Class Notes - OGA eNews Issue 3, 2025

2014
Emily Millard

I recently had the privilege of attending the wedding of Laura Remmer (2012 German Exchange Student). Laura, Annika Burgold, Sarah Stanilewicz (’14) and I have remained close friends since we did the St Margaret's/Ursulinenschule Hersel exchange in 2012. We're so grateful to the school for that exchange and lifelong connections we have made. 

Laura Remmer-Queng married Benedikt Queng on Saturday 12 July 2025 in a beautiful service Sankt Maria Magdelena Church in Bonn-Endenich, Germany, surrounded by family and friends. We celebrated the bride and groom with a gorgeous reception at Hotel Steigenberger. "Land Down Under” by Men At Work being the theme song for the bride’s Australian friends. 

2005
Bella Jones

I am currently the Head of Diverse Learning, Education Queensland.

I have studied a degree in graphic design, a degree in primary education and a postgraduate degree in psychology. I continued to row competitively for many years after school whilst also coaching rowing. I have worked in varying roles within education across Queensland, purchased properties and been able to travel the world.

My seven years as a St Margaret's girl offered me the opportunity to participate in a wide range of academic, cultural and sporting experiences. Being a part of the rowing program really defined my time at St Margaret's. This sport taught me resilience, persistence, discipline and teamwork and was a big part of my life after leaving school.

2005
Meg Lyons

I am currently teaching Primary HPE at a Catholic School in Roma. I do triathlons and I am still involved in basketball refereeing juniors.

After I graduated, I started studying Education and Science at USC. I represented Australia in Indoor Cricket and travelled to England for the Indoor Cricket World Cup in 2007 where I was Captain. I graduated uni and started teaching at Yeppoon State High School in 2011. In 2012, I got a job at St John's School in Roma teaching senior HPE and Science. In 2015, I travelled to the UK to teach and travel, then returned to Roma in 2016.

I look at my time at St Margaret's fondly. I made many lifelong friends. As a boarder, I also learnt many lessons, which have helped me into adulthood. These being time management, resilience, and the ability to get on with other people.

2005
Olivia Wilbury (nee Tuti)

I am the Executive Producer of the Afternoons Show on 2GB Radio which is broadcast across Sydney, Canberra and regional NSW. I am also in the process of completing an MBA at the University of Sydney.

After finishing my time at St Margaret's I completed Bachelor's degrees in Journalism and Communication, majoring in Cultural Communication, at The University of Queensland. Upon the completion of my studies and after travelling abroad, I pursued a career in journalism. I began my career working as a writer for a Canadian fashion magazine, before moving into the world of news radio. Over the last 12 years I have produced an array of news programs broadcast across Australia and been at the helm of live coverage of some of the biggest national and global events of the last decade, including the COVID pandemic, the Nice terror attacks, the Brexit vote, Russia's full scale invasion of Ukraine, the death of Queen Elizabeth II and Coronation of King Charles III, as well as multiple Australian and US elections. Last year, I led the radio coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics for Nine Radio. Under my direction, our large team (based both in Sydney and in Paris) broadcast 12 hours of live rolling Olympic coverage across Australia, every day of the Paris Games. I also worked as Executive Producer of the most successful talkback radio show in Australian history – the Ray Hadley Morning Show – for an extensive period of time, up until Ray's retirement at the end of last year. This year I moved into the role of Executive Producer of the Afternoons Show on 2GB, broadcast across Sydney, Canberra and regional NSW. In this role, I create and direct content which drives the Australian news agenda and is sought out by political and business leaders every day. I am also studying an MBA at the University of Sydney. I have been honoured to sit on a number of media, entertainment and journalism award judging panels and I also enjoy mentoring young talent emerging in the media industry.

I have fond memories of my time at St Margaret's, particularly the opportunity it gave me to complete an exchange program in Germany in Grade 10. I still consider my German host family part of my own family, and we have shared many milestones and memories together and remain in close contact. Some of my best memories of St Margaret's are from the drama productions, including the musicals, I participated in under the beautiful guidance of Ms Woods. I also loved my time with the debating team as well. In many ways, I still use the foundational skills I took from both these elements of my time at school, in my career today. One of the things I value most about my time at St Margaret's is that I was surrounded by strong female role models who gave me an exemplary education. One teacher that stands out in my mind in this respect is Miss Hood. I learned so much from her and she helped inspire my lifelong love of learning. She was a wonderful teacher.

1985
Julie McIntosh

I am the Founding Director of The Classic Safari Company. We are Australia's leading bespoke travel and African safari company. Since 1992, we've been designing bespoke travel itineraries to some of the world's finest wildlife and wilderness regions, embracing the exotic, the rare and the curious. From A-nthropology to Z-oology, we specialise in voyages of discovery for enquiring minds. Authentic encounters can never be packaged!

