Fairholme in January 2021

January 21, 2021

‘It always seems impossible until it’s done.’  Nelson Mandela

Dear Members of the Fairholme Family


Welcome to a new school year and a fresh start for all. No doubt, this newsletter comes as a relief to some that ‘normal’ life is returning, for others it is more intrusive, marking the end of holiday time or for others it heralds the reality a significant change. We do look forward with optimism towards a challenging and rewarding year of learning, despite the hovering presence of COVID-19.


I particularly welcome all new students and families who are beginning their Fairholme journey. I know that many girls have been preparing for this new chapter in their education with a shifting mixture of excitement and trepidation, as have their parents. We are excited to welcome an influx of students, an influx that means a full boarding house (with a waiting pool of students) and strong day student enrolments across the College. We are hopeful of greater face-to-face opportunities with all this year, albeit with mindfulness about health requirements and expectations, as well as the adaptability to adjust plans if and when it is necessary.


I am conscious that irrespective of whether your child is brand new to school, becoming a boarder for the first time or simply returning to school after holidays, it is important to consider that there is an emotional impact of new beginnings. Major milestones and transitions can bring exhilaration; they can also be challenging or frightening, especially for those who are completely satisfied with their current routines.


How can we best support our children in the midst of all this newness?

  • Speak positively about your child’s school and teachers
  • Help your child visualize her/his new environment
  • Allow your child to keep a transitional object nearby
  • Always say “goodbye”
  • Give it time - be gentle with yourself and allow the entire family some time to adjust. (Vien, L. 2020).


As the beginning of the school year beckons, I ask that you keep a close look at the College web site or phone app (details to follow) for start-up information, or to contact the administration office (07) 4688 4688 should you have any further queries.


Building and Maintenance

As is typical of the holiday period, significant refurbishment and upgrades to buildings and grounds have occurred in readiness for students’ return. Whilst the quality of teaching, learning and pastoral care will always be sited first in our school context, we are also grateful for spaces and areas that enhance learning and living for our students and our staff.


The following areas may directly affect your daughter or you: the Year 1 and Year 2 classrooms have been refurbished and are stunning learning areas for some of our youngest; Ms Catrina Sharp, Deputy Principal and her assistant have relocated to the offices adjacent to the Amy Carson Room; the Long Jump tartan run up has been re-laid and awaits the feet of our keen athletes and there have been numerous occasions of painting, polishing and refurbishing of spaces that have occurred over the break, also. Grateful thanks are extended to our grounds and maintenance staff who have been pivotal in many of these projects, along with attending to their regular maintenance and tending the gardens throughout the holidays.


We anticipate with excitement that mid-2021 will see the beginning of Stage 1 of our Masterplan: the construction of a three-storey administration and classroom building, along with the reconfiguration of our current administration building, as an assembly/chapel/function space.


Congratulations

If you have accessed our website, you may have already noted the strong academic achievements of the senior cohort of 2020. Whilst we will acknowledge these girls more formally at the Commencement Assembly and Induction of Leaders on Thursday 28 January, we express our pride in their accomplishments, as well as appreciation of the work of our teachers and families who have journeyed with these young women. Our 2020 seniors have such diverse and significant opportunities that lie ahead, and we are excited by their promising futures. We have watched the release of university offers with great interest.


Fairholme Communique 2021

Please note that our communiqué with you is predominantly electronic – through the phone app, via the Parent Lounge of MyFairholme, or e-mail. We understand that some boarder families have limited, or intermittent internet access and we will continue to send communication via mail to these families.


For any parents who require hard copy information, we ask that you contact the administration office or Fairholme Communications. To facilitate effective and timely communication, we require each family’s current e-mail address and mobile phone details and for this to be updated with immediacy should a change occur during the school year.


E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: 07 4688 4688

All ‘start-up’ school year information is on-line. You can access this through the Parent Lounge, via login at the College web site › Parent Lounge


For those new to the Fairholme family, I trust that you have already loaded our phone app which we utilise to notify you of any urgent information, calendar changes, provide reminders about significant events, or as a quick avenue for notices such as bus return times from excursions, or camps.


Please contact the administration office (07) 4688 4688 if you require assistance with accessing the app.


