From the President – May 2025
As I sit down to write this on Easter Sunday, my hope is that by the time you read it, you’ve enjoyed a beautiful Easter, whether spent surrounded by loved ones or in quiet reflection. Easter holds deep significance in our Catholic tradition. It is a time to reflect on the sorrow of Christ’s death and to celebrate the joy and hope of His resurrection. It’s a season that reminds us of the peace and strength our faith brings.
April has been a gentler month for the Old Girls’ Association, a welcome pause following the buzz and excitement of our March movie night. Thank you to everyone who came along and contributed so generously. Bella Robertson, our Vice President, is now in the process of organising the delivery of your donations to the Zonta women’s refuge. We’ll keep you updated as soon as a time is confirmed.
On a personal note, I’ll be travelling to England on Sunday 27 April to visit my daughters Julia (Class of 2016) and Elena (Class of 2017). Like many of you, I know how special the bond is with fellow Old Girls, especially when they’re your own daughters. I’ve missed them dearly and can’t wait to spend some quality time together through May.
In my absence, Bella, Vice President, will kindly take the reins and share the June blog update. I’ll be back to reconnect and update you all in July.
Mary Bairstow | President, Old Girls’ Association
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Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
Coming Home – Alumni Celebrate the Cultural Centre
Santa Maria College alumni gathered to celebrate the opening of the College’s new Cultural Centre, reconnecting with classmates and celebrating the role of the arts in the community. The evening featured performances by current students and a 42-member Alumni Choir, highlighting the lifelong connections and shared experiences that continue to bring Old Girls back to the College.
From the President – August 2026
The August 2026 Old Girls’ Association President’s Report provides an update on upcoming meetings and alumni activities at Santa Maria College. President Mary Heavens outlines plans for the Pleiades Gathering, the inaugural Santa Maria College and Aquinas social event, and the Golden Girls’ lunch welcoming the Class of 1976.
Sophia, Building Beauty, Confidence and a Business
Santa Maria past student Sophia Whimp (2022) has built a successful home beauty business by combining creativity, resilience and a commitment to authentic client relationships. In this Q&A, she reflects on the lessons she learned at school, the challenges of starting a business at a young age, and the advice she has for students hoping to turn their passion into a career.
