ST CATHERINE’S SCHOOL MAGNOLIA MAGAZINE | 2026
CELEBRATING OLD GIRLS FOR 170 YEARS
WELCOME
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A community that lasts a lifetime In March, we were delighted to welcome alumni back to school for our Jane Barker Luncheon. Even though these graduates left St Catherine’s over 50 years ago, it is still home to them. They love this place, and they belong here.
When you pause to consider this, it is a remarkable legacy. For 170 years, St Catherine’s has been a place where girls have found a place to learn, to form connections and to discover who they are. This sense of belonging does not end at graduation. Wherever life may take our Old Girls, St Catherine’s remains a place of welcome and support, a place that continues to hold them. We see this lived out
with gratitude on the women who have shaped our story. We begin, of course, with Mrs Jane Barker, who, with conviction and purpose, laid the foundation for what would become St Catherine’s: a school committed to educating young women of character and intellect, ready to make a meaningful contribution to the world. Since 1856, she has
“ You are part of this story. I encourage you to reconnect,
been joined in this story by thousands of students, staff and families, each leaving their mark in ways both seen and unseen. Every girl who has walked through our gates has helped shape the School into what it is today. It is this shared story that gives St Catherine’s its strength. It connects the past, present and future, and it reminds us that belonging here has no endpoint. As we look ahead, we do so with confidence and with care. We honour those who have come
in the many Old Girls who return to us as staff, parents and mentors. Their presence speaks to the strength of their connection to this community. St Catherine’s is not simply where they were educated; it remains a place where they belong. At the same time, I am mindful of those who may not have returned since they left. For some, the School may feel different, or perhaps distant.
to attend a reunion or our upcoming Magnolia Fair, and to experience again what it means to be part of St Catherine’s. You will always be welcome here.
To you, I offer both reassurance and invitation. You are part of this story. I encourage you to reconnect, to attend a reunion or our upcoming Magnolia Fair, and to experience again what it means to be part of St Catherine’s. You will always be welcome here. This year provides a particularly meaningful opportunity to do so, as we celebrate 170 years of our School. As part of these celebrations, we have taken time to reflect
before us by remaining true to who we are and by continuing to invest in the lives of the girls in our care. For all who have been part of St Catherine’s, and for all who will come, this will always be a place of learning, of belonging and of enduring connection. In Christo Thesauri Sapientiae et Scientiae.
Ms Deb Magill Headmistress
4 JANE BARKER LUNCHEON
IN 1976...
TREASURED MEMORIES, NEW BEGINNINGS
488 students enrolled overall There were just 33 girls in Year 12 (or Sixth Form as it was known at the time). 120th Birthday Celebrations St Catherine’s celebrated its 120th birthday with a Thanksgiving Service at St Andrew’s Cathedral, a Family Reunion Pool Party, a Fete Day complete with a Historical Procession from Bondi Junction and a Picnic Day. A New Timetable A new 10-day timetable with six 50-minute periods each day was introduced to bring a more consistent approach to learning. Ensemble Group A new Ensemble Group was formed for the Thanksgiving Service in March and stayed active throughout the year, even providing accompaniment for the performance of The Fire Maid on Junior Play Night. Clubs and Choirs Michelle de Roubaix from Bronte won first place at what was then called the Clubs and Choirs Evening. Athletics Carnival Record After a full day of competition, Carolyn Martin managed to establish a new school record of 5ft 2.5in in high jumping. Honouring our Bishop Bishop Hulme-Moir was made an Officer in the General Division of the Order Of Australia.
This year’s Jane Barker Luncheon, which celebrates alumni who graduated 50 years ago or more, held special significance. The event began in Jane Barker Hall, allowing our Old Girls to enjoy one final performance in the space before it is refurbished into the new Senior Library later this year. Guests enjoyed performances from the K-2 Choir and a preview from the upcoming Senior School musical, Mamma Mia! , before Headmistress Ms Magill shared details about the Hall’s future. “The plans look absolutely gorgeous,” Carol said. “Jane Barker Hall was incredibly special to us, and I’m already looking forward to coming back to see the new space.” Known simply as “the Hall” during their school days, Jane Barker Hall holds countless memories for our Old Girls. Susan Hannan (STC1974) recalled lining up there each morning as classical music played. “We stood until Miss Patterson invited us to sit,” she said. “In the senior years, you were allowed to sit on the balcony cushions. When I finally got to sit up there, I felt so grown up.” Carol also As Carol Johnston (STC1972) climbed the stairs into Jane Barker Hall, she felt a wave of emotion. “I thought this could be the last time I walk up these stairs,” she said. “It was such a special place, so it is a little sad to say goodbye. But I’m also excited for the girls to have such a wonderful new space.”
remembered daily assemblies and House Choir performances. “I clearly remember standing on the choir risers with the other Barker girls,” she said. After the performances, alumni enjoyed lunch together in the MPH, strolling across campus and sharing memories along the way. “Walking past the tennis courts brought back memories of learning to play with Mr Ferguson,” Carol reflected. For Carol, the day was particularly meaningful. After several years of hoping to attend, travel from interstate finally aligned with the school’s 170th anniversary celebrations. “I walked in and saw two girls from my year group,” she said. “It almost brought tears to my eyes.” “ Jane Barker Hall was incredibly special to us, and I’m already looking forward to coming back to see the new space.
