impact of giving - brisbane girls grammar school...leading the way—the mittelheuser sisters 10 the...

Impact of Giving REPORT 2019

ContentsDeveloping Grammar Women 4

Lives Enriched By Learning 5

2019 Philanthropic Highlights 6

Building Exceptional Futures 8

Leading the Way—The Mittelheuser Sisters 10

The Gift of Giving Back 12

A Lifelong Love of Reading 14

From the Art Collection 16

Celebrating our Community 18

Balance—on and off the Water 19

Orchestrating Musical Moments 20

Connections for Life 21

Celebrationg 120 Years of the OGA 22

Thank You 24

Last modified March 2020. Information correct at time of print. Impact of Giving Report 2019 3

Developing Grammar Women ‘We know that so far as any real knowledge is concerned, the great mass of

women have been left in complete darkness … I propose, therefore, by this bill that the women of the colony should be able to take academic degrees …’

– Sir Charles Lilley (1827-1897)

Founder of BGGS and former Premier and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Sir Charles Lilley (1827-1897), pioneered to revolutionise education in Queensland by establishing Brisbane Girls Grammar School—a vision considered so far ahead of its time that it was viewed as a radical ‘experiment’.

It seems fitting then, that in the 145th year of this ‘experiment’, BGGS will transform Science education at the School by opening its new Science Learning Centre.

Opportunities for women to participate in many facets of life have been transformed in the 145 years since our School’s foundation. But despite huge progress—with more women in the workforce, the gender pay gap slowly closing and improved equality in other areas of life—there is still more to be done to ensure women can thrive in their chosen endeavours without prejudice.

As a community we must continue to develop the next generation of women to contribute to, and lead in, our world. Naturally, this starts with their education. Within a culture of deep learning, Grammar girls are encouraged to question and challenge with confidence, to seek diverse experiences and different perspectives to shape an informed worldview and, above all, to act purposefully with authenticity and integrity.

We do not take for granted the willingness of our community to provide time, wisdom and philanthropic support to generations of Grammar girls. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you to everyone who has supported Girls Grammar in 2019.

Ms Julie McKay (2000) Chair of the Board of Trustees Chair, Development and Philanthropy Committee

As a community we must continue to develop the next generation of women to contribute to, and lead in, our world. Naturally, this starts with their education.

Impact of Giving Report 20194

Founded on philanthropic principles and a progressive mindset, Brisbane Girls Grammar School remains proud of our culture of giving back, and the School’s important role in empowering girls and young women to contribute to our collective future.

I am proud to lead a School such as ours, and to be part of a community that encourages girls to dare to dream, without fear of failure, and to test the unfamiliar as they pursue their ambitions. At Girls Grammar, we care for the development of the whole person, with an emphasis on resilience and the development of good character in all that our girls do.

In 2019, we paused to reflect upon and reaffirm what distinguishes Girls Grammar as a place of teaching and learning, and as a community. As one phase of the School’s Strategic Design concluded, and staff delivered the final year of the Overall Position (OP) system with outstanding results, we contemplated the future.

A new Strategic Design 2020-2022 articulates the vision for our School, and how we will deliver on our Aspiration— Nil Sine Labore: Lives Enriched By Learning. At BGGS, we prepare our students for wide and greatly varied paths through life. In my experiences meeting with alumnae from many different generations, it is clear that Grammar Women embrace the pursuit of knowledge and understanding—in the many different forms this can take—throughout their lives.

The events of recent months remind us all of the importance of a strong community and what truly matters. While there is much to be concerned about in this complex world there is, equally, much for which to be grateful. Developing the intellect, confidence and character of Grammar girls to become educated women gives us every reason to be optimistic about the future.

I thank each and every one of the School’s supporters for their contribution and commitment. I hope all experience the satisfaction of being part of one of the most important and rewarding endeavours we could hope to be immersed in—educating girls.

Ms Jacinda Euler Principal

Lives Enriched By Learning

Impact of Giving Report 2019 5

2019 Philanthropic HighlightsIt is a privilege to share with you the 2019 Impact of Giving Report, which highlights our community’s valued contribution to the education of girls. Overall, philanthropic income received during the year exceeded $1.24 million. Thanks to the generous support of Girls Grammar donors, the School has made real and consolidated progress towards its philanthropic priorities.

