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OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE ST RITA'S COLLEGE ALUMNAE Virt u te ISSUE SIXTEEN JUNE 2016 T he statues show the figures of Nano Nagle - the Founder of the Presentation Order - and two children, a young boy and girl. As with all statues, they carry an important story and message for all those who will view them. continued on page 4 Reconnect with Rita's Virtute is your biannual alumnae magazine. If you have an idea for an article, past student profile or photo you think should be considered please email your suggestion to [email protected]. Ensure you stay up to date with Alumnae news and events by contacting us with your updated details. Update your details online at www.stritas.qld.edu.au or email [email protected] or phone (07) 3862 1615. Inside this Issue of Virtute ... 90 Years of St Rita’s College 1,4 A word from our Patron 2 Principal's Report 3 President's Report 6 90 Deeds of Charity 6 Inaugural Alumnae International Women’s Day Breakfast 7 Where are they now? 8-10 Reunions 10-11 2016 Alumnae High Tea 11 90 Years of St Rita’s College In celebration of the College’s 90 years as a Presentation school, a set of bronze statues were recently unveiled at the top of the driveway outside Student Services.

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Page 1: OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE ST RITA'S COLLEGE ALUMNAE … Virtute 12pp JUN… · OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE ST RITA'S COLLEGE ALUMNAE t u te ISSUE SIXTEEN JUNE 2016 T he statues show

O F F I C I A L N E W S L E T T E R O F T H E S T R I TA ' S C O L L E G E A L U M N A E

Virtute I S SUE S IXTEENJUNE 2016

The statues show the figures of Nano Nagle - the Founder of

the Presentation Order - and two children, a young boy and girl. 

As with all statues, they carry an important story and message for all those who will view them.

continued on page 4

Reconnect with Rita'sVirtute is your biannual alumnae magazine. If you have an idea for an article, past student profile or photo you think should be considered please email your suggestion to [email protected] you stay up to date with Alumnae news and events by contacting us with your updated details.

Update your details online at www.stritas.qld.edu.au or email [email protected] or phone (07) 3862 1615.

Inside this Issue of Virtute ...90 Years of St Rita’s College 1,4

A word from our Patron 2

Principal's Report 3

President's Report 6

90 Deeds of Charity 6

Inaugural Alumnae International Women’s Day Breakfast

7

Where are they now? 8-10

Reunions 10-11

2016 Alumnae High Tea 11

9 0 Y e a r s o f St Rita’s CollegeIn celebration of the College’s 90 years as a Presentation school, a set of bronze statues were recently unveiled at the top of the driveway outside Student Services.

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90 Years On

It seems strange to think that I have been associated

with St Rita’s College for almost 70 years. I had never thought of it like that before. I do not feel that old and I found it hard to believe that I had done my maths correctly as I was driving home in the car the other day.

It all began in 1947. My Dad had just passed away and I was placed at the School as a

little boarder. I hated the place. Every Sunday when my mother visited, it was the same old story: “Do I have to go back?”

Twelve months later, I considered it my home away from home. I loved the place and by then I had learnt how to supplement the unpalatable food with chocolates and cake. We had great fun after ‘lights out’. I loved the sport and many of the nuns. There were even some academic pursuits that we learnt without even recognising that we were learning.

By the time I reached the senior grades in the school, the population was just over 200, including students from Kindergarten to Year 12. There was only one senior class (Grade 12) and naturally, everybody knew everyone. The School also catered for little boys up to Year 3.

The School was clean, since the nuns, with the assistance of the Boarders, did the cleaning. We often hosed, rolled and marked the ant bed tennis courts. It was very much our school. Who would think of littering?

It was during my senior years that the primary school at St Rita’s began and in turn combined with St Agatha’s to form St Rita’s Primary. This eventually took the parish name of St Agatha’s.

As students, we sat in desks that were arranged in straight rows. We were taught using a blackboard and chalk and wrote with pen and paper– no laptops, no data projectors, no PA system. Yet we learnt and we learnt well.