Carol Johnston (STC1972)
The luncheon is also special for current students, with Year 4 girls acting as ushers. They took great care in welcoming Old Girls and listening to their stories. Lilah D (Year 4) shared that hearing about life at school in the past was her highlight, while Lucette B (Year 4) was fascinated to learn that dress lengths were once measured with a ruler. “I’d read about that in books,” she said, “but I didn’t know it really happened.”
PART OF HER STORY
JANE BARKER LUNCHEON
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6 GENERATIONS
As always, we were delighted to welcome our generational families to afternoon tea on the Cloisters Lawn for Foundation Day. This year’s gathering felt particularly special as we came together to mark 170 years of St Catherine’s. CELEBRATING WITH OUR GENERATIONS
“ I had such happy times
Back in 1996, St Catherine’s looked a little different as Sneha Balakrishnan (STC2001) stood on the lawn looking up at a towering metal structure as students and staff prepared for the school’s 140th anniversary photograph. At the time, she could not have imagined that years later her own daughter would stand in the very same place, preparing to be part of another milestone photograph as St Catherine’s celebrates 170 years in 2026. “My daughter’s experience today is obviously a little different,” Sneha said, “but it’s so special that she is here for a major milestone, just as I was. I had such happy times at St Cath’s, and it means a lot to be able to give my daughter that same opportunity.” Sneha was not alone in having experienced a previous milestone celebration at St Cath’s. Anna Durbin (Confos, STC1989) recalled being at the school when the 1978
time capsule was created. “I also remember that for the fête that year, my mum collected all these big biscuit tins. She must have had a hundred of them. She painted them all maroon and then carefully painted the crest on each one in gold. She was an amazing artist. I can still picture them lined up around the house, and me trudging past saying, ‘God, Mum, what are you doing?’” While Anna won’t be volunteering to paint biscuit tins at this year’s Magnolia Fair, she is thrilled that her family will once again be part of a milestone celebration at St Cath’s, with her daughter Mariska now in Year 10. “It’s just so exciting,” she said. “There’s one word that always comes to mind when I think about this school: joy. There’s so much fun here, and I’m so glad my daughter gets to be part of that.” Anna also shared her hopes for the next 170 years of the school, adding that “I feel
at St Cath’s, and it means a lot to be able to give my daughter that same opportunity.
Sneha Balakrishnan (STC2001)
like I’m looking into the future when I stand here and see all the possibilities for our girls. So much has changed and developed since my time at the school, and I can only see that continuing.” But while the school will no doubt continue to evolve, some things will always endure, as David Adkins (STC1988) aptly reflected: “Buildings will come and go, but the spirit of this school will remain and be passed on.”
GENERATIONS
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For Sarah Gittoes (Coombs, STC1972), attending St Catherine’s herself and later sending both her daughters here from Kindergarten to Year 12 was not enough. Today, she is delighted to see a third generation of her family at the School, with her granddaughter, Olive H (Year 3), now in Junior School. “I just love everything about this school,” Sarah said. “I’m so happy that my granddaughter is now here and that I get to experience it all over again.” Sarah joined both her daughter, Jessica Hardy (Gittoes, STC2003), and granddaughter Olive at this year’s Foundation Day Assembly, where the three generations took part in a panel discussion reflecting on their shared connection to St Catherine’s. During the conversation, Sarah revealed that her own mother also had a strong connection to the School. “She lived across the road from St Catherine’s, so she came to everything,” Sarah recalled. “She was at every Swimming Carnival at the old pool, wearing a big hat and high heels, even when my daughters were students here. She always One family’s connection to St Catherine’s continues to strengthen with each generation. LIFELONG TIES “ I just love everything about this school. I’m so happy that I get to experience it all over again with my granddaughter.
made a point of cheering on girls whose families perhaps couldn’t be there. She was a lovely example of the people who quietly contribute behind the scenes and help make the St Catherine’s community so special.” Jessica agreed, reflecting on the friendships and sense of belonging she experienced during her years at the School. She spoke about her lifelong friendship with Georgia McGann (Coleman, STC2003), whom she met in Year 7. “When I look back on our friendship, we’ve travelled together, been bridesmaids at each other’s weddings, and now we’re raising children at the same time,” Jessica said. “But it feels like just yesterday we
were sneaking off to take a sibling photo together on school photo day. It’s really special.” The opportunity for Olive to build similar friendships was one of the reasons Jessica chose St Catherine’s when the family returned from London several years ago. “I wanted her to attend a school that celebrates different cultures and backgrounds and where she could form friendships with girls from all walks of life,” Jessica said.
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Sarah Gittoes (Coombs, STC1972)
8 STAFF PROFILES
CIRCLING BACK TO HOME Each year, St Catherine’s graduates return to us as staff. Let’s hear from just a few Old Girls who have found their way back to St Cath’s.
