Each year, the Old Girls’ Prize is awarded at Speech Night to the Year 12 student who embodies the spirit and vision of St Margaret’s and will continue to do so throughout her life. In 2024, Annie Kidd (’24) was awarded the prize, and the cheers erupting through QPAC from her peers are a testament to the presence she has had within the school community.

Annie heralds from Tabletop Station, Croydon, and joined the St Margaret’s community as a Year 7 Boarder in 2019. Since starting at St Margaret’s, she was involved across all areas of school life, including Rowing, Water Polo, AFL, Rock Band, the Ponytail Project, and in Year 12, taking on the leadership responsibilities of Dragonette, Prefect, and Boarder Captain.

This year, Annie will be heading back to her roots for work following her time at boarding school.

“I’ll be working as a Ringer on a cattle property up North. This will most likely be for two years. Coming from a cattle property myself, I love the land, and hard work is something that I enjoy doing.

“I’m looking forward to being responsible for myself and the independence that will come from heading to work on a cattle property. I’m also looking forward to keeping in contact with all the long-term friends I’ve made at St Margaret’s.”

While it can be hard for boarding students to leave home, Annie says that the boarding house has been the most memorable element of her time at St Margaret’s.

“The most memorable moment – or moments – has been growing up with these girls for six years, and getting to know so many people from so many different cultures and backgrounds – this really made me the person that I am. You gain so much from boarding.”

When asked how it felt to be the recipient of the Old Girls’ Prize, Annie was extremely humbled and grateful for the support from her peers, as well as the support system that has helped her throughout her time as a student.

“I’m happy that my peers have recognised me and what I’ve put forward to them as a cohort. They are such a great group of girls, it’s such a great privilege to have received this award. 

“I’m grateful for Ms Fowler – she has always pushed me and helped me achieve my absolute best. She’s watched me grow up from Year 7 to 12, as has the whole of the boarding staff. They have always been there to support us and make us feel welcome. 

“Everyone throughout my senior year has played a big part of my schooling, and I am very grateful for that.”

We wish Annie the best of luck as she embarks on a new and exciting journey beyond St Margaret’s.

By Lizzie Fowler (’19)

Relationships & Mentoring Manager