AT Holme
FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S PEN: Lessons in accountability
Becoming empathetic, responsible, relational and accountable...
Words matter. Lessons in accountability are gifts for life. They are lessons we value here at Fairholme, where one of our five core values: respect is grown through many factors, including through the philosophy of restorative practices.
It’s been the Fairholme way for more than two decades, its sited in the notion of accountability for actions, fixing problems respectfully and moving forward. It is not a quick fix because restorative practices is not something we do, it is about becoming … becoming empathetic, responsible, relational and accountable: tough lessons that take time to learn and appreciate. These lessons are bound through a worldview of “working with” rather than “power over.”
For some it’s a big shift in how we see behaviour, how we see children and how we see ourselves. American psychologist, Ross Greene says that “we have forgotten that those skills on the
more positive side of human nature have to be taught, have to be modelled, have to be practiced.”
At a previous school I found myself meeting with a mother and son regarding the misalignment between his approach in class, his capability and his results. This was a chronically underachieving highly academically capable young man, unable to meet the expectations of the classroom.
‘These lessons are bound through a worldview of “working with” rather than “power over”...’
- Dr Linda Evans
Contrastingly, he had two older sisters who had been engaged, hard-working students, high-achievers. His teachers were deeply frustrated and offended by Mark’s (not his real name) behaviour. I was told by some that this behaviour was mirrored at home.
I reminded myself that such information was third hand –second hand at best. Yet, I knew from some reliable sources (their neighbours were also on staff) that things were tricky at home. I was keen to sit with his parents and the young man and plot a way forward.
I was keen for a learning conversation around accountability, and importantly a respectful plan to move ahead in a better direction, with support. I was naively hopeful about the outcomes.
Like all ‘perfect’ conversations that we prepare in our head, it ran in a vastly different direction. Such a different direction that more than a quarter of a century later, I can still recollect aspects of the meeting and I have remonstrated myself many times over the years about what I “could have/should have” done differently, better, more effectively. Mum arrived with Mark, no dad – it would seem that education remains, too often, the province of the mother.
Things got off to an immediately bad start:
Mother: I am so surprised that you have asked us in to discuss Mark’s results and his behaviour. Quite frankly, my husband and I think that this is about Mark’s teachers, not Mark. His sisters think so too. We simply don’t believe that he is the problem – your teachers are. We don’t see any of this behaviour that’s been described, at home. He is such a good kid, a perfect kid, really.
Me: Thanks for that. Gosh, no problems at home? Then that is challenging – perfect behaviour at home and an inability to meet our expectations at school – in any of his classes. What do you think is happening? What can we do to get more of Mark’s home behaviour, here at school?
Fortunately, memory has erased the full script of the conversation as it unfolded. Needless to say, we didn’t reach the sort of agreement or understanding I was thirsting for. And what came to pass was that this young man’s poor behaviour entered the public arena, the police arena, the legal arena on a number of occasions into the future. On hearing of this, each time, I replayed our conversation and winced, I felt a degree of responsibility for my own part in an unsuccessful conversation. I also pondered about the message Mark heard when his mother said, “His behaviour at home is perfect.” Because, in that moment he had his personal accountability snatched away. And Mark learned, through those words, that in a public forum, in the face of an authority figure, his mother would lie for him.
Sometimes we do forget that “those skills on the more positive side of human nature have to be taught, have to be modelled, have to be practiced.” (Greene)
Before we get too self-righteous, Greene also reminds us that “the kids we often find most difficult are the kids who need our empathy the most.” Words matter. Lessons in accountability are gifts for life. But empathy needs to be our first step, always.