“ It means the world to help educate the next generation of St Cath’s girls. It means creating an environment where young women feel valued, supported and empowered to achieve their potential.
1996
Karen Walton (Lants, STC1996)
Karen Walton (Lants, STC1996)
Joining St Catherine’s in Kindergarten, Karen fondly remembers being welcomed by “a very kind and caring teacher, Mrs Cottrell, who made everyone feel at ease and made learning so enjoyable”. Her favourite teacher, however, was PE teacher Ms Harden. Through her engaging lessons and extensive cocurricular sports program, Ms Harden inspired Karen and her classmates to participate in as many activities as possible. “She was an incredible role model and inspired me to become a PE teacher,” Karen said. “After graduating from university, a full-time PE teaching position became available at St Cath’s. I applied and have never looked back.”
2014
Kaitlin Laycock (STC2014) Learn to Swim Coordinator
Although Kaitlin felt nervous on her first day, she remembers “feeling so welcomed by every girl that I had already made a group of friends by lunchtime”. This sense of openness, she says, still defines the school today. “A St Cath’s girl isn’t afraid to try something new, make new friends and encourage everyone to get involved. You never see a St Cath’s girl sitting by herself.” Now working at the school, Kaitlin values the opportunity to continue fostering this strong sense of community.
She particularly enjoys the fact that two of her favourite teachers remain at St Cath’s: Mr Vancers in English and Ms Hampton in Visual Arts. “English wasn’t my strongest subject, but Mr Vancers was always so bubbly and energetic that it became my favourite subject that year,” she said. “I also really enjoyed Ms Hampton’s art classes. She encouraged me to explore and connect art with my own life.”
STAFF PROFILES
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Ali Hall (STC2010) Technologies Teacher
2010
Ali will never forget the “infectious energy” that her Visual Arts teacher, Ms Pomeroy, brought to every lesson. “At the time, I wasn’t quite sure what I was good at,” she explained. “When I doubted my abilities, Ms Pomeroy consistently encouraged me, building both my confidence and my love of art and learning. She helped me embrace creativity without fear.” This experience led Ali to return to the school as a teacher, where she now strives to offer the same inspiration and support to her own students. “Having worked at several schools, I can confidently say that nothing compares to St Cath’s,” she said. “The essence of the school has remained unchanged, the warmth of the students and staff is immediately evident, as is their pride and commitment to their work. Returning to St Cath’s has felt like coming home.”
“ A St Cath’s girl may not have everything figured out yet, but she’s willing to give things a go, step outside her comfort zone and learn along the way.
Ali Hall (STC2010)
1969
Evangeline Galettis OAM (Barris, STC1969) Archivist Evangeline has remained closely connected to St Catherine’s throughout her life as an Old Girl, parent,
“ It’s been a privilege to be part of St Catherine’s. I am so grateful for my education, the sense of belonging and the strong Christian community here.
teacher, archivist and volunteer. The lifelong friendships and sense of belonging she found as a student inspired decades of service to the School. In recognition of her contribution to education, Evangeline was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). “It’s been a privilege to be part of St Catherine’s. I am so grateful for my education, the sense of belonging and the strong Christian community here, and I’ve always wanted to give back.”
Evangeline Galettis OAM (Barris, STC1969)
10 CONNECTIONS
Exploring pathways beyond St Cath’s
Students gained valuable career insights from St Cath’s alumni at this year’s Careers Beyond St Cath’s event.
Unsure exactly what she wants to do after graduating, Ginger C (Year 11) welcomed the opportunity to hear from professionals across a range of industries at this year’s
alumni, who generously shared insights into their career journeys, industry pathways and experiences beyond school. The discussions provided valuable perspectives across a wide range of fields, helping students broaden their understanding of future study and career opportunities. For Ginger, the opportunity to learn from Old Girls who had once stood in her shoes was particularly meaningful. “It’s so important that St Cath’s is helping us explore our futures and make our own choices about what we need to do to prepare for whichever path we choose,” she said. “It’s especially valuable to hear from St Cath’s Old Girls who were once exactly where I am now.” The opportunity to connect with current students is equally rewarding for alumni. “St Cath’s did so much for me,” Alyssa Stevenson (STC2011) said. “I feel really passionate about giving back to the girls here now and helping them succeed too.”
Careers Beyond St Cath’s evening. “It’s difficult to choose when I’m drawn to lots of different things,” she explained. Held every two years, the event brings together St Catherine’s alumni from diverse career backgrounds to share their experiences and insights with students in Years 10 to 12, helping them explore the many pathways available after school. The evening began with an inspiring keynote address from Old Girl Yasmin London (STC2000). Now a leading voice in digital resilience and education, Yasmin is the Founder and CEO of First Movers Co., an education consultancy that helps organisations navigate rapid workplace, cultural and technological change. Drawing on her broad experience, Yasmin encouraged students to
“ If you follow your heart and want to do good, if you want to create change, you don’t have to be a certain type of person to do that.
embrace uncertainty and approach their futures with confidence. “The best way to succeed is to have the courage to try,” she said. “If you follow your heart and want to do good, if you want to create change, you don’t have to be a certain type of person to do that.” Yasmin also shared her thoughts on preparing for a future increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and innovation. “We need to focus on preserving our minds, our ability to think for ourselves, our independent thought and our curiosity,” she said. “All of those elements are essential to building a life worth living.” Following the keynote, students heard from a diverse panel of St Catherine’s
Yasmin London (STC2000) “
“St Cath’s did so much for me, so I feel really passionate about helping the girls here now succeed too.
