Welcome
Message from the OSA President
June 2024
Dear Old Scholars
Over the past weeks Old Scholars, and the St Hilda’s community as a whole, have been left shocked and devastated by the deaths of Jennifer and Gretl Petelczyc. Our deepest sympathy to Liesl Petelczyc, family and close friends, on the loss of these much loved women.
To the Bombara Family and friends, we also extend our deep sympathy and compassion for your losses.
The Petelczyc family's kindness and generosity in service to our school community was never more apparent than when many past students and their parents attended the school chapel to support each other and pay their respects in the days following. Many thanks to Father Frank Sheehan for his guidance, counsel and prayers. Also, to Principal Fiona Johnston, Kellie Hasluck (Director of School Development), Jo Swain (Dean of Student Wellbeing) and Sandra Naude (Guardian of St Hilda’s Legacy), for all their kindness and support.
More generally, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my personal thanks to the current OSA committee members. I am truly appreciative of the support, time and organisation that goes into providing our many events across a wide range of interests and ages.
This month special thanks are due to our younger members; Scarlet Roxby (2016), Ella Morison (2016) and Alice Hamilton (2015) for taking on the responsibility of our social media. Also to Bianca Dawson (2015), Sophie Rowney (2016) and Victoria Parker (2016) for all their assistance setting up the young networking event at the Back Bar@The Hylin on 5 June.
Thank you also to the thirty one professional old scholars who have volunteered to share their stories and experiences with our next generation of young women at the OSA Careers Expo on Friday 28 June. The Expo is designed to support more than 400 students from years 10-12 in choosing their life pathways. The OSA committee looks forward to hosting the afternoon drink and canapés with the mentors and staff. Many thanks to Lizzie Warburton for all her incredible organisation to ensure this is a wonderful afternoon for all involved.
June’s edition of Connections is a great read. Highlights include news of old scholars; Gabby Goodier (2004), Zoe Thomson (2015), Sophia Forrest and Adelaide Kane (2006) contributing and achieving amazing outcomes in their narrative and professional journeys.
Warm regards,
Jane Barker (1986)
President of the GHS & St Hilda's Old Scholars Association
Message from the OSA President
June 2024
Dear Old Scholars
Over the past weeks Old Scholars, and the St Hilda’s community as a whole, have been left shocked and devastated by the deaths of Jennifer and Gretl Petelczyc. Our deepest sympathy to Liesl Petelczyc, family and close friends, on the loss of these much loved women.
To the Bombara Family and friends, we also extend our deep sympathy and compassion for your losses.
The Petelczyc family's kindness and generosity in service to our school community was never more apparent than when many past students and their parents attended the school chapel to support each other and pay their respects in the days following. Many thanks to Father Frank Sheehan for his guidance, counsel and prayers. Also, to Principal Fiona Johnston, Kellie Hasluck (Director of School Development), Jo Swain (Dean of Student Wellbeing) and Sandra Naude (Guardian of St Hilda’s Legacy), for all their kindness and support.
More generally, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my personal thanks to the current OSA committee members. I am truly appreciative of the support, time and organisation that goes into providing our many events across a wide range of interests and ages.
This month special thanks are due to our younger members; Scarlet Roxby (2016), Ella Morison (2016) and Alice Hamilton (2015) for taking on the responsibility of our social media. Also to Bianca Dawson (2015), Sophie Rowney (2016) and Victoria Parker (2016) for all their assistance setting up the young networking event at the Back Bar@The Hylin on 5 June.
Thank you also to the thirty one professional old scholars who have volunteered to share their stories and experiences with our next generation of young women at the OSA Careers Expo on Friday 28 June. The Expo is designed to support more than 400 students from years 10-12 in choosing their life pathways. The OSA committee looks forward to hosting the afternoon drink and canapés with the mentors and staff. Many thanks to Lizzie Warburton for all her incredible organisation to ensure this is a wonderful afternoon for all involved.
June’s edition of Connections is a great read. Highlights include news of old scholars; Gabby Goodier (2004), Zoe Thomson (2015), Sophia Forrest and Adelaide Kane (2006) contributing and achieving amazing outcomes in their narrative and professional journeys.
Warm regards,
Jane Barker (1986)
President of the GHS & St Hilda's Old Scholars Association
Upcoming Events
Key Dates
We look forward to welcoming as many Old Scholars as possible to these events throughout the year. OSA Networking Events will be published nearer the time.
OSA CROCHET CLUB T3
2nd Wednesday of each month term-time
Time: 12.00pm - 2.00pm
Beginners are most welcome.
