2026 - Edition 1
At our March AGM, I’m pleased to share that Alice Spies (Treasurer) and I were re-elected, and we warmly welcomed committee members Venny Sarmiento (Class of 1988) and Ruby Patterson (Class of 2021). Committee life isn’t for everyone, but we are always grateful for volunteers to support key events—such as the Garden Party in October—so please email if you’re able to help.
The IWD High Tea continues to be an annual highlight, offering current students the chance to hear from inspiring alumni. This year was no exception, with Federal MP Madonna Jarrett (Class of 1983) uplifting students with her address, followed by an engaging interview with Ruby Patterson (Class of 2021), a recipient of an MSM Alumni Inc sponsorship for leadership development. We thank both speakers, as well as the College, for bringing together such a meaningful event.
Our ‘Back to MSM’ reunion day in March was a joyful occasion, reconnecting alumni from the last decade through to many decades since their time at the College. It was particularly special for me to share this event with the Class of 1986 for our 40 year reunion. A heartfelt thank you goes to those who rallied their classmates - particularly Maureen Quain (née Colley), who brought together an impressive number from the Class of 1966. We hope you enjoy the photos below.
Planning is already underway for our 2027 milestone reunions and you’re invited to save the date: Saturday 20 March 2027. If you’re part of the Classes of 2017, 2007, 1997, 1987, 1977, 1967 or 1957, we encourage you to check for your Facebook group via our Facebook page. We can set up a dedicated Facebook group if there isn’t one already established.
Finally, the Career Conversations Breakfast with MSM Alumni was the biggest yet. It’s rewarding to see alumni giving back by sharing their career journeys and insights with the next generation. To be part of future initiatives please take a moment to complete the Keep in Touch form and let us know what industry you’re working in.
I hope you enjoy reading this edition of Fide et Amore – please send it on to a school friend.
Yours In Faith And Love
Anne O’Keeffe (Class of 1986)
President
The College value that we are focusing on in 2026 is Justice. Our theme Act Justly, Love Tenderly, Serve Courageously invites every one of us, no matter our age, or our talents, to shape a world where justice is lived, tenderness is shared, and courage is exercised in service of others.
Grounded in Scripture and inspired by the charism of the Sisters of Charity, this call to action has been beautifully brought to life by many of our alumni throughout the semester. Through their generous involvement in student programs and engagement activities, alumni have shared their wisdom, experiences and stories, enriching the educational journey of our students and modelling what it means to live lives of purpose and service.
I am delighted to share an updated on the College’s plans for a new building on Amarina Avenue have progressed and preparation for construction is underway. The new building will provide wonderful new facilities that will benefit all students. The bottom level of the Learning Centre will have the new College Reception Area, including a meeting room and improved sick bay facilities. A senior learning hub for students in Years 10 – 12 encompassing a senior resource centre (including access to reprographics), study rooms and flexible learning spaces will be an exciting feature of this level. The library will be located on the ground level for easy access for students in Years 5 - 9. The presentation space will accommodate a whole year level cohort providing an additional area for activities such as year level assemblies and guest speakers. The top level will be a dedicated Junior School precinct which includes four classrooms including break out rooms, collaborative spaces, and an outdoor learning area and makerspace. For updates on our building project, visit our College website Future Planning page.
This ambitious project is supported by the College’s Light the Way fundraising campaign, with all proceeds directed towards the Amarina Avenue development. I warmly invite alumni to consider supporting this vision through a tax-deductible donation. Together, we can help ensure that future generations of MSM students benefit from facilities that inspire learning, growth and opportunity. Visit our College website for more information.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the many alumni I have had the pleasure of meeting over the past ten years. Your affection for Mt St Michael’s College is evident in the stories you share, the support you offer and the enduring connections you maintain with the College. Thank you for your continued commitment to MSM and for the important role you play in preserving and strengthening the legacy of this very special community.
Fide et Amore
Sharon Volp
Principal
Have you changed your email, job/career or living abroad? Make sure that your details are up-to-date so that we can keep you informed about reunions, events and more.
Congratulations to former MSM College Captain, Siena D’Arienzo (Class of 2021) on the official cinema screening of the five-episode web-series, The Cost of Living. The series follows Siena’s character Liv Sutton, a recent university graduate navigating life after completing what she describes as an “unemployable” degree. To make ends meet, Liv finds herself working for the morally questionable Brisbane-based realty group, Sunisson and Sons. You can view Siena's role here.
Congratulations to Siena on this exciting achievement!
MSM alumni Jes Hallagan (Class of 2000) was featured in QWeekend in The Courier-Mail, sharing more about the work of Dangerous Females and its mission to support women’s safety. Jes spoke passionately about the impact the organisation is making and the dedicated community of women behind it. As the original “Dangerous Female”, Jes continues to champion meaningful action, advocacy and support for safer futures for women.