Health

Those who have been affected directly by border closures and Brisbane’s lockdown will be aware of the speed with which life can be affected by the presence of COVID-19 within the community. For now, that is our collective reality and The College will continue to actively monitor and enact Public Health advice responsively and in accordance with requirements. We will make changes to College routines and practices as required to ensure the health of our community and, at times, this may have to occur quickly and may be disruptive to our plans. Thank you in anticipation of your patience and full support.


We are reminded that the following health practices are a given in our community:

  • Stay home if I’m sick
  • Get tested if I have COVID-19 symptoms and remain in isolation until a negative result is received
  • Maintain physical distance when and where appropriate to do so
  • Clean hands often with soap or sanitiser
  • Cover coughs and sneezes
  • Get the flu shot to help prevent the spread of germs


Online Safety/Family Zone

We continue to work with former staff member and founder of Stymie, Rachel Downie, to enable our students to report concerns they have about their friends and peers. The Stymie platform allows students from Years 5 to 12 to report harm, suspected harm, or any concerning behaviours of their friends and peers: on-line and anonymously. This triggers an email alert for key pastoral staff who then meet with the student of concern, and work with her to address the issues identified, in a manner with which she is most comfortable.


A further part of our approach to address issues of cyber safety has led us to develop a school and parent partnership with Familyzone – Australia’s leading provider of cyber safety and security services to schools and parents. It is a cyber-safety solution that protects children on the internet wherever they are; at home, at school, and everywhere in between. As parents you are able to manage your child/ren’s online activity, with ongoing support from a team of leading cyber experts.


The Familyzone app is installed on all College laptops, and this enables the College to monitor use of technology whenever students are logged in to the school network.


At any point if you need further assistance, you can contact the Family Zone Support Team on 1300 398 326 to access information about installation or with any questions you may have.


Head of Information and Communication Technology, Mr Chau Chuc will work through the app with new Boarder families on 27 January and is available to talk through its applications to any day parents.


Staffing Matters

We warmly welcome our twenty new staff members who will be working across the campus in a range of roles, as well as current staff who are moving into new roles for 2021. The number of new staff reflects retirements that occurred at the end of last year as well as growth that has occurred through our strong enrolments.


Senior Leaders 2021

We look forward to supporting our Year 12 cohort as they step up to the challenge of leading Fairholme College throughout 2021. We are excited about the abilities and enthusiasm they bring to this important a role and look forward to acknowledging each member of the senior cohort at the Senior Commencement Assembly.


This occasion is a celebration of the commencement of our school year. It also acknowledges our 2020 cohort, Senior School academic award winners for Semester Two 2020 and, particularly, it welcomes our Senior leaders for 2021.


All Year 12 parents are welcome and encouraged to celebrate this important milestone and, as always, we enjoy the opportunity to celebrate with you. Current restrictions enable two family members per Year 12 student to attend. No RSVP is required for your Year 12 daughter. Our plan is to host morning tea afterwards, should restrictions permit this at that time; currently they do not. If this becomes possible, we will let families know.


* We will be streaming the Assembly and further details will be sent via communications, closer to the event. Please use Fairholme Connect Events › to RSVP for two family members per Year 12 student.


We are delighted to welcome back Tatum Stewart (Senior 2019) as our guest speaker.


We also congratulate our Prefects and Captains for the year; their names, along with those of the Middle School Leaders are available: 2021 Middle & Senior School Leaders ›


Finally…

As we look forward to a promising and enriching 2021, I hope that you are able to engage in the school community throughout the year, including those scheduled in the near future. Any changes that may need to occur because of the impact of COVID-19 will be communicated with as much notice as is possible. Thank you for your understanding and flexibility.