After school, I went to QUT graduating with a Bachelor of Business Management (with Rebecca Fox). During university, I was actively involved with an international business students group which promoted cultural exchanges whilst working... I travelled a great deal with that. Not long after graduating, the opportunity popped up via my father's South African old school tie network to launch what is now The Classic Safari Company in Australia. This was in 1992 in Sydney... specialising first and foremost in all things Safari in Africa. I had a stint living in Zambia at a stunning lodge called Tongabezi which was designed and built by my late husband. I returned to Australia after a few years abroad to continue with the business. I had my daughter in 2007 and have been based northwest of Sydney since 2000, keeping busy with work, bringing up a child as a single mom and riding horses – a lot! Travel is very much in the routine and exploring the world still a great passion.

Reflecting on my St Margaret’s experience, the commute on the old rattler trains and then marching up and down the hill is what seems to be a strong memory... and the bowler hats. 

1985
Robyn Frahn (nee Thomas)

Human Resources Manager – Mt Carbine Mine.

The Journey Since July 2023 – HR, Community & Impact From Port Douglas to Western Australia and back again, my career journey over the last few years has been one of leadership, learning, and purpose. In July 2023, I stepped into the role of Human Resources Manager at EQ Resources, leading the HR operations for a group of mining companies. It's been a dynamic and strategic role – balancing day-to-day people management with bigger-picture planning and supporting senior leaders across the business. I've focused on building strong workplace cultures and aligning HR with business goals – helping to shape not just policies, but people outcomes. Before that, from 2021 to mid-2023, I worked remotely as People and HR Culture Leader for Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation in WA. What started as a consulting opportunity grew into a full-time leadership role. Despite the distance, the impact was real – developing HR frameworks, implementing recruitment and training initiatives, and nurturing a high-performance culture in a remote setting. Also in 2021, I completed a short-term contract as HR Manager for Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, conducting a full HR and payroll audit that led to several positive operational changes. My passion for community and connection has always been central. I've continued to run Ghost Gum Gardening & Irrigation Services – a local business I've managed since 2019 – handling everything from social media and quoting to safety and staffing. Looking back, much of what I'm proud of began earlier in my career, especially during my long tenure at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas (2005–2019). A major highlight was founding an Indigenous Employment Program in 2016, which continues to create meaningful pathways into hospitality. I also had the privilege of contributing to the Sheraton rebrand and sharing my knowledge through college guest lectures around Australia.

When I look back on my school years, it's with a real sense of appreciation – for the people, the lessons (both in and out of the classroom), and the experiences that helped shape who I am today. School wasn't just about textbooks and timetables—it was where I learned how to work with others, how to speak up, and how to listen. It's where friendships were formed, laughs were shared, and confidence slowly built – sometimes without even realising it at the time. There were teachers who believed in us, even when we didn't quite believe in ourselves. And moments – big or small – that planted seeds for who we'd become. For me, it laid the groundwork for a career built around people, connection, and purpose. Some of my fondest memories are the simple ones – lunchtime chats, school events, the bus rides, and that feeling of possibility that came with each new year. And now, after all these years, it's heartwarming to reconnect and see the different paths we've all taken. School gave me more than just an education – it gave me direction, resilience, and a sense of community. And no matter where life has taken us, those roots are something I'll always carry with me.

1985
Suzan Smith (nee Barden)

I am currently working part-time (6 shifts a fortnight) in a very busy Maternity unit at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital at Herston. My role is a Clinical Midwife where I manage staff and clinical issues on a shift basis. It's a rewarding role but extremely demanding. However, I love working with mothers and newborns and have the most amazing crew of midwives that I share my shift with! I also volunteer my time and support with sporting activities at St Margarets, as our youngest daughter is in Year 9, such as parent helper for the rowing breakfasts. Then there is life in general with a busy household and a family!

Briefly... I started at St Margarets as a boarder in Year 10 until Year 12. Previously I was at school as a day girl at St Aidan’s. Then I completed three years of general nursing training at the RBWH, worked at the RBWH in a surgical unit for numerous years, then a few years in PAH ICU, then decided to have a year overseas travelling/backpacking and did some agency work. On returning to Australia, I completed another few years of study to complete my Midwifery degree plus my Bachelor of General Nursing. I met my wonderful husband Scott and we were married in 1995. Then I continued my role as a Midwife working back at the RBWH and eventually applied for a Clinical Midwife position. Along the way we had two beautiful daughters, Emily and Lucy, who are now 14 and 18 years old. Emily finished at St Margarets last year and is now at university studying a double degree of Business and Law, and Lucy is loving Year 9!

