Loreto celebrates 150 years of inspiring girls’ education

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Three girls in school uniforms sit on the ground beside a statue, smiling and chatting in a sunny outdoor setting.
South Australia's all-girls school, Loreto College Marryatville, is getting ready for something very special. On Sunday 27 July, the College will host a big community celebration to mark 150 years of Loreto education in Australia and South-East Asia, and 120 years since Loreto Marryatville first opened its doors.

This milestone is part of a nationwide anniversary that honours the life and work of Mother Gonzaga Barry, a woman with bold ideas who helped change education for girls in Australia forever. In 1875, she introduced a new way of learning that combined strong academic subjects with faith, kindness, and a deep sense of social responsibility — long before these ideas were common.

As people across Australia talk more about the future of learning, Loreto’s anniversary is a powerful reminder that some of the best ideas about education are rooted in history — and still going strong today.

“This event is not just a celebration of our past, but a powerful statement about the future of girls’ education in Australia,” says Loreto College Principal, Ms Kylie McCullah.

“Mother Gonzaga Barry’s approach was visionary, integrating academic excellence with compassion, courage and critical thinking. That legacy is not only alive but flourishing.”

Loreto old scholars have gone on to do incredible things — from making discoveries in science and fighting for justice in law, to leading in politics and creating art that inspires. This legacy reflects the College’s mission to develop confident, curious, and caring young leaders.

What to expect

The 150-year celebration at Loreto College will be more than just a history lesson — it’s designed to bring people of all ages together to enjoy creativity, stories, and fun.

Visitors can look forward to:

  • Performances by current students.

  • Art and storytelling displays that explore the school’s past and future.

  • A heritage exhibition featuring special moments from the College’s long history.

  • A guest talk by artist Rosina Possingham.

  • Hands-on activities for children, inspired by classic games from years gone by.

You’ll also be able to explore the 150-Year Travelling Exhibition, ‘Being Faithful to Grace’, which has been touring the country as part of the anniversary.

This is a rare opportunity to step into the world of Loreto — past, present and future — and see how one school’s vision has made a difference for generations of girls.

Loreto College Marryatville’s 150-year celebration will be hosted at 316 Portrush Road, Marryatville on Sunday 27 July 2025, from 9am to 12pm. Entry is free, but registration is essential. Register here.

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