Kind regards

Dr Linda Evans │ Principal

More ‘In Principal’

In Principal: A Year of Optimism and New Beginnings

By Sarah Richardson • February 4, 2026
The beginning of a new school year always carries a particular kind of magic - a blend of anticipation, renewal, and possibility. At Fairholme, this sense of beginning is felt deeply. It is woven into our traditions, our faith, and our shared belief in the potential of every girl who steps onto our campus. As we welcome 2026, that spirit feels especially vibrant. During our staff preparations last week, each staff member selected a single word to guide their approach to the year ahead. Their uplifting words reflect the depth of care, professionalism, and purpose that define the Fairholme team. My word was Optimism. Optimism is not simply a feeling; it is a discipline and a choice. I do not mean a fleeting or naïve optimism, but the steady, Fairholme kind. The kind that grows from gratitude, courage, and the knowledge that we are held by a community that believes in us. Our students have returned to campus with the energy and enthusiasm that make Fairholme feel whole again. To our new students across all year levels, and especially our Year 7s, we extend a warm welcome. Your Fairholme story begins now - a story that will be shaped by friendship, challenge, discovery, and joy. And to our 229 boarders, including those who have travelled from across Queensland, interstate, and overseas, we are so glad you are here. The boarding community remains at the heart of our college, enriching us with perspectives and experiences that strengthen the fabric of who we are. The holidays also brought extraordinary opportunities for some of our girls, including those who travelled to Cambodia as part of our service and cultural immersion program. Their experiences - from working alongside local communities to learning about Cambodia’s history and resilience - reflect the values we hold dear: compassion, service, and global awareness. Their stories have already begun to inspire others, reminding us that learning extends far beyond the classroom. We also celebrate the outstanding ATAR and QCE results achieved by our 2025 graduates. Their success is a testament to their hard work, the dedication of their teachers, and the unwavering support of their families. It is also a powerful reminder of what is possible when young women are encouraged to strive, to question, and to believe in their own capacity. We welcomed many of these Old Girls back to campus this term at our Commencement Assembly as we recognise their scholarly achievements - a moment of pride for them, their families, and the entire Fairholme community. The physical landscape of our college has also embraced the spirit of new beginnings. Over the holidays, our new C Block was installed - a remarkable feat that saw a tired three classroom building replaced with a modern, double storey learning space featuring six classrooms and two staff rooms. Watching the new structure being craned into place was a moment of awe and excitement, symbolising our commitment to providing contemporary environments for our girls. With new technology, fresh spaces, and thoughtful design, C Block stands as a tangible expression of our optimism for the future. Our recent MMG survey results further affirmed the strength of our community. Families and students from Years 6, 9, and 12 provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly in areas such as academic programs, wellbeing, boarding, communication, and overall satisfaction. Parents highlighted our strong sense of community, supportive staff, and the quality of educational opportunities. Students spoke of their friendships, their teachers, and the positive learning environment for which Fairholme is known. We are humbled by this feedback and grateful for the trust placed in us. It will continue to guide our planning as we shape the next chapter of our college. This semester marks the beginning of our work on Fairholme’s new Strategic Plan - an exciting opportunity to dream boldly and think deeply about the future. This process invites us to honour our heritage while preparing our girls for a rapidly changing world. It fills us with optimism because we know that when this community comes together with purpose, extraordinary things happen. As we step into 2026, we do so with optimism in our hearts and purpose in our steps. May this year be marked by growth, grace, and the unmistakable spirit of Fairholme - a spirit defined by courage, connection, and extraordinary possibility. Welcome to a new year at Fairholme. A year of beginnings. A year of hope. A year of optimism. Dr Leigh Hobart | Principal

