From the Principal
In this, the final newsletter for 2024, I thought I would share with all families my address from our Awards evening. 2024 has been a year of growth, achievement, and opportunity. On a personal note, I am grateful to the entire Loreto community – students, families, staff, and Old Scholars for welcoming me, in my first year at Loreto College Marryatville.
2024 Awards Evening Address
It is a joy to stand before you this evening, as we gather to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students throughout 2024. As we reach the close of another year, our 119th year, we reflect on the growth, creativity, and success that have defined our journey together.
This year, we have remained steadfast in the values that make Loreto College a truly special place, and tonight we have celebrated those achievements with pride.
At the heart of our community is the Loreto value of Sincerity - a call to be honest with ourselves, with each other, and with God. This value has been central to all we have accomplished this year. It has guided our students in their academic pursuits, creative endeavours, sporting achievements, and their everyday interactions. It has been a year of true growth, and it is a joy to reflect on how far we have come.
From our youngest students in the Early Learning Centre to our Year 12s, we have witnessed incredible academic growth and creative brilliance. This year, our Year 6 students achieved a remarkable milestone, reaching the grand final of the South Australian Debating Association competition. Their eloquence, intellectual ability, and teamwork were a true testament to their dedication and skills.
Our History students have also impressed with their academic work, continuing the tradition of excellence that defines Loreto. This year in the National History Challenge, five Loreto students were South Australian winners in age or special categories. In addition, two of our students were National Winners in the special category Women’s History and the 2024 South Australian Young Historian of the Year.
Whilst in the performing arts, our Year 5 students delighted audiences with their musical production of Peter Pan, capturing the magic of Neverland on stage. In the senior years, our students shone in the highly successful production of Mamma Mia, bringing the stage to life with their remarkable theatrical talents.
And let us not forget the achievements of our Vocal Ensemble 1, who placed 3rd in Division 1 at the prestigious Generations in Jazz festival in Mount Gambier. This national recognition highlights the dedication and musical talent that thrives at Loreto College.
In the sporting arena, our students have also excelled. One of the standout moments was the Years 3 and 4 AFLW game played under lights at The Parade. The excitement and energy from the enthusiastic crowd made this a memorable experience for our young athletes.
We also celebrated strong performances at the Interschool Senior Carnivals, where our swimming and athletics teams both finished in second place in their respective Division 1 categories. Our Years 10-12 Knockout Football team reached the South Australian School Sport Grand Final, showcasing not only their skill but also the resilience and determination that define our sporting culture.
Every performance, every game, and every competition has brought us closer as a community. It has been a year filled with collaboration, support, and shared pride in one another’s successes, regardless of the outcome.
Traditions are the foundation of our strong and vibrant community. This year, we saw these traditions in full force. Over 1,200 people gathered at the Adelaide Convention Centre for our 37th Annual Performing Arts Festival, where our students showcased their extraordinary talents, while the spirit of House pride filled the air, all under the theme of Our Mosaic.
The 41st Annual SpringART exhibition attracted 600 visitors to our beautiful campus, celebrating the creative achievements of artists far and wide. Whether it was Rose Giving, Pink and Green Day, Mission Day, or the Graduation Dinner, each event fostered an environment of care, collaboration, and belonging.
This year, we introduced a new tradition—Wellness Week—focused on the mental, physical, social, and emotional well-being of our community. It was a time for students, staff, and families to come together and prioritise health and happiness. In addition, our students acted in supporting the environment by planting 50 native species along our Indigenous creek banks and adding 18 'Mary Ward' roses to our Sunken Garden.
This year, we had the honour of welcoming Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, to Loreto College. Her visit, which included presenting bravery awards was a significant moment of 2024. It underscored the importance of courage, strength, and service to others—values we hold close to our hearts.
To the members of our College community who are leaving, thank you for the important role you have played in the tapestry that is Loreto College Marryatville. Your contribution to our community has been valued and has had a direct impact on who we are and who we have become. Rightfully this evening is about the girls, but it would be remiss of me if I did not acknowledge and give thanks to three staff members who are leaving us after significant years of service. On behalf of the community, I acknowledge and thank Ms Ann-Maree Tippins, Mrs Sally Roberts, and Ms Josephine De Angelis. We wish you nothing but success and happiness for the future.
In 2024 we have learnt together, we have grown together, we have laughed together, and we have cried together. But what has been most important is that we have done it TOGETHER!
As we close the chapter on 2024, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our exceptional staff. Your dedication, expertise, and care have continued to create a nurturing and enriching environment for all our students. To our parents and families, your unwavering support is invaluable. You play a pivotal role in the holistic success of your daughters, and we are so grateful for the trust you place in us.
As we look to 2025, we have two remarkable milestones to celebrate: 120 years of Loreto education at Marryatville, and 150 years of Loreto education in Australia. These anniversaries will provide a special opportunity for us to reflect on our rich history, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future with hope and excitement. Next year will also see us launch our 2025-2027 strategic plan, solidifying our place in both Adelaide and beyond as a leading girls’ school.
Congratulations to all our award winners tonight. Your hard work, perseverance, and passion have inspired us all. Thank you, once again, for making 2024 a year to remember. I wish you joy and peace this Christmas season and may the summer break provide you with restful time of family togetherness.
Kylie McCullah
Principal