Alyssa Stevenson (STC2011)
CONNECTIONS
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Courage to take the helm
We always value the opportunity to welcome St Catherine’s alumni back to campus, particularly when they can share their experiences and offer meaningful advice to our current students.
As part of this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations, we were delighted to welcome Grace Shipway (STC2015),
Grace encouraged students to apply the same mindset at school by supporting one another, embracing teamwork and being willing to step outside their comfort zones. “You never know where those experiences might lead,” she said. We are fortunate that our students are part of such a strong and generous community of St Cath’s girls, where alumni continue to inspire and support the next generation. Giving our students the confidence to step forward with courage and purpose remains at the heart of what we do, and moments like these are a powerful reminder of the deep strength of that shared legacy. “ Being the only woman in the room doesn’t mean you don’t belong there. It means your voice matters and that you bring a different perspective. Let that fuel you. Every single person on the boat has a role and you rely completely on each other, and in return
who spoke to students about competing in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race aboard Love & War as the only woman on the crew. Drawing on her experience, Grace encouraged our girls to back themselves and pursue opportunities, even when they find themselves in unfamiliar or male-dominated environments. “Don’t be afraid to be the only woman in the room, or in my case, the only woman on the boat,” Grace said. While acknowledging the progress that has been made, she noted that many fields, including sport, business, leadership and politics, continue to be dominated by men. “Being the only woman in the room doesn’t mean you don’t belong there,” she told students. “It means your voice matters and that you bring a different perspective. Let that fuel you.” Grace also gave students a glimpse into the realities of offshore sailing, describing four demanding days at sea covering more than 600 nautical miles in one of the world’s toughest ocean races. “You’re at sea for days and the weather can change in an instant,” she explained. “The waves can be enormous. In our case, they were more than five metres high. There were no showers, very little sleep and more than 24 hours of seasickness. It was wild.” Despite the challenges, Grace and her crew finished third overall on handicap, an incredible result that she attributes to teamwork and trust. “We couldn’t have done it alone. Every single person on the boat has a role, and you rely completely on each other,” she said. “In return, you gain experience, friendships, confidence and opportunities you never imagined.”
you gain experience, friendships, confidence and opportunities you never imagined.
Grace Shipway (STC2015)
14 CONNECTIONS
Keeping our traditions alive “
Although it feels like only yesterday that Molly Adamson (STC2025) was sitting in the Research Centre preparing for her HSC exams, she has now graduated and returned to St Cath’s to pass on the 100 Days of Year 12 chant to the next cohort of St Cath’s girls.
The 100 Days of Year 12 celebration, which marks the final stretch of our girls’ journey at St Cath’s before graduation, was introduced in 2024 and has quickly become a much-loved tradition of the Senior School. Written by the Class of 2024, the chant has now been proudly passed on to two successive year groups.
It means a lot to come back and be part of this community, and to have a sense of pride in what I learned from St Cath’s. They made me the person I am, so I’m really grateful.
Molly, who led last year’s chant alongside classmate Amelia Elphick (STC2025), said she felt honoured to share the tradition with the next cohort of graduating St Cath’s girls. “It means a lot to come back and be part of this community, and to feel proud of everything I learned at St Cath’s,” she said. “The School helped make me the person I am today, so I’m really grateful.”
Molly Adamson (STC2025)
next level of the sport. “I have a lot of goals, and I’ve been talking to Rugby Australia about professional contracts at the end of the year,” she said. “I definitely wouldn’t have been able to do that without St Cath’s and my experience as a boarder.” Alongside Rugby, Molly works as a disability support worker, a role she sees as an opportunity to give back to the community. “It doesn’t feel like there’s a lot of kindness in the world when you look at the news,” she said. “Being able to work with people who need a little extra support makes me feel like I’m helping to change that in a small way.” Reflecting on her time at school, Molly said the values that guide her today were shaped during her years at St Cath’s. “St Cath’s taught me that,” she said. “The values I bring to my support work are the same values I learned at St Cath’s.”
She added with a smile, “It does feel a little surreal that I’m old enough to be passing something down to the next group of St Cath’s girls.” As Molly still has many friends at the School and strong connections with her former teachers, she decided not to tell anyone she was returning to teach the chant. The surprise proved well worth it. “There were lots of hugs and lots of surprised faces,” she said. “It was wonderful to come back and be welcomed with open arms.” Even after graduating, Molly said she still feels a strong sense of belonging. “It feels really cool to still be part of the community.” Since leaving St Cath’s, Molly has been busy playing semi-professional Rugby with the University of Sydney while pursuing opportunities at the
CONNECTIONS
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16 ALUMNI STORIES
A STORY TO SHARE We are proud to spotlight just a few of the many talented and accomplished women within our alumni community.