In Principal: Pride and Purpose

By Sarah Richardson • December 3, 2025
It has been nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to the dedication of our students, staff and families who make our school such a vibrant and inspiring place to learn and grow. There are many memories from this term in my first year that will linger for a time to come. The Year 6 Graduation was a beautiful celebration of our Junior School girls stepping confidently into the next chapter of their educational journey. Their music and presentation reflected maturity beyond their years and their enthusiasm about what is to come was infectious. Similarly, the Junior School Presentation Assembly showcased the incredible talent and effort of younger students. These awards remind us that success comes in many forms. At the other end of the spectrum, our Year 12 external exams ended with our glorious Valedictory dinner and assembly honouring the graduating class of 2025. These young women have left an indelible and positive mark on our school. Their leadership and camaraderie went beyond being known as our 100%ers and we know they will continue to shine brightly in their chosen paths. Beyond the classroom, our students have embraced opportunities to challenge themselves and excel. This year, our team garnered national recognition in the Future Anything showcase, where their innovative ideas placed them among the country’s best young entrepreneurs. Likewise, our Junior School Lego League newcomers impressed everyone with their creativity, research and problem-solving skills, proving that age is no barrier to innovation. Sporting achievements this month were equally inspiring. Eden Broksch claimed the title of State Tetrathlon Champion for her age bracket – a feat that speaks to determination and versatility. These successes remind us that education is not confined to textbooks. It flourishes on sports field, stages and in collaborative spaces where passion meets perseverance. The November edition of At Holme is brimming with stories that reflect the heart and soul of our community. You will read about our amazing Mrs Nichol, whose dedication to our youngest Kindy students earned her the prestigious National Excellence in Teaching Apple Award. She is a shining example of the impact great educators have on young lives. Miranda Mann, our Head Boarder, shares insights into the unique experience of living and learning on campus, offering a glimpse into the bonds that make boarding life so special. We also celebrate Mariam Nabizada who was named Lion’s Youth of the Year for the Wilsonton club, a recognition of leadership and service that embodies our school values. These individual achievements, alongside team triumphs, weave a narrative of excellence that is both humbling and inspiring. What makes these accomplishments truly meaningful is the sense of community that underpins them. Parents, teacher and friends have all played a role in nurturing talent and encouraging ambition. Whether cheering from the sidelines, guiding through challenges, or simply offering words of support, our collective efforts have created an environment where every student can burn yet flourish. As we close the chapter on 2025, on behalf of the entire staff, I extend my heartfelt thanks to our families, Old Girls and broader community for your unwavering support and partnership. It is through value of collaboration that we continue to build Fairholme as a school where character is nurtured alongside a commitment to excellence in whatever we do. I wish each of you a Merry Christmas and restful summer break, as the festive season approaches. May this holiday bring time for relaxation, laughter and connection with loved ones. We look forward to welcoming you back in the new year, ready to embrace fresh opportunities and challenges with the same spirit that has made 2025 so memorable. Here is to a bright and exciting 2026! Dr Leigh Hobart | Principal

In Principal: Belonging in our Community

By Sarah Richardson • October 30, 2025
As we approach the final weeks of the 2025 school year, I find myself reflecting on the strength and spirit of our school community – one that continues to be shaped by the values of faith, respect, joy, collaboration and excellence. These are not just words we teach in classrooms; they are lived experiences, woven into the fabric of our school culture and reflected in the actions of our students, staff and families. This past month has been a powerful reminder of what is means to belong to a community that values both tradition and progress. Our annual Presenting Fairholme was a celebration of academic excellence, leadership and service. It was heartening to see so many families gathered to honour the achievements of our students and to hear from our special guest speaker Tarryn Sorour (OG 2020), who reminded us of the importance of purpose and resilience in all that we do. Equally inspiring was our 2026 Leaders Induction, where we welcomed our new cohort of student leaders, led by Bronte Callachor, Miranda Mann and Alexandra Edwards. These young women have already demonstrated a deep commitment to their peers and to the broader school community. Their willingness to serve, to listen and to lead with empathy fills me with great confidence in the future of this beautiful College. Another highlight was our Spring Fair, complete with Fashion Parade, and held under clear blue skies and the gentle warmth of early spring. The wonderful weather seemed to mirror the joy and connection felt by all who attended. Families, students, staff and members of the wider community came together in a celebration that truly embodied our country values – hospitality, togetherness and appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. A particularly special part of the day was welcoming back our Old Girls, whose reunions added a rich l ayer of history and belonging to the event. After catching up with some from the class of 1995 in our beautifully refurbished FOGA Foyer, their stories, laughter and continued connection to the school reminded me that community is not just about the present – it is about honouring the past and nurturing lifelong ties. From the vibrant stalls and student performances to the shared moments over homemade treats, the day was a vivid reminder of the strength of our community and importance of nurturing relationships. It was more than just a school event – it was a reflection of who we are and the values for which we stand. In the spirit of recognising excellence, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the outstanding student achievements, discussed further in this edition: The Fairholme Equestrian team’s hard work and dedication paid off with three of our riders achieving top three placings among the nation’s best young riders at the Interschool Equestrian Championships. Numerous other accolades were achieved from our incredible equestriennes. Our Visual Arts students continue to impress, with three of our young ladies receiving awards for the Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art program. Bron Francis will have her work displayed in the Gallery of Modern Art as part of a statewide exhibit, after winning an Excellence Award. Rory Zimmerman completing a significant milestone in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, demonstrating perseverance and leadership through adventurous journeys and community service. Mia Hall, Helen Young and Abigail Walker have received a bursary from the Empire Theatre, recognising their talent and dedication to the performing arts. And in a remarkable achievement, Mackenzi Schefe travelled to the USA with Sports Travel Australia to compete in multiple Cross-Country races. These accomplishments are not just personal triumphs – they are reflections of the values we hold dear. They show us what is possible when young people are supported by a community that believes in them. Looking ahead, we remain focused on nurturing a culture where every student feels seen, heard and valued. As our Seniors prepare and engage in their external exams, we are reminded that academic success is just one part of a much broader journey. Education, at its heart, is about building character, fostering curiosity and preparing young people to contribute meaningfully to the world around them. While we support our student in achieving their best academically, we also continue to prioritise their wellbeing, personal growth and sense of purpose – ensuring they leave our school not only well-educated, but well prepared for life. Dr Leigh Hobart | Principal
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More News…