Enquiries to
Treffina Dowland
0413 948 255
OSA 70+ MORNING TEA
Wednesday 14 August
Time: 10.00am - 12.00pm
Venue: School Hall, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
OSA PIN PRESENTATION ASSEMBLY
Friday 27 September
7.30am - 8.15am (Breakfast)
8.25am - 9.30am (Assembly)
Venue: JSPAC
OSA AGM
Tuesday 8 October
Time: 6.00pm - 8.00pm
Venue: Heritage Centre, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
OSA ART EXHIBITION
Thursday 24 October
Time: 6.00pm - 8.00pm (Opening Night)
Exhibition Open Times
Friday 25 October 3pm - 8pm
Saturday 26 October - Sunday 27 October
Time: 10.00am - 3.00pm (Exhibition)
Venue: JSPAC Foyer
OSA COUNTRY LUNCH - TBA
OSA GOLF SOCIAL DAY
Friday 8 November
Time: 8.30am - 2.00pm
Venue: Mosman Park Golf Club
OSA XMAS DRINKS
Monday 25 November
Time: 5.00pm - 7.00pm
Venue: Heritage Centre Veranda, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
Key Dates
We look forward to welcoming as many Old Scholars as possible to these events throughout the year. OSA Networking Events will be published nearer the time.
OSA CROCHET CLUB T3
2nd Wednesday of each month term-time
Time: 12.00pm - 2.00pm
Beginners are most welcome.
Enquiries to
Treffina Dowland
0413 948 255
OSA 70+ MORNING TEA
Wednesday 14 August
Time: 10.00am - 12.00pm
Venue: School Hall, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
OSA PIN PRESENTATION ASSEMBLY
Friday 27 September
7.30am - 8.15am (Breakfast)
8.25am - 9.30am (Assembly)
Venue: JSPAC
OSA AGM
Tuesday 8 October
Time: 6.00pm - 8.00pm
Venue: Heritage Centre, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
OSA ART EXHIBITION
Thursday 24 October
Time: 6.00pm - 8.00pm (Opening Night)
Exhibition Open Times
Friday 25 October 3pm - 8pm
Saturday 26 October - Sunday 27 October
Time: 10.00am - 3.00pm (Exhibition)
Venue: JSPAC Foyer
OSA COUNTRY LUNCH - TBA
OSA GOLF SOCIAL DAY
Friday 8 November
Time: 8.30am - 2.00pm
Venue: Mosman Park Golf Club
OSA XMAS DRINKS
Monday 25 November
Time: 5.00pm - 7.00pm
Venue: Heritage Centre Veranda, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
Recent Events
YOUNG OSA DRINKS AT HYLIN
On Wednesday 5 June the OSA hosted a lovely networking event to bring together young alumni, at Hylin in West Leederville, over parmi and drinks.
The night was hugely enjoyable as more than 20 young old scholars chatted and caught up on everyone's career progress and exchanged helpful knowledge about moving through jobs in your early 20s, and even returning to study after working fulltime.
It was a great turn out, and we are excited to host another event in the coming months, so stay tuned.
L-R: Victoria Parker (2016), Stella Kelly (2016), Lilly Kelly 2019
Emma Harrington (2017), Ruby Wiese (2017), Kaitlen Rowney (2020), Hazel Dutton (2016).
Ella Morison (2016), Sara Foster (2016), Alice Hamilton (2015).
YOUNG OSA DRINKS AT HYLIN
On Wednesday 5 June the OSA hosted a lovely networking event to bring together young alumni, at Hylin in West Leederville, over parmi and drinks.
The night was hugely enjoyable as more than 20 young old scholars chatted and caught up on everyone's career progress and exchanged helpful knowledge about moving through jobs in your early 20s, and even returning to study after working fulltime.
It was a great turn out, and we are excited to host another event in the coming months, so stay tuned.
L-R: Victoria Parker (2016), Stella Kelly (2016), Lilly Kelly 2019
Emma Harrington (2017), Ruby Wiese (2017), Kaitlen Rowney (2020), Hazel Dutton (2016).
Ella Morison (2016), Sara Foster (2016), Alice Hamilton (2015).
Girls Lifting Girls - Gabby Goodier's (2004) presentation
The Junior School held a 'Girls Lifting Girls' session with Old Scholar and Psychologist, Gabby Goodier (2004). These sessions are designed for our Years 4-10 students and their parents/caregivers, as a means of building upon our girls' innate ability to back each other by focusing on ‘girls lifting girls’ and ‘women lifting women’.
Guest speaker, Gabby, who is a multi-award-winning Clinical Psychologist and businesswoman, openly shared with us how key people in your life can change the trajectory of your path. For Gabby, this new path took her from her initial plan to become a lawyer to, instead, studying to become a Clinical Psychologist. Gabby not only shared all the amazing things she did for others, but also informed the audience how her road was very bumpy at times.
