Year in Review 2023 For Website

BRIGIDINE COLLEGE ST IVES
Year in Review
2023
Brigidine College St Ives Year In Review 2023 1

2 Brigidine College St Ives Year In Review 2023
Contents
01 05
Foreword Staff
Page 4 Page 59
02 06
Faith and Wellbeing Cocurricular
Page 6 Page 60
03 07
Students Community
Page 16 Page 74
04
Academic
Page 40

01 Foreword
Principal’s Welcome
Our Year in Review invites you spirit throughout 2023. Their Deputy Principals Ms Leone she has had a clear vision of the
into the world of teaching and initiatives and fundraising for Smyth and Mr Brian Loughland; needs of the College and how
learning, faith and wellbeing, their chosen charity, Sock it Directors Mr Ed Codsi, Mrs the Board can best support
cocurricular life and school to Sarcoma, leave an indelible Mandy Loomes, Mrs Pamela them. We thank Ms Guerin for
celebrations and events that have mark in the story of their time Malone, Ms Sia Mastro and her generous and unwavering
taken place at Brigidine College at school. Mr Owen Vale; and Business support to Brigidine College in its
in 2023. Manager Mr Richard Luxford. growth over the last decade.
I would like to take this
Thank you to the Brigidine
I am pleased to share with you opportunity to thank staff for The Year in Review is a
Sisters, Kildare Ministries, the
how our staff and students their ongoing care, commitment celebration of our work with
College Board, our Parents and
have immersed themselves in and high expectations of the students and the Brigidine
Friends Association and families
the excitement of such a busy students at Brigidine. Our community. We are tremendously
of Brigidine College for your
and productive year. As always, dedicated teachers celebrate proud of the achievements of our
continued support in all we do.
our students have challenged with you the successes and students, and we look forward
themselves to achieve their best achievements of your daughters This year we sadly farewell with anticipation to a new school
in a range of initiatives that this year. The morale of Ms Kitty Guerin who completes year in 2024!
encompass all areas of College our community is buoyant her term as Chair of our College
and cocurricular life. and focused. We are proud Board. We have been extremely MS L AE TITIA
Thank you to our outgoing
to have such generous and fortunate to have had her RICHMOND
experienced staff. wisdom and expertise steering PRINCIPAL
College Captain Sarah Hudson BRIGIDINE COLLEGE S T IVE S
our Board for the last nine years.
and Vice Captain Daisy Daddo, I would like to acknowledge and
Working closely with our Board
the Senior 10 and our Year 12 thank the College Leadership
Directors, College Leadership
leaders for their outstanding Team for their ongoing support
Teams and College Principals,
leadership and abounding school during this year at Brigidine:

Message from the
Board Chair
It has been a great privilege to hard working and devoted to the two Business Managers I have Finally, a big thank you must go
Chair the College Board over the ongoing growth and development worked with during my time to Mrs Vicki Scott, the Minutes
past nine years. I was somewhat of the College. A number have as Chair, Mr Greg Smith and Secretary of the Board and the
surprised when Sister Maree been past and current parents, Mr Richard Luxford, who have PA to the Board. A day rarely goes
March csb invited me to consider others have been College underpinned the work of the by without an email from Mrs
taking on the role at a time alumni, while others have had Board so conscientiously. They Scott sending out the papers,
when the Bridigine Sisters in no previous contact with the have prepared the papers for organising meetings and when
New South Wales and Victoria school. Nevertheless, they have the Board and its Committees necessary, reminding me of what
and the Presentation Sisters of come together to form a united and ensured that its compliance is coming up. I wish her well in her
Victoria were in the process of and supportive group who obligations were met. retirement at the end of the year
handing over their schools to be have dedicated themselves to after 23 years at Brigidine.
I would also like to acknowledge
governed by a new lay led Public ensuring that Brigidine continues
the staff of the College. I have My final hope is for Brigidine
Juridic Person known as Kildare to flourish. It has been a pleasure
never walked into the Front College, under the incoming Chair,
Ministries. This new entity has to have been part of such a
Office, the Common Room or Ms Michelle Dixon in 2024, to
both canonical responsibilities dedicated team.
Bowie Hall without a welcoming continue to grow and develop in
as it was approved by the Vatican
So too, for the Leadership smile, a conversation or the its role of educating the young
and civil responsibilities under
Team, initially led by Mrs offer of a cup of coffee. The women in its care to be women
the Australian Corporation Act.
Jane Curran and now by Ms same applies to the students, of strength and gentleness in the
It has indeed been a journey for
Laetitia Richmond, who have whether I see them walking in Brigidine tradition. I have no doubt
Kildare Ministries, Brigidine
supported the work of the Board and out of the school or at the that it will continue to do so.
College and its Board and an
in such a dedicated way. Their many functions I have attended.
exciting one at that!
commitment to the College There is always a lovely “Brigo” MS KIT T Y GUERIN
The members of the College has been unwavering. I would welcome. B OARD CHAIR
Board have been committed, particularly like to thank the BRIGIDINE COLLEGE S T IVE S
Brigidine College St Ives Prospectus 5 Brigidine College St Ives Year In Review 2023 5
02 Faith and Wellbeing
Faith and Mission
Part of being a Brigidine student him to ‘take courage’ and have College’s desire to embrace the years and students were able to in Reconciliation Week. Year
is about discipleship and faith. We always encourage our rich culture of our First Nations appreciate that they could reach 9 focused on Breast Cancer
strengthening our connections students to be courageous in people and take Brigidine College out and assist others and build Awareness and held a successful
with Jesus as a foundation their lives and in their learning. into deeper connection with local a sense of purpose and meaning Pink Day after a number of years
for living a good life. We use Taking on responsibility in communities. A Reconciliation through their involvement in this of it not being able to proceed.
our time in Religion lessons, student leadership, trying a new Action Plan has been prepared in program. A large number of staff and
Chapel, Masses and Liturgies cocurricular activity outside 2023 for launch in 2024. students had their hair cut to
The Year 12 theme of ‘Dare
to reconnect with Jesus and of your comfort zone, pushing support people experiencing
In Chapel time we focused to Dream’ linked nicely with
the way we in which we should yourself with your study and chemotherapy in the Cut for a
on personal stillness and the exploration of the value
strive to live as Christian people. learning, to not play safe and take Cause project. Again, courage
reflection exploring themes of Courage. The Class of 2023
Beyond the community we hope the easy route, to be strong and came to the fore in this activity.
like Mary, peace and God’s were determined, focused and
all students use their gifts to courageous with your own moral
creation. Students created inspirational in their activities In Term 2 we celebrated a
enhance the lives of those less outlook. This is courage in action
individual pledges for caring and efforts throughout the wonderful Founders Day Mass
fortunate and to be advocates for and in 2023 it was shown in a
more for the earth and these year raising much needed that culminated with the
others who have no voice. number of ways both in Liturgy
were placed on cardboard funds and awareness of Ewing’s announcement of our 2024
and in social justice activities.
In 2023, Kildare Ministries leaves that decorated the Sarcoma through the Sock it to Student Leaders and an enjoyable
placed focus on their core The Commencement Mass at Chapel space. The Community Sarcoma organisation. Years 7 Founders Day Fair organised by
value of ‘Courage’. In the story the start of Term 1 featured an Involvement Program, or and 8 supported the St Vincent the Class of 2023. At the end of
of Jesus walking on the water Indigenous smoking ceremony outreach, encouraged our de Paul Society through the Term 3 we were very grateful to
towards his disciples in the prior to the start of Mass. students to do volunteer Winter and Christmas appeals, celebrate a beautiful Graduation
Gospels, Peter takes courage Students and staff all passed work in the wider community Year 11 did great work for the Mass and Dinner with our
and steps out of the boat to be through the small smoking fires and in College initiatives and homeless in Homelessness Week Graduating Class of 2023 and
with Jesus. As he feels the wind on the College Green before advocacy as well. In 2023 the in Term 3, and Year 10 focused their parents.
against him, he begins to doubt they entered the hall for Mass. take-up and completion rates on our Indigenous people and
and starts to sink. Jesus calls to This action is symbolic of the were stronger than in previous steps towards reconciliation

Our Father’s Day and Mother’s
Day liturgies were successful
and well attended by the parent
community. We always look
forward to these special liturgies
to build and affirm the strong
ties between our parents and our
students.
Our Liturgical celebrations and

Chapel time drew us closer
together as a community with
a common purpose and focus.
We know the theme of ‘courage’
resonated with many students
and staff in the College and led
to a stronger desire to make a
difference to the lives of others.
It encouraged us to be strong and
gentle, and strive to be our best
selves at Brigidine College.
MR BRIAN LOUGHL AND

DEPUT Y PRINCIPAL
FAITH AND MISSION

Camps and Retreats
We ran a successful and them out of their comfort zones discipleship, connection and faith Australian society. It aimed to as a highlight of their time at
memorable Camps and Retreats to work together and achieve through music and movement at open up the hearts and minds of the College.
program in March which involved personal goals. Camp Kedron, Ingleside. It was our students to a world beyond
The Camps and Retreats
the whole College. a fun, meaningful and noisy day their own experience and to
Year 10 went to Wollongong for program remains a key aspect
for the students who enjoyed the work out ways of changing this
Year 7 went to Chowder Bay three days where they visited of our holistic education plan
day immensely. world through action, awareness
and Cockatoo Island with the Wollongong Surf and Leisure at Brigidine. It is a significant
and advocacy. We held this at the
Land’s Edge Foundation as our Centre and the Nan Tien Temple The Retreats program for Years and essential platform for
College on the first day followed
provider. They had three days of and participated in beach 10 to 12 are student-centred the creation of the grounded,
by two days of experiencing
water-based activities on Sydney activities including stand-up experiences that allow them to connected and purposeful young
the lives of marginalised
Harbour with time together as a paddle boarding, kayaking and explore and discuss their own women who emerge from the
communities in Sydney.
whole group on the middle day at mountain bike riding. spirituality and connection to College with a strong sense of
Clifton Gardens. one another. In Year 12 the Retreat was a self, a sense of humility and an
This year we also held
highly successful experience appreciation for the breadth
Year 8 had a day at Camp Kedron Spirituality Days for Years 7 and The Year 10 Reflection Day
at the Crusader Conference and depth of their education at
exploring personal development 8. A visit to St Pius X College was held in November as part
Centre at Galston Gorge. This the College.
and wellbeing, a day of ‘giving facilities at Oxford Falls was of Transition Week for Year 10
Retreat focused on the self with
back’ to local schools and enjoyed by Year 7 in October with students. This special day was a
charities, and a fun day at Cables a focus on ‘Brigidine and Me’. brief chance to stop and reflect
an exploration of their own MR BRIAN LOUGHL AND
journey of life. At this critical DEPUT Y PRINCIPAL
Water Park in Penrith. The day was a celebration and on their journey so far and take FAITH AND MISSION
time of change and movement
study of our Brigidine heritage time to affirm and support
Year 9 journeyed to the South beyond school, it created space
and story which will continue one another as they move into
Coast and the Murramarang for discernment over both
through their own journey at the senior school.
National Park south of Ulladulla. the past and the future with
College.
They had four days of beach In Year 11 the Retreat experience consideration of key values and
activities, camping, snorkeling, Year 8 had an interactive day was a Street Retreat where the qualities learned and embedded
surfing, hiking and Indigenous with an external provider, Chris focus was on the marginalised in them along the way. Many
awareness activities that pushed Doyle, exploring friendship, and outcast members of Year 12 students saw this Retreat

Social Justice
Thanks to the incredible activities sparked meaningful perspectives, emphasising the cancer patients, offering them awareness in our community to
enthusiasm and work of our conversations about our universality of social justice relief and support during a enable change. From the Winter
Social Justice Captains Maria cultural heritage, fostering a concerns and the importance of challenging time. Sleepout, Pink Day, Cut for a
Ayoub and Anai Fensom along deeper appreciation for each solidarity among young people. Cause, the St Vincent de Paul
Daffodil Day was another
with the support of the whole other’s backgrounds. Winter Appeal, Homelessness
In March the Social Justice remarkable success. We joined
school community, 2023 has been Week, a petition advocating for
The greatest achievement of our Leaders embarked on a forces to raise funds for cancer
an extremely successful year for women’s hijab rights in Iran to
Year 12 captains was organising transformative journey to research, helping to bring
Brigidine social justice. organising speakers at assembly,
the Social Justice Forum. Melbourne, joining forces hope and healing to countless
Brigidine students have been
The captains introduced many This powerful and thought- with fellow Kildare schools individuals and families affected
encouraged and empowered to
opportunities for all students to provoking event aimed to shed in a collective effort to tackle by this disease.
work for change and advocacy.
be involved in a great variety of light on the adversity present pressing social justice issues.
Years 7-10 students embraced
social justice initiatives. Cultural in our world and inspire action One speaker illuminated her As we reflect on the past year,
the Community Involvement
Diversity Week promoted within school communities. quest to establish an injection we are filled with gratitude
Program and saw the large
diversity and fostered cultural One of the key components of centre in Melbourne, advocating for the incredible support and
impact small acts of kindness
understanding within our school the forum was the inclusion harm reduction and compassion participation in our social justice
have on the wider community.
community. Cultural games on of speakers from multiple in addressing addiction issues. initiatives. Together, we have
By deepening student capacity
the Green encouraged friendly charities. These speakers Another speaker delved into made a meaningful impact on
to give time to others, it is
competition while teaching shared their experiences and the complexities of sustainable various causes because of the
hoped Brigidine students will
us about different sports and insights, providing a firsthand development, emphasising College community’s support.
continue to develop empathy and
activities from around the world. perspective on the challenges the critical role we play in
compassion for those who are
The most striking feature was marginalised communities face safeguarding our planet’s future.
less fortunate.
MRS SK YE WACHER
the cultural background map and the crucial work being CO ORDINATOR
The leaders visited the Mater D UK E OF EDINBURGH
located on the verandah of the done to address these issues. Whole school Social Justice
Hospital, where they lent a
McCammon building, visually This diverse representation initiatives were well organised
hand at their annual market
representing the diversity from many schools allowed for by each year group to support
stalls, raising funds to provide
within our school. These a rich exchange of ideas and marginalised people and raise
comfortable bras for breast

“Our role with
wellbeing education
is to provide the
opportunity, access,
choices, resources
and capacities for
individuals and
Wellbeing
communities to
The Wellbeing program at and educate our students to wellbeing are more likely “to have Our Brigidine College Wellbeing
aspire to their unique
Brigidine College has certainly be equipped with effective higher achievement outcomes programs this year have sense of wellbeing
welcomed and embraced the competencies and life skills to at school and complete Year 12; continued to address relevant whilst contributing to
return of an array of wellbeing endorse positive and healthy better mental health; and a more issues during Pastoral time which
a sense of community
opportunities to support the wellbeing. prosocial, responsible lifestyle” is structured between Year and
growth and development of (L Waters, 2019). The purpose House group opportunities. wellbeing.”
Within the context of a Brigidine
each student. Throughout the of providing a supportive and To support our vision, we
College education, we also
year, our commitment has structured Wellbeing program engaged with effective and
recognise the interdependency
primarily focused in promoting is so every student feels highly inspiring presenters,
between learning and
social and emotional skill sets supported to reach their full organisations and workshops
wellbeing. Learning, through
through many carefully planned potential and strive to develop within each year group to
a contemporary lens, extends
and targeted programs across the necessary skills to help cultivate effective protective
beyond academic outcomes
all year groups. We recognise overcome difficult times through factors, whereby “health is
and provides an opportunity
that an integral element of the safe and appropriate measures. created and lived by people;
to support the wellbeing of
adolescent formation is through As a community that embodies where they work, play, learn and
the ‘whole child’, an approach
fostering self-awareness, courage, compassion and care, love” (World Health Organisation,
highlighted in the Melbourne
self-control, self-management strong connections and a sense 2006).
Declaration on Educational Goals
and in this current world, the of belonging, we also enable
for Young Australians (2008).
importance of continuing to
Research indicates that students
each student to feel known, MS SIA MASTRO
invigorate effective interpersonal understood and recognised for DIREC TOR S TUDENT WE LLBEING
who have healthier levels of
skills. Our intention is to prepare their unique gifts and talents.