The Exceptional Futures campaign for the Science Learning Centre was a focal point for fundraising activities during the year. The campaign will continue in 2020 and we look forward to sharing a full report at its conclusion.

The School was pleased to provide the Brisbane Girls Grammar School Bursary to a student who commenced in Year 7 2019. The continued growth of the Bursary Fund remains an important long-term priority, to ensure BGGS can continue to offer more bursaries in the future. There is still much to achieve in this area to attain parity with other leading Australian schools in the provision of financial assistance to girls who otherwise may not be able to attend our School.

It was satisfying to see the Annual Appeal grow steadily in 2019 with increased participation from alumnae. It is a meaningful way for all members of our community to contribute to the area of most interest to them.

The work of the School’s Parent Support Groups to create a supportive, engaged community is essential to nurture a strong culture of philanthropy. Last year was full of positive new ideas brought to life by our volunteers and their fundraising efforts were greatly appreciated. Equally, their commitment of time, energy and participation is a powerful example to us all.

With the success of 2019, we aspire to create another year of collaboration in 2020.

Ms Georgina Anthonisz Director of Development

Thank you again to everyone who has contributed to a significant year of growth. This support has demonstrated a unity of vision—parents, alumnae and staff—all working and giving together to deliver the best possible resources, educational programs and facilities for Grammar girls.


Philanthropic priorities

Brisbane Girls Grammar School’s philanthropic priorities are focused on four pillars essential to the School’s commitment to a broad, liberal education for girls.

Bursaries

Girls Grammar fosters a climate of opportunity and has a rich history of educating girls from diverse backgrounds. Through bursaries, the School is committed to offering the life-changing experience of a Girls Grammar education to girls who may not otherwise be able to attend the School.

Buildings

Providing inspirational teaching and learning spaces in all curriculum areas support students to achieve their full potential. Girls Grammar will continue to invest in infrastructure projects to engage and challenge girls in interesting ways.

Library

The Elizabeth Jameson Research Learning Centre, incorporating the Beanland Library, houses a vast array of specialist resources to spark curiosity, imagination and discovery, and deepen knowledge.

Sport

The School has a long tradition of encouraging students to train and perform to their highest potential in their chosen sport, ensuring girls have access to excellent sports facilities, equipment and programs for their physical and mental wellbeing.


Building Exceptional Futures

In 2019, the School progressed the next stage of its Masterplan, as building works commenced for the new Science Learning Centre. Scheduled for completion by December 2020, the building will signal a new era in science education, while offering recreational and multi-functional spaces to benefit all Grammar girls.

As always, projects of this scale are made possible through our strong partnership with the School community. The Exceptional Futures campaign was launched at the beginning of 2019, following generous leadership gifts from the Parents and Friends Association and alumna, Dr Cathryn Mittelheuser AM (1949).

During the year, Principal, Ms Jacinda Euler, and Director of Development, Ms Georgina Anthonisz, held a range of information sessions and individual briefings to outline the School’s vision for its Science Learning Centre and the positive impact it will have on the education of students. The School witnessed an extraordinary commitment of giving from alumnae, including the Old Girls Association, and parents and grandparents—past and present.

This support enabled the construction to begin with confidence in Term 3. As bulldozers, trucks and a large crane arrived onsite to lay the foundations and footings, students were equally busy holding a competition to ‘Name the Crane’. The winning entry christened the crane, Harriet … (because she can carry it).


‘Harriet’ isn’t the only female involved in the Science Learning Centre project. During the tendering process, the School asked companies to consider the presence of women in their project teams and how students could be included in the building process. m3architecture was appointed to design the Science Learning Centre with Girls Grammar alumna and architect, Ms Eliza Panizza (2011), an integral part of the design team. Construction works are overseen by Lendlease Project

‘A sense of curiosity is what leads us to prevent and solve challenges, from conserving our marine environment to providing sustainable global food sources—and that desire to question and discover must be nurtured at school.’

