From the Principal 

PAF:  A Celebration of Our Girls’ Talent, Commitment, and Spirit 

What a special evening last Friday was! The 2025 Performing Arts Festival (PAF) performances were nothing short of outstanding, a perfect blend of creativity, collaboration, and pure heart. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate not just the rich tradition of Loreto education, but the future we are shaping together. 

This year’s theme, Milestones, couldn’t be more fitting. As I stated on the night, this year we find ourselves at a remarkable intersection of history and possibility. 150 years since Mother Gonzaga Barry and her companions brought Loreto education to Australia and Southeast Asia and 120 years since Loreto College Marryatville first opened its gates to courageous women, inspiring educators, and spirited students who have made their mark not just within our College, but well beyond Portrush Road. 

The House performances were more than pure entertainment; they were excellent! The girls were writers, choreographers, and innovators. It was their stories, their passions, their deep love for the College, that filled the Adelaide Convention Centre with energy and hope. 

Like every member of the audience, I was in awe and thoroughly enjoyed the evening. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate not just a rich tradition of Loreto education, but the future we are shaping together, led by creative, passionate, and committed young women. 

I am especially proud of the girls’ remarkable discipline and spirit following such a late night. The very next morning, more than 380 students turned up to represent the College in sport — not a single team forfeited. That speaks volumes about their character and commitment and deep loyalty to their College. It shows maturity, unity, and the ability to balance responsibilities, attributes that will serve them well in whatever future endeavors they pursue. 

The success of this year’s PAF would not have been possible without the tireless dedication of our staff. Behind the scenes were countless hours of rehearsals, mentoring, planning, and problem-solving.  I extend my heartfelt thanks to the House Leaders, Mr Tim de Jong, Ms Mel Pedavoli and every staff member who contributed their time, energy, and expertise to ensure the success of this year’s Performing Arts Festival. Your commitment to our students and belief in the power of their voices made this extraordinary celebration possible. Thank you for helping bring Milestones to life with such passion and purpose. 

Kylie McCullah 

Principal