College Captains
What a year it has been! Our Year Founders Day is the most loved filled, energy was high and the 2023 has been a busy year,
12 journey kicked off with a bang, and exciting fundraising event on cheers were deafening. but without a doubt, the most
launching our 2023 theme, ‘Dare the Brigidine calendar. Creating unforgettable. As we reflect on
It is this support and enthusiasm
to Dream’ and charity, Sock it and running our own stalls, our time as Brigidine students,
that creates the incredibly
to Sarcoma. Sharing the launch singing with our friends in the we have come to realise how
special culture we will miss here
video and dancing and singing House Sing Off and cheering quickly the time has flown. We
at Brigidine.
on stage with the whole cohort for all of Brigidine’s talented couldn’t have dreamed of a better
in our pyjamas at assembly is a students participating in the While our cohort has final year.
memory we will forever cherish. Talent Quest have been defining accomplished so much this year,
Our theme and charity have been

moments of our Year 12 journey. it’s the little moments shared SAR AH HUDSON AND
at the heart of all that has taken We will never forget taking to the
with peers in classes, meetings DAISY DADDO
and at lunchtimes that have truly C OLLEGE C AP TAINS 2023
place this year and have inspired court for the 2023 Students vs
brought us together and helped
many initiatives including Trivia Staff basketball match in front of
form a sisterhood that will last
Nights, whole school scavenger the entire school. The gym was
forever.
hunts and Founders Day.

House Captains
Our time as Fatima Captains has our bond as a family. Whether it Having the opportunity to We cannot forget the blazing
been nothing short of incredible, was dominating in netball against represent a house with such heat on the day of the Athletics
filled with unforgettable other houses and year groups amazing spirit has been an Carnival which made the event
memories that will forever hold or showcasing our skills in the honour for us both. It has been a slightly more challenging but as
a special place in our hearts. intense handball competition, we joy and privilege to see the effort always Kildare represented with
Athletics, Swimming and Cross approached every challenge with and inclusive spirit every girl full commitment and pride.
Country carnivals united us passion and sportsmanship. As has shown during our carnivals,
We want to thank all of Kildare
as a spirited and cohesive Fatima Captains we couldn’t be house initiatives, pastoral
House for making our leadership
team, cheering on our fellow prouder of the memories we’ve activities and sports games.
journey so memorable. We are
housemates and competing created together, the friendships We are both so proud of our
very excited for next year’s
with unyielding determination. we’ve forged and the spirit we’ve Kildare girls, seeing the support
captains to experience the same
One of our proudest moments instilled within our house. Our and energy each girl has given
house spirit we are so grateful
as house captains was winning amazing time as leaders has to our racers and participants,
to have.
the Swimming Carnival house been a testament to the power especially the Swimming
chants. The Teacher vs Student of teamwork and the magic that Carnival house relay which saw
ELOISE BR ADBURY AND
Relay added a touch of friendly happens when we come together everyone in the stands on their
EMILIE HUXLE Y
competition, bringing us even as one. GO FATIMA! feet, cheering for our swimmers.
C AP TAINS, K ILDARE HO USE
closer as we challenged our Amazingly talented swimmers
teachers with laughter and KEELE Y HOLMES AND combined with our spirited
friendly banter. But it wasn’t MOLLY BACZKOWSKI house won us the Gold medal!
just about sports and music; our C AP TAINS, FATIM A HO USE
house initiatives strengthened

It has been a huge year for hills, and the Lourdes Ladies Being Prague House Captains Apart from sports events, we
Lourdes. The Swimming showed up proudly and ran their for 2023 was an incredible actively contributed to charity
Carnival, held on the first day hearts out. Lourdes ultimately experience. Our role was not just fundraisers, such as the sausage
back of Term 1, set the tone for won all three carnivals, a first about leading, but also inspiring sizzle, where we witnessed our
Lourdes’ domination. We swam, in Brigidine history – what an and encouraging the entire collective efforts make a positive
we chanted, we “life saved” and accomplishment! Prague House. Collaborating impact on the community.
we ended up taking the victory with the other house captains Moreover, our dedication
The girls should be commended
and bringing home the trophy. and year leaders allowed us to to fostering friendships and
for their efforts this year. As
bridge the gap between different enthusiasm within the Prague
Only a few weeks later we had Captains we have immense pride
year groups and foster a sense of House was evident in the
our Athletics Carnival. We in Lourdes House and we are so
togetherness across the entire memorable cheers and creative
withstood the heat and enjoyed happy to have been able to lead
College. costumes we prepared for the
our “Lourdes Luau” themed such a fantastic house, full of
carnivals.
day to our best ability in the spirit. It’s been such a privilege Throughout the year we
conditions. We still managed to to be part of such a monumental organised a variety of engaging As our time as House Captains
win the War Cries and the entire year for Lourdes and we will house initiatives that generated has drawn to a close, we carry
carnival. cherish it dearly. LOU forever! excitement and healthy with us cherished memories and
competition among students. the deep bonds of friendship
We withstood the elements
once again at the Cross Country
SCARLE T T JUDD AND From scavenger hunts around the we forged during this journey.
Carnival, running through

LOL A MEIKLE school, to netball and handball Serving as Prague House
C AP TAINS, L O URDE S HO USE tournaments, we ensured Captains was undoubtedly a
puddles and trekking up slippery
everyone had opportunities to privilege, and we eagerly await
participate and showcase their the accomplishments of the next
talents. leaders in the coming years.
AL ANA REDDY AND

SIENNA WIL SON
C AP TAINS, PR AGUE HO USE

03 Students
Year 7
New beginnings dance eisteddfods, music Further sunny skies supported Compassion and service Strength and gentleness
performances, debating, aerobics the girls to understand their
About to embark on what seemed The girls fully embraced the Wound up like springs after their
and through their participation place in our Brigidine story with
like the impossibly huge task of value of service through their several Covid-19 lockdowns,
in the many clubs and societies their Reflection Day at St Pius X
starting high school, our newest involvement in the Community these little firecrackers have
that run at lunchtimes during College facilities in Oxford Falls.
members of the community Involvement Program. This shown determination to succeed,
the week. Not only were they Again, they took the opportunity
quickly solidified their presence saw them participating in five enthusiasm to get involved and
there to take part, they were to connect with each other and
in our Brigidine story by hours of community service excitement and preparedness
also there to support, encourage our traditions, participating in
vivaciously participating in the to an incredible array of to move on to the next chapter.
and celebrate the achievements “yarning circles” and creating
Swimming Carnival, the Athletics organisations and individuals They have navigated all the
as a cohort, forming the early their own St Brigid’s Cross,
Carnival and the Cross Country in the wider community. The challenges that high school has
foundations of a lifelong Brigo adorned with their qualities,
Carnival all within the first few feedback we received highlighted to throw at them – buses, lockers,
family. values and of course, sparkles.
weeks of their arrival at the the wonderful qualities of our friendships, canteen lines, kilt
The cohort shared another
College. They participated with Connection students that we get to observe length, books, laptops, and
beautiful day of sun and sand
all their might, they cheered, daily. Under the guidance of the they have faced difficult times
As suggested by Crowded House, at Palm Beach for their joint
they proudly dressed in house selected Mentor Leaders, Year 7 within the safety of Synan and
this phenomenal group has Science and PDHPE excursion,
colours and themes. Their left their final mark on 2023 with the Quad, where we are forging
always bought the weather with where they showed their zest
transition to “Brigo” girls was the St Vincent de Paul Christmas partnerships with our families
them! Glorious temperatures for adventure, surfing, exploring
swift and enthusiastic. Appeal. They wholeheartedly to embrace and enhance each
welcomed us to Chowder Bay rock pools and enjoying a day
threw themselves into student’s individual contribution
Confidence and Cockatoo Island for the out of the classroom with their
organising, promoting, packaging to the tapestry of our story. I
Year 7 Camp. This provided the friends. These purposeful
The girls continued to and sending off jam-packed sincerely look forward to what
opportunity to observe some activities and events provided
show amazing tenacity and hampers to members of the they have to offer in 2024.
of my proudest moments of valuable opportunities for the
determination by representing community in need.
their resilience, compassion, girls to connect and build the
Year 7 and the College with MRS SIMONE WEBB
kindness and perseverance. skills to best prepare them for
incredible successes in sport, YE AR 7 C O ORDINATOR
their high school journey.

Year 7
FRONT ROW: Alyssa Behre, Sybella Hofmann, Natalie Vanza, FIFTH ROW: Cordelia Mills, Chloe Baierl, Hannah Walters, Sage McKay,
Olivia Druce, Lily Lunn, Lucie Howell, Sophie Senanayake, Angela Weir, Sofiya Wachjo, Tavnoor Kaur, Nina Spirkovski, Phoebe Byrne,
Georgina Baker, Isabelle Rogers, Asha Lagrutta, Olivia Childs, Keira Anania, Jacinta Hamann, Honor Drysdale, Scarlett Whooley,
Harper Senanayake, Tiffany Tang, Isabella Miller, Emma Grimley, Isabella Phipson, Abigail Asscher
Angela Geng, Ruby Johnson
SIXTH ROW: Ava Emmanoilidis, Grace McKay, Willow Peschardt,
SECOND ROW: Hannah Ryu, Tabitha Mimmo, Emily Clear, Joanne Shi, Erin Cran, Xuanwen Xiang, Isabella Gaze-Jones,
Constance Brown-Min, Lily O’Connor, Carla Bayldon, Sofia Taylor, Mila Lakic, Olga Kotleeva, Charlotte Ross, Ellana Ross,
Alexandra Danielian, Tzu-Ning Lu, Eloise Halloway, Gemma Elliot, Ella Fraser, Hanne Lofhjelm, Rosie Steger, Anisha Mellers
Sienna Osborn, Cara Hatten, Alice Frost, Olivia Carter, Keira Hsiung,
SEVENTH ROW: Sally Arthur, Scarlett Creswick, Rachael Hartwig,
Abbey Qasabian, Lucinda Maple, Isebella Tan, Melanie Gordon,
Alice Karcher, Claire Dash, Caitlin Haydon, Elizabeth Copley,
Angela Gnawali, Orla Cole
Heidi Mair, Bella Grace Nemeth de Bikal, Rachel Le Roux,
THIRD ROW: Madeleine Surjan, Mary Saraceno, Liya Jonker, Lauren Taylor, Evie Tucker, Edith McGill, Natalie Gantvoort, Zara Ellis,
Camila Hilton, Megan Penny, Grace Radley, Claudia Monahan, Savannah Richmond
Coco Musgrove, Scarlett Frydman, Eva Marren, Michelina Parker,
ABSENT: Gemma Batchelor, Talisha Bigwood, Charlotte Heunemann,
Grace Reynolds, Mackenzie Leech, Dimitra Fintanis,
Bismun Kaur, Sabrina Sandrini
Lucille Hedgeland, Isla Crapis, Sophie Irvine
FOURTH ROW: Heidi Lillycrop, Jasmine Zervos, Josephine Lovell,

Molly Joyce, Alivia Surman-Smith, Hannah Staude, Layla Legovich,
Caitlin Paisley, Lucille Noble, Juliette Stewart, Summer Wadling,
Katherine Raine, Xinyi Zhang, Tahli Radford, Aemilia Reese Gabila,
Asha Wannell
Staff: Ms S Webb (Year Coordinator), Mrs E Johns, Mr D Chant, Mrs J Allan, Mrs M Radcliff, Ms E Troha, Ms A Olver, Mrs R Summerfield,
Ms E Carroll, Ms V Boyd, Ms J Marino (Absent), Ms R O’Brien (Absent), Ms J Ridgway (Absent)

Year 8
The Year 8 girls can reflect With this new understanding and This sense of friendship was I would like to acknowledge the
upon 2023 with a sense of pride, focus on self-discovery, resilience also evident during our Year 8 generosity and commitment
knowing they have experienced and a positive mindset, the girls Spirituality Day held at Camp offered by our supportive Year
and embraced a vast array of welcomed the opportunity of the Kedron in June. Guided by 8 Mentor teachers, who have
opportunities that encapsulate Year 8 Camp experience. On the Chris Doyle, the girls revelled guided the girls each day.
our Brigidine values of strength first day, the girls were guided by in a celebration of love and Throughout the year, the girls
and gentleness. Nikki from Enlighten Education acceptance, fostering a sense have continued to flourish in
as they embraced the lessons of unity. Through shared their academic achievements
At the outset of the year, the
associated with positive self-talk, laughter, singing and dancing, and cocurricular activities. For
girls explored their individual
friendship and self-discovery. an understanding of inclusivity, Year 8, this has been a time when
character strengths using the
On the second day, the girls kindness and acceptance was friendships have continued to
VIA survey to consider how they
engaged in community service embraced by all. thrive within Mentor Groups,
can use them to help others as
initiatives, showing compassion lessons and activities. I hope the
well as themselves. To showcase I commend the altruistic attitude
through their participation in girls continue to embrace the
our collective strengths, each of this cohort, particularly
various activities such as cooking invaluable lessons of compassion,
student contributed to the Year evident in Term 2 as the girls
for Dignity Dishes, sewing acceptance and self-discovery in
8 character strengths mural. extended their support to the St
sanitary items for Days for Girls, the years ahead.
Using watercolour paints, the Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal.
visiting local primary schools and
girls illustrated their individual Through their compassion and
participating in an environmental
strengths and added their commitment to serving the MRS ANNE RE ADING
walk. On the third day, the girls
contributions to the canvas, marginalised in our community, YE AR 8 C O ORDINATOR
celebrated friendship and fun at
highlighting the vast talents and the students donated and
Cables Water Park.
spirit that define this cohort. packaged snack bags and care
packs to those in need.