By the time I returned as a teacher in 1960 the population was in the 600s. It was during this time that, under the firm hand of Sr Canice, as she was then known, St Rita’s College became a school recognised for its academic excellence as well as for its all-round education.

Up until now, everyone in the school was either a nun or a student. It was during this period that Judy Garbett became the Secretary of the College, the Finance Officer, the Enrolment Officer and the typist for all the teachers, as well as a confidant and friend!

St Rita’s College was the last Catholic all girls’ school to be taught with just nuns. Over the years the College began to incorporate lay staff. As the number of lay staff grew, we seemed to emphasise our mission, what our values were and the legacy of Nano Nagle. The same spirit endured.

We thought then that, at 600, we were at the ideal number for a school. Without realising it, our population grew into the 800s and that was definitely the limit. Somehow this then crept up to 900 and with the arrival of the Year 7s, the College now caters to just over 1000 students.

Initially, with the Year 7s becoming part of the school once again, the College seemed to be very crowded. Today, it just seems normal. We teach with the latest technology; use modern teaching methods in very comfortable and air-conditioned classrooms. Unlike previous years I am the only religious person who teaches in the College.

For one who has been here for nearly 70 years, there are many elements that are very much the same. The externals have changed, but at the core the essentials are there to form women for tomorrow who believe in ‘action not words’ to make our world a better place.

Sr Elvera SestaPatron

Sr Elvera SestaPatron

A word from our Patron

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PRINCIPAL’S REPORTDear Alumnae,

2016 marks the 90th year of the College’s operation and we have a number of celebrations planned to mark this significant milestone. It is my hope that many of you will be able to join us throughout the year at one or more of these occasions to celebrate the proud history of St Rita’s College. Further details of the various

events will be advertised on the College website as each date draws near. Celebrations will include a special Mass at the Cathedral, as well as a whole school photo and an event entitled St Rita’s Longest Lunch. I hope you share the feeling of pride we all have in our College and the significant contribution it has made, and continues to make, to the Catholic education of young women in Brisbane. Each of you, as former students, has contributed to the fabric of the College’s history and tradition, and can feel very much part of what this school is today.

It is my pleasure to report on our continuing good academic results with the following summary of what our Senior Class of 2015 achieved at the end of last year. In terms of Overall Position results we had 22% of our OP eligible students achieve in the OP 1-5 range, 68% in the 1-10 range and 97% in the 1-15 range. 100% of our Year 12 students received a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) with a great many of the girls being accepted into their first or second preference on QTAC. These statistics show that through the hard work and commitment to study of the great majority of our students, coupled with the dedication and professionalism of our staff, the College continues to equip our girls with the knowledge and skills they require to take the next step in their educational journey. We are certain that these newest members of the alumni will embrace the challenges the future will bring and will be well placed to positively contribute to whatever circumstances they find themselves in.

Our Senior Class of 2016 has begun the year well and has been most enthusiastic to take on the mantle of school leadership. The theme for this year is based around the pillar of compassion, which aligns nicely

with Pope Francis’ declaration of 2016 being the Year of Mercy. There have already been a number of initiatives by these young women that have enthused the school body to think more about how we treat each other – I look forward to their continued enthusiasm and leadership for the remainder of the year.

In other areas of the College, the pace of the educational challenges we face in terms of embracing the Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority (QCAA) development of new syllabi that will be introduced in 2018, means that our teaching staff need to be updating their skills and looking at ways of helping students develop vital 21st century skills. It is testament to their overall professionalism as a staff that they are taking on the development of reading, comprehension and numeracy programs in co-operation with academics from QUT in order to further improve the outcomes for our students in these areas. This year also sees the introduction of an Outdoor Education Program which will run for students in Years 7 through to Year 10. This program is aimed at developing independence and resilience in our girls through their interactions with various planned outdoor pursuits and challenges.

As we enter our ninetieth year we are ready to develop a new Master Plan to ensure the forward planning of facilities at the College over the next 20 years. I look forward to sharing these exciting developments with the alumnae.

