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.

The incredible talent of Year 9 student, Giaan Zammataro, has captured national attention with Giaan announced as the 2025 Australian Children’s Music Foundation (ACMF) National Songwriting Competition – Young Songwriter of the Year.

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

It is with immense pride and joy that we congratulate our 2025 Seniors.  The ATAR results release marks the culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and determination. Each one of our 121 Year 12 students have achieved something remarkable, and we celebrate every outcome. Almost half of the cohort received early course offers and many have already embarked on exciting next steps - whether travel, GAP year adventures or starting employment. These results reflect countless individual success stories and the breadth of opportunities here at Fairholme. Students completed over 60 qualifications across The Arts, Humanities, five Sciences, three languages, four Mathematics courses, University Headstart programs, and more than 25 VET program qualifications. Many have secured places at leading universities in fields such as Medicine, Law, Engineering, Education, Psychology, and more, most at their first-preference destinations. Beyond academic success, this group of wonderful students has contributed richly to the life of Fairholme College. They have devoted themselves to the Leadership Committees, supported charities, completed service projects, excelled in sport, and performed in concerts, dance, and drama productions. Such experiences have shaped them into well-rounded individuals and have contributed to their wonderful results. Within the 2025 results, we are incredibly proud to note that 11 students applied to enter medicine programs at universitys all over Australia and all 11 have received offers. ‘Achieving a 100 per cent acceptance rate for our aspiring medical students is a deeply rewarding outcome,’ said Mr Tom McCormick, Head of Senior School. ‘Watching their commitment over many years culminate in this next step toward a career in medicine has been a privilege.’ Fairholme has a longstanding commitment to supporting students who aspire to medical pathways, and our 2025 results reflect the consistency of that approach. Support begins early through our Year 10 Pathways program and is strengthened through initiatives such as interview preparation, UCAT tutoring, and our dedicated medicine pathway group. The achievements of our Class of 2025 are a testament to our students’ dedication and the strong partnerships between staff, parents, and the wider community. It is an honour to work alongside each of our students, and as they begin their next chapter, we wish our 2025 Seniors every success and happiness. 2025 Top Academic Achievers College Dux: Ariel Qiu Proxime Accessit: Crystal Deng Ordine Tertia: Freya Statham A special congratulations to Katie Seaby for English, Freya Statham for Literature, Lara McPhie for Literature, and Chloe Carmody for Modern History, who each achieved perfect (100%) subject scores. Magna Cum Laude Award Recipients: Chloe Carmody Caitlin Croft Lainey Currie Elizabeth Frame Carys Goodger Indianna Hithcock Brooke Hurford Yas Lethbridge Matilda Lockwood Gracie Mack Victoria McCumstie Lara McPhie Charli McWhirter Sanjana Nathan Hannah Packer Nicole Pascoe Ariel Qiu Leah Roberts Katie Seaby Geneva Searle Milla Stankiewicz Freya Statham Mia Stewart Charlotte Thomson Georgina White

Fairholme students make an impact in Cambodia! At the start of the summer holidays, 30 Fairholme girls from Years 10 and 11, accompanied by Mr McCormick, Mr Cockerill, Ms Masters and Ms Littleproud, embarked on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Cambodia. The trip offered a powerful blend of cultural discovery and meaningful service. Students explored the richness of Cambodian history and daily life, while working alongside RAW Impact to support generational change within vulnerable communities. Each of the girls who travelled to Cambodia fundraised over $1,000 which contributed to the RAW Impact projects in which they were involved.  For our girls, it was an extraordinary opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute - working together to create lasting, positive impact

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

As we welcome a new year, 2026 Head Boarder Miranda Mann talks about her ambition for her time in the role, reflects on her formative years and looks to what the future holds beyond the tartan. Miranda represents the sixth-generation of cattle graziers from Hillgrove Station, north of Charters Towers. With a deep connection to the land and a heart full of compassion, Miranda brings a grounded, inclusive, and community-focused ideal to the Head Boarder role in 2026. Beginning at Fairholme in Year 7, when she first arrived from her family’s historic Brahman cattle station, established in 1861, before the founding of Townsville. The transition from rural life to boarding school was significant, but it was the unwavering support of her fellow boarders and the dedicated boarding staff that helped her find her place. “An experience that has shaped me to who I am today is the support I received from fellow boarders and staff during tough times,” Miranda reflects. “It’s a great feeling when you know the people around you care for you and want you to succeed. That drives me to do the same for others, because the impact can be significant.” As Head Boarder, Miranda is most excited about working closely with students and staff throughout the year, especially during key events that bring the community together. “I want to make the most of my time left at Fairholme, it’s going to fly by,” she says. “My goal is to leave an everlasting impact by building a more connected and respectful boarding environment. I want every girl to feel comfortable and to enjoy the boarding space even more than they do now.” Miranda’s hope is that her leadership style is rooted in empathy and action. She encourages younger boarders to embrace every opportunity: “Get involved with others and join in on activities around the boarding house, even something as simple as a game of touch. It really makes the term more enjoyable and creates everlasting memories. And don’t be afraid to try new extracurriculars, even if you haven’t done them before.” With her strong sense of community, deep appreciation for her roots, and a genuine desire to uplift those around her, Miranda Mann is set to make 2026 a memorable and meaningful year for the Fairholme boarding family.