Year 8
FRONT ROW: Allegra Raso, Charlotte Clarke-Bruce, Amelie McGuire, SIXTH ROW: Ava Poulos, Sienna Poulos, Sophie Jackson,
Hakone Liceralde, Ebba Cordell, Poppy Telfer, Evelyn Mai, Angie Ho, Jemima Sayers, Vienna Kaufmehl, Jasmin Didovich, Annabelle Zreika,
Veronica Scully, Sophie Walsh, Holly White, Juliette Soady, Hae Na Lee, Alannah Walesby, Ava Cran, Charlotte Fisk, Poppy Donald, Jada Drape,
Willow Kirkpatrick, Phoebe Taylor, Chloe Bell, Anika Nazarian, Inez Taylor, Stella Jordon, Ella Flynn, Madison Dickinson
Abril Blanco
SEVENTH ROW: Evelyn Howells, Charlotte Trout, Brooke Hanney,
SECOND ROW: Amelia Mather, Poppy Decker, Ava Inglis, Brooklyn Philpott, Scarlett Pratt, Ellie Saunders, Macy Pickering,
Josephina Pellicano, Paige Sullivan-Bunt, Sofia Lenarduzzi, Sophie Scott, Sofia Ehnbom, Isabella Scaturchio, Jasmine Cooke,
Sahara Ha, Ruby Ossowski, Madison Chan, Metta Brynildsen, Eva Perry, Joselyn Shen, Valentina De la Torre, Gemma Carson,
Emily Hurst, Gemma Gannon, Charlotte McGregor, Ziyu Wang, Sage McConnell, Indianna Vale, Sofia Dewar
Chloe Lee, Billie-Mae McGrath, Elise Shanahan, Alexandra Cornish,
EIGHTH ROW: Rose Branagan, Isabella Lipari, Nakita Notaras,
Lara Hathorn, Jemima Smith
Caitlin Millar, Charlotte Rudolph, Jessica Widdup, Whitney Galvin,
THIRD ROW: Alexis Theodorides, Tiffany Kisahwan, Lara Bozikian, Livia O’Bey, Mary Formston, Olivia Greig, Samantha Shaw,
Chloe Kuo, Beatrix Gardner, Charlotte Croft, Coco Aquilina, Ella Wolthers, Clara Ross, Rose McLean-Johnston, Scarlett Nicholson,
Ruby Ryan, Yaejoon Baek, Yuna Han, Lucy Fitzpatrick, Lily Hulley, Isabella Parkes, Claire Mahon, Kate Bromby
Poppy Templeton, Mia Soghomonian, Caetlin Ashby, Charlotte Chang,
ABSENT: Imogen Chorley, Madeleine Cormack, Scarlett Gerke,
Jamila Rumjahn, Michaela Peters
Sophia McKechnie, Rose McLean-Johnston, Mary Moran,
FOURTH ROW: Adie Beeston, Ranee Wu, SooRim Lulu Gazal, Evie O’Sullivan, Tayah Rodrigues, Charlotte Rudolph, Yiwen Shen,
Annabelle Willoughby, Ivy Bateman, Isabella Hier, Scarlett Metcalf, Indigo Yamaguchi
Sophia Benson, Indiana Murphy, Amelia Way, Abigail Roche, Ina Yun,
Mae McEvoy, Ella Bruce, Amelia Terry, Ava Wearne
FIFTH ROW: Gemma Basilisco, Nikita Muriti, Isabella Andersson,

Lily Cooper, Lucy Fitter, Abigail Julian, Sienna Bryant, Ava Neary,
Mia Vale, Matilda Lloyd, Neva Carpenter, Mimi Boffa, Emma Creevey,
Kiahna Marashian, Olivia Kilkeary, Sybilla Conn
Staff: Ms A Reading (Year Coordinator), Mrs T Suominen, Mr G Aird, Mrs T Byrne, Mrs M Covich, Ms E Goode, Ms M Bobanovic, Mr T Donlan,
Mrs C Hatherell, Mr G Johns, Ms M Cooper

Year 9
Within the first few weeks of Throughout Terms 1 and 2 the The girls have continually applied It has been my blessing to be
meeting Year 9 2023, I was so girls completed their 15 hours themselves to the increased their Year Coordinator this year
pleased with their outstanding of community involvement learning demands of Year 9, and to see the girls embrace the
applications for the Junior activities. Their dedication to the through classroom activities and opportunities and challenges
Leadership Positions. With a chosen activities was admirable opportunities. They have shown each day. I have been proud to
future focus this excellent cohort and a testament to their sense excellent academic application witness their growth, watch
were continually encouraged to of social justice, community and ability during the year them step outside their comfort
step out of their comfort zone involvement and dedication including with NAPLAN, our zone, build their networks and
and embrace the Leadership, to the core values of Brigidine College assessment block and to look to the future to develop
Sporting, Dance, Music, Speech College. their Allwell testing. the skills and qualities of young
and Community Service people capable of achieving
The end of Term 2 was an Throughout 2023, Year 9 have
opportunities here at the College anything they set their mind to. I
opportunity for 30 of our consistently demonstrated their
in 2023 and beyond. am looking forward to being their
Junior Leaders to attend the determination and commitment
2024 Year Coordinator.
The girls enjoyed Year 9 Camp. YLead Altitude Leadership to the College in every aspect
The camp experiences included Conference at the Chatswood of their learning. The variety
surfing, bush walking, stand- Concourse which was focused on of involvement in the College
MRS K ATE RYDER
YE AR 9 C O ORDINATOR
up paddle boarding and an personal growth and leadership Cocurricular program and
Indigenous talk on the beautiful development. external excellence is impressive.
NSW South Coast. The weather Many Year 9 students performed
In Term 3 the girls prepared for
was perfect, and the girls in the Music Festival, Dance
and facilitated the most amazing
embraced the opportunity to Spectacular, Drama Showcase
Pink Day event. Their energy and
try new skills, get to know each evenings, Debating and all the
enthusiasm was admirable and
other as Year 9 students, and sports offered on the weekend.
the girls raised $2,235 to support
their Mentor teachers too.
Breast Cancer Awareness.

Year 9
FRONT ROW: Kate Charlize Cochon, Grace Eldridge, FIFTH ROW: Isabella Keir, Eliza Le Marne-Court, Zoe Mills,
Siena D’Alessandro, Chloe McGuire, Jade Beevers, Anabel Clancy, Billie Wadling, Elizabeth Langley, Leila Alami, Alexandra Knight,
Sophie Reynolds, Amelia Hague, Jiaqi Chen, Emily Anslow, Kirra Rebec Smith, Angelina Jurisic, Clare Hurford, Sienna Severino,
Amelie Breaden, Monique Smith, Jazleen Kandola, Ariel Qasabian, Danielle Scroope, Alice Halpin, Lilah Ogg, Eliza Zadro, Jessica Gannon,
Amelia Edwardson, Emily Sing, Hannah Griffin, Fei Fei Xiao Gemma Woolley
SECOND ROW: Liliana Klimes, Natasha Lee, Amitiel McJarrow, SIXTH ROW: India MacNamara, Emily Lovelock, Skyla Lyons,
Anishka Thakur, Nineveh Aniquae Cabigao,Rachel Yang, Evie Sadler, Charlotte Stewart, Edie Scarf, Lia Van Wyk, Lily Lipari, Ailee Campbell,
Sophie Clark, Lauren Turner, Ruby Halpin, Adela Zhang, Abbey Pickering, Amelia Janoyan, Caitlin Dunn, Ava Deck,
Isabella Bozikian, Kayla Burman, Grace Miles, Bronte Alexopulos, Ashleigh Weir, Sylvie McEvoy, Sienna Beecroft, Olivia Manojlovic
Isobel Bagley, Imogen Cochrane, Anisha Karunakar,
SEVENTH ROW: Niamh Flattery, Jessica Gantvoort, Ava Wilson,
Nyzarel Oertel-Low, Yuk Chuk Lu, Jacinda Tam
Madison Brandt, Georgia Alden, Mia Nemeth de Bikal, Poppy Smith,
THIRD ROW: Madelyn Gilio, Hollie Johnson, Dylan Searl, Jasmine Siddall, Kayla Moane, Isabella Fisk, Rose Aylmer,
Seraphina Vescio, Serena Millin, Camila Diaz Cerpa, Zara Ong, Olivia Higgins, Ereni Boutsikakis, Charlotte Bensley, Alyssa Sorbara,
Amelie Moraes, Erin Bardone, Imogen Cran, Hayley Pember, Gracie Daddo, Arabella Gerke, Greer Woodbury
Eliana Mertens, Lila Bromley, Olivia Halloway, Emma Wood,
ABSENT: Sophie Barker, Estelle Batchelor, Michaela Blewitt,
Joanna Darby, Olivia Arianayagam, Lauren Procter, Amy Brent
Asher Christopher, Sophie Cooper, Hayley Dunbar, Tabitha Ferreira,
FOURTH ROW: Marina Rothemund, Sienna Smith, Nia Harper, Stephanie Graeme, Olivia Manojlovic, Lauren Procter, Emily Sims,
Chloe Lee, Zara Beevers, Annabel McKinnon, Matilda Asher, Sienna Smith, Lia van Wyk, Chloe Walley, Hallie Whitfield
Tess Lever, Stephanie Graeme, Chloe Anania, Livia Hilton,
Emily Cashin, Tasha Lillycrop, Chloe Rienits, Arabella Wallace,
Melia Adamian, Jessica Kelly, Paige Copley
Staff: Mrs K Ryder (Year Coordinator), Ms C McCudden, Mr B Garratt, Mr R Bebb, Mr M Crewe, Mr D Clifton, Ms S Townsend, Mr P De Souza,
Ms B Power, Mrs A Kilshaw, Ms E Holloway (Absent), Ms B White (Absent)

Year 10
The year started with our be in cabins with their friends. am hopeful that this generation Before we knew it, Year 12 was celebration and the perfect way
College Swimming Carnival, A highlight was having ‘family makes wise choices with regards graduating and we wished them to close the year.
this proved very exciting for breakfast’ together and eating to caring for their health. all the best for their exams and
For Year 10, 2023 has been a
our elite swimmers. It was also snacks late into the night. Other futures.
Year 10 was also responsible journey of growth in both their
a great way for students to highlights included surfing,
for organising an Indigenous Term 4 commenced with Year academic and social worlds. They
catch up with their friends in Trivia Night, and a beach walk
Awareness Charity Day with 10 returning to school in crisp, have consistently demonstrated
an informal environment before to watch the sunset over the
stalls to raise money for the Year white shirts and a ‘senior independence, consideration for
lessons commenced. horizon as a full moon rose over
12 charity, Sock it to Sarcoma. mindset’. The focus was on others and resilience.
the ocean. It was beautiful and a
Our Year 10 theme for 2023 was preparing for examinations
reminder to spend time in nature The term concluded with As they rise from their junior
‘The Lotus’ and the quote, “Just then suddenly the world as
and be grateful for the many joys Founders Day celebrations where years with a strong foundation,
like the lotus, we too have the news of the conflict between
we experience in our world. the College community attended may they leave the “mud” of Year
ability to rise from the mud, Israel and Palestine broke. With
a mass to honour our founders 10 behind and shine their light
bloom out into the darkness and Term 1 concluded on a positive many members of our College
followed by fundraising activities into their future educational,
radiate into the world.” note with an Easter Liturgy and community having friends and
for the Year 12 charity. creative, sporting, spiritual
Caritas Rice Day. relatives connected to the Middle
During a session of Pastoral Time and social pursuits. May they
Term 3 commenced with a East, it caused concern.
in Term 1, we wrote all the things Term 2 had a careers continue to be young women of
thought provoking presentation
we would leave ‘behind in the and academic focus with The past few years have seen strength and gentleness.
by The Butterfly Foundation.
mud’ onto a post-it note. We then Morrisby Careers Profiles and many unprecedented and
The main message relayed was
folded the note and placed it into examinations. These stimulated
to ‘be kind to yourself’ through
unexpected global events. MRS DONNA KUPER
a paper cup. Mentor teachers discussions around future Our students are leaning to YE AR 10 C O ORDINATOR
self talk and actions. Two weeks
then tipped the notes into a small subject choices for Years 11 and 12 navigate ‘the new normal’ with
later Year 10 received another
fire pit, with the fire consuming and possible future careers. compassion and underpinning
presentation from the Anti-
all the things we wanted to it with knowledge gained from
Alcohol and drug educator, Paul Violence Police which had been
leave behind, creating space for reputable sources.
Dillon, gave a presentation to mandated to be presented to all
growth and renewal.
Year 10. He spoke about vaping students in NSW. The girls were The year concluded with the
As the term progressed, we and how 90% of vapes contain very attentive to the message Year 10 Semi Formal held at
prepared for Camp. This was an nicotine, despite packaging that of ‘Respect’. Manly Pacific. It was a wonderful
opportunity for the students to states they are nicotine free. I

Year 10
FRONT ROW: Anita Vanza, Anna Ferguson, Megan Jeremy, Star Howell, FIFTH ROW: Jaime Hamilton, Hannah Charlton, Cleo Dorau,
Summer Woods, Alexandra Anderson, Alanna Devlin, Alisha Cheng, Christine Kim, Jessica Surjan, Daniella Grantham, Charlotte Kentwell,
Bridget Howell, Madeleine Benson, Hannah Gill, Ashley Gerrie, Josie Howlett, Lucinda Hudson, Emilea Wallis, Olivia McGrath,
Alana Gonzalez, Daphne Hudson, Deana Little, Arianne Wong, Zia Hylton, Sofia Encina, Paria Shielsar, Caitlin Sanders, Ivy Guo,
Briella Chung, Annie Zhuang, Lily Parker, Ryka Chakravorty Isabella Ringrose
SECOND ROW: Amelie Hill, Ruby Hills, Holly McKee, Laura Zawodna, SIXTH ROW: Grace George, Elleni Turkovic, Sarah Lanyi,
Rachel Grant, Sofia Little, Tyla Minns, Gemma Potts, Sarah Grimley, Allegra Stritt, Georgie Calleia, Neve McGregor,
Georgina Thomas, Charli Marks, Freya Lugg, Kiara Korompay, Ella McSweeney, Cayleigh Hartwig, Marilla Gategood, Georgia Benson,
Poppy Kopelke, Caitlin Wilson, Alyssa Richards, Jamila Metzger, Roxanne Hathorn, Amilie Zhao, Matilda Saunders,
Baylie Surman-Smith, Isabelle Osborne, Jimena Blanco, Summer Rowland-Smith, Imogen Webber
Jasmine Warburton, Rosalind Scott, Grace Osborne,
SEVENTH ROW: Marlia Taylor, Sienna Stead, Chloe Byrne,
Georgia McDowell, Cynthia Ma
Amber Hiscox, Paige Kerfoot, Olivia Hackwood, Jacinta Williams,
THIRD ROW: Josephine Crocker, Olivia Taylor, Indigo Lake, Kali Day, Marta Donald, Cleopatra Westley, Claire Cornes, Olivia Belger,
Chloe Fleming, Isabella Breaden, Olivia Dwyer, Gabrielle Brooker, Scarlett Miles, Ariel Simonsen, Laila Pike, Ava Dear, Daisy-Sky Raaff,
Sydney Wiltshire, Indira Mellers, Kristen Socrates, Alice Brown, Lily Wearne, Sigrid Veidners
Hannah Della-Franca, Emily Moss, Ava Thomas, Alicia Danielian,
EIGHTH ROW: Ciara Magee, Mia Links, Mikayla Chown, Nieve Binns,
Ivy Montgomery, Cameron Dalzell, Julia O’Hare, Georgia Potts
Olivia Lisle, Chloe Cogan, Mia Walsh, Sabrina Mulhearn,
FOURTH ROW: Charlotte Fowler, Ava Lenarduzzi, Rena Hu, Alyssa Goodall, Elle Seaglove, Georgia Hackwood, Jessica England,
Alana Munro, Lauren Gordon, Emilia Atkinson-Dicandilo, Audrey Draper, Chelsea Bannister, Madison Grice, Zara Leslie,
Zoe Humberstone, Grace Kennedy, Isabella Cardinale, Hannah Baxter, Chloe Weber, Olivia Carson
Sophia Willoughby, Jocelyn Lockyer, Alana Horne, Xiaoqi Zhang,
ABSENT: Sienna De-Fina, Haylie Dimitropoulos, Talia Ellis,
Keilana Stoten, Rory Zhang, Olivia Roland, Kelina Vasquez Buzzolini
Georgia Luca, Ophelia Odell, Alexandra Quirk, Emma Walters
Staff: Mrs D Kuper (Year Coordinator), Ms H Holt, Mr R Farr, Ms M Choquenet, Mrs S Bremner, Ms S Singhal, Mrs N Greig, Mrs S Gibson,
Ms T Wright, Ms A Campbell, Ms C Arnott, Ms R Carlson, Mr J Holmes, Ms E Preston, Mr F Fu