Our big takeaway from her session was that we can change paths, we can fall and get up again and if our heart is in it, we can work to lift others, we can achieve amazing things for ourselves and most importantly help others.
Girls Lifting Girls - Gabby Goodier's (2004) presentation
The Junior School held a 'Girls Lifting Girls' session with Old Scholar and Psychologist, Gabby Goodier (2004). These sessions are designed for our Years 4-10 students and their parents/caregivers, as a means of building upon our girls' innate ability to back each other by focusing on ‘girls lifting girls’ and ‘women lifting women’.
Guest speaker, Gabby, who is a multi-award-winning Clinical Psychologist and businesswoman, openly shared with us how key people in your life can change the trajectory of your path. For Gabby, this new path took her from her initial plan to become a lawyer to, instead, studying to become a Clinical Psychologist. Gabby not only shared all the amazing things she did for others, but also informed the audience how her road was very bumpy at times.
Our big takeaway from her session was that we can change paths, we can fall and get up again and if our heart is in it, we can work to lift others, we can achieve amazing things for ourselves and most importantly help others.
Reunions
Class of 2004 - 20 Year Reunion
Date: Saturday 26 October 2024
Time
: 3.30pm - Tour of the School
Venue:
St Hilda's, Bay View Campus, Heritage Centre
Time:
5.00pm Drinks & Reunion
Venue:
Mosman Park Bowling Club
Contact
:
Jacqueline Rowell
and
Amy McKerracher
Class of 2004 - 20 Year Reunion
Date: Saturday 26 October 2024
Time
: 3.30pm - Tour of the School
Venue:
St Hilda's, Bay View Campus, Heritage Centre
Time:
5.00pm Drinks & Reunion
Venue:
Mosman Park Bowling Club
Contact
:
Jacqueline Rowell
and
Amy McKerracher
Class of 1994 - 30 Year Reunion
Date: Saturday 7 September 2024
Time:
4.30pm Tour of the School
Venue:
Heritage Centre, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
Time
: 6.00pm - 11.00pm
Venue:
Claremont Hotel
Cost:
$100 (food and drink included)
Contact
:
Catherine Taplin
Class of 1994 - 30 Year Reunion
Date: Saturday 7 September 2024
Time:
4.30pm Tour of the School
Venue:
Heritage Centre, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
Time
: 6.00pm - 11.00pm
Venue:
Claremont Hotel
Cost:
$100 (food and drink included)
Contact
:
Catherine Taplin
Class of 1984 - 40 Year Reunion
Date: Friday 20 September 2024
Time
: 4.30pm Drinks at the Heritage Centre, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
Time:
6.00pm Drinks & Reunion
Venue
: Claremont Hotel
Invitation and more details to follow.
To register
:
www.trybooking.com/CSCVY
Email Sascha Hill
Email Fiona Webster
Please update your contact details on the link below:
Class of 1984 - 40 Year Reunion
Date: Friday 20 September 2024
Time
: 4.30pm Drinks at the Heritage Centre, St Hilda's Bay View Campus
Time:
6.00pm Drinks & Reunion
Venue
: Claremont Hotel
Invitation and more details to follow.
To register
:
www.trybooking.com/CSCVY
Email Sascha Hill
Email Fiona Webster
Please update your contact details on the link below:
Class of 1964 - 60 Year Reunion
Date: Thursday 7 November 2024
Time
: 10.00am Morning Tea in Heritage Centre
Venue:
St Hilda's Heritage Centre
Lunch:
Mosman Park Golf Club
Details to be confirmed.
Contact
:
Gill Johnston (Forbes)
Class of 1964 - 60 Year Reunion
Date: Thursday 7 November 2024
Time
: 10.00am Morning Tea in Heritage Centre
Venue:
St Hilda's Heritage Centre
Lunch:
Mosman Park Golf Club
Details to be confirmed.
Contact
:
Gill Johnston (Forbes)
Class of 1954 - 70 Year Reunion
Date: 19 October 2024
Time : 10.30am Morning Tea in the Heritage Centre
11.00am Service in the Whitby Chapel
11.30am Class Photo
11.45am Tour of School
12.30pm Lunch in the Heritage Centre
Contact
:
Valerie Lapinski (James)
and
Cynda Van Der Stryf (Joel)
Class of 1954 - 70 Year Reunion
Date: 19 October 2024
Time : 10.30am Morning Tea in the Heritage Centre
11.00am Service in the Whitby Chapel
11.30am Class Photo
11.45am Tour of School
12.30pm Lunch in the Heritage Centre
Contact
:
Valerie Lapinski (James)
and
Cynda Van Der Stryf (Joel)
OSA Notices
OSA Heritage in Photos
Heritage Centre News
Sandra Naude is looking for help to find names for photographs
I began my journey at St Hilda’s as the Head of Libraries in 1982 and served as a Fitzroy tutor until 2003. After that, I became a De Grey tutor and Head of De Grey. Throughout my tenure, I have had the honour of working under four remarkable Principals. Each one unique, yet perfectly suited to their respective eras.
