadership. 

Ms Victoria McDonald (Dean of Student Wellbeing)

Last Monday, our Year 7 students packed their bags and headed off to camp. Away from the classrooms and hallways, they faced new challenges and made new connections. Whether it was splashing in the surf, zipping to new heights on the Sugar Glider, or hanging out in the dining room, enduring memories were made and bonds forged and strengthened.

A special thanks to those teaching staff who volunteered their time to not only make camp possible, but a joyous experience for all.

Thank you also to those Year 7 students who have shared their reflections below:                                                                                             

Lizzy McKay (Y7 WH5)

Camp was a very enjoyable experience for us all. It helped us meet girls we hadn’t met and make new relationships and better connections. The activities like The Leap of Faith and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding challenged us to push ourselves, but with empowering words from friends, we achieved things we didn’t think we could before.

Evie Palmer (Y7 LO2)

Our year 7 camp at Alexandra Headlands was one of the best three days I’ll never forget. My favourite activity was the sugar glider, because it was so high and exciting. I loved watching everyone face their fears and complete the course.  I also loved meeting new people in our grade and making new friendships. I definitely think this camp was one of the best!

Aurelia Perera (Y7 TI1)

Year 7 camp is a time that nobody will ever forget. Activities grew friendships, cabins forged bonds and camp empowered all of us to live out our virtues of respect, integrity, courage, confidence, and responsibility in the spirit of AHSisterhood. Thank you to all the teachers who made this camp the most unforgettable experience ever!

Petra Rozis (Y7 TI5)

I look forward to camp every year, being able to connect with others in your cohort through activities, meals and cabin groups. My favourite activities were the Sugar Glider, Leap of Faith and Beach Activities. This experience was full of teamwork, connecting with others, encouragement and bravery. I am very grateful that the teachers and volunteers gave their time for us to have this memorable opportunity. 

Hey AHS!

Week 6 is almost over… crazy. 

As this Sunday is International Women’s Day, I wanted to take a moment to share with you all some of the women who inspire me daily. I'm so lucky to be surrounded by them (and so are all of you!) These incredible women in our community not only drive positive change within our school community, but also beyond the green gates. 

There are so many teachers who inspire me every day. I am especially grateful for one teacher who constantly pushes me out of my comfort zone. She recognises the full potential in our class and encourages each of us to find it within ourselves. She always gives us thoughtful feedback to help us improve, and she spends a lot of her own time outside of class creating extra resources to support our learning. 

I’d also love to celebrate a few Year 12 students whose passion for the environment is so strong it encourages me double‑check whether I’m recycling properly. I truly admire these girls for their determination and strong‑willed mindsets. They remind me that combining hard work with genuine passion will always carry you forward.

And of course, I can’t forget the girls in my homeroom. I think every single one of them deserves to feel proud of who they are, and their kindness they show each day. I want to celebrate them for their endless enthusiasm, and their eagerness to connect with one another. I don’t tell them often enough how lucky I am to see their smiling faces each day. They give me the best possible start to my morning, and inspire me in so many ways. 

I know that each of you has something special that could be celebrated just as proudly.

So, enjoy your day on Sunday, take a moment to tell the women you look up to how much they inspire you, and don’t be afraid to let someone know what a role model they are.

Have the best week! 

Lots of love,

Eva ❤️

Song of the week: “Love is All Around” by We Wet Wet 💙🤍

Research confirms that regular reading is directly related to academic success Australia Reads . We are very pleased that recent Library statistics show our programs are increasing the number of AHS students who identify as “readers.” However, our goal is for all AHS students to “read” regularly. One way that may suit some students to “read” is via audiobooks. Many reports indicate that audiobooks can be an excellent reading option for many students. High School Kids Barely Read. Could Audiobooks Reverse That Trend? In this article Dr. Molly Ness states: “Audio eliminates the burden of lifting the words off the page. When fluency is low, kids can’t get to the meatier stuff of comprehension.” Research published in the Journal of Neuroscience has concluded that stories—whether listened to or read—stimulate the same cognitive and emotional areas of the brain. Students can achieve the recommended goal of reading at least 20 minutes most days by listening to audiobooks, such as when travelling to and from school, when walking the dog, even while helping with chores.

