This travelling exhibition, curated by Sr Sandra Perrett ibvm in close collaboration with Loreto schools across the country, honours the courage, creativity and faith of the ten pioneering women who established the Loreto Province of Australia and South East Asia in 1875.

The launch evening was a joyful and moving occasion, bringing together members of our community to witness the debut performance of Serious Business , a contemporary reimagining of Sr Veronica Brady’s centenary play. Written by Loreto alumna Brigid Coleridge and brought to life by Loreto Normanhurst students, the performance was a powerful tribute to Mother Gonzaga Barry’s enduring voice and vision told by students, for students.

The exhibition itself offers an inspiring insight into Loreto’s story, past, present and future, from the beautifully designed Pioneer Women Banners , which explore the lives of our founding Sisters, to the vibrant Feminine Fortitude skirts, each crafted by Loreto schools as a creative expression of their identity, to the Planets, Pearls and Possibilities , a contemporary installation shaped by student voices and imaginations, reflecting the continuing evolution of a Loreto education.

Over the following two weeks, students, staff, families and alumnae explored the exhibition through open afternoons and class visits, engaging with the people, places and principles that have shaped generations of Loreto women. We were especially grateful to have Sr Sandra with us throughout, generously sharing her deep knowledge of Loreto’s beginnings and helping to bring this rich legacy to life for our community.

As we celebrate this milestone, we give thanks for the thousands of Loreto women who have shaped, and continue to shape, our world with wisdom, compassion and courage. We look forward to all that lies ahead, grounded in our values, inspired by our history, and open to the possibilities of the future.