It has been a privilege to encounter so many incredible girls over the years, and later, many of their daughters. My lifelong fascination with History made me realize the importance of preserving St Hilda’s invaluable history. To prevent it from being lost, I started collecting photographs, videos, oral histories, uniforms, documents, and artifacts.
Thanks to the efforts of Kellie Hasluck, Director of School Development, and the generosity of our donors, we now have a wonderful Heritage Centre located in Hope Nicholas House, showcasing this rich history. Our collection includes over 6,000 photographs, all searchable online. However, many individuals in these photographs remain unidentified, and I need your assistance to remedy this.
I have made photocopies of photos from each graduating year, which I can email to volunteers for identifying the students. Volunteers are also welcome to visit the Heritage Centre, which is open every weekday from 8 am to 1 pm, or in the afternoons by appointment. Thank you for your support.
Sandra Naude
The Guardian of St Hilda’s Legacy.
Sandra.naude@sthildas.wa.edu.au or heritage@sthildas.wa.edu.au
We are so grateful to receive photos but often we need some help to identify the students, place and year. The following photos are part of a montage titled 'Around the School' including over 30 photos, and we would love to know who the girls are. If you could help us identify any of the following photos, please let Sandra know. It looks as though it was a fun year!
Photo A
Photo B
Photo C
Photo D
Photo E
Photo F
Photo G
Photo H
Photo I
Photo J
Photo K
Photo L
OSA Heritage in Photos
Heritage Centre News
Sandra Naude is looking for help to find names for photographs
I began my journey at St Hilda’s as the Head of Libraries in 1982 and served as a Fitzroy tutor until 2003. After that, I became a De Grey tutor and Head of De Grey. Throughout my tenure, I have had the honour of working under four remarkable Principals. Each one unique, yet perfectly suited to their respective eras.
It has been a privilege to encounter so many incredible girls over the years, and later, many of their daughters. My lifelong fascination with History made me realize the importance of preserving St Hilda’s invaluable history. To prevent it from being lost, I started collecting photographs, videos, oral histories, uniforms, documents, and artifacts.
Thanks to the efforts of Kellie Hasluck, Director of School Development, and the generosity of our donors, we now have a wonderful Heritage Centre located in Hope Nicholas House, showcasing this rich history. Our collection includes over 6,000 photographs, all searchable online. However, many individuals in these photographs remain unidentified, and I need your assistance to remedy this.
I have made photocopies of photos from each graduating year, which I can email to volunteers for identifying the students. Volunteers are also welcome to visit the Heritage Centre, which is open every weekday from 8 am to 1 pm, or in the afternoons by appointment. Thank you for your support.
Sandra Naude
The Guardian of St Hilda’s Legacy.
Sandra.naude@sthildas.wa.edu.au or heritage@sthildas.wa.edu.au
We are so grateful to receive photos but often we need some help to identify the students, place and year. The following photos are part of a montage titled 'Around the School' including over 30 photos, and we would love to know who the girls are. If you could help us identify any of the following photos, please let Sandra know. It looks as though it was a fun year!
Photo A
Photo B
Photo C
Photo D
Photo E
Photo F
Photo G
Photo H
Photo I
Photo J
Photo K
Photo L
Old Scholar News
Spotlight on Old Scholars
Zoe Thomson (2015), Sailing Olympian representing Australia at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Congratulations to Zoe Thomson (2015), who is St Hilda’s latest Olympian and will representing Australia at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Zoe is a world-class sailor, and will be hoping to medal in the ILCA 6 (Laser) individual event at the Olympics.
Zoe started sailing at 8 years old and credits St Hilda’s with helping teach the tenacity, goal setting and discipline that has guided her on the path to Olympic selection.
Staff and students will remember Zoe racing from class, to get down to Freshwater Bay Yacht Club and straight on the water to train. During her time at school Zoe interrupted her Year 12 studies to fly Ireland and win the Youth World Champion in 2016, setting her on the path to a competitive sailing career.
Zoe says her St Hilda’s friends have helped her cope with the rigours of international sport.
“I travel and compete overseas for the majority of the year, in an individual event, and it’s my friendships made at the school that have really helped me through. We catch up overseas, they support me at meets when they can, and maintaining strong bonds outside of the sport is a great way to de-stress.”
When back in Perth, Zoe picks up her training at “Freshie” and helps train the next generation of young sailors when she can.