Dr Linda Evans | Principal
REFERENCES
Greene, R. (n.d.) Lives in the Balance. Accessed February 15, 2025. https://www.livesinthebalance.org
Voigt, Adam (2020) Voigt, A. (2020). Restoring teaching: How working restoratively unleashes the teacher within. Adam Voigt.
and balancing it all Chasing dreams
Year 12 student Lilli Hamilton is a star on the rise, making a name for herself in the cricket world. From debuting for Australia to making waves in the T20 Spring Bash, and even playing for the Queensland Fire, her journey so far has been nothing short of inspiring. We caught up with Lilli to chat about her journey, juggling school and sport, and what lies ahead. When asked about the standout moments of her whirlwind summer, Lilli shared that it was hard to pick just one. “It’s been a fantastic summer of cricket,” she says. “For me, the highlights are shared between the T20 Spring Bash and my debut for the Queensland Fire. As a female player, traveling interstate and playing a sport you love is such an amazing experience. Both opportunities really helped me grow as both a person and a cricketer.”
train on Monday or Wednesday as well. I also sometimes fit in a personal training session on Saturdays, but it all depends on the week and the competition I’m involved in.”
Given the demands of both her academic life and cricket career, we asked Lilli for some tips on managing it all. Her advice?
“Don’t procrastinate. Get your work done whenever you can find the time. Also, make sure to dedicate time for yourself and don’t let school or sports consume you.”
As for what’s next in the world of cricket, Lilli has some exciting events on the horizon. “We’re vying for club finals at the moment, which is really exciting,” she says. “The Queensland Fire also has a home grand final coming up, and if I get the chance to play in that, it will be pretty cool.”
For Lilli, cricket wasn’t just a hobby—it was in the family. “My dad used to play cricket when he was at school, so I suppose it was always in my family,” she explains. “When I was 6, he saw how much I loved being outside and noticed I was fairly coordinated. He threw me a ball, and that was pretty much it—cricket has been a part of my life ever since.”
From the age of 7, Lilli has been playing for both club teams and representative teams, and it’s clear that those early days set her on a path for success. With all the travel, games, and training sessions, managing school and cricket at such a high level is a challenge, but Lilli has learned to make it work. “It’s definitely a juggle at times,” she admits. “Luckily, most of the cricket season coincides with the summer holidays, so it’s a little easier. I make sure to stay really focused when I am at school and try not to let my homework and assignments pile up. When I do miss school for cricket, it can get pretty stressful, but I’m really lucky to have supportive teachers who help me catch up.”
So, what does a typical week of training look like for Lilli? Well, it varies a lot depending on her commitments. “Usually, I train with my club on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Brisbane, and we play a club game on Sundays. If I have representative duties, I might
Looking further ahead, she has her sights set on a few key goals. “Obviously, I want to do my best in my final year of school and keep managing cricket as well,” she shares. “I’m not super goaloriented, though. I like to take each day as it comes and stay in the present, rather than get too far ahead of myself.”
“I would love to pursue cricket professionally after school. But if that doesn’t work out, I’d like to go to university and work in business or politics after I graduate.”
And now, with her final year of school on the horizon, she’s feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. “I’m a little nervous because Year 12 can be a pretty stressful time,” she says. “But I’m also looking forward to embracing the challenges, and I’m excited to finish. I really want to enjoy the last moments of being at school, spending time with my friends, and soaking in all those last little moments at Fairholme.”
No matter where cricket or life takes Lilli, one thing is certain—she is ready to take on whatever comes next. With her combination of talent, determination, and a grounded perspective on life, there’s no doubt we’ll be seeing a lot more of her in the future.
The heart for Boarding
For more than two decades, Vicki McNamara has been a familiar and cherished presence at Fairholme College.
From the moment she stepped into the classroom as an English and Ancient History teacher, her passion for education and pastoral care shone through.
Over the years, she took on leadership roles as Head of Year 9 and later, Head of Powell House, always with a deep commitment to nurturing and supporting her students. Now, after 23 years at Fairholme, Vicki is embracing a new challenge as Deputy Head of Boarding, bringing with her a wealth of experience, a love for rural life, and an unwavering dedication to the girls she serves.
‘My desire to support students pastorally, as well as academically, has always been my passion and vocation,’ Vicki shares.
‘It’s what inspired me to take on this new role. I want to support our boarders in their learning journeys by helping to provide a nurturing and enriching boarding experience.’