I was delighted to attend the inaugural alumnae International Women’s Day Breakfast in March and would like to commend the Alumnae Committee on this wonderful initiative. It was inspiring to see so many past pupils enjoying each other’s company and to witness that no matter how many years may pass their high school days provide a connection like no other. I wish to express my sincere thanks to the alumnae for supporting a student to attend St Rita’s who, without your generosity, may not have had the opportunity. I am very optimistic that the alumnae will continue to grow as we hold more events and provide opportunities for past pupils to reconnect.

God Bless.Dale Morrow

Principal

Mrs Dale MorrowPrincipal

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90 YEARS OF ST RITA'S COLLEGE

This set of statues is an actual replica of the set that stands in the grounds of Ballygriffin, Ireland, which you all know to be Nano Nagle’s birthplace. The original set was placed there in 2009 and was called Nano with Children. We have named our replica of this set of statues Nano Nagle – Woman of Heart.

When you look at these statues you will be reminded of the story of Nano Nagle - a woman who, after having various life experiences as a young

privileged person in Ireland in the mid-1700’s, became inflamed with a calling to bring education to the poorest of the poor in Ireland. You must understand that this was done in the context of a society, which deemed it illegal to educate children of Catholics. So Nano, in the beginning, saw no other way than to illegally establish her schools. Nano not only saw to the education of poor children in the laneways of Cork during the day but she was also constant in her visiting of the poor in their cabins and making her

In addition to the bronze statue, the College campus and main driveway have been adorned with banners showcasing students and achievements from the past 90 years. A special commemorative 90th Anniversary video has also been created and can be viewed via the College’s YouTube Channel. Students and staff of the College enjoyed the inaugural viewing of this video at the 2016 St Rita’s Day Mass in May.

...continued from cover

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90 YEARS OF ST RITA'S COLLEGE

way through the narrow streets in the evenings, guided only by the light of a lantern. She became known in Cork as ‘The Lady of the Lamp’. She worked tirelessly in this way until her death in 1784, and even on her deathbed, education for the poor was at the forefront of her thoughts – she was strong in the belief that her schools were a passport to freedom in a world of ignorance and oppression.  When asked if there was anything she wanted seen to before she died, Nano Nagle replied: “Only one thing, take care of the

schools”.  Fighting against the injustices of the day, Nano bravely challenged the status quo and worked tirelessly bringing her dream to fruition.

This set of statues which now stand proudly at the top of our driveway will act as a daily reminder that we are called to be People of Welcoming Heart, to value education and to find ways that we can contribute to make our world a more just place.

In addition to the bronze statue, the College campus and main driveway have been adorned with banners showcasing students and achievements from the past 90 years. A special commemorative 90th Anniversary video has also been created and can be viewed via the College’s YouTube Channel. Students and staff of the College enjoyed the inaugural viewing of this video at the 2016 St Rita’s Day Mass in May.

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The Inaugural SRC Alumnae International Women's

Day Breakfast in March again highlighted to me the amazing community of women that comprise the St Rita's Alumnae. The positive energy, the festive atmosphere and the inspirational stories spoke loudly about the desires we share every day in creating balance, success and happiness in our lives. Whilst our definitions may vary, our aspiration is the same.

Our talented Alumna guest speaker, Christine Jackman (Class of 1986), spoke humorously about her days at SRC and how those formative years helped to shape the woman she is today. She was frank and honest; and shared many stories of her professional and personal pursuits. I would like to thank Christine on behalf of all who attended.

As SRC women, the qualities of charity, faith and leadership were instilled in us during our years at the College. These qualities are now helping us achieve truly great things every day for ourselves, our families, our communities; and more broadly, are touching the lives of people around the world. Our reach is far, our impact is mighty and we are the most powerful when we stand together. We should be very proud, and we have much to be thankful for.

The College, now in its 90th year, is celebrating these accomplishments and the legacy of what it means to be an SRC girl. Details of the various 90th anniversary festivities are available via the College website www.stritas.qld.edu.au.