2020
What is your favourite memory from your time at St Cath’s, and why does it still stay with you? Music and performance were always highlights, from learning the first notes on piano with Mrs Birrell in Kindergarten and the Year 6 musical The Little Mermaid , to Senior School events like conducting the Bronte
girls in Clubs and Choirs, and late night rehearsals for the Drama production Girl Asleep . A lot of fond memories also came from the growing independence we had in Year 12, including walks to the cafe after school before a late-night library session with friends during exam season. Art and Drama classes were always a lovely relief from other content- heavy subjects, and gave us a chance to focus on our major works while chatting and listening to music. It’s always enjoyable seeing old
“ I owe most of my enjoyment at St Cath’s to the company of my friends and the amazing teachers I had.
Ella Berckelman (STC2020)
Ella Berckelman (STC2020)
Who was your closest friend at school, and what made that friendship special? I’m lucky that I had a wide group of friends throughout school. A special one is Ella Swan, who I met in pre- school, and we reconnected in Year 5 when she joined St Cath’s. Around school we were nicknamed ‘the Ellas,’ ‘Ella Squared,’ or ‘Swanny and Goose’ (this one is reserved for the Touch Football field, where we were typically in stitches laughing with each other). Growing up with her was so special because we’ve known each other through everything, in the way sisters do. We went from playing dress-ups in pre-school to navigating our early 20s together – with everything in between – and I’m so glad I have her by my side. She just exudes positivity. She’s my biggest support, loves a laugh and loves an adventure.
friends and reminiscing on the fun times we shared. I owe most of my enjoyment at St Cath’s to the company of my friends and the amazing teachers I had. What are you doing now? After St Cath’s, I studied a Nursing degree at the University of Sydney, and I’m now one year into being a Registered Nurse. I work in the Children’s Intensive Care Unit caring for sick babies and children. It’s a challenging but wonderful job, made more special by the incredible people I work with. Outside of shift work, I love travelling, going to concerts and keeping my passions for music and art alive. I plan on heading back to university and working abroad in the coming years.
ALUMNI STORIES
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1994
Michelle Perkins (STC1994)
Who was your closest friend at school, and what made that friendship special? Rather than a single close friend, I had a group of close friends that to this day are still in my circle. I think what made those friendships special is quite simply that we
just enjoyed having fun together, whether it be at lunchtime, on the sports field, messing around in Art class or on the weekend. I don’t think there was ever a question that we wouldn’t know each other forever. What is your favourite memory from your time at St Cath’s, and why does it still stay with you? I have so many wonderful memories of St Cath’s, but honestly one of my fondest memories was Year 10 camp. I had such a blast, even though there was an Armageddon weather event. We were away from our parents for a week; we were able to hang out with girls that were not in our
“ Friendship is the greatest gift that St Catherine’s gave me. My daughter Zoe is now a St Cath’s girl and while we chose St Cath’s for many reasons, at the core of it, I hope she carries those friendships with her throughout her life.
Michelle Perkins (STC1994)
through her own cancer treatment, held the Biggest Morning Tea, to raise funds
close circle of friends and get to know them a little more. I recall just having so much fun, us all being in it together, forging some independence. I’m sure not everyone had such fond memories of that week, but I certainly do. What do you believe are the defining characteristics of a St Cath’s girl? What defines us as St Cath’s girls is that, all these years on, we show up for each other. These are the people who know you better than anyone, who know your parents, and who, in the worst moments of your life, you can call on and they will show up for you. They have done it for me, and I will do it for them. One member of our year group is going through some medical issues at the moment. She is an amazing person and, despite going
for other people impacted by cancer. Of course, there was a group of St Cath’s girls there supporting her. Friendship is the greatest gift that St Catherine’s gave me. My daughter Zoe is now a St Cath’s girl and, while we chose St Cath’s for many reasons, at the core of it, I hope she carries those friendships with her throughout her life. What are you doing now? Now I head up Strategic Partnerships across Australia and New Zealand for a French system integrator called Capgemini. I work with some of the world’s largest tech companies like Microsoft, Amazon and SAP building our partnership to deliver groundbreaking solutions to our clients, which include some of Australia’s best-known brands like Australia Post, ANZ Bank and Coles.
18 ALUMNI NEWS
Alumni news From birthdays to weddings and reunions, our alumni have had much to celebrate over the past year.
for the family, Sneha’s eldest daughter also commenced Year 7 at St Cath’s this year.
Celebrating 130 years of advocacy Members of the Old Girls’ Union were invited to Government House to celebrate the 130th anniversary of the National Council of Women. “It was fascinating to learn about the history of the Council,” said Evangeline Galettis OAM (Barris, STC1969). “Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, spoke about the progress of women’s rights over the years, while acknowledging that challenges such as domestic violence and pay equity remain significant issues today. It was a wonderful afternoon and a very special occasion.”