All Hallows’ subscribes to two digital book platforms that include audiobooks. Students can access audiobooks on their school tablet by clicking the Sora and the Eplatform icons at: https://allhallows.libguides.com/ Students can also access these apps on mobile phones, if they have one; they just need to install the Sora and/or Eplatform apps, login identifying their school as All Hallows; and using their AHS Microsoft login and password (the same login and password they use to login to their school tablet). Students should contact Library staff if they need assistance accessing audiobooks.

Many activities are offered on Potter Library, Level 1, outside of class time that are helpful for student wellbeing.

• Monday and Tuesday lunchtimes: The Forum, is open for quiet reading (new trial).
• Wednesday lunchtimes: Crochet for Care top of Reading Stairs, Esports bottom of Reading Stairs (Nintendo). 
• Friday lunchtimes: Writers Workshop - The Forum.
• Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday lunchtimes: Makerspace Plus - Research Area 1.4. Mainly students Years 7 to 12.
• Monday to Friday, 7.30 to 8.20 and lunchtimes, Makerspace - drop in or there are many organised activities offered at lunchtimes. This is mainly Years 5 to 8, but sometimes older students.
• Monday to Friday: there is always a jigsaw on the Library counter; many board games and card games are available for student use. 
• Many students play online games, especially on the larger screens near the print zone and beside Research Area 1.4. AHS has a subscription to Minecraft Education which all students can access via the Company Portal.
• Dungeons and Dragons (new trial).
• Plus, there are many books in Potter Library and reading is great for well-being!

See some lovely photos of students engaged in many of these activities at Potter Library Level 1. Potter Library Level 2 is a space for quieter research, reading and study activities. 

On Thursday 19 February, our Year 10 students took part in a rich and engaging excursion, visiting Holland Park Mosque and the Chung Tian Buddhist Temple in Priestdale. This annual experience forms a key element of the Year 10 Religion Curriculum which focuses on World Religions. This immersive encounter with people of other faith traditions brings students to a fuller understanding of and empathy for people of all religious groups.

At Chung Tian Temple, students were warmly welcomed by members of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist community. They participated in guided meditation and Tai Chi, gaining firsthand insight into the Buddhist practices of mindfulness, stillness, and holistic wellbeing. The temple was alive with colour and activity as it continues to celebrate Lunar New Year, providing a vibrant backdrop to the students’ learning.

At Holland Park Mosque, students observed the midday prayers, experiencing the reverence and rhythm of Islamic worship during the sacred month of Ramadan. Faith leaders shared insights into the significance of fasting, prayer, and community during this important time in the Islamic calendar. Students were encouraged to ask questions, and many commented on how meaningful it was to witness the devotion and hospitality of the community.

Throughout the day, students engaged in genuine interreligious dialogue - listening, reflecting, and encountering beliefs and practices different from their own. These experiences will directly support their upcoming assessment, enabling them to draw on authentic, real‑world examples as they deepen their understanding of the world’s major religions.

More importantly, the excursion nurtured respect, curiosity, and empathy - qualities at the heart of education for justice and peace. We thank both communities for generously welcoming our students and contributing to a memorable and formative learning experience.

Term 1 - Year 9 Dance

Nicola Pierrepont (Dance Teacher)

This term, our Year 9 Dance students have been immersed in a vibrant program of multicultural dance workshops as they prepare for their upcoming assessment. Exploring a range of global styles, students developed both technical skills and cultural understanding through hands-on learning experiences. They mastered the fast footwork, tambourine rhythms and energetic spirit of the traditional Italian Tarantella, and demonstrated impressive teamwork and timing by learning the Filipino Tinikling dance, carefully navigating the rhythmic tapping of wooden poles. 