—Professor Helene Marsh (BGGS Alumna 1962), Emeritus Professor of

Environmental Science, James Cook University

Manager and alumna, Ms Cherise Czislowski (2002), who works closely with site Foreman, Ms Kirstie Goodwin, and Quantity Surveyor, Ms Olivia Di Pasquale.

In Term 3 2019, 28 students from Years 7 to 12 nominated to follow the building’s progress as part of the Student Access Group, gaining a unique insight into design, engineering and construction processes. The student group will have access to site tours and

information sessions throughout the project and will be able to share their learnings with the wider student body.

As 2019 drew to a close, construction works were well underway and the Exceptional Futures campaign was over halfway to its goal.


Leading the Way—The Mittelheuser Sisters

Margaret and Cathryn, 1998

The School is honoured to acknowledge renowned past students, the Mittelheuser sisters—the late Margaret Mittelheuser AM (1947) and Dr Cathryn Mittelheuser AM (1949)—in the new Science Learning Centre.

Born just 15 months apart in 1931 and 1932, Margaret and Cathryn Mittelheuser spent their early years on their family’s cane farm in Bundaberg, which had been established by their grandfather in the early 1880s. The young girls were bright and inquisitive, and spent many hours adventuring together.

With the uncertainties and disruption of World War II, the family sold the cane farm and moved to Brisbane. Margaret and Cathryn were enrolled at Brisbane Girls Grammar School, and commenced in 1945 and 1946 respectively. The girls personified the School motto, Nil Sine Labore—nothing without work—and this endured in their endeavours later in life.

At 16 years old, Margaret enrolled at The University of Queensland (UQ). In 1952, she graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce. As one of only two women in the program, she was determined to work in a role where she could use figures. Gaining employment as an accountant at the Commonwealth Department of the Interior, Margaret became the first woman graduate in the Commonwealth Public Service in Queensland. In 1956, she left Brisbane to pursue a stockbroking career with Sydney-based firm, Ralph W King and Yuill.

Margaret’s talent, combined with her hard work, tenacity and resilience, saw her excel in her chosen field. In 1964, at just 33 years old, she was made a Partner

1. Margaret and Cathryn, 1946 2. BGGS Science Laboratory, 1946 (Margaret is front row 4th from left) 3. Margaret, 1952 4. Cathryn, 1954

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‘If you can help someone else— well, why not? There’s so much pleasure in it.’

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Leading the Way—The Mittelheuser Sisters at King and Yuill and became the first woman to be registered as a stockbroker in Australia, and one of the few female stockbrokers in the world. During her impressive and lengthy career, Margaret was a pioneer for women in business.

While Cathryn followed a different path, her achievements were equally remarkable. After graduating from Girls Grammar, Cathryn initially trained in nursing. In 1963, she enrolled to study a Bachelor of Science at UQ, majoring in Plant Physiology. She graduated with First Class Honours and the University Medal in 1968. Cathryn went on to undertake a PhD in Plant Physiology and was one of the first Australians published in the internationally renowned journal, Nature. Cathryn was later appointed Senior Research Fellow and then Acting Lecturer in the Botany Department at UQ, one of only a handful of women engaged in science research and teaching at that time.

The Mittelheuser sisters always maintained their close connection to Girls Grammar. Margaret was Treasurer of the Old Girls Association between 1952 and 1953 and later served on the Board of Trustees from 1987 to 1990.

Not only were Margaret and Cathryn pioneers for women in business and science, they also led the way for women in philanthropy, supporting a range of educational and cultural institutions and other causes. Throughout the decades, their generosity to Girls Grammar has been extraordinary, supporting the School to continually improve facilities and provide enriching programs to benefit students.

Understanding how important it is for girls to be encouraged to study and work in science, Dr Cathryn Mittelheuser AM (1949), contributed a significant personal gift at the beginning of the Exceptional Futures campaign. Spaces within the Science Learning Centre will be named in recognition of both Mittelheuser sisters, acknowledging their incredible achievements and generosity.

In Cathryn’s own words, ‘If you can help someone else—well, why not? There’s so much pleasure in it.’