Sharing the Year 12 experience Just before Year 12 graduation in Term 3 last year, Rachel Greenwood (Jensen, STC1995) celebrated a special full-circle moment, posing for a photo with her daughter, Suzannah Greenwood (STC2025), while both wore their St Catherine’s Year 12 jerseys, three decades apart. Leading on the world stage We were thrilled to learn that Raema von Reiche (STC1975) has been appointed Chef de Mission for the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, a prestigious role that will see her lead the Samoan national team throughout the Games. Fashioning their own path Congratulations to Lauren Nikas (STC2019) and Katerina (Kitty) Ardouin (STC2018), who recently hosted a pop-up event for their ethically made fashion brand, Katali the Label. The pair founded the business together in 2024 and continue to grow the brand through their shared commitment to sustainable and responsible fashion. Launching a new venture Congratulations to Sneha Balakrishnan (STC2001), who recently launched her own consultancy firm after previously leading the legal department at technology company Shippit. Adding to an exciting new chapter
Reunited in Hong Kong It was wonderful to reconnect with our alumni, parent and student community in Hong Kong this June. Headmistress Deb Magill travelled to Hong Kong especially for the occasion, providing a special opportunity to celebrate St Catherine’s 170th anniversary with members of our international community and strengthen the connections that unite St Catherine’s families around the world. A rising star in filmmaking We were delighted to learn that Cleo Baldwin (STC2019) was recently nominated for Young Australian Filmmaker of the Year at the Byron Bay International Film Festival for her comedy-mystery film In the Cold of the Sun which she wrote, directed and produced. Cleo graduated from the Australian Film Television and Radio School
ALUMNI NEWS
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(AFTRS) in 2022, where she served as the student-elected board member and Chair of the Student Representative Council.
just to reconnect with old friends — although hugging those women again was deeply special — but to acknowledge the legacy that place gave me. Because places matter. People matter even more. And sometimes the seeds of who we become as leaders are planted long before we ever realise it. Those early experiences taught me something I carry into my work with nurses today: everyone needs to feel safe. Everyone needs to feel seen. And everyone needs a place where they belong. Looking back now, I realise St Catherine’s gave me that. And the friendships formed there remain very dear to my heart. Sometimes returning to where we began helps us understand who we have become.”
Advancing Change Through Research It was a pleasure to reconnect with Dr Francesca Earp (STC2014) at our recent London event celebrating 170 years of St Catherine’s. During the evening, we learned that Francesca had recently completed her PhD, adding to an impressive academic record that now includes four advanced degrees. Francesca began her career in Laos, supporting agricultural programs for women in marginalised communities. Today, she continues this work as a development scholar and practitioner, focusing on gender equity, cultural sensitivity and sustainable rural livelihoods. Her dedication to creating positive social impact through both research and practice is so inspiring. Returning to where it began Michelle Deroubaix (STC1976) shared her reflections on returning to St Catherine’s for her 50-year reunion: “This week I attended my 50-year school reunion at St Catherine’s. As I walked through the gates, I realised something quietly powerful… Somewhere deep inside, I already knew I needed to come back. So much has changed. And yet, strangely, so much hasn’t. The quadrangle is still there. The old dining room where we gathered as boarders is still there. The timber floors may have been polished many times over, but that room still holds the echoes of laughter, conversations, and friendships that shaped us. Walking through those spaces, I realised something about myself. Inside me is still that little girl who arrived there at eleven years old — unsure of herself, longing to feel safe, wanting to be surrounded by people who truly saw her. When I first came to St Catherine’s, I was carrying pain that felt unbearable. Like many young girls navigating the world,
I didn’t know how to express it. I simply held it quietly inside. But something interesting happened there. I began to feel safe. Our Headmistress ran a very tight ship. She was strict — and at eleven years old I was definitely a little afraid of her. But looking back now, I realise that structure and discipline gave me something incredibly important at that time: stability. I spent two years as a boarder and four years as a day girl. Those boarding years were special because the girls became my new family. When I moved to being a day girl, it was harder than I expected. I didn’t quite belong with the boarders anymore, but I also didn’t fully belong with the day girls. Eventually, I found my place again with Christine and Phyllis. And that reminded me of something fundamental about being human. We all need a place to belong. It shapes who we become. St Catherine’s in those days was very simple. There were no creature comforts. But that isn’t what I remember most. What I remember are the girls. Their personalities. Their quirks. Their laughter. Slowly, without me even realising it at the time, that laughter began to wash away the pain I had been carrying. Looking back now, I can see clearly that it was the beginning of my healing. Healing doesn’t happen overnight. Sometimes it takes decades to truly understand the experiences that shaped us. Perhaps that’s why returning there felt so important. Not
SAVE THE DATE
Join us on Saturday 5 September as we celebrate 170 years of St Catherine’s. On this special day, we will be hosting: • Magnolia Fair • Back to St Cath’s Day • Class of 1996 Reunion • Class of 1986 Reunion
Other milestone reunions in 2027: •
Class of 2006: Sat 26 Sept
• •
Class of 2016: TBC Class of 2021: TBC
SCAN TO LEARN MORE We would love to share more about our alumni events this year.