We were delighted to welcome two inspiring guest artists to work with the students this term. Heimana from Heilani Productions guided students through expressive Polynesian Hula, focusing on storytelling through movement and the importance of connection to nature and music. Drea from Dance Masala led an energetic semi-classical Indian Bollywood workshop, encouraging strong performance skills, dramatic storytelling and expressive hand gestures. 

Throughout the term, students have shown enthusiasm, resilience, and growing confidence as they celebrate dance traditions from around the world. 

QUT Science and Engineering challenge

Darcey Cutler, Aniela Johnson, Luciana Josey, Trinity Knezevic, Gracie Vierow and Lucinda Wu (2026 Science Ambassadors)

The Science and Engineering challenge is a day-long competition designed to provide Year 10 students with experiences in science and engineering. Working in a team, we faced a variety of challenges such as designing and constructing specific structures, problem solving, and coding to send secret messages.

Last Thursday, a group of passionate Year 10 students participated in the annual QUT Science and Engineering Challenge. All Hallows’ achieved an impressive result, finishing in a close second place to Brisbane Boys’ College. A standout achievement of the day came from the team competing in the Eco-Habitech challenge, who set a remarkable new record exceeding the previous by an extraordinary 200 points.

In this challenge, students worked collaboratively in teams of three to four to design and construct a model house capable of withstanding the extreme conditions of an Antarctic environment. Their structure was required to collect as much water as possible, accommodate a small all‑terrain vehicle, resist strong winds, and support significant weight on its roof. The All Hallows’ team excelled across all criteria, successfully holding five of the six weight levels, collecting over half a litre of water, and passing all three wind tests. Their design remained compact, efficient, and impressively engineered using only limited materials.

Year 12 Geography students are set for success in their IA2 task this term after two great days of data collection over on Minjerribah/Stradbroke Island during week 4. It was great to see productive group work and leadership in action as students gathered soil samples, tested Ph levels, assessed ground cover and canopy cover in two different locations, ably assisted by three knowledgeable tutors from UQ along with Social Science teachers Mr James, Ms Wilson, and Dr Wade.

It was an overwhelmingly positive learning experience, and we even had the opportunity for relaxation — swimming at Cylinder Beach, eating gelato, and battling it out in a trivia competition (even beating the UQ tutors!).

Jennita Tantinimitchok (Gorry Culture Captain)

On Friday 20th February, Gorry House brought the glamour of the Year 12 Formal into house assembly with our very own “Paper Prom”. Each Home Group was challenged to design the most creative, stylish and eye-catching dress using only coloured crepe paper and newspaper - all within ten minutes.

As the clock counted down, the energy in Potter Room was electric. Conversations buzzed with ideas about silhouettes, accessories and runway poses. Some students took charge of clutch design and construction, others crafted corsages and statement details, while a selected model prepared to walk the runway. The collaboration and enthusiasm within each group were unmistakable.

Our judges - Ms Childs, Ms Dineen, Ms Hudson and Ms Gatt - were impressed not only by the designs, but by the teamwork they witnessed. Everywhere you looked, students were contributing in meaningful ways, fully invested in bringing their group’s vision to life.

The fashion parade began with a confident start from our Year 6 model, followed by each Home Group showcasing their creations. As each model stepped onto the runway, Gorry staff and students clapped and cheered in support. Every walk, pose and twirl reflected personality and pride. The sense of belonging and celebration in the room was undeniable.

Choosing a winner was no easy task. After much deliberation, GO5 was announced as the winner for their stunning bow-covered train gown. The Year 6 group placed second, with GO2 awarded third place.

To close the assembly, all models returned to the runway for one final strut, a fitting finale to a joyful and spirited event. “Paper Prom” was a wonderful reminder of the fun, creativity and community that define Gorry House. We can’t wait to continue building this momentum at our upcoming assemblies - dodgeball and cake decorating are next!