Keep the news coming! Whether it’s special news from an Alumni, reunion updates or something you would like to see featured in our Alumni newsletter – we’d love to hear from you! Email: alumni@msm.qld.edu.au
Principal's Honours Assembly
Earlier this year, the College was delighted to welcome back to Mt St Michael’s College the 2025 MSM Honour Students, to present them with their ‘Principal’s Honour Award’, for their excellence in achievement and commitment to their studies in their chosen pathway, either ATAR or Vocational Education. As people of commitment and competence, these graduates have shared their gifts generously, and we are richer for their contributions. The College was proud to acknowledge their achievements at their annual Honours Assembly.
The College extends their gratitude to the Honour Students who spoke at the event, offering insightful reflections on their journeys and sharing valuable advice and encouragement. We eagerly anticipate watching our newest alumni as they embark on the next exciting chapter of their lives.
International Women's Day High Tea
What a remarkable afternoon we shared at our 2026 MSM Foundation IWD High Tea at Victoria Park as we came together to honour women’s achievements both within our community and around the world.
A special thank you to our guest speaker, MSM alumna and inspiring leader, Madonna Jarrett MP (Class of 1988). Madonna’s words reminded us that leadership is about hope, justice, love and compassion, and that each of us has a unique path shaped by the doors we open and the values we hold. We are grateful for her encouragement for young girls and women to lead, make a difference, and use courage and resilience to balance the scales. Her call for more women in decision-making roles—while supporting everyone to rise together—truly resonated with all of us. Madonna, together with MSM alumna Ruby Patterson (Class of 2021) captured the attention of those gathered sharing their stories and empowering our community.
We thank everyone who attended, and to all those who supported our IWD Raffle through ticket purchases in support of the MSM Foundation and our Light the Way Capital Campaign.
The College gives their sincerest thanks to the alumni who so generously gave their time, and to MSM Alumni Inc for their continued support of this event.
Alesha Cochrane (Class of 2009) – Senior Team Leader (Social Work)
Madeline Ehler (Class of 2005) – Director of Project Advisory (Finance & Strategy)
Kate Farrow (Class of 2008) – State Manager (Funerals)
Eloise Kimpton (Class of 2010) – Senior Community Fundraising & Engagement Manager
Anastacia Little (Class of 2016)– Senior Design Coordinator (Construction)
Ruby Patterson (Class of 2021) – Assistant Electorate Officer (Politics)
Dr Zoe Russell (Class of 2001) – Sport & Exercise Physiotherapist
Bernie Ryan (Class of 2019) – Teacher at MSM
Venny Sarmiento (Class of 1988) – Specialist Teacher (Queensland Children’s Hospital)
Alice Spies (Class of 2011) – Team Leader Systems (IT)
India Swanson (Class of 2013) – Digital Project Manager
Rachel Tierny (Class of 2006) – Senior Associate (Law)
Ashleigh Turner (Class of 2014) – Advanced Care Paramedic and Registered Nurse
Opportunities such as these continue to inspire and empower our MSM students to pursue their next steps with confidence and purpose as they shape their own futures.
On Saturday, 21 March, we were pleased to host MSM Alumni at our ‘Back to MSM’ Milestone Reunion event. It was great to welcome back Alumni from the 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006 and 2016 cohorts. We gathered in the Ionian Foyer, for drinks and nibbles. Once again, the College tour was a highlight of the afternoon with Alumni standing in the courtyard reminiscing of their high school years amongst old friends. The conversations continued for many of the groups who advanced to local bars/cafes for more good times.
Milestone Reunions in 2027
It's never to too early to start connecting and planning! If you graduated in 1967, 1977, 1987, 1976, 2007 or 2017 you are celebrating a decade-milestone in 2027.
Reunions are a fantastic way to reconnect with your Mt St Michael’s College classmates. When was the last time you made your way back to Mt St Michael’s College? Last year? Last decade? Not since graduation? Although your school years may be far behind, the friendships that began at MSM still remain, or are waiting to be rediscovered.
Stay up-to-date with details of this special celebration. Join the MSM Alumni community: https://www.facebook.com/MtStMichaelsCollegeAlumni
Below is an extract taken from Sr Carmel Coyle's funeral held at The Chapel, St Vincent's Care, Carina on Wednesday 7 January. We continue to hold the Sisters of Charity in our thoughts and hearts.
This is Carmel
Today we celebrate and give thanks for the life and ministry of Sr Carmel Cecilia Coyle, born in Brisbane on 13th March 1935 to Jolm Daniel Coyle and Brigid Riordan.
A true Ashgrove girl, Carmel attended St Finbarr's Parish School and Mt St Michael's College. Ashgrove. After working as a Bank Ledger Machine Operator for :five years, she followed her elder sister Patricia into religious life. entering the Congregation of the Sisters of Charity of Australia at Wahroonga. NSW on 2nd February 1956. Taking the name Sr M. Hilary. Carmel made her Profession on 18th August 1958 taking as her personal motto: 'To be one with Clu·ist in all things.'