Zoe was named West Australian female sailor of the year in 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2023 and is an Australian Institute of Sport ‘Podium Level Athlete’. This year she came second in the Palma World Cup laser event and featured highly in the European Championships in 2022, and the 2023 World Championships in Oman.
When her Olympic campaign is over, Zoe will head straight to Barcelona, where she will compete as part of a team in the very first Women’s America’s Cup sailing event.
Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club has set up a fundraising campaign to support Zoe's Olympic and America's Cup campaigns. If members of the St Hilda’s community would like assist, please donate by clicking on the link below (donations are tax deductible and the RFYC thanks you for your support).
Sophia Forrest (2012) stars in Prima Facie at the Swan Theatre
After taking the West End and Broadway by storm, this electrifying show comes to the Heath Ledger Theatre in a brand-new production directed by Kate Champion and starring rising Australian actor and old scholar, Sophia Forrest (2012). Prima Facie is was written by Suzie Miller and won the 2023 Oliver Award for Best New Play.
Sophie plays Tessa, is a brilliant defence barrister who is addicted to winning. Tessa has coming from a working-class background and has ascended to the top of her game. She will relentlessly prod, probe and cross-examine to bring the shadows of doubt in favour of her clients, but when a shocking turn of events shifts her to the other side of the witness stand, she has to confront the lines where the patriarchal power of the law, burden of proof, and morals diverge.
Dates: 1 July - 21 July 2014
Venue: Heath Ledger Theatre
Adelaide Kane (2006) appears in Grey's Anatomy
Another old scholar who is finding success as an actress is Adelaide Kane (2006) who recently appeared in the 19th series of Grey's Anatomy as Dr Jules Millin.
Adelaide first appeared on TV as Lolly Allen in Neighbours in 2005, and later as Tanaya in the Power Rangers RPM series.
After school she moved to the US in 2009 to pursue her acting career and enjoyed success appearing in several well known productions such as Teen Wolf , The Purge , Once Upon a Time and Seal Team .
In 2013 Adelaide took the starring role as Mary, Queen of Scots in the popular period drama series Reign . In 2023 she appeared in the second season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and we wish her continued success in the States and look forward to seeing her on the large and small screen.
Spotlight on Old Scholars
Zoe Thomson (2015), Sailing Olympian representing Australia at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Congratulations to Zoe Thomson (2015), who is St Hilda’s latest Olympian and will representing Australia at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Zoe is a world-class sailor, and will be hoping to medal in the ILCA 6 (Laser) individual event at the Olympics.
Zoe started sailing at 8 years old and credits St Hilda’s with helping teach the tenacity, goal setting and discipline that has guided her on the path to Olympic selection.
Staff and students will remember Zoe racing from class, to get down to Freshwater Bay Yacht Club and straight on the water to train. During her time at school Zoe interrupted her Year 12 studies to fly Ireland and win the Youth World Champion in 2016, setting her on the path to a competitive sailing career.
Zoe says her St Hilda’s friends have helped her cope with the rigours of international sport.
“I travel and compete overseas for the majority of the year, in an individual event, and it’s my friendships made at the school that have really helped me through. We catch up overseas, they support me at meets when they can, and maintaining strong bonds outside of the sport is a great way to de-stress.”
When back in Perth, Zoe picks up her training at “Freshie” and helps train the next generation of young sailors when she can.
Zoe was named West Australian female sailor of the year in 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2023 and is an Australian Institute of Sport ‘Podium Level Athlete’. This year she came second in the Palma World Cup laser event and featured highly in the European Championships in 2022, and the 2023 World Championships in Oman.
When her Olympic campaign is over, Zoe will head straight to Barcelona, where she will compete as part of a team in the very first Women’s America’s Cup sailing event.
Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club has set up a fundraising campaign to support Zoe's Olympic and America's Cup campaigns. If members of the St Hilda’s community would like assist, please donate by clicking on the link below (donations are tax deductible and the RFYC thanks you for your support).
Sophia Forrest (2012) stars in Prima Facie at the Swan Theatre
After taking the West End and Broadway by storm, this electrifying show comes to the Heath Ledger Theatre in a brand-new production directed by Kate Champion and starring rising Australian actor and old scholar, Sophia Forrest (2012). Prima Facie is was written by Suzie Miller and won the 2023 Oliver Award for Best New Play.
Sophie plays Tessa, is a brilliant defence barrister who is addicted to winning. Tessa has coming from a working-class background and has ascended to the top of her game. She will relentlessly prod, probe and cross-examine to bring the shadows of doubt in favour of her clients, but when a shocking turn of events shifts her to the other side of the witness stand, she has to confront the lines where the patriarchal power of the law, burden of proof, and morals diverge.
