It was a privilege to speak at their Valedictory Assembly and Dinner, exploring their theme for the year: “The Climb.” I’ll admit, my mind first leapt to the familiar image of climbing the corporate ladder. But as I reflected further, I realised the climb means something far deeper. Each of us, in our own way, is engaged in our own ascent – striving, pausing, learning, and occasionally catching our breath. Along the way, we are supported by those we love, those who inspire us, and those who have gone before, lighting the path. And as we continue upward, it’s important to pause – to look around, reflect, and appreciate how far we’ve come and the view we’ve earned. On behalf of all Old Grammarians, I wish everyone safe travels and strong footing on their personal climb.

Old Grammarians Society Events, Branch Gatherings and Reunions

As a parent, I have always hoped my daughters would develop strong moral compasses, to grow into independent, thoughtful and resourceful individuals. I believe Melbourne Girls Grammar has played a key role in shaping that vision, forming part of the village that supports our children as they grow. Every reunion and branch gathering reaffirms that belief. There is something distinctive about an Old Grammarian, independent yet compassionate, driven yet grounded, with a strong sense of social conscience.

Anniversary Event – Open Garden Day

We could not have asked for a more perfect spring day on Saturday 18 October for our inaugural Open Garden Day. The sun shone brightly, and the early warmth ensured that every garden was in magnificent bloom. A heartfelt thank you to those who opened their gardens for us – in Avoca Street, South Yarra; Kooyong Road, Toorak; and Power Avenue, Toorak. Each garden revealed a different expression of beauty and care within our community. At Avoca Street, palms, vines and creepers intertwined in a lush, African-inspired garden alive with colour and texture. Kooyong Road, in contrast, showcased classic elegance – a Paul Bangay design framed by hedges, roses, salvia, lavender and wisteria. The final garden was a celebration of spring itself, brimming with hellebores, anemones, fruit trees, magnolias and a crabapple tree.

The day concluded at Power Avenue with champagne, ribbon sandwiches and laughter shared among Old Grammarians spanning the decades – from the graduating Class of 1955 through to 2007. It was a joyful, convivial afternoon, a true testament to the enduring connection among OGs. The event’s success has inspired us to plan another Open Garden Day in 2026, and we warmly invite anyone interested in offering their garden to get in touch. Given the level of enthusiasm, we look forward to nurturing further interest among garden lovers, including additional proposed garden tours. On the day, we also highlighted our commitment to supporting the creation of the new garden and fence at Glenhope – a special place we hope will become a peaceful and reflective place connecting Old Grammarians.

If you’d like to contribute to this project, please click here to visit the Donate Online portal on the MGGS website.

Adelaide

Dr Toni Meath and I had the pleasure of joining 17 wonderful women for dinner at the Naval, Military & Air Force Club of South Australia. It was a lively and heartwarming evening filled with stories that spanned the decades. I am always reminded that MGGS graduates are women of action: practical, capable and imbued with a 'can-do' spirit.

Sydney

Committee member Miranda Hoffman, based in Sydney, joined me at the NSW Branch Winter Luncheon, held at the Queen’s Club. The event featured guest speaker Kate Marks (1994), CEO of Ausfilm, who offered fascinating insights into the world of film production and global creative partnerships. Sincere thanks to Sue Goldstein, Rosie Humphrey, Carol Lane and Felicity Read, who did an outstanding job organising a warm and engaging event.

50 Year Reunion

On Friday 22 August, in the Artemis Learning Commons, the  Class of 1975  reunited for their 50 Year Reunion. Old friends came together to share memories, stories and photographs. Guests were thrilled when Dr Anne Hunter was able to join the reunion from the UK via a live link, and our speakers for the evening were Deputy Principal, Lynn Broadway and Old Grammarian, Frances Hall. Many in the group continued their celebrations after the event had finished, at the Botanical Hotel.

30 Year Reunion

On Friday 20 June the Class of 1995 gathered at Glenhope for their 30 Year Reunion.  Joined by former Principal, Christine Briggs, the group heard about current School updates and the changes since their time at MGGS from our Deputy Principal, Lynn Broadway. School Vice Captain from 1995, Sara Byrne shared a very funny reflection of the Class of 1995's time at School, which had everyone laughing, and Sport Captain Ann Ramsay (Willersdorf) read out a wonderful tribute sent by School Captain, Vikki Koumis, all the way from Athens, where she is working in shipping.