Vicki’s connection to boarding life is deeply rooted in her upbringing. She grew up in St George, attending St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School and later St George State High School. Her family was well-known in the local community, with her grandmother and mother running ‘Cora’s Frock Salon’ for over 50 years. ‘I met generations of women from St George and the surrounding districts through our family business. Leaving my hometown to pursue tertiary study in Toowoomba was a big step, but my love for rural life has always remained.’
That strong rural connection has given Vicki a profound understanding of the blessings and challenges of country life, a perspective that deeply informs her approach to boarding. ‘I am still a ‘country person’ at heart. I love nature and animals— especially dogs and horses—and I am definitely not a big-city person. Growing up in a small town with the freedom to explore
instilled in me a strong sense of community. Many of my childhood connections and friendships remain, and I see that same sense of connection at Fairholme.’
Stepping into her new role, Vicki has been heartened by the support of the boarding community. ‘The transition to boarding was made so much easier by the warm welcome I received from boarders, parents, and colleagues. I’m on a steep learning curve, but I feel more comfortable and confident each week. I love the people and their bright company the most!’
Living on campus has been another highlight of her new role. ‘Fairholme is a beautiful place. There’s always something exciting happening—never a dull moment! I enjoy the energy and enthusiasm of our girls; it really is infectious. There’s always someone to chat to, which makes it such a special place to live and work.’
An important aspect of Vicki’s role is being part of Fairholme’s country visit program, which ensures that every incoming boarder is visited in their home environment—whether they live in the Northern Territory, Western Queensland, or beyond.
‘Fairholme is a beautiful place... there’s never a dull moment! I enjoy the energy and enthusiasm of our girls... it’s such a special place to live and work.’
- Vicki McNamara
‘I really enjoyed visiting students and families last year with Head of Boarding Mrs Kylie Wallis. I’m looking forward to heading ‘anywhere’ really, but I would love to visit out West.
Driving down the Moonie Highway always makes me feel like I’m going home.
These country visits are vital because they allow us to connect with students and families in their own homes and schools. It strengthens relationships, provides insights into the lives of our boarders, and ensures that when they arrive at Fairholme, they already have a familiar face to turn to.’
‘For me, it’s all about the people,’ Vicki says. ‘Fairholme is more than just a place of learning; it’s a family and a community. We have a strong, unique culture of care and connection, and I feel privileged to work here. It has been wonderful to see my daughters and son (Kindy) educated here as well. Fairholme truly is a special place.’
We are thrilled to welcome Vicki into her new role and look forward to seeing the impact she will continue to have on our boarding community.
Her passion, warmth, and understanding of rural life make her an invaluable addition to the team.
JOURNEY TO LEADERSHIP
For our Head Girl Gracie Mack her journey at Fairholme began like many others—nervous but excited.
Despite having two older sisters who had walked the same path before her, the first day still came with its challenges.
‘I remember two of my classmates and I spending far too long trying to find out where the classroom DC1 was,’ Gracie recalls with a laugh. ‘We walked around the school for half the lesson because we were too scared to ask for help. Spoiler alert: it’s the Drama Centre opposite the Library!’
That first day was a whirlwind of new faces and experiences, including meeting her teachers.
One encounter particularly stood out. ‘I realised I had Mrs Wallis for Humanities, which was a bit awkward because I had unknowingly told her during the Boarding tours in Moonie that history was by far my least favourite subject. Lucky she didn’t hold it against me though!’
Some of Gracie’s most treasured memories come from the traditions that make boarding life at Fairholme so special.
The first weekend of the year is always a closed weekend, filled with activities designed to help boarders settle in and form new friendships.
One of the standout events for Gracie was the watermeloneating competition, where she and her friend Anna Street would eagerly devour slice after slice in a spirited attempt to
win—often ending up with sticky faces in the process. ‘Holme Day in the Boarding House was another highlight, with an early morning and a lip-sync competition to determine who got to go to breakfast first.’ And of course, Christmas Dinner was a special tradition: ‘The kitchen staff cook up a feast, and the night is filled with karaoke and each year performing a funny Christmas-themed dance.’
