Morning tea with a slice of history 

On Wednesday 3 July, Mrs Claire Wilson’s Year 3 Bottlebrush class welcomed a group of St Mary’s College alumni into the classroom for a special morning tea.

The joyful occasion was filled with beautiful moments of connection, shared laughter and meaningful conversation as our guests regaled students with stories and memories from times past while marvelling at the many changes to the College over the years. 

Following light refreshments provided by Murphy's Café, the Year 3 students joined together in pairs to interview an alumna to gain a more intimate understanding of their SMC experience. 

Among the fascinating anecdotes shared were stories about riding to school on horseback, playing pick-up sticks, 'knuckles' and marbles in the schoolyard and the many changes to the buildings and grounds. 

The students were surprised to discover that nuns once taught in the classroom and for some alumni, who were once boarders at the College, their sleeping quarters were located in the school. 

Equally, a display of old uniform items, including blazers, hats and pinafores from our archives, created much discussion and pondering, with students given the challenge to 'design' a new version of the College blazer featuring a variety of bold patterns, colours and unique prints. 

As the groups gathered together to look at historic school photos, answer each other’s questions and simply connect through small talk, new friendships were forged, bridging the gap between the generations and strengthening the bond between past and present. 

It was such a privilege to be joined by our treasured alumni for this occasion and we thank everyone who was able to attend. 

A big thank you must go to Mrs Wilson (who is also an SMC alumna, from the class of 1999!) and the Year 3 students for their efforts in organising the morning tea and being such wonderful hosts.

This event was a testament to the enduring impact of our alumni and the special part they play in the fabric of our College community, and we look forward to it becoming a longstanding tradition in the years to come.

See more photos in our image gallery here.