To coincide with the College’s 90th anniversary, the Alumnae Committee is undertaking a major project to cleanse, verify and update the Alumnae database to ensure our information is correct. If you believe your details may be out of date, please contact the College on 07 3862 1615 or visit the ‘Our Community – Alumnae’ section on the College website to update your details online via www.stritas.qld.edu.au.

We always welcome feedback, news, updates and photos, so please contact us any time at [email protected].

Patrice SimpsonSRC Alumnae President

Patrice SimpsonAlumnae President

To mark the College’s 90th year and our year of Compassion, Begin with the Heart, all students

are invited to take part in our 90 Deeds of Charity initiative. This requires every student in the College to complete a charitable deed and register it online.

The deed of charity needs to be significant, such as a commitment of time to a worthwhile cause, charity or social action, a significant donation or participation in a charitable event (such as a door knock appeal or walkathon). The cause or charity students commit to can be one supported by the College, the Houses or something of personal significance to students and their families.

This initiative provides a practical way for students to enter into the spirit of the year and it is a most fitting way to celebrate 90 years of education in the Presentation tradition at St Rita’s College.

Richard RoguszAssistant Principal – Mission

90 Deeds of CharityBegin with the Heart

P R E S I D E N T ' S R E P O R T

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INAUGURAL ALUMNAE INTERNATIONAL W O M E N ’ S D A Y B R E A K F A S T

The St Rita’s College Alumnae, and friends, celebrated International Women’s Day with their inaugural

breakfast held at the Brisbane Marriott Hotel on Friday 4 March 2016. Over 100 smiling guests joined together to celebrate this important occasion as they were treated to a beautiful breakfast overlooking the Brisbane River.

The guests arrived promptly at 7.00 am and despite the early start, the atmosphere was filled with much joy and excitement.

Amongst the guests were the College Principal, Mrs Dale Morrow accompanied by Ms Maree Trims, Deputy Principal - Studies and Mrs Anna Roberts, Manager-Community Development. We were also privileged to welcome our guest Sr Annette Shears pbvm, who was an educator at the College for many years. Numerous past students who were taught by Sr. Annette were delighted to be able to reconnect with her.

As sponsors of the St Rita’s College Music Bursary we were also delighted to have in attendance the 2016 St Rita’s College Music Captains Cathryn Kuhanez and Mikaela Thomsen.

The event was well supported and attended by alumnae members, current parents, future parents and friends of the College. It was not only a testament to the importance of maintaining a strong connection between past students and the College but also an opportunity to bring together other members of our community to share the spirit that uniquely identifies St Rita’s College.

Guest speaker, Christine Jackman (Class of 1986) presented a very light hearted and humorous recount of her time at St. Rita’s and of her life after graduating from the College. As a successful journalist, author and now Director of Communications, her final message to embrace our self-worth and to never undervalue the contributions we make to our family and society left a lasting impression.

Raffle prizes included a MIMCO bag, Mini IPad, Swarovski bracelet and a voucher to Gusto da Gianni Restaurant, Portside. Monies raised from this event will

contribute to the Music Bursary and the Prix d’honeur prize awarded at the College’s Annual Thanks Giving Celebration, for which the Alumnae are sponsors.

Our thanks go to the Brisbane Marriott Hotel who have been long supporters of the College. Their lucky door prize donation of a Hotel Weekend Package was met with enthusiasm along with the wonderful raffle prizes that were on offer.

The breakfast was a huge success and with a networking focus in mind, our aim will be to provide a link between past students and current girls of the College through mentoring and work experience. It will also be a means whereby past students are able to connect with each other professionally.

Thank you to all guests and we look forward to your ongoing support and attendance as we prepare to host this event again on Friday 3 March 2017.

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As a proud ‘Old Girl’ of St Rita’s, it gives me pleasure to write an article for the Alumnae. Having

completed Year 12 in 1987 it is occurring to me that I am, in fact, becoming a ‘real’ old girl. We need to get onto organising our 30th reunion - that is slightly scary.