Given her deep connection to Fairholme, it’s no surprise that Gracie was inspired to take on the role of Head Girl. She had always loved being involved in school events and saw this role as an extension of that passion.
Seeing past Head Girls on stage in Assembly had always been a highlight, and she admired those who had come before her.
As the opportunity approached, she realised that the role would not only allow her to give back to the school but also offer invaluable personal growth: ‘Having mentorship and growing as a leader is an irreplaceable experience. And as I continued to appreciate Fairholme for how amazing it is, being chosen to represent that felt like an incredible privilege.’
When considering the legacy she hopes to leave behind, Gracie’s focus is on kindness and encouragement: ‘I want to promote bucket-filling, not just for future leaders but for the whole school. I want to leave behind a legacy of getting
involved and being a cheerleader for everyone.’
Managing the demands of Year 12 alongside her responsibilities as Head Girl requires a strategic approach to time management.
Gracie believes that preparation is crucial, noting that staying ahead of deadlines before exam blocks or major events always proves beneficial.
However, she acknowledges that balancing commitments isn’t always easy. ‘Understanding your own limits is key,’ she explains. ‘Knowing how busy you are helps you recognise when to step back and when you have the
capacity to assist others.’
Above all, she prioritizes rest. ‘Sleep is non-negotiable for me. It’s made a huge difference over the past few years, and I plan to keep it that way.’
She is also grateful for the strong support network around her, knowing they will always encourage her to take care of herself.
And as a final fun fact about our Head Girl? ‘Over the years, I have taught myself how to raise one eyebrow and move my ears,’ she shares. ‘But I still cannot, for the life of me, whistle!’
Swimming Carnival 2025
Middle/Senior Interhouse RESULTS
Age Champions 2025
12 Years
2nd – Tied Sarah Beer (Powell) and Grace Grams (Black),
1st – Elizabeth Riddle (Black),
13 Years
3rd – Grace Ziesemer (Cameron),
2nd – Adelaide Wilson (Powell), 1st – Elouise Fraser (Stephens),
14 Years
3rd – Mackenzie Zimmerle (Cameron),
2nd – Samantha Murray (Stephens), 1st – Skye Parker (Powell),
15 Years
3rd – Flissy Fagan (Stephens),
2nd – Mim Leslie (Cameron),
1st – Libby Wormwell (Stephens),
16 Years
3rd – Miley Chappel (Stephens), 2nd – Millie Moar (Stephens),
1st – Olivia Fraser (Stephens),
U20 Years
3rd – Lainey Currie (Black),
2nd – Sarah Adcock (Stephens),
1st – Mackenzie Grimes (Cameron)
March Past
Stephens House Relay
4th – Cameron (461)
3rd – Powell (474)
2nd – Black (569)
1st – Stephens (587)
Open Champion
Mackenzie Grimes (Cameron)
Champion Junior (12-15yrs)
Libby Wormwell
Champion Daygirl
Mackenzie Grimes
Champion Boarder
Sarah Adcock
100m Freestyle
Libby Wormwell
Open Individual Medley
Mackenzie Grimes
100m Backstroke
Mackenzie Grimes
100m Breaststroke
Libby Wormwell
100m Butterfly
Mackenzie Grimes
200m Freestyle
Mackenzie Grimes
Daygirl v Boarder Relay
Daygirls
Holme Group Relay Champions –Stephen 6
Interyear Relay – Year 10
House Relay Trophy – Stephens House
Staff v Seniors v Parents v Old Girls –Seniors
Records
Event 72 - Mackenzie Grimes (Cameron) 17-20yrs 50m Backstroke
Overall 4th – Powell (581)
3rd – Cameron (590)
2nd – Black (674)
1st – Stephens (778)
Junior School Interhouse
Swimming Carnival 2025
From holme From the Boarding House
AROUND THE GROUNDS
Charley
Murray Champion House for Relays –Stephens House
Sports Darling Downs Annual Awards
Congratulations to our five Fairholme athletes who were in the running for the Sports Darling Downs 2024 Junior Sports Star of the Year Award. Each of these students has achieved outstanding results at a National level in their chosen sports.