5. Margaret with OGA members, 1952 6. Margaret and Cathryn, 1984 7. Margaret and Cathryn, 1998 8. Margaret and Cathryn, 2003

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Captain Tegan Davey (2000) relished the opportunity to try new things and challenge herself while at Girls Grammar. The Maria Sulima Bursary recipient reflects fondly on her time at BGGS, so much so, she was motivated to make a gift to the School’s Bursary Fund in the hope that she could assist another young woman to explore her potential in the same way she did at Girls Grammar.

You attended Girls Grammar on a Maria Sulima Bursary. What did this opportunity mean to you and your family?

The Maria Sulima Bursary enabled me to receive a quality education and exposure to greater co-curricular activities offered at the School. My mum is a Girls Grammar alumna, and was also a teacher at the School, so I was enrolled at Brisbane Girls Grammar School from birth. Unfortunately, while I was in primary school, my mum became seriously ill and without the Maria Sulima Bursary my parents would not have been in a position to send me to BGGS.

What are some your favourite memories from Girls Grammar?

I loved my time at BGGS and I could probably write a book on my memories! For me, it was an opportunity to try everything to find out what I enjoyed. Most importantly, I made some wonderful friends at Girls Grammar, all of whom are making valuable contributions to the social fabric: following their dreams; working hard in their professions; raising families; and still making time for each other.

I was heavily involved in the BGGS Instrumental Music Program. My favourite memory involves playing the Vivaldi Double Cello Concerto with my friend Courtenay Lind (2000). I also have fond memories of the Marrapatta Memorial Outdoor Education Centre near Imbil with Mr Tim and Mrs Sue Lanham and Mr Mark and Mrs Maryann Munnings—participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, which opened up many opportunities for me beyond school. Lastly, I was fortunate enough to enjoy the educational travel opportunities offered by Girls Grammar through Language Study Tours to Shanghai, and the International Young Physicists’ Tournament in Budapest.

‘I can think of nothing more worthwhile than giving another young woman the opportunity to explore their potential in the same way I was able to at BGGS.’

The Gift of Giving Back


What motivated you to join the Australian Defence Force (ADF)?

I joined the ADF because to me it was an honourable profession, one that requires self-discipline and self-sacrifice but also promises adventure and challenge. Girls Grammar certainly encouraged me to look broadly, keep an open mind and have the confidence to follow a unique path. Attending BGGS on a Maria Sulima Bursary, I was eager to make the most of every opportunity and Girls Grammar fostered the pursuit of excellence, a strong work ethic and sense of adventure— all skills required in the ADF.

What is your current role with the ADF and what have been the highlights of your career to date?

For the past 16 years I have been in the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (three years in the Australian Army Reserve as a soldier and then 13 years in the Army as an officer), working primarily in Information Communication Technology management roles. I am now studying a Bachelor of Nursing, sponsored by the Army, and in 2022 will commence work as an Army Nursing Officer.

My overseas deployments to East Timor and the Middle East have certainly been the highlights of my career. These deployments enabled me to work with some remarkable women and men from professional militaries across the world and also provided an insight into the culture and lives of others. This is humbling, and increases my appreciation for the exceptional quality of life we have here in Australia and in particular, the opportunities available to young women.

Do you have role models? And do you have any advice for students wanting to pursue a career in a traditionally male-dominated sector?

My role models are long-standing military friends. We provide mutual support and advice as well as sharing the highs and lows of life in general. Having a trusted circle of friends within my profession has been invaluable—we have a shared perspective on common issues and stressors, which creates a heightened level of empathy and understanding. I have also worked with, and for, many inspirational women and men in the ADF. I think there are lessons to be learned from anyone in a leadership position, be it traits you want to emulate or behaviours you wish to avoid.

The ADF has, for some time now, been undergoing cultural reform and the prevailing attitude towards female participation in all aspects of military life is immensely supportive. The proportion of women in the ADF is steadily growing, including across the broader Army. My mantra towards a successful career in any field is building a good reputation.

What advice would you share with your younger self?

Have confidence in yourself. Establish a sense of who you are and bring this to everything you do in life; do not let individuals or an organisation fundamentally change you. Keep embracing opportunities as they present themselves and, in the words of one of my first Army drill instructors, listen to what is said not how it is said—look for lessons from mistakes and setbacks.