Mia's Record-Breaking Championships

February 4, 2026
Congratulations to Year 9 student, Mia Geise, on her outstanding performance at the 2025 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Swimming Championships. Representing Fairholme Aquatics Swim Club, Mia set new personal bests over the holidays in four of her five events and walked away with an impressive haul of medals and records.  Her championship results included: > 4 silver medals in the 12-14 Years Multi-Class 100m Breaststroke, 50m Backstroke, 50m Butterfly and 50m Breaststroke > Australian Records in the Open and 13 Years and Under Multi-Class 100m Breaststroke (SB16 Category) > Queensland Multi-Class Records in the Open 100m Breaststroke, Open 50m Backstroke, and 13 Years events across 50m Freestyle, 100m Breaststroke, 50m Backstroke and 50m Butterfly One of the standout moments of the championships was Mia’s qualification for three open finals, where she competed against some of the country’s most experienced swimmers, including two Paralympians and athletes who have represented Australia on the international stage. In elite company, Mia more than held her own, finishing 4th in the 50m Breaststroke, 5th in the 100m Breaststroke, and 6th in the 50m Backstroke. What makes these achievements even more extraordinary is the context behind them. Mia only returned to competitive swimming in December 2024, following an almost three-year break after undergoing her second liver transplant. Her results at this championship are not only a testament to her talent, but to her resilience, determination and unwavering commitment to the sport she loves. Adding to the celebrations, Mia’s coach Michael (Mick) Winton was recognised for his outstanding work at the Swim Coaches and Teachers Australia Awards, held during the championships. Mick was awarded the 2025 Multi-Class Emerging Championship Coach Award, a well-deserved honour that acknowledges his dedication and leadership in supporting Mia’s development over the past year.

Taking Learning Global

February 4, 2026
Fairholme Year 10 students Georgie Cussons, Amelia Taylor, Anna Le Lievre and Claire Longmire are making the most of their exciting exchange at Oakham School in the United Kingdom, where they will spend six weeks fully immersed in British school life. From classroom learning and social events to sporting fixtures, the girls have wasted no time settling in and making the most of every opportunity. Also in the UK, Gemma Sullivan has begun an 11-week exchange at Bryanston School, where she is already keeping busy through her involvement in netball and the school’s swim, bike, run team. Cindy Deng is likewise enjoying her time abroad, experiencing the traditions and daily life of Rugby School during her own 11-week exchange. Back at Fairholme, we are delighted to be welcoming international students into our community. Joining us for Term 1 are Sienna Hoffman from Bryanston School and Charlotte Campbell from Rugby School, along with Mei Kawasaki and Rio Usami from Keisen High School in Japan. Each brings a unique perspective to campus life, enriching our classrooms and strengthening the global connections that sit at the heart of the Fairholme exchange program.

Meet our Head of Sport

February 4, 2026
We are delighted to welcome Mr Rob Anderson as our new Head of Sport, bringing with him a wealth of experience across teaching, coaching, and sport administration throughout Queensland.
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