Dates: 1 July - 21 July 2014
Venue: Heath Ledger Theatre
Adelaide Kane (2006) appears in Grey's Anatomy
Another old scholar who is finding success as an actress is Adelaide Kane (2006) who recently appeared in the 19th series of Grey's Anatomy as Dr Jules Millin.
Adelaide first appeared on TV as Lolly Allen in Neighbours in 2005, and later as Tanaya in the Power Rangers RPM series.
After school she moved to the US in 2009 to pursue her acting career and enjoyed success appearing in several well known productions such as Teen Wolf , The Purge , Once Upon a Time and Seal Team .
In 2013 Adelaide took the starring role as Mary, Queen of Scots in the popular period drama series Reign . In 2023 she appeared in the second season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and we wish her continued success in the States and look forward to seeing her on the large and small screen.
VALE
We are very sad to announce the passing of the following old scholars:
Gretl Grace Petelczyc (2022)
18 June 2005 - 24 May 2024
We are profoundly saddened at the news of Gretl and Jennifer Petelczyc's tragic passing on Friday 24 May. Their funeral service was held at Karrakatta Cemetery today and attended by members of staff.
Gretl (2022) was the youngest student to ever start at St Hilda's Junior Kindergarten, commencing at 2 1/2 years of age. She was a proud member of Fitzroy House and an accomplished water polo player and swimmer.
Gretl's parents, Jennifer and Jon (deceased), were exceptionally committed parents and volunteers at the School. Jon was President of the Parents' and Friends' Association and on the School Council. Our thoughts and prayers are with Gretl's sister Liesl (2018).
Judith Harvey (Brown, 1974)
18 February 1957- 15 May 2024
On 15 May Judith Margaret Harvey (Brown, 1974), daughter of Ross and Margaret Brown (McRae, 1946), after a wonderful and rewarding life, ended her battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) surrounded by her loving family. Judith's mother and her sisters also attended St Hilda's; Jennifer Kerr (Brown, 1976) and Catherine Brown (1978).
Judith had inspired all around her with the way she had remained so positive in the face of the disease, continuing to do as much as she could. This included attending the Class of 1974 50th reunion on 20 April this year, where she really enjoyed catching up with friends, and going on the MND fundraising walk in early May.
Judith’s life and career were shaped by her passion for the natural environment. As a plant scientist she contributed much to the knowledge of the State’s flora and through her art she enabled others to appreciate its beauty. She was an active volunteer receiving the Australian Native Plants Society’s Professional Award in 2022 and she also contributed much to the Rottnest Guides Association.
The Award citation reads … " for her long time contribution to the Society and advancing its aims through her work with the Plant Survey Program and other numerous botanical involvements."
Family and friends were very important to Judith, and family camping trips with her husband David were memorable… they also helped ensure her passion lives on through her children and grandchildren. She is fondly remembered by her family and the many, many friends who were touched by her love of life and the nature around her.
Judith Douglas (Orr, 1947)
27 April 1929 - 5 May 2024
Judith Douglas (Orr) passed away peacefully at her residence in Killara, NSW, on 5 May. She had recently celebrated her 95th birthday with her family.
Judith (Judy) was the daughter of Una and Philip Orr and grew up in Peppermint Grove. She attended St Hilda’s from 1937 - 1947 where she made some life long friends. Judy was School Prefect in her final year and a very good sportswoman making the school teams for swimming, hockey, and tennis, and winning the School Championship Slazenger Tennis Cup.
Left: 1946 "A" Tennis Team L-R: Sue Gawler, J Orr, J Lamb, A Mackie.
Sydney became her home after marrying Colin Douglas in 1954, however she always loved hearing news of St Hilda’s and recently made a video contribution for the School's 125th anniversary celebrations. Judy had very fond memories of her St Hilda’s days.
If you have any questions, stories or updates, or want to send news of Old Scholars: deaths, weddings and newborns, please contact:
Alumni Coordinator
oldscholars@sthildas.wa.edu.au
T: 9285 4228
VALE
We are very sad to announce the passing of the following old scholars:
Gretl Grace Petelczyc (2022)
18 June 2005 - 24 May 2024
We are profoundly saddened at the news of Gretl and Jennifer Petelczyc's tragic passing on Friday 24 May. Their funeral service was held at Karrakatta Cemetery today and attended by members of staff.
Gretl (2022) was the youngest student to ever start at St Hilda's Junior Kindergarten, commencing at 2 1/2 years of age. She was a proud member of Fitzroy House and an accomplished water polo player and swimmer.
Gretl's parents, Jennifer and Jon (deceased), were exceptionally committed parents and volunteers at the School. Jon was President of the Parents' and Friends' Association and on the School Council. Our thoughts and prayers are with Gretl's sister Liesl (2018).