After her Religious Profession, Carmel trained as a Primary School Teacher and taught in Victoria. NSW and Queensland. However. she truly fow1d her calling in Parish Ministry when appointed as Parish Pastoral Care Assistant in Shellharbour, which earned her the Premier ofNSW Award in 1998.
Returning to Queensland, Carmel worked tirelessly in Ashgrove parish and in Reception at Mt Olivet Hospital, Kangaroo Point. She also became involved with the Ecumenical Coffee Van at All Saints Parish. Fortitude Valley.
In 2008, she was honoured with the Ashgrove Electorate Community Award for her tireless service to the sick. homeless and lonely. Each week she collected bread from bakeries for those in need and established a 'Food Barn' providing meals for people too unwell to cook. She also organised regular collections for the Red Cross, Lady Mayoress Appeal and Rosies Youth Missions.
Carmel was truly a good neighbour who worked quietly and unobtrusively. She was forever aware of those around her and was searching for ways to help. She never sought acknowledgement.
She was a sign of FAITH and HOPE to all!
To connect with our MSM Alumni Inc Executive and Committee members, email alumni@msm.qld.edu.au.
As the College journeys through this special year of Justice, MSM has partnered with Emmanuel City Mission to develop a special year-long fundraising & advocacy project. ECM is a ministry that supports people experiencing homelessness. At their headquarters in Peel St South Brisbane, they welcome more than 300 visitors every day, providing a day sanctuary space where visitors can access showers, laundry facilities, nutritious meals and medical care in a safe and supportive place. In late 2025, ECM also opened a night sanctuary, providing 40 safe beds for people needing a place to sleep. The team at ECM are humble and caring, and are totally committed to their mission to serve the poor. It is a very special place.
The College has named their project "Safe Haven" because that is what ECM is: a sanctuary for some of Brisbane's most vulnerable people. Across the year, MSM has committed to raising at least $15,000 to allow ECM to purchase a new multi-cooking catering oven. The current oven, which produces more than 1000 hot meals a week, is currently being held together with electrical tape and hope! The College's contribution will ensure that ECM can continue to provide the dignity of a hot meal to their visitors.
Earlier this year the College community was delighted by the Year 12 Theme Launch, "Bring the Mix in 2026". Led by the Student Leadership Team, the vibrant performance brought the College values to life through the powerful metaphor of music — blending Pop, 70s ABBA and Hip Hop to show how individual talents, voices and passions come together to create a strong, justice‑centred community. Guided by Mary Aikenhead’s teachings, students highlighted how justice is lived through everyday actions — in sport and House spirit, academic perseverance, wellbeing care, creative expression, and service to those on the margins. This is justice in action, ensuring no one’s volume is turned down. The launch concluded with the entire Year 12 cohort singing and dancing with passion to Make Your Own Kind of Music — a joyful reminder that when students bring their mix, our whole community is enriched.
Kobie, a palliative nurse and clinical nurse educator, spoke about a career built on compassion, care and lifelong learning.
Eloise shared insights from her role as Senior Community Fundraising and Engagement Manager at the Children’s Hospital Foundation, where she helps create meaningful community connections that support sick and injured children across Queensland.
Ash reflected on her pathway into healthcare as an Advanced Care Paramedic with the Queensland Ambulance Service, including her studies in nursing and paramedicine, her work as a registered nurse, and her experiences supporting communities across Queensland and beyond.
Together, they offered valuable perspectives on purpose, service and the many pathways that can unfold after MSM. The College is grateful to Kobie, Eloise and Ash for generously giving their time and encouraging MSM Year 10 students to stay curious, embrace opportunities and think boldly about their futures.
Every member of the Mt St Michael’s community, past and present is invited to purchase a heart on our Light the Wall Legacy Wall and help us light the way for future generations.
Our Light the Way wall will proudly recognise past or present students, celebrate a graduate, commemorate your family or a loved one and leave a legacy for years to come. This beautiful art installation will remind us that the future is bright at MSM and illuminates our valued donors who are assisting us to light the way for future generations of MSM students through the enhancement of our new building on Amarina Avenue.
All heart purchases are a tax-deductible donation to the Mt St Michael’s College Foundation.
Click here to secure a permanent spot on our Light the Way Legacy Wall.
2027
Year 5 – Waitlist open.
Year 7 – Waitlist open.
2028
Year 5 – Applications open. APPLY NOW
Year 7 – Waitlist closed.
2029
Year 5 – Applications are now open. APPLY NOW
Year 7 – Waitlist open.
2030 and beyond
Year 5 & 7 - Applications are now open. APPLY NOW
Years 8 - 11 (2027 entry)
Limited places may be available. Families are encouraged to contact the Enrollments Office prior to submitting an application to discuss current opportunities.
Don't forget to spread the word to fellow MSM Alumni. Forward our Keep in Touch form to an Alumni friend!
Incorporation Number: IA34417
Our mailing address is:
Mt St Michael's College Alumni Inc
Mt St Michael's College
67 Elimatta Drive
Ashgrove, QLD 4060
Australia