Year 11
2023 was a great year for Year 11. meals for Dignity Dishes to their hair during the school’s goods, crafts, favourite sweets Year 11 play Happily Ever After…?,
They grew closer as a cohort and support Homelessness Week. Pink Day fundraiser to create or small gifts in their locker. This an amazing production written
supported each other through This charity initiative was driven wigs for people undergoing brightened people’s days and and directed by Miss DiAnne
carnivals, cocurricular activities by Year 11 and had students chemotherapy treatment. Year filled the Year 11 halls with a daily McDonald. The play showcased
and all aspects of school life. The collecting meals from every year 11 embraced the school’s focus dose of happiness and kindness. an abundance of talent and
beginning of the year brought group and creating bundles for on community through their In Term 3, the whole year group energy in the cohort. Each actor,
exciting new opportunities for children’s buddy packs. The Year contributions in 2023. came together for Book Week, Girls in Black member, backstage
students including a common 11 Retreat was centred around dressed in a Barbie theme. Year 11 crew member, hair and makeup
It was evident that the cohort
room, free periods and senior the idea of community service, students came to school in pink artist and choreographer all
had become stronger throughout
leadership positions. Students with the cohort spending the clothing and worked together came together supporting each
the year due to an initiative
were offered the opportunity first day hearing from speakers to cut ribbons, make signs and other to deliver a brilliant and
implemented in Mentor time
to apply for positions in areas from the Edmund Rice Centre paint their faces. The cohort entertaining show. It unified the
each Wednesday. The Mentor
they felt passionate about, later and William Booth House. Year danced and sang together on whole community and cohort,
leaders in Year 11 introduced
voting, shadowing their current 11 spent the next two days stage furthering establishing a allowing all students to support
‘Wellbeing Wednesday’ which
leader and being commissioned supporting the community unified group. their friends in the show. Year
allowed for groups to combine
in their roles in Term 3. through volunteering in venues 11 made 2023 a year centred
during Mentor time and This was a year when students
Leaders also attended a camp such as soup kitchens, clothes around creating new friendships,
play games, talk or complete from Year 11 supported each
in Narrabeen to refine their sorting facilities for the homeless nurturing existing ones and
morning activities like the Push other through participating or
leadership skills and encourage and guided tours through Kings bettering both the year group
Up Challenge. This initiative attending the College Musical
collaboration on exciting Cross, listening to the personal community as well as the wider
encouraged the year group to Footloose, the Dance Spectacular,
initiatives. experiences of those who have Brigidine one. Bring on Year 12!
bond and get to know different sporting grand finals, school
lived on the streets. This retreat carnivals, representative sports
Throughout 2023, Year 11 has people. Year 11 students also
was a memorable and rewarding carnivals, Debating, Mock
MRS K AREN DUNSMORE
taken part in many different unified through the ‘Random
experience for the Year 11 girls Trial, Duke of Ed and Festival of
forms of community service. Acts of Kindness’ activity in
as they learnt about gratitude, Music, just to name a few. This
All students in the cohort led which each girl was assigned one
the school by picking up their
empathy and kindness. In Term
person to anonymously leave support and encouragement NATASHA TOWNLE Y
aprons at home and preparing
3, some Year 11 students donated
affirmations, art, origami, baked was especially highlighted in the AND INDIE SMITH
C OLLEGE C AP TAINS 2024

Year 11
FRONT ROW: Tahli Speter, Jasmine Speter, Sophie McGrath, SIXTH ROW: Tami Bettman, Romani Sprigg, Jessie Walsh,
Layla Dabile, Bronte Lloyd, Poppy Wilson, Joscelyn Campbell, Mira Posen, Albee McInnes, Natasha Townley, Sienna Brett,
Sabrina Chin, Xin Yi Zhang, Holly Calleia, Elsa Hudson, Livia Pannaci, Liliana Angus, Gabrielle Hopping, Zali Helsloot, Mariné Botha,
Koey Chow, Adele Clarsen, Aiyana Misquitta, Raquel Quintal, Alara Sheather, Lola Kierans Ball, Lucy Manias
Hailey Sing
SEVENTH ROW: Leila McDougall, Sienna Newbery, Maggie O’Sullivan,
SECOND ROW: Katie Booth, Dhatri Adla, Mia Wastell, Lucy Forman, Emily Guerrera, Gisella Sorbara, Annika Ehnbom, Grace Smith,
Ines Teixeira Pinto, Isobel Gardner, Ruby Templeton, Maya Nicey, Emily Brandt, Sophie Watling, Sophie Hemens, Ava Luxford,
Cholet Murray, Ella Baker, Eleanor Taylor, Olivia Armstrong, Stefanija Lakic, Isabelle Banbury, Summer Brennan, Amber Davies,
Kate McCrindle, Jemima Johnson, Sofia Bonadio, Chloe Brent, Elishka Fawle
Emily Wardell, Sonia Jerath, Isabella Flaks
EIGHTH ROW: Mia Perry, Milda Magyle, Keira Hawkins, Indie Smith,
THIRD ROW: Katherine Hocking, Nicole Steiner, Nina Vinci, Sophie Walters, Sophie Hoppett, Chloe Nemeth de Bikal, Natalia Binks,
Asha Czastka, Gemma Fleming, Maya Torlakovic, Sienna Perego, Sophia Cooper, Caitlin Walley, Zoe Tobin, Annaliese Chan,
Annie Coutts, Charlie Ranucci, Venkata Akella, Charlea Maher, Olivia Finn, Tatijana Lofhjelm, Isabella Dawson, Lizelle Jeremy
Isabel Czastka, Lucia Pinto-Engel, Saturnina Czastka, Anna Horton,
ABSENT: Sienna Achdjian, Liliana Angus, Cadence Barnett,
Poppy Howlett, Hanah Bayldon
Natalia Binks, Dakoda Clifton, Sophia Horbach, Olivia Howell,
FOURTH ROW: Chloe Chen, Si Man Wong, Lily Halpin, Sophie Lowry, Hannah McGrath, Madeleine Sedger, Shiyu Shen, Kelly Theodorides,
Zara McCauley, Alys Powell, Charlize Philpott, Madeleine Sedger, Chloe Tommerup, Georgia Young, Xin Yi Zhang, Sophie Zillman
Bronte Suominen, Gemma Hatherell, Emma Johnston, Hannah Smith,
Zoe Shirdon, Roseanna Huang, Caitlin Smith
FIFTH ROW: Clare Brennan-Lamb, Olivia Conroy, Sofia White,

Hayley Christie, Jana Weingartner, Sofija Lakic, Erin Shanahan,
Marnie Hilton, Zannah Dixon, Maya Flattery, Olivia Smith,
Irlanda Biviano, Adrina Widjaja, Lara Price, Leilani Crowhen
Staff: Mrs K Dunsmore (Year Coordinator - Absent), Mrs D Gale (Year Coordinator - Acting), Ms K Crowley, Ms C Lim, Mr B Harrison,
Ms E Forbes, Ms R Collins, Mrs B Byrne, Ms C O’Flynn, Mrs M Skinner, Ms J Bridges, Mr B Usmar, Mrs D Ballesty

Year 12
The focus for Year 12 was based The 2023 theme ‘Dare to dream’ This year’s carnivals were held Year 12 were also encouraged
on the African concept of was launched with an incredible in quick succession and provided to value self care. They were
ubuntu; “I am because you are.” combination of film, fairy lights many opportunities to promote guided to set achievable goals
It is the belief that we are defined and fun setting the scene for house spirit. Year 12 led the way based on their strengths and to
by our compassion and kindness supporting the charity Sock it with great themes and costumes. find time to focus on ways to
towards others, and that when to Sarcoma. There were bake Their energy and enthusiasm relax. Mindfulness, meditation,
we recognise the value of each sales, barbecues, lolly bags and encouraged the participation of journalling, acts of kindness
person and engage with others in of course Founders Day, all which all students. and gratitude all formed part of
a meaningful way, we all become focused on raising funds for a their journey.
Our Retreat was held at a new
better. With this idea in mind, we charity close to the hearts of
venue this year and was a great Year 12 enthusiastically embraced
started the year with a day led this year group. In support of
success. The contribution of the many opportunities available
by Ylead. This gave everyone the the theme, the Dreamer of the
mentors and students created an to them across all areas of the
opportunity to identify their own Week was awarded to staff and
amazing sense of community. It College. They led with pride and
values and strengths, understand students who were nominated
provided opportunities to reflect challenged all to remember to
the importance of teamwork and for their kindness, assistance and
on the past, present and future, “dare to dream!”
recognise the good in others. service to each other and the
as well as the importance of
wider community.
time together. MRS NYREE LOVE T T

Year 12
FRONT ROW: Angela Bui, Grace Uther, Sophia Bignold, SIXTH ROW: Lulu La Ganza, Olivia Byrne, Charlotte McPhee,
Alejandra Blanco, Amelie Bunt, Jordyn Stewart, Annabell Devlin, Alessia Marrocco, Ashleigh Karcher, Chianti Webb, Mia Wilson,
Sarah Hudson, Daisy Daddo, Carla Kopoushian, Jessica Tillotson, Gabriella Gama, Elise Glase, Maria Kassis, Gabrielle Magee,
Sophie Osborne, Jessica Rheinberger, Sophie Vilensky, Zoe Turner, Chelsey Watling, Ashleigh Cunningham, Erika Barnier, Ruby Klammer,
Bailey Haynes Monique Benson, Anai Fensom, Tara Bardone
SECOND ROW: Georgia Sharp, Claire Shin, Bethany Miller, SEVENTH ROW: Ilinca Hobincu, Hannah Forman, Bethany Lever,
Abigail Mills, Charlotte Enright, Emma Marshall, Mikaela Tregale, Kirra Gilchrist, Sophie Temple, Amelia Fitzpatrick, Elsa McLean,
Jessica Hildebrandt, Grace Branagan, Stella Tucker, Erin Rothemund, Samsara Crowe, Sophia Kristiansen, Lola Meikle, Amelia Newton,
Hester Geeves, Libby Tomkinson, Julia Ober, Louisa Le, Elif Caner, Isabella Brooker, Yoo Na Lee, Haneul Chae,
Meshma Rajbhandari, Emersyn Murphy Gabrielle Routledge
THIRD ROW: Allegra Vescio, Vivien Shakespeare, Caitlin O’Sullivan, EIGHTH ROW: Lola Vallaydam, Keeley Holmes, Olivia Chaffers-Welsh,
Salomie Vogrig, Genna Papaioannou, Annabel Lane, Hei Tung Wan, Jasmine Blanco, Zoe Pember, Bridget Nyssen, Lauren Watts,
Jiarui Liu, April Lyster, Sarah Walsh, Alexis Pridgen, Imogen Dinnar, Charlotte Reynolds, Amelia Svanstrom, Isabelle De Ruiter,
Georgia Lukacevic, Sophie Hart, Amy Masselos, Florentyn Heintz, Grace Mercieca, Madison Lisle, Ashley Noble, Mia Thomas,
Caitlin Waugh Jasmine Walters, Alana Reddy, Molly Baczkowski, Eloise Bradbury
FOURTH ROW: Charlotte Theodore, Ellen Mulhearn, Ella Tysoe, NINTH ROW: Sienna Wilson, Olivia Noble, Macy Marx, Ellen Jenkins,
Halle Dickinson, Ella Marks, Alexa Hathorn, Georgia Aikman, Sabine Westley, Olivia Armati, Hannah Thonell, Georgia Dewar,
Scarlett Davies, Mackenzie Russell, Mia Hutchings, Elodie Mouret, Isla Pegler, Emma Goodall, Zara Macilquham, Sky Faustmann,
Arabella Kingston, Anna Weinress, Taylor Bradac, Jacqueline Lee, Isabella Janoyan, Hailey Cerneaz, Sophie Cornes, Ella Kennedy,
Sienna Amoah, Raya Santos, Scarlett Rowland-Smith Charlotte Richardson, Carmen Duncan
FIFTH ROW: Manon Preziuso, Meg Wannell, Sophie Tannock, ABSENT: Stella Millbank
Maria Ayoub, Morgan Moss, Chloe Osborne, Sabina Arianayagam,
Charlotte Sim, Ella Magee, Kate Mullins, Jasmine Mulholland,
Scarlett Judd, Zoe Miller, Amelia Smith, Sienna McKenzie,
Emilie Huxley
Staff: Ms L Richmond (Principal), Mrs N Lovett (Year Coordinator), Ms S Rae, Ms A Finnerty, Mr H Morgan, Mr C Rutherford, Ms S Cimen,
Mrs L McLeod, Miss D McDonald, Mr M Escorrido, Mr R Jones, Ms J Walker, Mrs L Hartwig, Ms J Sinke, Ms K Barnes, Mrs M Jackson

04 Academic
Teaching and Learning
Through the curriculum and Accelerated Hospitality was achievements of this outstanding The following pages highlight
extension programs students again offered to Year 9 students cohort of students. This event that 2023 has been a year of
were given opportunities in 2023 who are interested in attaining was not just a celebration of growth and success, thanks to
to extend their interests and Vocational Education and academic achievements; it was a the dedication and hard work
further develop their learning Training (VET) qualifications testament to the resilience and of both our students and the
and study habits. Our academic and potentially sitting the HSC determination of our students. teachers who have guided them.
classes aim to assist students examination in Year 11. They have navigated through Looking ahead, we are excited
to take responsibility for their uncertain times and shown that to build on this momentum,
This year, we saw the welcome
learning as well as to encourage perseverance and hard work continuously seeking ways to
return of excursions, workshops
critical thinking, creativity and truly pay off. enhance our teaching methods
and guest speakers after a
collaboration. Our extension and curriculum to ensure that
long pause due to the Covid-19 The success of the Class of
programs are particularly every student has the chance
pandemic. Students once again 2023 was acknowledged further
beneficial for students who to thrive and excel. The journey
had the chance to learn outside with many of the girls receiving
are keen to explore subjects in of education is one of constant
the classroom and gain insights early entry offers to a range of
greater depth and breadth. These learning and adaptation, and
from experts across various universities. We are also very
programs provide challenges we are ready to embrace the
fields. These experiences offer proud that a number of our
beyond the standard curriculum, challenges and opportunities
students the chance to learn in creative and performing arts
which can be highly motivating that lie ahead, shaping a brighter
a more dynamic and interactive students have received early
for students who are passionate future for all.
way, connecting classroom recognition for excellence, with
about a particular field.
knowledge to the real world. major works from Design and
In 2023 we were excited to Technology, Textiles and Design,
MRS LEONE SMY TH
A special highlight for 2023 was DEPUT Y PRINCIPAL
introduce Engineering Studies Dance, Drama, Music and Visual TE ACHING AND LE ARNING
the Year 12 Academic Awards
as a senior subject which is a Arts being nominated for HSC
Assembly, where families joined
step towards building further Showcase events.
us to celebrate the wonderful
student opportunities in STEM.