Judith Harvey (Brown, 1974)
18 February 1957- 15 May 2024
On 15 May Judith Margaret Harvey (Brown, 1974), daughter of Ross and Margaret Brown (McRae, 1946), after a wonderful and rewarding life, ended her battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) surrounded by her loving family. Judith's mother and her sisters also attended St Hilda's; Jennifer Kerr (Brown, 1976) and Catherine Brown (1978).
Judith had inspired all around her with the way she had remained so positive in the face of the disease, continuing to do as much as she could. This included attending the Class of 1974 50th reunion on 20 April this year, where she really enjoyed catching up with friends, and going on the MND fundraising walk in early May.
Judith’s life and career were shaped by her passion for the natural environment. As a plant scientist she contributed much to the knowledge of the State’s flora and through her art she enabled others to appreciate its beauty. She was an active volunteer receiving the Australian Native Plants Society’s Professional Award in 2022 and she also contributed much to the Rottnest Guides Association.
The Award citation reads … " for her long time contribution to the Society and advancing its aims through her work with the Plant Survey Program and other numerous botanical involvements."
Family and friends were very important to Judith, and family camping trips with her husband David were memorable… they also helped ensure her passion lives on through her children and grandchildren. She is fondly remembered by her family and the many, many friends who were touched by her love of life and the nature around her.
Judith Douglas (Orr, 1947)
27 April 1929 - 5 May 2024
Judith Douglas (Orr) passed away peacefully at her residence in Killara, NSW, on 5 May. She had recently celebrated her 95th birthday with her family.
Judith (Judy) was the daughter of Una and Philip Orr and grew up in Peppermint Grove. She attended St Hilda’s from 1937 - 1947 where she made some life long friends. Judy was School Prefect in her final year and a very good sportswoman making the school teams for swimming, hockey, and tennis, and winning the School Championship Slazenger Tennis Cup.
Left: 1946 "A" Tennis Team L-R: Sue Gawler, J Orr, J Lamb, A Mackie.
Sydney became her home after marrying Colin Douglas in 1954, however she always loved hearing news of St Hilda’s and recently made a video contribution for the School's 125th anniversary celebrations. Judy had very fond memories of her St Hilda’s days.
If you have any questions, stories or updates, or want to send news of Old Scholars: deaths, weddings and newborns, please contact:
Alumni Coordinator
oldscholars@sthildas.wa.edu.au
T: 9285 4228
St Hilda's News
ESSTEAM Mentoring
ESSTEAM Mentoring
St Hilda’s ESSTEAM program continues to inspire students to create new opportunities and businesses where they see a need in our society.
The Year 10 program recently invited business mentors to give feedback on their projects. Our thanks to both parents and Old Scholars who attended the speed-mentoring sessions. Architects, Lilly Owenall (Christou 2005) and Rebecca Angus (1988) gave the girls great insights into projects that involved the built form.
We are so grateful to our old scholars for offering their time and extend if you feel you could offer your expertise, please drop an email to Lizzie Warburton .
2024 OSA Career Expo
The annual Career Expo for Years 10 to 12 students will be held on the last day of term this year. More than 30 Old Scholars have volunteered their time to share their career insights in nine panel sessions. In the words of St Hilda’s Principal, Fiona Johnston: “You can’t be what you can’t see.” This experience gives our girls an opportunity to hear stories about career journeys that are not always linear and helps them with their choices post school.
We are so grateful to those old scholars who have already signed up and would love to hear from anyone who is interested in mentoring students throughout the year.
ESSTEAM Mentoring
ESSTEAM Mentoring
St Hilda’s ESSTEAM program continues to inspire students to create new opportunities and businesses where they see a need in our society.
The Year 10 program recently invited business mentors to give feedback on their projects. Our thanks to both parents and Old Scholars who attended the speed-mentoring sessions. Architects, Lilly Owenall (Christou 2005) and Rebecca Angus (1988) gave the girls great insights into projects that involved the built form.
We are so grateful to our old scholars for offering their time and extend if you feel you could offer your expertise, please drop an email to Lizzie Warburton .
2024 OSA Career Expo
The annual Career Expo for Years 10 to 12 students will be held on the last day of term this year. More than 30 Old Scholars have volunteered their time to share their career insights in nine panel sessions. In the words of St Hilda’s Principal, Fiona Johnston: “You can’t be what you can’t see.” This experience gives our girls an opportunity to hear stories about career journeys that are not always linear and helps them with their choices post school.
We are so grateful to those old scholars who have already signed up and would love to hear from anyone who is interested in mentoring students throughout the year.