20 ST CATHERINE’S OLD GIRLS’ UNION
“ After lunch, I reminisced with the Old Girls about the importance of the Jane Barker Hall to the school
and its variety of uses over the last 60 years.
ST CATHERINE’S OLD GIRLS’ UNION 21
Community and connection
St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Union
At the Jane Barker Luncheon, there was an exciting update about the Jane Barker Hall, writes Old Girls’ Union President, Mrs Cathy Ridge (Ward, STC1983).
At the Luncheon, over 60 Old Girls watched a video and heard from Headmistress Ms Deb Magill about the plans to transform the Jane
having her at our theatre parties and functions, and I think for Anne this was an important way of keeping in contact with St Cath’s, a place that meant so much to her for a large part of her life. There were many St Cath’s teachers and Old Girls who attended Anne’s funeral, and more than 100 people connected to St Cath’s (past and present staff, Old Girls, and parents of girls that Anne taught) came to a memorial service at the school conducted by our previous Chaplain. Rev Kimberley Sawyer. It was a beautiful tribute to Anne and the effect that Anne had – not just on learning but also on the lives of the girls she taught and the teachers she taught with. This year, we were also saddened by the passing of some very loved teachers at St Cath’s. When we share this sad news with our Old Girls network, we always receive lots of responses from Old Girls sharing their memories and the impact these staff had on the girls they taught. Miss Anne Ruprecht taught History and Geography at St Catherine’s from 1956-1973. Many Old Girls remember her as firm and slightly formidable but also kind and caring, and someone who believed in the potential of every student. Mrs Ivy Luscombe taught Home Economics from 1962 to 1982 and played an instrumental role in the design of the new Home Science centre in 1977. Her daughters Betty, Desley and granddaughter Catherine also attended St Cath’s. She continued to live in Waverley after retiring and lived to 103!! Mrs Luscombe had very particular rules around her cooking and safety in the kitchen that many girls still remember today. “Hot toffee coming through” has been mentioned fondly by many, and I am still using Mrs Luscombe’s Caramel Slice recipe after 40 years, which is always a hit at family functions and Old Girls events. Looking ahead As we head towards the end of the School’s 170th Anniversary, we hope that many Old Girls will be able to make either the Magnolia Fair and Back to St Cath’s Day on Saturday 5 September or the Old Girls end-of- year function which will be High Tea at Vaucluse House on Saturday 14 November.
Barker Hall into a new Senior School Research Centre. This was the first look at what the new library might look like, and all the Old Girls in attendance were amazed at how beautiful the new space was and recognised this as a great way to re-use a building that was remembered fondly as the centre of the school for so many years. After lunch, I reminisced with the Old Girls about the importance of the Jane Barker Hall to the school and its variety of uses over the last 60 years. Morning assemblies, PE classes, choir practices and exams were the regular uses during the school days. After hours, the hall was also busy with P&F functions, school plays, Clubs and Choirs evenings and, at the end of each year, Speech Day. The Jane Barker Hall was at the heart of the school. School Archivist, Mrs Evangeline Galettis OAM (Barris, STC1969), then spoke about the fundraising campaign in 1958 for the Hall. Old Girls and parents joined with Miss Patterson and the school community to raise the money required to build what was an architecturally significant building at the time. We then presented Deb with a donation of $10,000 from the Old Girls’ Union towards the project. At the AGM the following day, the Old Girls’ Union announced we would continue our donations to the Faith Patterson Scholarship with a gift of another $5,000. The Old Girls’ Union are committed to assisting the Faith Patterson Scholarship, which provides tuition for girls who would otherwise not have been able to attend St Catherine’s, as specified in the endowment. Remembering cherished teachers In September last year, we heard the very sad news that Anne Robinson, who had been a member of staff in the Junior School for more than 35 years (as a teacher and Deputy Head of the Junior School), had passed away. She was a very special teacher – someone who girls will always remember. After her retirement, Anne joined the Old Girls’ Union as an honorary member. We loved
Mrs Cathy Ridge (Ward, STC1983) Old Girls’ Union President
22 VALETE
Valete St Catherine’s School extends its sincere sympathies to the families of our Old Girls who have passed away.
Susan Mattey (Nutt, STC1970) We were shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Susan Mattey in June 2025. In March 2025, Sue joined her classmates at the annual Jane Barker Luncheon, where she spoke fondly about her time here at St Cath’s, describing how the school quickly “became my home”. A boarder from a very young age, Sue had a deep appreciation for her fellow boarders and students who she felt became family. At school, she was actively involved in sports and was Casterton House Captain and Prefect in 1970.
Donna Carr (STC1981)
Michelle Miran (STC1969) Michelle Miran, who died in September 2025, was a strong advocate for social justice and communities. After leaving school, she studied Home Economics and became a teacher. Her commitment to supporting and including disadvantaged groups of our society shaped her life. Her passing was noted by the NSW State Member for the South Coast, Liza Butler, who said of Michelle, “Michelle did not just join committees: she strengthened them. She did not just volunteer; she led. She made every organisation she touched more capable, more compassionate and more connected.”