What motivated you to make a gift to the BGGS Bursary Fund in the 2019 Annual Appeal?

I often reflect on how fortunate I was to attend Girls Grammar and have the experiences I did. I can think of nothing more worthwhile than giving another young woman the opportunity to explore their potential in the same way I was able to at BGGS.

With the generous support of the School community, we can enable girls of promise and capability that otherwise might not be able to attend Girls Grammar. Every gift of every size will have a direct and positive impact for the benefit of these Grammar girls.

To make a donation to the Bursary Fund, visit bggs.qld.edu.au/community/giving/

Marrapatta Memorial Outdoor Education Centre


A Lifelong Love of Reading June Ada Wheeler (1943) was born in 1926 and commenced at Brisbane Girls Grammar School in 1940, while her brother, Gordon, attended Brisbane Grammar School.

At school, June was very sociable and relished her friendships with fellow Grammar girls. An avid reader, she was often spotted with a book in hand. Loyal to no particular genre, June was happy to read anything other than her assigned class readings!

In the 1940s, while June was at BGGS, the Beanland Library consisted of a large bookcase and table displaying journals in the Main Building.

Her passion for reading was encouraged by her English teacher, Miss Marjorie Elliott (1941), a BGGS alumna, who imbued girls with a deep love of literature.

June was also particularly fond of her Mathematics teacher, Miss Marion Maclean. Marjorie and Marion inspired their pupils with a love of learning and showed them the meaning of intellectual integrity. Both teachers were passionate about educating girls and contributed to the School’s culture of empowering young women. Through their service to the School, Marjorie and Marion demonstrated the importance of ‘giving back’—a quality June would develop later in life.


Brisbane Girls Grammar School is built upon a heritage of giving. Including a bequest in your Will is an enduring and transformative way to enrich the lives of future generations of Grammar girls through education.

To discuss making a bequest to BGGS, please contact Director of Development, Ms Georgina Anthonisz, on 07 3332 1383, or download the School’s Wills and Bequests brochure via: bggs.qld.edu.au/community/giving/

After turning 18, June enlisted in the Army and became a wireless operator during World War II. After the war, she studied journalism briefly before deciding to complete a Diploma in Physiotherapy at The University of Queensland. At the time, physiotherapy was an emerging field and like so many of her peers, June moved to the UK after graduation to work for the National Health Service.

Not long after turning 40, June decided to return to Australia where she met physiotherapist, Lois Schultz, through the network of physiotherapy practitioners.

June’s decision to support the BGGS Library Fund is a fitting gift for a generous woman who loved reading, and valued the importance of her Girls Grammar education, not only while at the School, but throughout her whole life.

BGGS was honoured to receive the Schultz Wheeler Bequest, through which the School has been able to acquire a wide range of library resources including books, DVDs and textbooks.

June and Lois had known each other for many years through the network before opening a professional practice together. Little did they know, this would form a friendship lasting more than 50 years.

Lois—a St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School alumna—and June shared a deep connection with their respective schools and believed strongly in helping others. Knowing firsthand the benefits of educating girls, June and Lois thought they could help by leaving money in their Wills.


From the Art Collection Displayed throughout the Main Campus in corridors, offices and most walls and spaces, the School’s fine arts collection provides stimulus for Visual Art students, while also creating an aesthetically vibrant learning environment for staff and students.

The collection, which comprises more than 300 donated works, including paintings, sculptures, furnishings and decorative objects, is a visual representation of the School’s commitment to a broad, liberal education.

In 2019, the School’s art collection continued to expand, courtesy of the generosity of the BGGS community. Two alumnae artists donated works to the School’s collection. Alumna and oil landscapists, Nan Dingle Stone (1957), donated three works, including The Source, which won Overall First Prize in the Redcliffe Art Society’s Annual Exhibition in 2013.

Grammar Woman, Kylie Elkington (1983), generously gifted Morning Walk Bundanon Trust 2015. The piece is inspired by the Shoalhaven region of NSW and captures the essence of Ms Elkington’s neo-romantic style.