Philanthropy at St Hilda's: Annual Giving - Ignite a Spark
2024 Annual Giving Campaign, Ignite a Spark
Scholarships have been changing lives for decades at St Hilda’s. Past scholarship students who received a needs-based scholarship to attend St Hilda’s tell us how their experience has allowed them opportunities they could only have dreamt of.
Brohdi Woods (2018) joined us for NAIDOC Week and shared her journey since leaving school. In just six years she is now changing lives in Karratha where she works for the Department of Communities in Child Protection. To read more about what some of our scholarship students have achieved, click here .
In this year’s Annual Giving Campaign we invite our community to join us in sparking an extraordinary future for a girl who needs it. Everyone can make a difference. Your invitation to donate is here
Philanthropy at St Hilda's: Annual Giving - Ignite a Spark
2024 Annual Giving Campaign, Ignite a Spark
Scholarships have been changing lives for decades at St Hilda’s. Past scholarship students who received a needs-based scholarship to attend St Hilda’s tell us how their experience has allowed them opportunities they could only have dreamt of.
Brohdi Woods (2018) joined us for NAIDOC Week and shared her journey since leaving school. In just six years she is now changing lives in Karratha where she works for the Department of Communities in Child Protection. To read more about what some of our scholarship students have achieved, click here .
In this year’s Annual Giving Campaign we invite our community to join us in sparking an extraordinary future for a girl who needs it. Everyone can make a difference. Your invitation to donate is here
IGSSA Cross Country Results
Last Friday the IGSSA Cross Country competition took place with over one hundred of our students taking part. The atmosphere was wonderful, with many supporters cheering on trackside. St Hilda’s had some incredible results and came 2nd overall.
Outstanding Individual Results (Top Ten)
Year 8 - Evie Etheridge- 10th
Year 9 - Bella Neervoort- 3rd
Year 9 - Clarise Van Niekerk- 4th
Year 10 - Gracie Byrne- 7th
Year 11/12 - Coco Smargiassi- 1st
Year 11/12 - Anna Colgan - 2nd
Year 11/12 - Alex Papanoum - 5th
Year Level Pennants
Year 7 - 5th
Year 8 - 5th
Year 9 - 1st
Year 10 - 2nd
Year 11/12 - 1st
A special thank you to the PE Department and coaches, in particular, Cross Country Coordinators Mike O’Sullivan, Zoe Timmers, coaches and Head of Sport Kobie McGurk for their support and guidance of our team.
IGSSA Cross Country Results
Last Friday the IGSSA Cross Country competition took place with over one hundred of our students taking part. The atmosphere was wonderful, with many supporters cheering on trackside. St Hilda’s had some incredible results and came 2nd overall.
Outstanding Individual Results (Top Ten)
Year 8 - Evie Etheridge- 10th
Year 9 - Bella Neervoort- 3rd
Year 9 - Clarise Van Niekerk- 4th
Year 10 - Gracie Byrne- 7th
Year 11/12 - Coco Smargiassi- 1st
Year 11/12 - Anna Colgan - 2nd
Year 11/12 - Alex Papanoum - 5th
Year Level Pennants
Year 7 - 5th
Year 8 - 5th
Year 9 - 1st
Year 10 - 2nd
Year 11/12 - 1st
A special thank you to the PE Department and coaches, in particular, Cross Country Coordinators Mike O’Sullivan, Zoe Timmers, coaches and Head of Sport Kobie McGurk for their support and guidance of our team.
Job Opportunities at St Hilda's
If you are an Old Scholar looking for some work, part-time, voluntary or paid, please contact oldscholars@sthildas.wa.edu.au . One current job opportunity at the School:
1 . Japanese Language Teacher
To keep abreast of all job opportunities, please visit the website here .
Job Opportunities at St Hilda's
If you are an Old Scholar looking for some work, part-time, voluntary or paid, please contact oldscholars@sthildas.wa.edu.au . One current job opportunity at the School:
1 . Japanese Language Teacher
To keep abreast of all job opportunities, please visit the website here .
Other
Are you LinkedIn?
And finally, we are striving to create a valuable network of Old Scholars through LinkedIn . If you have not already done so, we would appreciate you adding St Hilda's as your place of education and join the Alumni section to extend our Old Scholar community.
Are you LinkedIn?
And finally, we are striving to create a valuable network of Old Scholars through LinkedIn . If you have not already done so, we would appreciate you adding St Hilda's as your place of education and join the Alumni section to extend our Old Scholar community.
Missed an OSA Newsletter
To read previous editions of the OSA Connections Newsletters click here . Or forward to anyone who would like to receive a copy.
Missed an OSA Newsletter
To read previous editions of the OSA Connections Newsletters click here . Or forward to anyone who would like to receive a copy.