Services

The Careers office is located on Potter Library Level 3 - Students and Parents are most welcome to make an appointment to discuss student’s Career Development and Vocational Training using the contact details provided, we offer a range of career development services to all students.

The Careers Office continues to be led by Ms Kylie Galway during Term 1. Students are encouraged to reach out for guidance or appointments via Careers@ahs.qld.edu.au or Kylie.Galway@ahs.qld.edu.au.

Resources

• The Careers Moodle Page: Course: Careers (ahs.qld.edu.au) information and resources for students and their families.
• Compass Career News 
• Options Careers Bulletin: https://optionscareers.com.au/welcome/AHS and sign in using the password AHS.
• Study Work Grow website Study Work Grow – Career Education

Key Dates - check the websites for more information

Opportunities - visit the websites for more information:

Axiom College:

Axiom College is excited to offer senior students a valuable headstart in the health industry through a Certificate II in Health Support Services (HLT23221), delivered during the 2026 school holiday periods. This nationally recognised qualification provides students with hands‑on experience, practical skills, and a meaningful pathway into one of Australia’s fastest‑growing sectors.

Designed for students in Years 10–12, the program is VETiS funded for eligible students, includes a free pair of scrubs, and allows participants to earn up to 4 QCE points—making it an ideal option for ATAR students or those unable to access VET courses during the school term.

With small class sizes, industry‑relevant training, and flexible holiday scheduling at the  Milton Campus, this program gives students the chance to invest in their future while keeping the school year free for academic commitments.
 

Scholarships:

The Hansen Scholarship Program – Year 12 University of Melbourne
Value: Up to $108,000 AUD
Open Date: February 2, 2026 - Close Date: March 30, 2026 Find out more

ANU - Tuckwell scholarship 2027
Click here and click on Reference Documents to check out the Australian National University (ANU) 2027 Tuckwell Scholarship guide.
 

News:

QUT Medicine planned to start in 2028
QUT’s Medicine Program, comprising of a Bachelor of Medical Sciences and a Doctor of Medicine is under development and pending accreditation. They are working towards a first intake for Semester 1, 2028. For the latest information about the program visit the QUT School of Medicine page or check the Medicine FAQs article. 

UQ Fast-track into medicine
The Bachelor of Medical Science / Doctor of Medicine is a vertical dual degree that offers a direct entry pathway into medicine at UQ. It allows students to gain 2 qualifications in 6 years. They will complete 2 years pre-medicine study, followed by the 4-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program. Read more in the 2027 study guide.

Ms Kylie Galway (Acting Head of Department – Careers and Vocational Education)

The All Hallows' Dance Intensive Weekend was a two-day event where over 200 dancers from the Primary, Junior and Senior Dance Ensembles participated in a range of dance workshops, working hard to establish the Dance Program's choreographic repertoire for the 2026 season. 

Led by talented choreographers and industry professionals who delivered challenging, dynamic choreography, our students embraced this opportunity to further their technical and performance skills. The weekend fostered a wonderful sense of teamwork, creativity and dedication, setting a strong foundation for an exciting year ahead in the Dance Program.

The annual Arts Festival is an internal eisteddfod utilising external adjudicators and encompasses the genres of Instrumental and Vocal Music, Speech & Drama, Dance and Photography. In 2026, the Arts Festival will be split over two weeks in Term 2 and Term 3.

• Week 1: 18-22 May 2026 - Instrumental Music (Instrumental Solos, Concerto & Instrumental Ensembles)
• Week 2: 27-31 July 2026 - Speech & Drama, Vocal Music, Dance, Photography

Online registrations for Instrumental Music entries are now open on the TASS Parent Lounge (Events & Payments Tab)

Registrations close:

• Monday, 23 March
• 12 noon
• No late registrations will be accepted.