In May, the School received 12 paintings on loan from a current Girls Grammar family. Exhibited in the Main Building, the collection includes pieces by prominent artists, Richard Bell, Robert Brownhall, Sam Cranstoun and Ben Quilty.

Past BGGS Parent and Fireworks Gallery Director, Mr Michael Eather, also loaned seven paintings to the School. The indigenous art pieces were created by female artists in the Lockhart Art Gang— Samantha Hobson, Rosella Namok and Fiona Oomenyo—and were displayed as a small exhibition at the School.

Many Girls Grammar alumnae have become highly regarded artists and BGGS is proud to display and promote their work. In September 2019, New Women, an exhibition at the Museum of Brisbane, featured six Girls Grammar alumnae artists: Catherine Bell (1986); Elisabeth Cummings (1952); Gwyn Hanssen-Pigott (1943); Jan Jorgensen (1960); Kathleen Shillam (1933); and Betty Quelhurst (1937). Four of the six artists are featured in the BGGS fine arts collection.

The School is honoured to receive donations to its fine arts collection.

Ms Lorraine Thornquist Manager of Collections

Many Girls Grammar alumnae have become highly regarded artists and BGGS is proud to promote and display their work.


Greer Rorschach by Ben Quilty


Celebrating our Community Brisbane Girls Grammar School’s Support Groups have a long history of providing integral support to Girls Grammar, and all in our community are proud of the legacy of giving that these groups continue to uphold.

From nine-sided pavilions in the hills at Marrapatta, to commemorative gifts, a new P&F Uniform Shop online store, and events that were bigger and more enjoyable than ever before, 2019 was a year of positive and varied innovations brought to life by our BGGS community.

Our Parent Support Groups worked collaboratively to contribute to School initiatives, including the P&F Association’s generous leadership gift to the School’s new Science Learning Centre.

The School thanks its Parent Support Groups for assisting BGGS to deliver an excellent education for our girls,

BGGS Support Groups have a long history of providing support to Girls Grammar.

one in which they can explore and pursue their own gifts and diverse abilities.

All volunteering, whether through official groups or in ad-hoc networks, builds the strength of the School’s community and BGGS thanks all volunteers for commitment to our shared purpose.


Balance—on and off the Water

The Rowing Support Group assists girls to train and compete at the level in which they do.

Brisbane Girls Grammar School’s Rowing team extends beyond the crew. Coaches, staff, families and the School’s dedicated Rowing Support Group create a community essential in supporting our rowers throughout their season.

In 2019, through multiple fundraising initiatives, including hosting Head of the River and the annual Rowing River Social fundraising event, the Rowing Support Group raised more than $40 000 for the Rowing Program.

These funds assist in the purchase of new equipment for the rowers to use. Last year, the Rowing Support Group helped fund a new boat trailer, 1st VIII boat, two rowing ergos, and apparel for the School’s coaches and rowers. The group’s support also allowed the School to refurbish the 2nd VIII boat.

2019 Rowing Coordinator, Mrs Sally Callie, said the energy and enthusiasm of the BGGS Rowing community supports the girls to train and compete at the level in which they do.

‘I am always humbled by the number of hours our parents dedicate to the program, from providing breakfast to our rowers after training, to fundraising and organising community building events.

‘It’s the support of our parents that enables girls to be the best that they can be—both on and off the water.’

Thank you to those donors who also contributed to the School’s sporting facilities, programs and equipment via the Australian Sports Foundation.


Orchestrating Musical Moments The BGGS Music Support Group plays an integral role in delivering the School’s Instrumental Music Program. In addition to supporting the execution of school music events, the group raises funds to purchase instruments for girls to use in the School’s music ensembles.

Since 2016, the Music Support Group has donated more than $45 000 to enable the Instrumental Music Department to purchase a range of ‘endangered’ instruments—bass clarinets, tubas, marimbas, vibraphones and tubular bells—as part of the School’s commitment to balancing traditional musical concepts with innovative experiences.

Director of Instrumental Music, Mrs Emma Dron, said the purchasing of these uncommon instruments has myriad benefits for girls.

‘Students have access to instruments they would otherwise not be able to learn to play, and the inclusion of such instruments enhances the sound possibilities for music making.