• Lilli Hamilton – Cricket
• Mackenzie Grimes – Swimming
• Scarlett Sippel - Touch Football
• Simone Botha – Netball
• Lucy Barnes - Cross Country
Well done to Mackenzie Grimes, awarded Junior Sports Star of the Year Runner-Up and Fairholme Old Girl, Tatum Stewart who took out the coveted 2024 Senior Sports Star of the Year award following her Olympic Hockey debut.
2025 Q Youth Academy
Seven Fairholme Touch Football players were selected to represent Gold Coast Titans in the 2025 Q Youth Academy – Rose Ramia, Maggie Walker, Carla Nobbs, Romy Wilson, Lola Marjoribanks, Lucy Dewar and Tayla Kauter.
As part of the squad, the girls enjoyed a fun three days filled with training, games, performance testing, body management and injury prevention. Special mention to Carla Nobbs, named as Captain of the Titans team.
Range Zone Swimming
Fairholme fielded our largest group of swimmers ever at the recent Zone swimming trials.
Many girls swam personal bests and took, in some cases, between 7 and 11 seconds, off their time trials results. 18 of the 42 Fairholme swimmers have been selected to represent Range Zone at the Darling Downs trials next month.
Congratulations also to Elizabeth Riddle, who broke the 12 years Freestyle record that has stood since 2001 (1:06.29).
Year 7 (12yrs)
Sarah Beer
Grace Grams
Ashtyn Griffiths
Piper Lorenz
Evie Nairn
Elizabeth Riddle
Year 6 (11 and 12yrs)
Indi Chappel
Madison Conwell
Reeva Coutts
Zara Frame
Charley Murray
Year 5 (10 and 11yrs)
Ori Bourne
Adeline Martin
Imogen Searson
Jasmine Yan
Year 3 and 4 (9 and 10yrs)
Jessica Gilmore
Ava Nicholls
Amelia Rawle
‘Pride & Prejudice’ Senior Drama Excursion
IN THE ARTS
Our Senior Drama students were provided the opportunity to immerse themselves in Queensland Theatre’s performance of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ at the Empire Theatre. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the experience freely expressing their delight throughout; they brought joy to their surrounding patrons as they vocalised their own relief when Mr Darcy finally won the heart of Elizabeth. Thank you to Mrs Bailey for organising this wonderful experience for our Senior Drama students.
Year 2 and Year 4 Instrumental Programs
Our Year 2 and Year 4 Instrumental programs are in full swing. Our Year 2 students were thrilled to meet their new cello, viola, violin, or double bass—exciting instruments they’ll be learning as part of their curriculum.
Our Year 4 Band Program offers every girl the chance to explore a brass, woodwind, or percussion instrument. We look forward to hearing their progress throughout the year!
The MMG Education Parent Survey Results
Fairholme College is committed to listening to the views and expectations of our parents and key stakeholders. We recently cmmissioned an independent survey by MMG Education to provide performance feedback on a wide range of related education topics.
Here’s what our parent had to say about their expectations from Fairholme....
1. 93% of parents noted their expectations were met or exceeded in relation to the quality of teaching
2. 90% of parents noted their expectations were met or exceeded in relation to the focus on student wellbeing, providing a safe and caring environment
3. 98% of parents noted their expectations were met or exceeded in relation to the Principal’s leadership
4. 94% of parents noted their expectations were met or exceeded in relation to a balanced and challenging education
5. 98% of parents noted their expectations were met or exceeded in relation to the College’s reputation
Upcoming dates
5 March: Year 8 Camp
7 March: International Women’s Day Celebration at Jimbour House
18 March: Interhouse Cross Country
20 March: Fairholme Girl for a Day
21 March: Dr Linda Evans’ All Staff and Student Farewell
27 March: Year 7 Cora-Scope Day
28 March: Toowoomba Show Holiday
30 March: Dr Linda Evans’ Community Farewell
3 April: Year 9 Mother and Daughter Breakfast
3 April: Year 7 Gabfest
3 April: Year 12 Soiree and Formal
3 April: Term 1 Concludes