After school I completed a Degree in Human Resources and worked on Hamilton Island as their Human Resources and Training Manager for five years. Whilst on the island I married Michael Devine and we moved to Mackay where we both worked in and about the mining industry. In 1998 we had our first child Darcy, who is now about to complete Year 12 at St Patrick’s College, Shorncliffe. Bella arrived in 2000 and she is now in Year 10 at St Rita’s College. Our daughter Charlie arrived in 2004 and she is in Year 5 at Sacred Heart School, Sandgate. She will join her older sister at St Rita’s in 2017.

I have also changed careers, having studied teaching while the children were young. I have worked at St Dympna’s School, Aspley; St Patricks College, Shorncliffe and I am now back at St Rita’s College after all these years. I am currently the Marian Head of House (strangely the House I was in at school) and also teach Maths and Science. I absolutely love the experience of having returned to the school I so loved. Now that I am back, I realise that while some things have changed dramatically over the years, other features of St Rita’s still endure today.

So what has not changed? St Rita’s has always felt like a home away from home for me. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I never felt that I did not want to be at school. I had a great group of friends who I looked forward to seeing and hanging out with on The Flat at lunch time. I still see that today in the smiles, laughs and lunchtime

banter amongst the students. It often makes me smile to see that those simple things have not changed. It was refreshing to realise that ‘The Flat’ has retained its name; the fig tree is still the most prized place to sit at lunch; Hunter Lane is still a killer running track; Sacred Heart building is still the first thing you see when you walk up that long driveway and Sr Elvera is still there (we LOVE her). I think this beautiful lady is a living treasure and I so enjoy spending time with her, now as her colleague. She is one of the most dedicated and energetic people I have ever met. She has not changed.

Many things, however, have changed. Some positive changes for the school are without a doubt, the facilities which have been added over the years. These include the new Rosa Aqua Centre, the new science labs (a delight to teach in), the new Resource Centre including the Ballygriffin Room (with one of the best views in Brisbane), the Pantry, the Boutique, Eirene Hall, the Assumpta Pavilion, the newly renovated Stanley Hall and the fabulous staff room which could feature on Masterchef. All of these features have added to the beauty and functionality of the school. The House system has changed from the original four Houses, to the current vertical system of eight Houses – each of the new Houses having an original ‘sister’ house. It is an incredible school to teach in and I feel blessed to be here.

One thing that has stayed the same is the type of young lady who emerges at the end of her schooling from St Rita’s College. Every young girl who takes on board the ethos of the school truly emerges on the other side as a young woman of action. ‘Action not Words’ is not just a school motto, but continues to be the way we teach and learn at the College. My message to your daughters, if they are students there today, is to continue this legacy. Get involved in as much as you can for all of your years at the College. Become a person of action.

So today, apart from working at St Rita’s, I continue to keep in regular touch with my school mates including Bern McIntyre (McCluskey), Ang White (Reid), Sarah Knight (Tyrrell), Rachel Zanetta (Milne), Tina Devine (now my sister-in-law!) and many others. We all stay in touch and feel proud of our St Rita’s heritage. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to have been a student at St. Rita’s in the eighties and it continues to be a pleasure to be teaching there today.

Where are they now?Liz Devine (Class of 1987)

Liz Devine (nee Sheahan Class of 1987)

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Where are they now?Erin Bledsoe (Class of 1992)

I am delighted to have this opportunity to share my

story since graduating from St Rita’s College with other members of the Alumnae. I am extremely proud to be a St Rita’s “0ld Girl” and consider this such an appropriate way to acknowledge how the College has shaped me as a person.

My life at St Rita’s commenced at the end of January 1988. I was a very nervous and

less than confident 12 year old girl and left the College as a young lady inquisitive about the world and full of hopes and aspirations to make a difference in society. While my time at the College was naturally filled with ups and downs consistent with teenage life, it was not until after leaving the College that I looked back and realised how privileged I was to have attended the College. Furthermore, I am always excited to cross paths with a fellow “St Rita’s Girl”. I instantly feel a connection as there is a common set of values instilled by the College that links us throughout life.