All information, including the rules and draft schedule, is available on the Performing Arts page of Moodle (Arts Festival Tab).

For all performances (solo or group), the cost is $15.00 per registration (plus any associated accompaniment fees if applicable). Only one member of each group is to complete the group registration. 

Ms Annabelle Kemish (Acting Head of Culture)

Sarah Kennedy & Sophia Restall (Basketball Captains)

Recently, AHS had the opportunity to compete in the CBSQ 3x3 Basketball competition, and it proved to be a fantastic experience for everyone involved. AHS proudly entered two teams made up of students from Years 8–12.

Throughout the day, all players displayed outstanding effort, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The fast‑paced nature of 3x3 basketball demands quick decision-making, communication, and resilience, and both teams demonstrated these qualities consistently.

Our Division 1 team performed strongly, finishing 5th overall against a very competitive field of school teams. Even more impressive was the incredible effort from our Division 2 team, who finished 1st place in their division. Considering the team’s oldest player is only in Year 9, and they were competing against students in Years 11 & 12, this result is a remarkable achievement.

We are excited to build on this momentum as we move into the CaSSSA season in Term 3, as well as further CBSQ competitions later in Terms 3 and 4.

A huge thank you to Mr Bright for organising this opportunity (and for his bus‑driving skills!) and to Ms Broad, who coached both teams throughout the day with enthusiasm and unwavering support.

Lucia Hoffman & Violette Smith (Fencing Captains)

We are your 2026 Fencing Captains, Violette and Lucia! We are so excited to start this year’s fencing season. For those who wish to join our program and share our love of this vigorous but thrilling sport, don’t forget to register. Training is from 3pm to 5:30pm in AHS Mercy Hall every Monday afternoon.

We highly encourage you to give it a go, meet the team, and hopefully join us in competition where we fence against multiple other school teams. Competitions begin in Term 2 on Saturdays – keep an eye out on the School App for all information and updates!

Congratulations to AHS Fencer, Angela Choi (Y8 CO2) who achieved an outstanding result at the 2026 QFA Junior Fencing Championships, winning the gold medal in the Women’s Foil. The victory was especially meaningful, as she succeeded against competitors she had long aimed to surpass.

Beyond her technical improvement, Angela has shown impressive personal growth, resilience, and self-belief throughout the season.

Sincere thanks go to the AHS Fencing coaches for their ongoing support and guidance, which have played a significant role in Angela’s development.

Congratulations to Angela on a truly exceptional achievement.

Avalily Abernethy & Olivia Argent (Netball Captains)

AHS Netball is looking forward to welcoming all students back on court for our Grading Squad Sessions, which will take place on Monday 16 March and Tuesday 17 March during each age group’s allocated training session. These sessions are compulsory and will involve provisional teams competing in a round robin format. For further detail regarding the grading process, families are encouraged to refer to the Netball Handbook available via the School App.

Thank you to all students who nominated and trialled for our 2026 Vicki Wilson teams. Please note that AHS will be selecting two Cup teams (Years 10-12) and two Shield teams (Years 7-9). Teams will be announced on Friday 13 March, with training for successful students commencing on Wednesday 25 March.

A reminder of the following induction sessions:

• Beginner Umpires – Tuesday 10 March at lunchtime (students will be contacted directly).
• Student Coaches – Monday 9 March at 6:00pm at AHS (students have been contacted directly).

For parents interested in undertaking a Team Manager role this season, please complete the Manager EOI available on the School App.

We look forward to seeing all players in attendance and ready to go in Week 8.

Tessa Gibbons & Keva Robinson (Swimming Captains)

Congratulations to Marialuisa O’Rourke (Y9 WH3) who recently competed at the Queensland Surf Lifesaving Championships. Lulli had a fantastic weekend of competition, winning silver in the U15 Female Cameron Relay, bronze in the U15 Female Ocean Surf Teams and making state finals in the U15 Ironwoman and Individual Swim races. Congratulations Lulli!