Looking back on my time at St Margaret's, I'm filled with a deep sense of gratitude and nostalgia. It was a journey of wonderful memories – classrooms filled with laughter and learning, friendships that grew stronger with every passing year, and teachers who shaped not just my knowledge, but also my character. St Margaret's wasn't just a school, it was a community, a place where I found encouragement, challenge, and support. The main aspect about St Margaret's is the incredible friendships that I have maintained and nurtured over the last 40 years and that is priceless.

1985
Mandy Boyce (nee Maclean)

I am a solicitor in Toowoomba. I went to UQ and completed Bachelors of Laws and Arts. I undertook my Articles in Toowoomba and then went west to get a bit of experience. I have worked in various country firms but am now entrenched at Groom & Lavers where I have been for over 18 years. I married Michael Boyce in 1998. We have 3 children, William (24), Nicholas (22) and Rosemary (19). The boys went to Toowoomba Grammar and Rosie to Maggies. She finished about 18 months ago and absolutely loved the experience and developed an amazing and diverse group of friends, just as I did.

I was a boarder but not a very happy one. I was incredibly lucky to have an amazing group of friends and incredible support from the boarders generally to get me through. I was also fortunate to have weekly visits, with food, from my grandmother, Gun, who I know all of our year at least remember!

1975
Ann Darrouzet

I am currently part time work for federal government as forensic auditor on large and small films and TV series that seek government funding. I have had a successful career as a film and tv producer, creating content, raising finance and producing programs (feature films and series) for most major networks as an Independent Producer. Highlights include winning an International Emmy, British BAFTA, Logie nominee, winning two Australia ACTA's and a winner at the Sydney Film Festival and multitude of other festivals. I spent three terms (eight years) as a Board Director on Victorian Government organisation, Screen Victoria which sets the strategic vision for Film, TV and Gaming in the state. I’m a mother of two sons, step mother of seven others (one deceased) and have been married for 17 years. I live in Melbourne and have summer house by the beach and we have small property in Noosa and spend winter in Queensland.

I was never part of the A team, or a sporty spice. I spent lunches playing 500 with Stephanie Hamilton and others. I think school was simply biding my time to finish and leave the state. Fiona Pie, Wendy Saggers, Jackie Donovan, Anne Farmer I knew from primary school. As I left Queensland in 1976 and pre-internet I didn't maintain contact with anyone save Suzanne Hornick who I spent time with in Sydney 1976-7. Have said hello to a few peeps via Facebook over the last few years. Teachers who stood out were Mrs Hewitt and Miss MacCracken.

1975
Kerrie Rule (nee Pallisier)

I have retired from teaching, enjoying travel in our beautiful country and overseas and playing golf and pickleball as well as enjoying grandchildren.

Lived in Gladstone, Ipswich, Cecil Plains and Toowoomba. I taught at Gladstone Special School, Goodna Special, Dalby State High, Wilsonton State High and Toowoomba State High. One husband, three sons, four grandsons and one granddaughter. I've never been arrested and I don't have a tattoo.

Reflecting on my time at St Margaret’s, lunch times were the best! Sitting in the quad and swapping lunches with the boarders. Studying for exams under the jacarandas.... those purple flowers still remind me it's exam time.

1965
Suzette Purdy

Having been handed the responsibility to organise our final ten year reunion, for the past semester I have been researching all possibilities to locate as many St Margaret's 1965 Past Students to come together for our final individual reunion. It has been a demanding task, with so many addresses not updated and a considerable number no longer at the address listed on the database. Consequently we are missing quite a few names from that list. Snail mail helped me to locate one of our cohort; however, the second attempt was unsuccessful. Currently into our twentieth year as Alumni Volunteers, we meet on Wednesday mornings during term time. Miss Rees and Miss Dyason were eager volunteers until health problems restricted them from driving, so we are now down to just three of us. It was a pleasure and a privilege to become friends with those amazing ladies.

It sometimes seems as if I have never really left. I first became a teacher in the Primary School in 1970 and taught Year 7 for six years and one term. The following year, I was asked to return for one term to take non-matric Art. I loved being a stay at home Mum to my two children, but succumbed to going back to study, eventually gaining an Education Degree, under rather difficult circumstances. I had to defer before completing the final two subjects to return once again to teach full time, having been offered a one year contract. The one year became 13 years and my teaching partner was Anne Blazak (nee Lawrence). I continued to do relief teaching at St Margaret's for several years, but at the request of one of my former pupils, I began tutoring privately. I was delighted that quite a few of my former students asked me to tutor their children. Tutoring concluded in 2018 so I could pursue my own interests once again. Now I try to fit in a long walk every day and gardening has once again become a much loved pastime. St Margaret's friends are still a treasured part of my life

Having seen the amazing improvements to the buildings, grounds turning from barren to a spectacular feature, top class teaching facilities and teachers, the dedicated music staff who bring so much joy to all involved and a brilliant Principal, St Margaret's has certainly become an amazing school. With my long association with St Margaret's, I witnessed all that it gave to my own daughter.