Regarding my story, on completing Year 12 in 1992, I commenced a parallel degree in Economics and Commerce at the University of Queensland and graduated with Honours in Economics in 1997. During my final years at the College, I developed a passion for public policy and a desire to understand how a government’s economic agenda can influence the welfare of a nation (I’m sure taking economics with Mr Jarvis played a significant role in shaping my future in this direction!)

I embarked in this field of study at a pivotal time when there was a shift towards microeconomic reform and the establishment of markets across industries traditionally owned and operated by governments. Not only have I had an opportunity to examine these issues from a theoretical prospective at university, I have worked and advocated across a range of areas of economics.

As a practicing economist, I have been extremely fortunate to have been directly involved in shaping some of Australia’s most significant economic policy issues over the past two decades. I have certainly not shied away from controversial or unpopular topics particularly where I believe improvements are necessary to bring about the “greater good” or being a “trailblazer” in uncharted territory. I am confident this is in part attributable to the principles and values instilled during my time at the College.

I commenced my career as the first female power (electricity) trader in Queensland with establishment of the National Electricity Market (NEM) and when Queensland

faced shortages in electricity. This was followed by a number of years in Canberra working for the Federal Department of the Treasury on banking policy and regulation at a time when the financial sector was at cross roads. I returned to Brisbane and re-joined the power industry working for a large government owned coal-fired generation business. I was responsible for representing the organisation on climate change policy and consideration of emission trading schemes. I was given the challenging mandate to advocate for sensible environmental outcomes while avoiding the erosion of shareholder value. While potentially achievable, this was not a particularly well understood issue by the public or popular. While Australia continues to debate these issues, given its complexity, my work in this area certainly influenced and educated policy makers and other stakeholders enabling the discussions to continue on a more informed basis.

These experiences led me to my current role where I manage Regulatory Affairs for QGC, a Royal Dutch Shell (Shell) Business. QGC owns and operates QCLNG one of the USD70 Billion Coal Seam Methane (CSG) to LNG export projects in central-Queensland. At a time when gas prices are highly political, my role focuses on developing Eastern Australia’s gas markets through advocating for change to ensure our markets reach international standard. We have been successful in moving this debate forward. Furthermore, last year I was fortunate to receive a scholarship as an Australian delegate to the 2015 World Gas Conference in Paris. This conference was pivotal in positioning natural gas as a driver to reducing global emissions ahead of the international climate change talks.

While the CSG industry in Queensland has faced challenges (some very public), I consider myself privileged to work for an International Oil Company (IOC) with colleagues from all over the globe and to be directly involved in one of Queensland’s most significant infrastructure projects of recent times.

While I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to follow my passion, my family remains central to my life. I now live locally at Clayfield and am married to a fellow economist (which makes for very interesting, or uninteresting to most, dinner conservations). We have two sons, who are 5 and 7 and attend St Agatha’s Primary School.

It is one of my greatest hopes that my sons, on leaving school, are exposed to the same passion, drive and values bestowed upon me during my time at the College. Unfortunately, they do not meet the first criteria for acceptance at the College, although I am certain they will have the opportunity to engage with the next generation of ladies from St Rita’s College.

Erin Bledsoe (Class of 1992)

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Recently, I was honoured to receive the Lord Mayor’s ‘Young Citizen of the Year’ award.

Upon reflection, I believe it is truly the small things that can collectively make a profound difference in our community. I have had the privilege of volunteering with the Ecumenical Coffee Brigade, an organization that helps the homeless and marginalized in the Brisbane community, and Jacana, an Acquired Brain Injury centre. I always leave feeling that I have received so much more than I have given. Their courage and positivity in facing daily challenges helps me keep perspective on life. I have always found people to be so appreciative of the small things that we are able to share with them. I am grateful for the strong foundations and experiences that I gained during my time at St Rita’s College. The Presentation pillars of compassion, hospitality and simplicity have guided me on my journey.