40 Year Reunion‍

The 40 Year Reunion was held on 1 August at Glenhope and the room was filled with happy memories and much laughter. Ruth Allen, School Captain, gave a fabulous speech and we were joined by Carolyn Ridell-Clark who dialed in via Teams from Paris. With School updates from Deputy Principal, Lynn Broadway, it was a wonderful evening reminiscing fond memories and shared stories.

Emily Hensley Award 2025

It was with great joy that we announced Hannah Pelka-Caven (2007) as the recipient of the 2025 Emily Hensley Award at Speech Night. Hannah’s life and career beautifully embody the spirit of this award. A remarkable blend of intellect, creativity and compassion, she has made significant contributions across both the legal and arts sectors. A passionate advocate for fairness and equity, Hannah has dedicated her legal career to protecting workers’ rights, particularly within the arts and education communities. After earning degrees in Music, Languages, and Law at the University of Melbourne, she began at a national firm before choosing to focus on supporting those who might otherwise lack legal assistance. Her work with the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance and the Australian Education Union has demonstrated her deep commitment to justice and empathy in practice.

Beyond the courtroom, Hannah’s artistic achievements are equally impressive. As a professional singer and musician, she has performed with Victorian Opera, at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and at major festivals including Woodford, Cygnet, and the National Celtic Festival. Her leadership extends to her volunteer work with organisations such as the National Folk Festival, Music Theatre Workshop, and Happy Haps Productions, all dedicated to nurturing creativity and empowering women in the arts.

Hannah’s recent appointment to the Board of Creative Australia – the Federal Government’s principal arts investment and advisory body – stands as a testament to her national leadership and impact. Her journey has not been without challenge. In 2023 and 2024, she faced a cancer diagnosis with immense courage, continuing to serve others and pursue her passions throughout her treatment. Hannah truly exemplifies the MGGS values of compassion, self-discipline, integrity and courage.

Looking Ahead

As a committee, we have also reflected on the deep rewards of volunteering. Service connects us – to one another and to the broader community. If you are involved with an organisation seeking volunteers of school age or older, please make yourself known to us; we would love to help facilitate these connections. On behalf of the Old Grammarians Society Committee, I wish you all a safe, joyful and restorative festive season. We look forward to reconnecting in 2026 – and continuing our climb together.

‍

Old Grammarians Society Committee 2025

Committee Executive

President Rowena Mytton (Watson, 1983)

Vice President Julie Faulkner (1971)

Secretary Fiona Nicholson Stocker (1985)

Treasurer Elizabeth Landale (2007)

Committee Members

Sophia Grammenos (1989)

Cindy Han (2006)

Miranda Hoffman (2018)

Trudie Horsfall (1976 and Honorary Life Member)

Lucy James (2012)

Tamara Maddrell (Bugge, 1995)

Ahelee Rahman (2022)

Elisa Huynh (2006)

Venetia Patchett (Streeton, 1965)

Ex-Officio Members

Principal Dr Toni Meath

Community Engagement Manager Clare Fitzgerald

Executive Director, Marketing and Community Engagement Robyn McCutchan

DJ Ross Memorial Trust Representative Venetia Patchett (Streeton, 1965)  

Branch Representatives
‍
Geelong – Wendy Amor (Cooper, 1969)

NE Victoria and the Riverina – Helen Murphy (Archer, 1965) and Susan Read (Purbrick, 1965)

Australian Capital Territory – Vacant New South Wales – Rosie Humphrey (Wilmot, 1959)

Northern Territory – Vacant Queensland – Robyn Burgess (Tonkin, 1969)

South Australia – Mary Brophy AM (Brooksbank, 1961)

Tasmania – Vacant

Western Australia – Alison Walker (Patchett, 1991)

United Kingdom – Christina Hughes-Onslow (Hays, 1971) and Kate Edgar (1971)

USA and Canada – Vacant

Golf Day Convenor Jane Vaughan (1983), previously Jo Docker (Auty, 1973) and Deb Norman (Stephenson, 1973).

To ensure you don't miss an invitation to a Melbourne Girls Grammar event, update your contact details with the Community Office. Click here to update your details.