Academic Enrichment
The Academic Enrichment Metaverse, Utilitarianism and - Year 11 Philosophy students

Honours Program provides Suffering: Peter Singer on saving participated in the Speaking
students with opportunities lives, and The Philosophical for the Planet Sustainability
to extend their interests and implications of Disney competition, an art-based
develop a love of learning while Princesses. approach for youth advocacy for
enhancing their critical, creative a sustainable world. The focus
Our inaugural Stage 6 Philosophy
and collaborative thinking skills. this year was ‘Reaching Net
students completed their course
Zero Together. What could we
This year students in our Year by organising a Philosophy
do to support our communities
7 Critical Thinking classes Conference with the theme ‘Can
to reduce their energy, waste
learnt important skills such as Philosophy save the planet?’.
and transport emissions for a
creating pertinent questions and
2023 highlights include healthier, more liveable city?’.
engaging in conceptual thinking,
- Reflecting on the impact of Romani Sprigg won First Prize
recognising cognitive biases and
Artificial Intelligence and related in the Poetry performance
formulating strong arguments.
ethical dilemmas at the Café de category for her poem on
Year 8 Honours students the consequences of human
Flore conference.
developed their research skills dominion on the environment.
and undertook a project of their - Receiving an Honourable Roseanna Huang won First
own interest. This year students Mention in the Senior Ethics Prize in the Speech category
researched such topics as The Olympiads. for her speech ‘The Promise of
role of classical narratives - Participating in a program Tomorrow’.
in Democracies, Pain behind organised by the Jewish Museum - Ten students collaborated with
beauty in the ballet world, and on Ethics and Ending Othering. 12 other teams across NSW and
Technological solutions to
- Attending the Thriving Minds ACT in the Middle School Ethics
climate change.
Junior Stretch and Challenge - Olympiad. The Brigidine White
Years 9 and 10 Philosophy Inspire Ambition 2023 day where team won a Bronze medal and
students delved into the world they were challenged with new the Brigidine Orange team won a
of Metaphysics, Ethics, Political philosophical ideas in the areas Gold medal. They will participate
Philosophy and Philosophy of of politics, metaphysics, ethics in the International round in
Happiness. Year 10 students and science. February 2024.
graduated with Intermediate
- Years 8 and 9 students were
Honours after presenting MS MARINE
their Personal Philosophy involved in a Middle School CHOQUENE T
Dissertations on topics as varied Ethics Olympiad Training Clinic. HE AD OF AC ADE MIC ENRICHMENT
as The Metaphysics of the (AC TING)

Dance
Highlights for Dance 2023 - Curriculum dancers performed company, Sydney Dance
at whole school assemblies Company’s Up Close: Somos.
- Brigidine College received 19
Callback nominations from our - Year 10 completed their first Miss Marrocco and I are
Year 12 class of 11 students with a solo compositions to a very extremely proud of the
total of 33 practical works. This high standard! achievement of all our Dance
is a huge achievement and our students this year and look
- Year 9 completed their first
most nominations ever received forward to another big and
group composition works
in Dance! exciting year of Dance ahead
demonstrating their impressive
in 2024! A big thank you to
- The Year 12 Dance HSC ability to collaborate
our Head of Department, Miss
Showcase drew a large crowd
- Excursion opportunities DiAnne McDonald and the Drama
and was a very entertaining
this year included attending department for their ongoing
show, showcasing our talented
Callback 2022 for Years 11 and 12, support and assistance in helping
performers and their works
showcasing exemplar works from us achieve all the successes in
- Many students from other year HSC Dance 2022. Our own Coco Dance this year.
groups had the opportunity to Yamaguchi (Class of 2022) was
be composition dancers for HSC accepted into this prestigious MRS K ATRINA RENNIE
works, gaining such valuable showcase. Years 9 and 10 enjoyed DANCE
experience in learning about the seeing a live performance from
composition process Australia’s leading contemporary

Diverse Learning
The Diverse Learning Harnessing the benefits of

department works alongside the technology whilst also trying to
Wellbeing team and all subject manage some of its challenges
departments in order to provide has been a particular focus in
an inclusive and positive learning 2023. Similarly, balancing the
experience for all students. benefits of this technology
Brigidine College is renowned against the myriad of concerns
as an inclusive and welcoming regarding the online world
school which nurtures student remains a priority.
potential across a broad range of
subjects and activities. Our staff MRS HELEN THOMAS
of classroom teachers, teacher HE AD OF DIVER SE LE ARNING
assistants, counsellors and
specialist support staff provide
students with every opportunity
for success.

Drama
Highlights for Drama 2023 - Drama teacher Mr Rutherford

received the World Teacher’s
- Brigidine College received
Guild Award for his wonderful
23 OnStage nominations for
contribution to the teaching
our outstanding Year 12 HSC
of Drama.
Drama students. This means
that our individual and group - Many Drama performances
performances were considered were presented at whole
among the best in NSW. school assemblies.
- We had a sold-out season of the - Both senior Drama teachers

Year 11 Play Happily Ever After…? were involved in HSC Trial
(an original play written by Miss marking at a number of
McDonald) featuring many of our different schools including Knox
Drama students. Grammar School, Abbotsleigh, St
Augustine’s College and Central
- Josephine Crocker and Summer
Coast Grammar School.
Rowland-Smith (Year 10 Drama
students) were invited to be the A special thank you to
keynote speakers at the Sydney the fabulous team within
Theatre Company’s Education the department: Mr Chris
Launch, meeting the Artistic Rutherford, Ms Cinzia Marrocco,
Director Kip Williams. Mrs Katrina Rennie, Mr Gareth
Edey and Mrs Michelle Casiglia.
- Our Drama Showcase
evenings showcased our Years Congratulations to all the
9, 10 and 11 Drama students’ amazing drama queens that
talents, featuring individual we work with every day – you
and group performances, truly make us believe that, as
and allowed our audiences of Shakespeare once said, all the
parents and friends to support world is our stage!
some of the outstanding
assessment performances. MISS DIANNE
MCDONALD
HE AD OF DR A M A AND
CURRICULUM DANCE

English
This year saw the launch of at the Sydney Jewish Museum Word eXpress English Extension
our wonderful new student- and grandfather of Isabella 2 seminar run by the State
led publication, The Lamp. Lipari (Year 8) and Lily Lipari Library of New South Wales – a
Named in honour of the Lamp (Year 9) to speak to our Year 8 full day interactive masterclass
of Learning, associated with St students about his involvement featuring some of the most
Brigid that is symbolic of the in the Anne Frank story. Sadly, experienced leaders of the
light of knowledge and creativity Anti-Semitism is once again on Extension 2 course. We are also
that education brings, this the rise around the world and, very proud of Roseanna Huang in
publication comes out once a along with the horrors currently Year 11, whose composition Good
term and features writing in a unfolding in Israel and the Middle Mothers was shortlisted for the
range of styles – from narratives East, our study of The Diary of 2024 What Matters? Competition
to personal essays, to scripts, Anne Frank The Play Version run by the Whitlam Institute at
interviews and reviews. Each had greater resonance than ever Western Sydney University.
edition also features cover this year. Another very welcome
Our English department has been
artwork designed by a student. return visitor to Brigidine in 2023
a hive of activity in 2023 as we
Congratulations to our Creative was Paul McDonald from The
prepare for the introduction of
Writing student leader, Josephine Children’s Bookshop who spoke
the new Years 7-10 syllabus in
Crocker, and her editorial team to our Years 7 and 8 students
2024. Our new programs feature
of India MacNamara, Jacinta about trends in teen fiction and
a range of exciting contemporary
Williams, Georgia Potts and all the wonderful new books that
texts that we hope will engage
Arabella Gerke for driving this have been published recently.
the students with timely and
wonderful initiative. This team
Congratulations go to our five relevant issues, expose them to
of passionate creative writers
Extension 2 students on the diverse perspectives and voices
also attended a Creative Writing
completion of their HSC Major within quality literature and
Adventures excursion to the
Works. These students were encourage creativity.
State Library of New South Wales
Monique Benson, Anai Fensom,
in Term 4.
Gabrielle Magee, Amelia Newton MRS JANE T WALKER
We were so grateful to welcome and Alexis Pridgen. As part of HE AD OF ENGLISH
back Emeritus Professor Dr the introduction to the course,
Konrad Kwiet, Resident Historian the students attended the HSC

History
2023 was a good year for The Anzac assembly focused on

History at Brigidine College. the stories of those people who
All students in Years 7 to 10 volunteered to fight for their
study the Mandatory History country but who were underage.
curriculum that has been in place Many of them survived and
for nearly 10 years. Students went on to live productive and
are introduced to and develop fulfilling lives.
their skills in research, source
For the first time since the
analysis and understanding of
Covid-19 pandemic we were
historical events and issues.
able to run excursions and in
One of the challenges we face
April and September the Year
is the development of Artificial
10 History classes visited the
Intelligence, which seems to
Syndey Jewish Museum and
promise to make it easier to
spoke with a Holocaust survivor,
find information, but which
which was a very moving and
requires critical thinking skills
poignant encounter.
for students to be able to discern
fact from analysis.
MRS SHERRYL
In Year 10 History students BREMNER
studied the Holocaust as one HE AD OF HIS TORY
of their two Depth Studies.
In Year 9 History Elective
students successfully studied
a new unit called Children in
History, continuing the theme
of exploring the often forgotten
people in history.

Languages
It was a vibrant and busy year for The Years 9 and 10 French established and well-known
Languages at the College. classes attended the French Bar Italia. Italian Film, Italian
Film Festival with Ms Carroll for Passions and Italian Business in
The Years 9, 10 and 11 French
a special screening of Belle et Australia are key topics of the
and Italian students took part
Sébastien: Nouvelle Génération. Stage 6 Syllabus.
in the Assessment of Language
Students were able to gain a
Competence Certificates. Hailey An enormous thank you goes
deeper understanding of French
Cerneaz (Year 12) achieved a to the amazing Languages
cinematography, language and
most outstanding and very team, Mrs Caruso, Ms Carroll,
culture.
impressive result, receiving Mr Chant and Ms Forbes for
the Top Student Award! She Our Year 12 French class had a continuing to inspire our
attained the highest marks of all very eventful year. They attended students and assisting in opening
the participants who completed an HSC Study Day at Sydney the doors to a much bigger world.
the French Level 3 Certificate University as well as a Mock
This year we farewell one of
for Reading and Writing in all Speaking Day in preparation for
our long term French teachers,
of Australasia. This outstanding their HSC Speaking examination.
Mr David Chant. We thank him
achievement, a Brigidine College They also enjoyed attending
for sharing his passion and
first, was recognised with a the long-awaited excursion to
knowledge of the French culture
special Medal and Certificate. the Alliance Française. This was
and language and wish him all
followed by a French culinary
Harmony Day was celebrated the very best. Heureuse retraite!
lunch experience at The Little
on 21 March. All students were
Snail French restaurant.
given an orange ribbon to wear. MRS MARIA JACK SON
Italian authentic cannoli and In Term 4 the Years 10 and 11 HE AD OF L ANGUAGE S
French croissants were available Italian classes attended the
at lunchtime, while the Year Italian Film Festival for a special
10 Italian classes took part in school screening, followed by
a Scopa tournament run by a pizza making demonstration
Mrs Caruso. and Italian lunch at the long

Library
It was another busy year for very pressing topics. It was lovely
Kinkead Library. Along with to see Natalie Chandra (Class of
the ever-present promotion 2013) hosting the event.
of literature and reading for
Write a Book in a Day was
pleasure by Library staff, there
popular again this year and we
were some student led initiatives
awarded more book prizes than
that deserve a mention. Our
ever during Book Week for those
Library Leaders, Alexandra
students who had read more
Anderson (Year 10), Deana Little
than 15 books. Students in Years
(Year 10), Jasmine Cooke (Year
7 and 8 were lucky to attend an
8), Metta Brynildsen (Year 8) and
interesting presentation about
Chloe Baierl (Year 7) diligently
writing and publishing by young
organised Book Club activities
author Ann Liang.
once a week for a dedicated and
loyal group of students. Kahoots I would like to extend my thanks
was always a popular lunchtime to the dedicated Library staff
activity amongst students. who work tirelessly to make
During Term 2 we read Always the library a pleasant place to
a Monster by Vanessa Len with study. Our Teacher Librarian and
the end of term highlight a zoom ICT integrator, Ms Byrne, Mrs
virtual visit by the author. Nockles our Library Technician
and Mrs Konkol our talented
Kinkead Library also zoomed
Library Assistant.
into TedxYouth Sydney 2023,
with many classes privileged to
MRS LE ANNE MILLER
listen to the passionate leaders of
HE AD OF LIBR ARY SERVICE S
tomorrow speaking about some

Mathematics
We are thrilled to share with fostering a truly personalised Our department has fostered
you the exciting developments learning experience. a strong partnership with
and accomplishments within Mathspace, which was recently
At the heart of the new
our Mathematics department featured on the Industry Leaders
curriculum are two key
over the past year. As we gear program on Foxtel. Brigidine
components: Core content, which
up for the upcoming NESA College was the selected school
all students will engage with, and
curriculum changes, set to be to demonstrate the effective use
Pathway content, designed to
implemented in 2024 for students of Mathspace in the classroom
guide students toward various
in Years 7 and 9, our focus has during this program. This
Stage 6 courses. This dynamic
been on creating innovative exciting collaboration highlights
approach provides our students
programs to provide our our commitment to staying at
with a holistic education that
students with the best possible the forefront of cutting-edge
empowers them to choose their
learning experience. educational practices.
own learning journeys.
The new NESA curriculum In other news, we bid a fond
This year, we are delighted to
introduces a remarkable farewell to Mr Hugh Morgan
have continued our commitment
opportunity for educators to after his five years of dedicated
to mathematical excellence
tailor learning programs that service to the Mathematics
with the hosting of our beloved
cater to the individual needs department. His contribution has
events such as Number Day,
and abilities of our students. been invaluable, both within the
Pi Day, and participation in
It emphasises the importance classroom and on the sporting
the Australian Mathematics
of nurturing students along field. We must acknowledge
Competition. On Number Day,
their unique learning paths, his remarkable achievement of
our Year 7 students embarked
ensuring they reach their full three consecutive undefeated
on a thrilling mathematical
potential while establishing seasons with Brig 2 Football. As
scavenger hunt throughout the
a solid foundation for future he embarks on a new chapter
College, exploring the beauty
academic achievements. in his career at Shore School,
of mathematics hidden in plain
we wish him all the best in his
This fresh approach means that sight. During Pi Day, one of our
future endeavours.
teachers are no longer burdened exceptional students, Lulu La
with the need to check off every Ganza (Year 12), astounded us all
box on a predefined curriculum by reciting an astonishing 1405 MRS JACQUI BRIDGES
checklist. Instead, they have the digits of Pi. Her determination
HE AD OF M ATHE M ATIC S
freedom to concentrate on what to reach 1400 digits exemplifies
each student requires most, the passion and dedication of
our students.