‘When students have quality instruments, especially in the bass section of our ensembles, the whole tonal quality of the group is improved.’

With the School’s development of ensembles such as the Gypsy Band and Celtic Ensemble, inclusion of

instruments like the piano accordion help create an authentic sound, and allow students to expand their musical studies and be challenged technically and personally.

Promoting ‘endangered’ orchestral instruments is important not only for the future of music but for developing the next generation of Girls Grammar musicians. These instruments are in high demand in orchestras around Australia and learning them under the guidance of the School’s expert music staff creates opportunities for students wishing to continue their music studies after school.

‘Students have access to instruments they would otherwise not be able to learn to play, and the inclusion of such instruments enhances the sound possibilities for music making.’


Connections for LifeFounded on the ideals of loyalty, friendship, and shared experiences, the Old Girls Association (OGA) is dedicated to maintaining connections for life and strengthening the Girls Grammar sisterhood.

The life-changing benefits gained by women when they are empowered to contribute are known all too well—from the Women’s Rights Movement to the continuing fight for gender equality—great progress has been made by women advocates and the power of sisterhood.

Generations of Grammar Women are also changing the world—each in their own different way, with a shared sense of commitment to something larger than themselves—and in doing so, inspiring Grammar girls with their achievements.

In 2019, the 120th year of the OGA, Grammar Women celebrated and strengthened the deep connection between the School’s past students, and current Grammar girls.

President of the OGA, Mrs Julie Caton, said it is important the Association connects purposefully with girls as they commence their BGGS journey.

‘The BGGS sisterhood starts with girls while they are at school and the OGA nurtures these relationships after graduation, keeping connections alive.’

True sisterhood cannot be forced, nor should it. The School’s culture of empowering women has no boundaries—it transcends to a higher place of interconnectivity and common purpose.

Students embrace what it means to be a Grammar girl, celebrating their differences and inspiring and supporting each other. It’s a social, ethical and emotional pact based on an understanding that together, they are stronger. Grammar girls honoured this connection in 2019 with the Student Council motto, ‘Our Heart is Blue, Our Spirit is True’.

Connected forever as Grammar Women, the OGA unites alumnae and encourages them to play an active part in the BGGS sisterhood that encompasses a rich and diverse network of women who have been educated at the School. While women reconnect and strengthen friendships, they also have the opportunity to inspire, support and mentor the next generation of Grammar Women.

The Association has no age barriers, and the alumnae community are invited to events each year to share their diverse memories of their time at the School, celebrate old friendships and forge new relationships.

In 2019, the OGA made a generous gift to the Exceptional Futures campaign for the Science Learning Centre to support current and future students studying Science, and to acknowledge Grammar Women who have achieved success in their scientific careers.

The School is grateful for the OGA’s contribution, and its role in empowering young girls and maintaining lifelong connections.

The School’s culture of empowering women has no boundaries—it transcends to a higher place of interconnectivity and common purpose.


Celebrating 120 Years of the OGA


Donors

Anonymous (35)