1965

Robyn Braun

I am now retired. I care for my Mum who is 100 years old.

After leaving St Margaret's I studied for a Bachelor of Pharmacy at The University of Queensland, graduating in 1968. I worked as a Pharmacist for ten years, initially in retail Pharmacy then as a Hospital Pharmacist at the Mater Public Hospital, South Brisbane and in London for one year. I returned to The University of Queensland and tutored Pharmacology while undertaking a research Masters Degree in Science (Pharmacology). I then studied Medicine and graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in 1988. In 1994, I obtained my Fellowship of The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. In 1994, I bought the old Goodna Homestead, a run-down heritage building in Queen Street, Goodna, renovated it and then set up my own General Practice. It was very special to have Father David Binns conduct the Blessing of Queen Street Surgery. The Goodna residents, particularly the elderly, were pleased to see the building in use and it worked very well as a General Practice. In 2011, I sold Queen Street Surgery before retiring. The building is still used as a General Practice.

St Margaret's gave me the opportunity to do Senior. I have fond memories of my time as a boarder.

1965
Sonia Widderick (nee Steffen)

I am involved with my church, St Mark's Anglican Church, Boyne Island, in the Diocese of Rockhampton. I am a Warden, and a licensed Lay Minister. I sing with the church band. I am a volunteer and manage the church Bargain Shop. (I wear many hats for the church)! I also visit and assist with services to our outlying churches within our Parish. I have been a member of Synod for many years representing the Parish in which I live at the time. I also have a share in the Tannum Garden Centre with my son. My interests are many, which include gardening, reading, quilt-making, music, grandchildren and family, animals, and much more! I enjoy playing Mahjong with a group of friends and cards and board games as well every week.

After St Margaret's, I worked in different fields including spare parts at a car dealership, electricity board, assistant librarian and a newspaper. I owned a plant nursery, and managed my parents drapery business. Those years I lived in Moura, and Mt Isa. When my husband transferred to Moranbah, I volunteered at my children's school and later became a Teacher Aide with Pre-schoolers for 12 years. Later years, I was an Aide in the library and upper school. When I retired from the school, I set up a B and B at my home catering for a mining company, and supplying meals for their geologists. I have been married twice, and have been a widow since 2013. I have three children and ten grandchildren. I have lived at Tannum Sands since 2010. During all these years, I have been connected to the church wherever I have lived. In Moranbah, we built our church, St Francis of Assisi, in the early 1980s by buying bricks. We were often in the "wilderness " in those days without a priest, and I was licensed by the Bishop to do services and also funerals. I have made many friends along the way. Today, I enjoy travel, and go as much as I can. I have been to South America and on to Antarctica which was amazing as we were on an ice-breaker ship and able to go ashore and sit amongst the penguins. I have also been to the Galapagos Islands, Africa, Iceland and the Arctic, Europe and British Isles, Norway, New Zealand and spent time travelling around Australia. I also spent a lot of time in America with a son living there.

Arriving for Sub-Junior, we were to share a small cubicle for four, which consisted of a set of drawers and maybe a wardrobe? Our wire-based bed was in a huge dormitory where the wind whistled through the louvres which made it freezing in winter. Matron was very strict, and we had to strip our beds each morning to air it, then remake it ready for inspection. No ensembles or doonas for us! Showers were timed. If we were caught talking after "lights out", we had to stand at the end of a "Seniors" bed for hours. We were often late getting into bed as "someone" had short-sheeted our beds! Memories - Sick Bay with Miss Cambridge and Miss Racey. Collecting our fruit from McWhirters shoe box delivery; Saturday afternoon out in the school grounds, listening to the Beatles on a smuggled transistor radio; making Pablo coffee with powdered milk in our cubicles; washing up roster; making the bread rolls for the girls for lunch or tea on a Saturday; cleaning the Sisters’ Chapel on a Saturday morning; Boarders Weekend; going on the tram once a month to the Cathedral; being terrified of "Wicks" Miss Wearin; loved learning French with Miss Rees; learning music from Miss Dedman; Art of Speech; socials with Churchie where the girls sat on one side of Eton Hall and the boys on the other!; all the musicals I was involved in; Tuffnell Home; supervised writing letters home on a Sunday morning; supervised study at night in the classrooms; morning and evening prayer.