Music
It has been an exciting year - Watching our Year 12 superstars
for Music as we have enjoyed perform their repertoire
getting back to pre-Covid days before their examinations at
with performances, camps and the HSC Music Performance
excursions back in our calendar. Night. A big congratulations to
Music classes continued to Jessica Hildebrandt who has
explore adventures in composing, been nominated for the HSC
performing and listening while Encore music concert for her
our music ensembles have been outstanding performances.
busier than ever!
As I write my final department
report, I am thankful for the
2023 Highlights
wonderful years I have spent at
- Hosting the Association of Brigidine College St Ives. I have
Independent Schools of NSW absolutely loved my time at this
(AISNSW) Music Conference. amazing school. It really doesn’t
feel like 34 years, the time has
- Performing our College Musical
just flown by, and I am forever
Footloose for a live audience.
grateful to have shared my
- Taking the Stage Band to Brigidine journey with you all. It
Bathurst for the Big Band Blast. has been a privilege to work with
so many outstanding teachers,
- Achieving success at the
caring year coordinators,
Northern Beaches and Ryde
dedicated teaching assistants
Eisteddfods with our Vocal
and helpful support staff who
Ensemble, Chamber Vocal
go above and beyond. Thanks to
Ensemble, Flute Ensemble and
the thousands of students I have
String Ensemble, and at the State
been fortunate to teach over the
Band Championships with our
years; you have made each day a
Junior and Senior Concert Bands.
joy. I feel incredibly blessed and
- Having great fun at Music wish everyone all the very best
Camp at Collaroy preparing for for the future.
our three-night Festival of Music.
- Visiting the Sydney Opera MRS ROS BOYD

HE AD OF MUSIC
House to see the Lincoln Center
Jazz Orchestra with renowned
trumpeter, Wynton Marsalis.

PDHPE
In 2023, the PDHPE department in a learn-to-surf course, recreation studies, fostering
at Brigidine seized numerous further enhancing their skill set. physical fitness and wellbeing.
opportunities to provide Additionally, they honed their
Year 9 PDHPE students
our students with enriching golfing skills under the guidance
were given the exceptional
experiences, utilising guest of a professional, broadening
opportunity to develop
speakers and excursions to their horizons.
their skills in AFL under the
enhance their learning journeys.
Year 9 PASS students delved into expert guidance of Greater
Our senior PDHPE students training principles, crafting their Western Sydney Giants
embarked on a journey towards training programs and putting players, broadening their
acquiring fully accredited First their new found knowledge athletic abilities.
Aid qualifications, a valuable into practice during a biathlon
The year culminated with
complement to their academic at Mona Vale Beach, offering
the eagerly anticipated Year
pursuits. They also had the a practical application of
7 Aquatics excursion, where
privilege of attending a practical their learning.
students ventured to Palm
sports science lecture, guided by
For students in Years 7 to 10 Beach. Here, they immersed
a seasoned professional from a
PDHPE classes, we strived to themselves in a surfing lesson,
local university.
provide additional enriching practiced essential water survival
Years 11 and 12 Community experiences. Our Years 8 and techniques and gained a deeper
and Family Studies (CAFS) 10 students in particular were understanding of beach safety,
students had a truly immersive challenged and entertained by rounding off the year with
experience, collaborating mastering a fun yet demanding unforgettable experiences and
with the 4titude group in Jazz routine as part of their valuable life skills.
a heartwarming excursion Dance unit. Year 9 PDHPE
In 2023, the PDHPE
focused on assisting adults classes participated in a lively
department at Brigidine
with disabilities. This excursion Ceroc dance day, collaborating
continued to be dedicated
seamlessly tied into their study with students from St Pius X,
to the holistic development
of Groups in Context, providing adding an element of excitement
of our students, providing
a meaningful and hands-on and social interaction to
them with opportunities
context for their learning. their curriculum.
that extended beyond the
Year 10 Physical Activity and Year 10 students further classroom and enriched their
Sports Studies (PASS) students diversified their experiences by learning experiences.
were treated to a unique engaging in boxing fitness and
opportunity by participating Zumba classes as part of their MR JOSH HOLMES
HE AD OF PDHPE

Religious Education
Throughout 2023 the Religious variety of diverse topics such as

Education (RE) department prayer in action, social justice
continued to support the issues, reverence for creation,
spiritual journey of students women in faith and other world
grounded within the Catholic religions. Throughout the
faith and practice. Senior year students have been given
students undertaking the Studies regular opportunities to reflect
of Religion course have explored on their understanding of faith
important personal, social and spirituality and how it can
and cultural issues and have be a catalyst for growth and
developed a greater appreciation change. Through participating in
for the significance of religion open discussions students have
in the modern world. This has explored challenging questions
never been more relevant than in that probe the nature of faith,
the global world we live in today. the idea of the transcendent
Studies of Religion explores the dimension and the complexities
diversity of religious experience of ethical living in today’s
in the world and increases modern context.
awareness of Australia’s rapidly
I would like to thank all our
changing multi-faith society.
wonderful RE staff for their
It allows students to become
dedication, enthusiasm and
more informed about their
encouragement of students to
own religious heritage and
seek greater understanding
spirituality, but to also identify
and insight of the Gospel values
other belief systems and non-
and how they can manifest into
belief worldviews in our pluralist
action and change in the world.
world.
Our junior students in Years MRS BRODIE BYRNE

7-10 have also been engaged HE AD OF RE LIGIO US ED U C ATION
in their learning, studying a

Science
The start of 2023 saw the It is wonderful to see so many We have been very fortunate to
implementation of the new and of our Year 12 girls from our have such a dedicated teaching
innovative StileX resource for Biology, Chemistry, Earth and team in Science in 2023. We
our junior Science classes. This Environmental Science, Physics are sad to say good bye to Ms
is an enhancement of the online and Science Extension classes Lindsey Wright and Ms Clara Lim
lessons available to support the gaining early entry offers to so who are leaving us for Brisbane
teaching and learning of the many of the fields of tertiary and Melbourne respectively,
Science curriculum with booklets Science studies for 2024 and and Mr Byron Usmar after his
that accompany each unit of beyond. We wish these girls well 12 years of dedicated service to
work, along with a smartphone and trust that their experiences Brigidine. We also farewell Ms
app that provides the girls with in their Science subjects at Bri Power who has been filling
opportunities for deeper learning school will be of assistance to in for others on leave. We thank
through explanatory videos, them in their future studies them for their highly skilled
competitions and other activities and careers. contributions to the teaching
they can do beyond the physical of science, confident that their
Once again we have had very
boundaries of the College. One students have learned new things
engaging and successful
such example was Veronica about the planet we live on and
excursion for Year 11 Biology,
Scully (Year 8) winning the Art of the world around us.
Years 10 and 11 to Luna Park
Science prize with her wonderful
and Year 7 exploring the
entry for which she was awarded
rock platform ecosystem at
MR ROB FARR
a set of Posca pens, Apple airpods HE AD OF S CIENCE
Palm Beach. Such hands-on
and a $500 voucher for the
experiences are never forgotten
Science department to purchase
and make teaching science that
technical equipment to be used
much more fun too!
in class.

Social Sciences
2023 has been a year of discovery Year 9 Commerce participated Production. Year 12 students
in Social Sciences as both in our first ever Brigidine Shark experienced the wetlands
teachers and students have Tank competition. Based on at Homebush, toured Green
explored new ways of learning the popular TV show, students Square and visited Tamburlaine
and new topics to learn. pitched their business ideas Vineyards in the Hunter Valley.
to a panel of “sharks” looking Each of these visits provided
This year our Year 11 Business
for an investment in return for valuable opportunities to collect
Studies students went to Taronga
part ownership. Ideas included data in the field and add rich
Zoo where they participated in a
customisable chargers, a examples to case studies.
Marketing workshop and toured
smartphone app to alert allergy
the facilities to learn more about Thank you to the Social Sciences
sufferers, and a shower with an
the zoo as a business. Taking the faculty for their continual efforts
inbuilt dryer function.
information they had gathered, to provide rich and interesting
they applied their knowledge Geography students engaged in learning opportunities for each
to create a business plan for a a range of fieldwork experiences. student. I also wish to thank
hypothetical new business to Year 11 students went to Bantry them for their support in my first
compete in the same market. Bay to study biophysical year at Brigidine College.
Providing an authentic market interactions, while the Year
for their proposed business led 10 Elective Geography class MRS EMMA FORBES
to collaboration and creativity in travelled to Calmsley City Farm HE AD OF S O CIAL S CIENCE
the businesses put forward. to support their study of Primary

Technological and Applied Studies (TAS)
What subject can offer experiences, making learning Food Technology

experiences such as creating engaging and informative for
We enjoyed numerous excursions
innovative Food Trucks to his students. Both have quickly
across the city of Sydney
offer delicious sweet treats to become invaluable members of
from Year 11 cheesemaking in
fellow students, create amazing our TAS team.
Roseberry at Omnom Cheese to
decorative cakes for celebrations
2023 Highlights Year 9 creating a native foods
of every kind, develop designs for
picnic in the Botanical Gardens
an overpass pedestrian bridge Textiles and Design
over Mona Vale Road to ensure Year 12 visited CMS Surveyors
In Textiles and Design we
safe entry to school for students, to discover the importance of
celebrated Rose Wood (Class
and also allow students to create digital modelling in the design
of 2022) whose Major Textile
award winning Textile designs in process.
Project was featured in the
a statewide HSC competition? HSC Texstyle Exhibition and Year 9’s Food Trucks theme this
These are all exciting awarded ‘Best in Show.’ Our year was ‘Something old is new
opportunities that have featured Year 11 Textile students had the again. Reinvent a tired traditional
in our TAS learning environment privilege of visiting the exhibition sweet or savoury recipe using
this year. In addition, we have where they could admire Rose’s creativity and innovation.’
expanded our curriculum by outstanding work.
Year 10 cake decorating remained
introducing Engineering in Year This year, Brigidine College a favourite event. Our 2023
11, broadening the horizons of received four nominations for winner was Sienna De-Fina.
our students. Shape 2023, an annual exhibition
Year 7 Tech Mandatory cultivated
We were thrilled to welcome two of exemplary Major Projects
edible herbs in the garden and
highly talented staff members developed by HSC Design
monitored our native bee hive. A
in 2023: Mr Garth Aird, Head of and Technology, Industrial
new native observation bee hive
VET (Vocational Education and Technology and Textiles and
was also introduced this year.
Training) and Tech Mandatory Design students, which will be
teacher, brought a wealth of held at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct
MRS ROBYN COLLINS
expertise to the classroom this in March 2024. Congratulations
HE AD OF TA S
year, and Mr Mark Crewe, our to Charlotte Enright, Hailey
new Hospitality and TAS teacher, Cerneaz, Mikaela Tregale and
shared his knowledge and Daisy Daddo.

Visual Arts
This year the Visual Arts Work was a testament to their Gallery of New South Wales.
department embarked on a artistic talent and determination. Upon their return, they curated
transformative journey marked Their remarkable effort was the Journey Through Motion
by creative initiatives. One acknowledged and celebrated exhibition, showcasing their
standout venture was the during the HSC Showcase Night unique perspectives of the
inaugural Bridgies Portrait Prize, held in Term 3, where their urban environment.
seamlessly integrated into the achievements and creativity
Under the guidance of Ms
Year 10 Visual Arts program. This were joyously recognised.
Bobanovic and Ms Mountfort,
project fostered a strong sense We congratulate Isabella
Year 8 Visual Arts students
of community within our school, Brooker, Sophia Kristiansen
created an impressive book
offering students an opportunity and Jacqueline Lee whose
featuring drawings they had
to collaborate closely with staff works have been nominated
done in class based on their
members. They honed their skills for ARTEXPRESS.
study of endangered animals.
to capture not only the physical
Year 11 Visual Arts students This showcased their talents,
likeness but also the nuances
delved into diverse artistic creativity and commitment
of their subjects’ personalities
expressions, from drawing to raising awareness of
and interests onto canvas. The
and collage to time-based art, endangered species.
project’s remarkable success
ceramics and printmaking. This
bore witness to the students’ The passion and talent exhibited
immersive experience expanded
unwavering dedication, further this year promises a future
their art practice and deepened
accentuated by the invaluable rich in artistic endeavours
their understanding of the art
guidance of their Art teachers, and creative achievements
world, preparing them up for
Ms Bobanovic and Ms O’Brien. at Brigidine, affirming the
their upcoming HSC journey.
department’s role as a nurturing
Throughout the year, the
Year 10 Photography and Digital ground for a new generation
dedication of Year 12 Visual
Media students honed their of artists.
Arts students was genuinely
skills during an excursion to
commendable. Their meticulous
Circular Quay and the Art MRS ALISON FINNERT Y
crafting of their HSC Body of
HE AD OF VISUAL ARTS

Vocational Education and Training (VET)
The Vocational Education and time management. One Years 10 and 11 Hospitality
and Training (VET) program of the highlights of this year’s students completed two external
developed in 2023 with our first work placements was Vivien courses this year. First aid was
group of Stage 5 Hospitality Shakespeare (Year 12) who was delivered by trainers from the
students sitting the Preliminary placed at the Greengate Hotel Surf Life Saving Australia. This
Examination. and received the VET Excellence course provides the knowledge
Award from Youth Up Front. and skills to empower our
Our community Industry
students to act in emergency
partnerships continued to The College was represented
situations. The Prepare and Serve
strengthen with both Business in the Catholic Schools Broken
Espresso Coffee course saw our
Services and Hospitality students Bay Battle of the Chefs cooking
students learn how to produce
attending work placements this competition by Amelia Newton
and serve a range of coffee-based
year. Industry placements allow (Year 12), Ellen Jenkins (Year
beverages.
students to experience work life 12) and Ashley Gerrie (Year 10).
for a week and to understand the All students prepared a two The Hospitality staff and
expectations that are required course meal from a mystery students should be commended
in the workplace. Some of the box of ingredients. This was for their professional approach
industries that Business Services a hard-fought competition to the food preparation and
students attended included between the schools in the service at the various College
Surveying, Plumbing, Arborist, Broken Bay Diocese. Our events this year. The students’
Air Conditioning, and Media. students demonstrated high positive attitude and enthusiasm
Students were able to develop levels of creativity, teamwork was well received by the College
the employability skills of and calmness under pressure to community.
communication, collaboration, claim second place.
problem solving, creativity MR GARTH AIRD
HE AD OF VE T