G & S Anthonisz

Jonathan and Yvette Askew

Ann Badger

Isabella Baker

Dr A Bell AM

Bizzell Foundation

Gavin & Claire Blake

A & E Boden

Mr A.J & C.B Bowden

Ms J Bray

Dr A Bruce

K Bryan

Dr Barbara Burge

Dr P and Mrs J Burke

B & A Butler

Ms S Cali

Dr P & Dr C Campbell

Sophia Caposecco

Mrs Ann Caston

A & K Cavdarski

Centaur Memorial Fund for Nurses

Chambers Family

Mr Y Chen & Ms X Wang

Mr B & Mrs M Clark

Comiskey Family

Mr T Cory

Dr R Crawford & Ms J McLaurie

Czislowski Family

A Dale

Lesley Davies

Captain T Davey

B Dawson

P & J Desouza

Dr Diklich & Dr Zelich-Diklich

Dr & Mrs Donnelly

D Dunk & S Buckley

Wendy Edwards

S Edwards

Ms K Elkington

Ms Jacinda Euler

Dr J & Mrs C Fenwick

Dr Lo-an Vu & Dr Alan Fitzpatrick

Mr D & Mrs L Fogden

Ms R Fraser

Friebe Family

Dr M Fry

Fu Family

Gandhi Family

Mr H Gao & Mrs XF Wang

Dr Troy & Mrs Karelia Gianduzzo

M & E Giles

Mr and Mrs Gottumukkala

M Grassie

Green Options P/L

Murcott-Green Family

D & P Greig

G Griffin

Mr P Griffin & Ms Schleicher

Ngaire Groves

A Hale

Ms J Hammer AM

Mr A & Mrs S Harper

Ms Ann Harrap

Mrs A Harris

Mr T & Mrs K Harry

W Hayes

Hazzard Family

J Hennessey

Dr C Hirst AO

Mr R & Mrs K Hirst

Mrs J Hopkins

B & H Hunter

Thank You

Mrs Anne Ingram

Dr K Jaffar

EM Jameson & AL Anderson

R Jans

Hyun-ju Johnson

Dr A & Mrs A Jones

Jordan & Charli Kahler

Ruby Kerrigan

Prof G King & Dr S Rowland

Kolff van Oosterwijk Family

Dr J Lawrence AM

Mr T Lehmann

Melinda Lewis

Ms Di Lohrisch

Christine Lonergan

E Lowry

P & L Lui

Mrs A Luque

J & C MacDonald

Laurie Mackay

E Mackenzie

Mr J & Mrs K MacPherson

Emeritus Professor Dr Mary Mahoney AO

Mr J & Mrs M Mangos

Frances McInerney & Sean Martin

Susan Masel

Rebecca S Kugelmas

Dr Rothwell & Dr McBride

Mr S McCullough & Ms T Davern

D & A McDonnell

Mr G & Mrs B McEntee

Ms Julie McKay

Dr S & Mr H McKay

M McMurdo AC

Saxon Mew

P & M Mitchell

Dr C Mittelheuser AM

The Board of Trustees and the Principal, on behalf of the School, thank members of the Girls Grammar community for their generous support in 2019.


Mr S & Mrs L Morton

Caitlin N Muller-Challinor

m3Architecture

J Nevard

Ms K Newton

Mr and Mrs C Ng

Nicklin Medical Services

Crosisca Family

C Noonan

A Obermair & M Janda

O’Connell Family

C Codd

N & S O’Hare

C & H Orr

Mr M & Mrs J Pafumi

Mr N & Mrs M Parr

G Paull & H Armstrong

M Peel

Dr Juanita Pappalardo & Dr Matthew Peters

Dr Damien Petersen and Dr Sharyn

Van Alphen

E Phua & F Phua-Wu

G Powell

Dr M Qureshi & Mrs A Shaheen

Linda Rosenman

Drs A & S Ryan

J Schmidt

J Schubert

Estate of L Schultz & J Wheeler

Mrs L Schwarten

Selwa Family

Mr G & Mrs B Shapland

Professor A Shoemaker

Mrs Jasjeet Sihota

C & S Skerrett

Mr H Smerdon AM & Mrs S Smerdon

Dr N Sommerfeld & Ms R McIntosh

Dr Carol Sorensen

John & Linda Statham

Mr T & Mrs M Tavoularis

L Thornquist

Charli & Tayla Tobin

David & Christine Trappett

Mr S & Mrs A Vecchio

Dr & Mrs Vujovic

A Waterford

K Wernham

B Wernham

Reverend P Wetherell

Mrs R Williams

E Wilson

Mr A Young

Dr J Young & Mr M Curtis

Donations in-kind

Nan Dingle

Ms K Elkington

EM Jameson

K Johns

Sodexo

Acknowledgements current as at February 2020.

Thank you to the School’s Support Groups for their important contribution and service throughout the year.

Parents & Friends Association

Mothers Group

Fathers Group

Music Support Group

Rowing Support Group

Water Polo Support Group

Old Girls Association

www.bggs.qld.edu.au

Brisbane Girls Grammar SchoolGregory Terrace Brisbane QLD 4000Australia

ABN 31 445 392 850

T +61 7 3332 1300F +61 7 3832 6097E [email protected]

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