Jenny Rosalky (Boyan, STC1963)
Donna Carr attended St Cath’s between 1972 and 1981 and is remembered by her peers as “an absolute gem” who was actively involved in the school through leadership and house positions. In her final year of school, she was a Prefect and Bronte House Captain. After leaving school, Donna enjoyed a successful career in real estate. A natural organiser, Donna was always keen to get together with her school friends and is remembered by them with great admiration and fondness.
Former Staff Members Lyn Mihalic
Beverley Clarke (Logan, STC1954)
The Class of 1963 were saddened by the death of their dear classmate Jenny Boyan (1947-2025). Jenny was a boarder from an early age, and was described as a joy to have in the classroom. She was outgoing, intelligent, inquisitive and funny. She could tell a great story and always had her head in a book. She continued to approach all aspects of life with energy, diligence, resilience and humour. She was an inspirational public speaker and journalist. She made the world a kinder and more colourful place.
Lyn was a well-loved and cherished staff member of St Catherine’s between 1980 and 2000, working as executive assistant to Headmistresses Miss Faith Patterson and later Mrs Jo Karaolis. In this role, she demonstrated exceptional professionalism, serving as a trusted gatekeeper, confidante and organiser. She was kind, caring and thoughtful toward all who knew and worked with her. She will be dearly missed.
Our alumni community was sorry to hear of the passing of Bev Logan. Bev was a boarder from Condobolin and graduated in 1954. She was captain of Barker House and a long- standing member of the Old Girls’ Union.
VALETE 23
Anne Robinson
Anne Ruprecht Miss Ruprecht taught at St Catherine’s from 1956 to 1973, but her relationship with the school community was maintained through regular appearance at school reunions for those students she had taught. She is fondly remembered by students of the mid-1950s through to the 1970s with much respect, admiration and gratitude. Lyndall Scott (Jarrett, STC1967) was a member of the first Year 12 class to sit the HSC and recalled the powerful influence that Miss Ruprecht had on her studies. Lyndall wrote that of the challenge of teaching her students a new Modern History course, “Miss Ruprecht did not let us down. She was kind, but firm. We learned to discuss issues, to use original documents and to write good essays. We were empowered to have and share opinions. She empowered me to understand that history was about opinions, actions, bad politics, mistakes, heroes and villains. And that history is written by winners and losers, professionals and amateurs.”
Anne’s death was shared on the school’s social media pages. Here is a collection of our school community’s comments which reinforce the effect that she had on a generation of students and staff: “One of the best teachers I had. Mrs Robinson was one of those teachers who believed in her students, and we all felt it. RIP Mrs Robinson! We will forever ‘do our best and no less’.” – Kelso Oo (STC2001) Anne cherished people, seeing possibilities and patiently encouraging. Imbued with faith and humble spirit, she was a remarkable person. She influenced me as a leader and a parent — I always slowed down to reflect walking with her, listening, and never failing to catch the gentle humour. Vale Anne.” – Catherine Misson Former St Catherine’s Deputy “What a legacy Mrs Robinson leaves behind. She taught me in 1996 and 1997. I still remember her classes so well. ‘Do your best and no less’ is etched into my brain and all my classmates.” – Elaine Fowler (STC2006) When Anne retired in 2012, Denice Scala wrote this prayer for her: Dear Lord In every breath In every act of kindness In every way Anne is your servant We thank you for her. Her unconditional love for all Her enormous heart Her effervescence that light up a room Anne embodies your love We thank you for her. In times of need In times of joy In times of sorry In times of great happiness
A teacher and Deputy of the Junior School from 1980-2012, Anne was known as a leader who radiated kindness and care. She knew every child and every family that she cared for, and was equally as compassionate with her staff, taking care of them with a keen alertness to their needs. She sadly passed away on 3 September 2025. Reflecting on Anne’s life, former Head of Junior School Denice Scala said that “Anne didn’t just live by the golden rule of ‘treating others as you would like to be treated’, but instead set a new ‘Platinum Plus’ benchmark because, in everything, in every way, and at all times, she put others before herself.”
Ivy Luscombe
Former Home Economics teacher, Mrs Ivy Luscombe, died in July 2026. Ivy taught at St Catherine’s from 1962 to 1982 and was instrumental in the development and design of the Home Science Centre which was opened in 1977. Ivy’s two daughters and granddaughter also attended St Catherine’s - Betty (STC 1964), Desley (STC 1969) and Catherine (STC 1996).
Anne is always there We thank you for her. The light that shines in her Is your gift to us and especially to St Catherine’s The School has been blessed to know and share Your gracious love through her Bless her Lord Bless her kindly. Amen.
St Catherine’s School www.stcatherines.nsw.edu.au stcaths@stcatherines.nsw.edu.au 26 Albion Street Waverley NSW 2024 Australia
+61 2 8305 6200 CRICOS 02322K
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