Charlee Rossberg & Kate Bell (Tennis Captains)

Despite a run of wet weather and several match cancellations, our All Hallows’ tennis players have continued to show wonderful enthusiasm, resilience, and teamwork. Their positive attitude on and off the court has been a highlight of the season so far, and we are incredibly proud of the effort and spirit shown across all year levels. We have seen this reflected in their results with wins recorded by our Open and Senior A teams, as well as wins across our Intermediate, Junior and Primary programs.

Our major Tennis PSG Fundraiser will take place at the Bunnings Newstead BBQ on Saturday, 7 March and we would love to see as many families as possible come along to support AHS Tennis. Whether you’re grabbing a sausage sizzle or simply stopping by to say hello, your presence makes a real difference.

Come down to Bunnings Newstead and show your support for AHS Tennis!

On Friday, 20 February, we had the pleasure of welcoming our Year 5, Year 7 and new families to our New Families Welcome Event. 

Throughout the evening, families heard from our Foundation, Parents and Friends, and Mothers’ Network, along with Mrs Catherine O’Kane, Principal, who reflected on the many ways our community groups strengthen connection and enrich school life. Each shared how families can become involved and find their place within our vibrant community.

The evening concluded in the Piazza over drinks and canapés, where parents and caregivers had the opportunity to meet one another, connect with staff and volunteers, and begin building the friendships that make our All Hallows’ community so special.

If you were unable to attend and would like to learn more about ways to connect, we warmly invite you to reach out to CommunityRelations@ahs.qld.edu.au.

Term 1 is rapidly disappearing as the weeks start to tick by and the new AHSisters start to find their feet amongst the hallowed AHS halls. Your P&F is hard at work engaging, supporting, encouraging and planning great ways to get involved in the life of the AHS community.

Meetings of the PSGs, MNET and other groups at AHS are taking place and it is marvellous to see really strong attendances with new interested folks coming along. You are all champions!

Year 5, 7 and New Parent Welcome Function

P&F Vice President Mat Lynch and Mothers’ Network President Justine Douglas took to the panel session on 20 February to share their experiences and highlight the value of engagement with the community. Reflecting on the event, Mat said:

“It was wonderful to see over 100 new parents welcomed to All Hallows’ at our welcome function. The P&F and Mothers’ Network were pleased contribute as part of the panel, sharing experiences and supporting families as they begin their journey with the school – encouraging everyone to consider ‘just one thing’ they might do to get involved.”

Thanks to the parents and caregivers who expressed interest in learning more about the various PSGs, MNET and the options for community engagement at AHS. We will be in touch soon.

Open Day BBQ Volunteers

A thousand thanks to the many volunteers who came forward to help out at the Open Day BBQ. AHS parents and caregivers came forward in such numbers that we were almost oversubscribed! What a great result. It was a great evening with fun, engagement, community building and the heady smell of BBQ lingering across the Terrace.

The PSG stalls were also really well attended and garnered a lot of interest from prospective parents who wanted to know how things worked at AHS and what opportunities there were for their daughters. A huge day to promote the school and its community, sporting and cultural programs.

The Sisters in Spaces will focus on urban design and related industries, including architecture, the built environment, urban planning, and construction management.

Women from our AHS Sisterhood are reshaping the spaces where we live, work and connect. Across architecture, planning and construction, they are redefining the narrative and building the cities of the future. 

Save the date and join us at Sisters in Spaces as we explore the industries designing tomorrow.

Keep an eye on this section for more details and registrations!

Check out the Past Pupils Association Merchandise Collection Merchandise Collection – All Hallows' School Limited Shop for a range of inspired gifts, homewares and mementos... to use, to give or to treasure. 

All funds raised are donated back to the School and other charitable projects.

Ms Carla Zafiriadis (Past Pupils Engagement & Development Officer)