Careers
There are several theories of clusters: Makers and Innovators. skills like supporting others, panel for this session were lawyer Morrisby Careers Exploration
career development that have Some of our panellists who understanding of mental and Celine Nalbandian (Class of 2017) during Transition Week,
impacted careers education in work within these clusters physical health, communications, and senior account executive in lunchtime University Information
schools and other institutions. included alumni: biomaterials teamwork, information retention the health and wellness sector sessions and the UAC
The most recent is known as the engineer, Nadia Burke (Class and willingness to share Lucinda Mirabello (Class of 2017). Information evening for Years 11
Career Clusters. The clusters of 2010), biomedical engineer knowledge with others, are Also on the panel was former and 12 students and parents.
offer a new way to visualise work, Frances Goodman (Class of 2016), paramount. Alumni on our panel Brigidine staff member, Ms
At the time of writing we have
looking at clusters where there and fashion designer Mandy were corporate lawyer, Corinne Leah Crockett, who is an event
received the good news that
are definite similarities between Guberina (Class of 2017). For O’Sullivan (Class of 2009), social coordinator (technical), educator
many of our Year 12 girls have
work environments, tasks, skills students interested in the subject worker Sarah Lhuede (Class of and business owner. The event
been offered early entry into
and outcomes, rather than being areas of Design and Technology, 2017) and doctor of psychology was co-moderated by Zoe Miller
courses across a range of
specific industry focused. Engineering, Science and and executive manager of Allied (Year 11) who is looking forward
institutions:
Mathematics, this was a most Health Care Services, Natalie to exploring a career in Business.
This year Brigidine offered three
engaging experience. Mirabito (Class of 1998). We - Australian Catholic University
Career Clusters evenings to Our Years 11 and 12 TVET (TAFE-
also had former Brigidine staff Guarantee Scheme (27 students)
students and parents. The first The Guardian and Informer Delivered Vocational Education
member Mrs Becky Lovelock,
evening introduced the concept Career Clusters evening was and Training) students studied - Australian National University
who now works as a Vice
of the clusters and presented two focused on careers where a range of courses off campus, Early Entry Scheme (14 students)
Principal Teaching and Learning,
online and in holiday study
on our panel. This was a diverse - Macquarie University
blocks. The courses included
and passionate group of women Leaders and Achievers Scheme
Entertainment Industry, Screen
working in various careers (44 students)
and Media, Nursing, Allied
to promote education, health - University of Technology Early
Health, Animal Care, Early
and wellbeing. All were great Offer Scheme (60 students)
Childhood Education and Care,
ambassadors for this cluster.
Fitness, Design Fundamentals - Western Sydney University
At the third and final Career (Fashion). Well done to our True Reward Scheme (9 students)
Clusters evening we heard senior students seeking dual
from Linkers and Coordinators; qualifications at graduation, Congratulations to these girls.
those who are skilled in TAFE certification and the HSC. Thank you to all who supported
research, strategic planning, Careers at Brigidine this year. It
Other important career events
communication, sales, was a fantastic year!
held in 2023 included Year 10
management and organisation.
Morrisby Career Testing and
Alumni who formed part of our MS MICHELLE COOPER
follow up Information evening,
C AREER S CO UNSE LL OR

05 Staff MR BYRON USMAR
S CIENCE
Staff Departures Mr Byron Usmar has been a

member of the Science faculty
We farewell and thank for 12 years. Mr Usmar has been
the following staff a key instigator in the areas of
who leave us this year. STEM (Science, Technology,
We acknowledge their Engineering and Mathematics),
commitment and MS K ATE BARNES MR DAVID CHANT MR HUGH MORGAN Astronomy and Robotics.
dedication. We wish S O CIAL S CIENCE S PDHPE , RE LIGION, L ANGUAGE S M ATHE M ATIC S
them well as they embark
Ms Kate Barnes has been a Mr David Chant has been a staff Mr Hugh Morgan has been a
on their next chapter
member of the Social Science member at Brigidine for 23 years member of the Mathematics
beyond Brigidine.
faculty over the last six years and is retiring. Dave has fulfilled department for five years. He
and has been instrumental in a variety of roles including Sports generously contributed to the
coaching and mentoring our Coordinator, Duke of Edinburgh Duke of Edinburgh program and
Mock Trial team. Coordinator, PDHPE and French Cocurricular sport.
teacher, Athletics coach and
MRS MEGAN BROWN Swimming coach.
TA S
MRS MEREDITH FERRIS
Mrs Megan Brown has been a ENGLISH
MS LINDSE Y WRIGHT
member of the TAS department S CIENCE
for six years, since 2018. During Ms Meredith Ferris joined the
Ms Lindsey Wright is relocating
this time Megan has shared many College in 2008 and has been a
MRS ROS BOYD to Queensland after 16 years at
student successes including valued member of the English
HE AD OF MUSIC Brigidine as a member of the
selections and nominations for department for 16 years.
Science department.
Mrs Ros Boyd is retiring TEXStyle and Shape.
following a distinguished career MRS VICKI SCOT T
in education and 34 years at PA TO THE PRINCIPAL
Brigidine. During her time at the
College Ros has fulfilled a variety After 23 years as PA to the
of roles including Music teacher, Principal, Mrs Vicki Scott is
Head of Music, conductor of retiring. Mrs Scott has worked
choirs, string ensembles and with five Principals during her
bands, musical director for the time at Brigidine, all of whom
College musical and Acting have been grateful for her
Administration Coordinator. support and dedication.

06 Cocurricular
It has been a wonderful year movement. With two new strength and conditioning
for cocurricular programs competition standard indoor programs across all four terms
at Brigidine. The College courts, and a redeveloped and sporting seasons. Strength
experienced strong enrolments synthetic grass covered outdoor and Conditioning classes are now
across all activities, with another court, cocurricular sport will offered as strategically designed
year of increased student receive much needed and eagerly and targeted classes under the
participation. awaited facility upgrades. The watchful eye of our new Strength
new Sport Centre redevelopment and Conditioning coach Mr Brent
An extremely exciting
will provide additional benefits Tansley.
2023 development was the
and activity space for a
announcement of the College This year has been highly
broad range of cocurricular
Master Plan consisting of a successful for Brigidine’s
activities including Dance and
Sport Centre redevelopment. Cocurricular program and the
Sports Aerobics.
This exciting project will deliver following pages are a testament
huge improvements to court As a precursor to the pending to that.
spaces for training and playing, Sports Centre development,
better change rooms and first 2023 saw the opening of the MR OWEN VALE
aid facilities, improved parking newly redeveloped Strength and DIREC TOR CO CURRICUL AR
and venue access, new staff Conditioning Centre. This facility
facilities, and better outcomes is now enabling complementary
for spectators and people sports specific and general

Cocurricular Clubs Drama
The Drama Club continued to provide junior students with drama

activities during lunchtimes. Held on Fridays and run by our 2023 Year
Creative Writing 12 Drama Captains, Bailey Haynes and Grace Uther, the club offered
students an opportunity to come together to create, communicate and
The Creative Writing Club, made make new friends.
up of Years 9 and 10 students,
launched a new Brigidine literary
magazine journal this year called
The Lamp. The publication title is
in honour of one of the College’s
key symbols, the ‘lamp of
learning’. Students were invited
to submit any form of creative
writing and cover art for each
issue.
Girls in Black
Girls in Black (GIB) provides opportunities, from the College
The Lamp
not only amazing learning Musical Footloose to the Year 11
3
opportunities but also a Play Happily Ever After…? and
Term 1 202
community, connecting multiple the Drama and Music showcases.

year groups as well as a source Girls were given the chance to
for girls to find a hidden passion assist in areas such as backstage
they might want to pursue that with props and in the ‘bio box’
they may not have otherwise helping with lighting and sound.
discovered. It is taught in a
These opportunities created a
way that is easy to understand
strong sense of unity among year
whilst also providing in-depth
Poetry
The Lamp
s and
Discursive s
Persuasive
Short Sto
ries
knowledge.
groups while also providing a
Term 2 20 sense of support and involvement
2 3 One of the topics we focused in the countless productions held
on this year was the sound at the College in 2023.
system, from setting it up to
understanding the important MAYA FL AT TERY AND
roles of each aspect of the OLIVIA SMITH
entire system. These skills were YE AR 11 GIRL S IN BL AC K C AP TAINS
put to good use in practical

Cocurricular Clubs
History
Science
This year, under the leadership
Our Science Club grew to around
of Alexis Pridgen (Year 12), the
15 keen and interested members
History Club has seen a surge in
who, each Friday enjoyed a
popularity. We began the year
wide variety of science related
by hanging up the hieroglyphic
activities, from paper making to
canvases completed by the
elephant’s toothpaste and DNA
Club in the Synan corridor
extraction from strawberries.
which read, “May your days
be as bright as the sun”, as
MR ROB FARR
quoted by St Brigid. Then every
HE AD OF S CIENCE
fortnight we explored a new
area of history with exciting
activities making Ancient
Chinese lanterns, learning
how to mummify bananas just
as the Ancient Egyptians did,
warming ourselves up with Aztec
hot chocolate and hosting an
historical outfit dress up with
newspaper. Girls also had fun
during the Royal Tart Challenge
where they had to remember as
many of the English Monarchs to
be rewarded with a sweet tart. I
would like to thank Alexis for her
leadership of the club this year,
where she has inspired many of
the younger students to engage
with history.
MRS SAM R AE
HIS TORY CLUB CONVENOR

Cocurricular Dance
The year 2023 for Cocurricular Spec Eisteddfod. Brigidine’s from our Senior Musical Theatre
Dance is one to remember, Eisteddfod dance groups placed group, and many more! We closed
with students from Years 7-12 at every competition they the show with our talented Year
participating in multiple Dance competed in. One of the highest 12 Jazz group. As they danced
classes across the board. The achievements of the year was our together one last time, the wings
excitement, energy and talent Company Contemporary group filled with cheers and emotion
was exceptional which evidently being awarded 2nd place out of as we farewelled our dancers. A
holds Brigidine’s reputation 24 competitors with their routine big congratulations to our Year
as being one of Sydney’s Always Been You choreographed 12 Dance students who received
best Catholic schools’ Dance by Shannon Riley at the 19 Callback nominations for their
programs. Offering a variation prestigious Sydney Eisteddfod, HSC works, and to four students
of styles including Jazz, Ballet, which was an incredible who were offered positions to
Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Tap, achievement. complete their full-time degree
Lyrical, Contemporary and in Performing Arts for 2024.
The annual end of year Dance
Salsa, our program caters to all
Spectacular showcase was We would like to thank our
students of any ability to get
held on Saturday 2 September. talented teachers and students
involved and create memories
With two sold out shows and for the incredible choreography,
that will last a lifetime.
electric audiences the girls knowledge, passion and
Our eisteddfod groups excelled were filled with excitement as dedication to our Dance program
with clean, fierce, professional they danced their hearts out on in 2023 and recognise the strong
and energic routines this year as stage. Opening the show was our sense of community we have
they braced the stage at the I’d renowned Company Jazz group, built at Brigidine College.
Rather Be Dancing Eisteddfod, followed by a moving piece
Dance Life Unite Eisteddfod, danced by our Year 12 Dance MISS SHANNON RILE Y
Extreme Dance Competition, Captains Erika Barnier and Elif DANCE CONVENOR
Sydney Eisteddfod, and Dance Caner, then an entertaining piece

Cocurricular Music
We have had a fantastic year - String Orchestra won the Gold performed at the Father’s Day
of Cocurricular Music as we Award at the Australian School Liturgy, and the Junior Choir had
have returned to the normalcy Bands and Orchestra Festival in the fantastic chance to perform
of pre-Covid rehearsals and the Loreta Fin Section. at Grandparents Day.
performances. We held our
- Vocal Ensemble received These events culminated in
second Music Camp in recent
a Highly Commended at the the College’s second Festival of
years again at the Collaroy
Northern Beaches Eisteddfod. Music, held in Term 3, which
Centre. These two days allowed
consisted of three consecutive
our ensembles to become closer We also had some fantastic
showcase evenings featuring
in comprehensive rehearsals, as performances. Our Stage Band
strings, band and vocals. Each of
well as learning from industry performed at the St Augustine’s
these concerts had performances
professionals, and have fun College Swinging with Saints
from different groups, as well as
playing laser tag, participating in event and travelled to Bathurst in
solo performances and special
trivia and in the talent show. Term 2 to participate in the Big
guest appearances. The event
Band Blast. These opportunities
We had many successful results included performances from our
allowed the group to work on
at eisteddfods this year: new Alumni String Orchestra,
their connection, skill and love of
Alumni Choir, and the Alumni
- Alumni Concert Band (in their craft.
band who joined with our
the Open D Grade Section)
The Vocal Ensemble performed Combined Concert Band.
and Junior Concert Band
at many various College masses
both placed 4th at the State
Band Championships.
including the Opening Mass, Ash CHARLOT TE SIM
Wednesday Liturgy, Founder’s MUSIC C AP TAIN
- Chamber Vocal Ensemble Day Mass, and Mother’s Day
placed 1st at the Ryde Eisteddfod Liturgy. The Chamber Vocal
with a score of 96/100. Ensemble and String Ensemble

College Musical
Footloose was the first musical we with all of us in a post-lockdown

have been able to complete with world processing what it means
a live audience since 2019. With to rediscover the things we may
the world plunged into uncharted have taken for granted.
territory during Covid-19, our
As always, it was a group effort
production of Chicago due for
to put on these shows. The
March 2020 had to be cancelled
performers were ably supported
and we distributed filmed
by Mr Gareth Edey’s Girls In
‘Musical revues’ in 2021 and 2022
Black technical crew whose
for family and friends to enjoy
contributions to the musical are
at home.
essential. The set was designed
It was important to us that the by Mr Andrew Hodgson, our
choice of show in 2023 reflected, Property Manager and built
in some small way, the journey by Mr Glenn Cameron and Mr
of the past three years. Footloose David Yu from his team. We had
was as a strident metaphor for additional support from a variety
our collective experience. It is of staff members and on behalf
the story of a faith community of the Production Team we thank
learning to dance again with the them for their contributions.
salient reminder that we often
find our spirit in the space that MR CHRIS RUTHERFORD
exists between people. Through DIREC TOR
this lens, Footloose resonated

Year 11 Play
Could he be the prince of my dreams?
What do you get when you have This production was able
the three fairytale characters to literally tap into the
of Snow White, Cinderella extraordinary talents of our
and Rapunzel all in love with Year 11s – whether it was
what seems to be the same performing, working behind
Prince Charming? Throw in the scenes helping backstage,
a magical potion filled with a with costumes or makeup, or
Fairy Godmother who can rap, creating choreography specially
a group of sassy bluebirds who for this production. It gave many
can dance, a pair of all-knowing students the opportunity to
narRATors and a sparkling mirror perform on a stage for the very
that answers back? And who will first time and I sincerely hope it
live happily ever after…? left them with a lifetime love of
the stage!
This production was the first
original Year 11 Play I have As the Fairy Godmother says
written (with one Shakespearean to the audience “isn’t it always
scene as a homage...) to showcase the truth that you wait all your
the magical talents of our strong life for one prince and then two
and gentle students. show up at once!”. May you and
your own debonair, dashing and
We had 55 incredibly enthusiastic
charming “princes” live happily
and talented Year 11 students
ever after…
on stage in this production and
three dedicated and talented
choreographers working behind
MISS DIANNE
the scenes!
MCDONALD
WRITER AND DIREC TOR

