In Principal: A Year of Optimism and New Beginnings
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
More News…
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.
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.
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.