Mother Theresa expresses the difference we can each make when we work together,

“What I do you cannot do; but what you do, I cannot do. The needs are great, and none of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things with great love, and together we can do something wonderful.”

On 25 October 2015, around 40 girls from the SRC graduating class of 1980 gathered at

Wooden Horse restaurant in Eagle Junction to swap stories, revisit old photos, remember those dreadful uniforms, laugh, cry and generally play up over a few wines and delicious food.

There is something very special about being part of such a group. 

These are strong, vital, vibrant women. Though we are all at a ‘certain age’, we joyfully and gratefully came together as one.  The noise was deafening at times and we wouldn’t have it any other way. 

As one of our group said so eloquently, “there is something really grounding about coming back to this group of women who have shared so much”. 

With promises of keeping in touch (thank goodness for social media!) and resounding confirmation that we will do it all again next year, we left the restaurant with wide smiles, big hugs and teary eyes. 

Such is the power of shared memories.

Kylie White (Class of 1980)

Where are they now? ReunionsJess Hickey (Class of 2010) Class of 1980 - 35 Year Reunion

Jess Hickey (Class of 2010)

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20 Year Reunion – Class of 1996

Date: Saturday 23 July at 7.00pm

Venue: Farrier Bar - 164 Arthur Street, Fortitude Valley

Cost: $50 for welcome drink and food

Contact: Anita Pang (Atkinson) on 0421815812 or [email protected]

Facebook St Rita's 20 Year Reunion - Group Class of 1996

30 Year Reunion – Class of 1986

Date: Saturday 3 September 2016

Venue: 3.00pm tour of the College followed by canapés and champagne on arrival at Byblos, Portside Wharf, Hamilton.  

Tickets: $30

RSVP: Saturday 20 August 2016

Contact: Tina Gallagher on 0407 022 657 or Siobhan Cowell on 0432 608 634 for more information. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/189385

40 Year Reunion - Class of 1976

Calling past students who attended St Rita’s between 1972 (Year 8) and 1976 (Year 12).

We are organising our 40 year reunion for Saturday 3 September 2016 which includes a lunch and a tour of the school. More details will be forthcoming over the next couple of months.  We hope you are able to attend!

Date: Saturday 3 September 2016

Format: Lunch and tour of the School. Details TBA.

To register your interest please contact Bev Wood (nee Kissane) [email protected] or 0417 077 937.

Upcoming Reunions

50 Year Reunion – Class 1966 Expression of Interest

Are you interested in attending a 50 Year reunion for the Class of 1966?

Please forward your expression of interest to Tricia Ryan at [email protected].

Year 10 Careers Day – Your Opportunity To Get Involved

During Term 3, in the lead up to senior subject selection, Year 10 SRC students will be involved in a Careers Day. This important day is scheduled for Tuesday 9 August 2016 and features guest speakers working with the students in small groups. Numerous industries are represented and based on the interests of the students.  Many of our guest speakers are alumnae members and past and present parents of the College. The support of our alumnae community is greatly appreciated and the insight they provide into particular industries and careers is invaluable to our students.

If you would like to be involved in the 2016 Careers Day please contact Mrs Melanie Sax-Wood via email, [email protected] 

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All Welcome!

St Rita's College CarnivalSUNDAY, 31 JULY 2016

Carnival 10:00AM - 4:00PMOpen Day 10:00AM - 12:00PM

Cake & Sweet StallsTrash & TreasureRaffle & Prizes

International FoodWine Wheel & BarSecond Hand clothes

RidesCraftsFace Painting

...and so much more

Reconnect with Rita’sUpdate your details online www.stritas.qld.edu.au

email [email protected] or contact the College on (07) 3262 1615.

St Rita's College 41 Enderley Road, Clayfield QLD 4011

Ph: 07 3862 1615