Duke of Edinburgh
The students involved in the lakes and rivers this year and
Duke of Edinburgh program enjoyed completing expeditions.
have achieved great things this Climbing to the top of Mt
year. Through all the challenges Kosciuszko to watch the sunrise
on expeditions and various was just one unforgettable
components of the award, they experience during the many
have excelled and completed expeditions our Bronze, Silver
their awards. and Gold students achieved.
Special congratulations to the As many students finish their

Year 12 students who had the awards this year, Year 8 students
commitment and dedication look forward to the opportunity
to successfully complete their to join the Brigidine program
Gold award. They have inspired in 2024.
the younger Duke of Edinburgh
Thank you to the passionate
students to stay motivated and
Duke of Edinburgh Captains,
enthusiastic about their award.
Madison Lisle and Jessica
It really is a once in a lifetime
Tillotson, for their leadership
experience; many of these
and support of all the students
girls have created memorable
involved this year.
moments and developed skills
they will carry with them in their
MRS SK YE WACHER
future endeavours.
D UK E OF EDINBURGH
Brigidine students have hiked CO ODINATOR
and canoed many mountains,

Debating
Debating at Brigidine continued Debating Highlights
to grow from strength to
ISDA:
strength in 2023. Once again,
over 65 students competed in Year 9 – Octo finalists
three prestigious competitions: Year 10 – Octo finalists
Public Speaking
Independent Schools Debating
SDN: Summer Woods (Year 10) led the
Association (ISDA), Independent
Year 7 – Grand Finalists charge amoungst a very talented
Girls’ Schools Association (IGSA)
Year 8 – Semi Finalists group of public speakers in being
Archdale Debating Competition,
Juniors – Semi Finalists selected for the NSW Final of
and Schools Debating Network
Year 9 – Grand Finalists the prestigious Rostrum Voice of
(SDN).
Youth competition.
Students attended weekly
training sessions to help them
learn new skills and practice
formulating arguments. Each Theatresports
week students travelled to
different schools across Sydney In 2023 our Theatresports
showing their developing skills team were Regional Finalists.
and making improvements each Congratulations to Lulu La
week. Congratulations to all the Ganza, Mia Thomas, Bailey
girls on their amazing results. Haynes and Zara Macilquham
(Year 12).
MISS VICK Y BOYD
DEBATING C ONVENOR MR OWEN VALE
DIREC TOR CO CURRICUL AR

Festival of Speech Mock Trial
The Festival of Speech was held Mock Trial competition is a their knowledge when building
at Ravenswood in October. Our state-wide competition run by a case. This year we have been
participation grows every year the Law Society of NSW and exposed to a range of legal
and 2023 was no different. With involves approximately 150 disputes such as theft and breach
14 students participating across schools. It is open to students of contract, acting as both
every section we saw some in Years 10 and 11 at the College. the Plaintiff/Prosecution and
outstanding results. Students Brigidine’s 2023 team included Defendant.
demonstrated their oratory skills Emilia Atkinson-Dicandilo
Our team successfully made
in poetry recitation and public (Year 10), Koey Chow (Year
it smoothly through the first
speaking as well as showing 11), Josephine Crocker (Year
three rounds of the competition,
their eloquence discussing 10), Sophie Hemens (Year 11),
allowing us to progress to the
important current affairs and Roseanna Huang (Year 11),
elimination rounds. We then
religious and ethical issues. Lucinda Hudson (Year 10), Deana
won both our knockout rounds
Special congratulations to Amelia Little (Year 10), Sofia Little (Year
against The Sacred Heart and
Hague (Year 9) who placed 4th 10), Anita Vanza (Year 10) and
Redlands, with Brigidine now
out of 28 in the Junior Public Summer Woods (Year 10). The
placing 6th in the State. In a
Speaking, Summer Woods (Year competition ran throughout
tough Quarter Final, we managed
10) who placed 3rd out of 25 in Terms 1 to 4 and our team was
a narrow victory against Sylvania
the Senior Public Speaking, and coached and guided by Ms Goode
High School. At the time of
also to Josephine Crocker, Sofia and Ms Barnes.
writing this article, the team won
Little and Isabella Ringrose (Year
The Mock Trial competition is a the Semi Finals against Chevalier
10) who placed 4th out of 23
great opportunity for students College and will soon compete in
groups in Religious and Ethical
to develop skills in forming the Grand Final against Loreto
Questions. With these fantastic
convincing arguments, public Kirribilli, which places Brigidine
results and our incredible
speaking, critical thinking and in the top two teams in NSW.
participation Brigidine ranked
teamwork. Students also develop
8th overall. Thank you to all the
their understanding of the legal SOPHIE HEMENS
students who participated, their
system and the courts, applying MO CK TRIAL C AP TAIN
dedication and hard work was
clearly evident throughout the
Festival.
MISS VICK Y BOYD

DEBATING C ONVENOR

Sport
Sports Aerobics Athletics Basketball Hockey Rugby 7s
This year we had 10 teams We sent 46 Athletes to the This year Brigidine had 13 teams Brigidine had four teams entered This was the second year for
competing at the National Catholic Schools Broken Bay entered in the Independent in the IGSA Hockey competition, Rugby 7s at Brigidine. We
Championships in Adelaide and (CSBB) carnival this year, Girls’ Schools Association (IGSA) with our Senior and Junior entered six teams in the Chloe
we came away with two silver finishing first in the Senior competition and had one team 1sts progressing to the Semi Dalton Secondary Schools
medals and three teams finishing division, fifth in the Intermediate win their IGSA division. We Finals. Our Junior 1sts went on 7s competition. The girls
in fourth place! division and second in the Junior sent our Senior 1sts to the CSBB to compete in the Grand Final continued to develop and learn
division. We then had seven Championships where they where they won in golden goal the game of 7s Rugby. We had
athletes selected to represent finished in third place. Alana extra time, going through the five girls selected to represent
AFL
CSBB at the New South Wales Reddy (Year 12) and Gemma season undefeated! NSWCCC at the NSW All Schools
Our AFL numbers grew again this Combined Catholic Colleges Hatherell (Year 11) were selected Championships – our first Rugby
year with eight teams entered in (NSWCCC) carnival. in the IGSA Opens team and 7s representatives! Well done
Netball
the Independent Girls Schools Alana was then selected in the to Molly Baczkowski (Year 12),
AFL competition! Our Open B New South Wales Combined This year we had record Annaliese Chan (Year 11), Marnie
Cross Country
team went through the season Independent Schools (NSWCIS) participation in Netball with Hilton (Year 11), Leila McDougall
undefeated and came away as This year Brigidine won the 15, team. Alana was also selected 26 teams. Of those, 20 teams (Year 11) and Meg Wannell
premiers after the Grand Final 16, 17 and 18 years divisions at the in the NSW Metro U18 team and made it to the Semi Finals (Year 12).
was played in very wet and CSBB carnival and had 10 runners competed at Nationals in April. and 13 teams progressed to
muddy conditions. selected to represent CSBB at the Grand Finals of the IGSA
the NSWCCC Cross Country. competition! We entered the
Football
Keeley Holmes (Year 12) then Catholic Schools Broken Bay
went on to represent NSWCCC Brigidine had 11 Football teams (CSBB) Netball Championships
at the NSW All Schools Cross in the IGSA competition, which with a Senior, Intermediate and
Country Championships. was a big leap in participation Junior team. Our Junior team
from 2022. Brig 2 and Brig performed strongly on the day,
8 won their IGSA divisions, finishing runners up to Mount St
with Brig 2 going through the Benedict College. Isabella Parkes
competition undefeated. (Year 8) was selected in the
IGSA 15 and Under Netball team
and competed in the NSWCIS
Tournament.

Softball Snowsports Swimming and Diving Volleyball Ruth Hackney Memorial
Award - Alana Reddy
This year saw the introduction This year we had 11 students Brigidine finished in second This year we had eight teams
(Year 12)
of a new competition, the represent Brigidine in the place in the Senior division, 1st entered in the Santa Sabina
Invitation Independent Schools Northern New South Wales in the Intermediate division competition. The girls enjoyed Alana has been awarded
Softball (IISS) Competition, and Queensland Interschools and 4th in the Junior division at the compeition and developing the Ruth Hackney Award
which saw Brigidine competing Snowsports Championships, the CSBB Swimming Carnival, their volleyball skills. for the third year in a row!
against new schools outside equipped with new jackets and with 11 swimmers selected to In the previous two years,
of the IGSA competition. helmet covers. It was fantastic represent CSBB at the NSWCCC Alana has received the
Water Polo
Brigidine entered a Senior and to see so many students Championships. Ten of those award for Outstanding
Junior team with both teams representing Brigidine! Three swimmers went on to represent We had an increase in team Achievement in IGSA
making the Semi Finals and the students progressed to the NSWCCC at the NSW All Schools numbers this year, with nine Sport, being selected in
Senior 1sts going through the State Championships – Sabrina Championships, with our teams entered in the Pymble three IGSA teams in a year
competition undefeated beating Mulhearn (Year 10), Ava Wearne Senior and Intermediate relay Water polo competition, where - Netball, Touch Football
Barker College convincingly (Year 8) and Lily Wearne (Year teams performing strongly. we won the Junior A and Senior and Basketball. This year
in the Grand Final. Five girls 10). Ava competed in Snowboard Hannah Smith (Year 11) won A division and narrowly lost Alana has received the
were selected to represent Cross, achieving a personal best. the 17 Years Springboard event the Year 7 division by one goal. award for Outstanding
NSWCIS at the NSW All Schools Lily and Sabrina came 1st in and placed third in the Open Our Open A, Intermediate Contribution to IGSA sport
Championships – Georgia Benson Division 2 Slopestyle. Platform event at the IGSA Diving Maroon and Year 7 Maroon for being selected in IGSA
(Year 10), Kirra Gilchrist (Year 12), Championships. Hannah also teams all won their divisions in Basketball for four years.
Josie Howlett (Year 10), Bethany represented Australia in her first the Northern Suburbs Schools To be awarded one Ruth
Touch Football
Lever (Year 12), Natasha Townley international event in Norway, Water Polo Association (NSSWPA) Hackney award is a great
(Year 11). Kirra Gilchrist has been Brigidine had six students achieving some excellent results. competition, going through achievement, so receiving
selected to represent Australia selected to represent IGSA – the season undefeated. Albee the award three years in a
in the U18 team at the upcoming Sienna Wilson (Year 12), Leila McInnes (Year 11) and Sophia row is amazing! Alana also
Tennis
World Cup Qualifying matches McDougall (Year 11), Marnie Cooper (Year 11) represented received a NSWCIS medal
in American Samoa. Sophia Hilton (Year 11), Mia Links (Year Brigidine entered 15 teams in NSWCCC at the Interstate for excellence in Basketball.
Benson was selected in the U14 10), Tasha Lillycrop (Year 9) and the IGSA competition held in Challenge in July. Sophia
Australian touring team that Coco Aquilina (Year 8). Leila Term 1. The weather was far toured with the Australian
travelled overseas to play in the was then selected to represent more favourable than last year, U17s team during the year and
New Zealand Easter Classic. NSWCIS at the Australian Youth with hardly any washed-out has again been selected in the
Championships. We had 21 teams fixtures. We were unable to Australian Squad after the recent
in the IGSA competition and enter Tildesley this year due to a National Championships.
look forward to defending the calendar clash, however we look
prestigious IGSA S01 title that we forward to returning to Tildesley
won in 2022. in 2024.

07 Community
Our College is made up of many Year 7 mums and 50 dads for The biggest event on the Christmas on the Green was
different groups; students, lunch or supper giving them the calendar for parents, is the P&F another successful event this
parents, alumni, volunteers and opportunity to meet one another Trivia Night and this year it did year with 32 market stalls on
neighbours. Each year these over a drink and a bite to eat. not disappoint. With the theme display and Christmas cheer
groups come together to get ‘Brought to you by the letter being spread by our talented
Pioneers and Golden Girls Day
to know one another, connect B’ there was a great array of College choir and musicians. It
is an important date in our
with the College and make a costumes and much frivolity in was the perfect celebration to
calendar. This special group of
difference. This year has been the hall resulting in over $32,500 end the year.
strong and gentle women, the
no different. being raised to go towards
first students of the College, All these events have one thing in
the upgrade of the College’s
The year 2023 started with the joined us for lunch and shared common: togetherness. It is this
outdoor court.
College Welcome Cocktail Party. memories of their school days. togetherness that creates the
Bowie Hall was transformed into The Classes of 1963 and 1973 Alumni Day was held in community that is Brigidine.
a tropical paradise and guests celebrated 60 and 50 years November where we welcomed
were invited to ‘Flamingle’ as since their graduation from back to Brigidine the Classes of MRS PIP INMAN
they were entertained with live the College. 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, ALUMNI AND COMMUNIT Y
music and ate delicious canapés 2008, 2013 and 2018. It was a RE L ATIONS
The biggest event on the
served by our Hospitality wonderful reunion for our past
calendar for the students is
students. students who loved touring the
always Founders Day. We are
College to see what has changed
The term continued with the very grateful to the parents who
since their school days.
long-standing tradition of our came along to cook and serve
Lunch and Supper Groups and a sausage sizzle for the whole
the newer tradition of Brigo school.
Dads. We welcomed almost 100

Brigidine College St Ives
325 Mona Vale Road,
St Ives 2075 New South Wales
+61 2 9988 6200 | office@brigidine.nsw.edu.au
ABN: 15 085 694 695
BRIGIDINE .NS W.E D U. AU

Year in Review 2023 For Website

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BRIGIDINE COLLEGE ST IVES

Brigidine College St Ives Year In Review 2023 1

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Our Liturgical celebrations and

MR BRIAN LOUGHL AND

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Our theme and charity have been

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Carnival, running through

AL ANA REDDY AND

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FOURTH ROW: Heidi Lillycrop, Jasmine Zervos, Josephine Lovell,

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FIFTH ROW: Gemma Basilisco, Nikita Muriti, Isabella Andersson,

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FIFTH ROW: Clare Brennan-Lamb, Olivia Conroy, Sofia White,

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The Academic Enrichment Metaverse, Utilitarianism and - Year 11 Philosophy students

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The Diverse Learning Harnessing the benefits of

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Highlights for Drama 2023 - Drama teacher Mr Rutherford

- We had a sold-out season of the - Both senior Drama teachers

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2023 was a good year for The Anzac assembly focused on

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- Visiting the Sydney Opera MRS ROS BOYD

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Throughout 2023 the Religious variety of diverse topics such as

Our junior students in Years MRS BRODIE BYRNE

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What subject can offer experiences, making learning Food Technology

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Staff Departures Mr Byron Usmar has been a

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