The event provided a unique opportunity for former student leaders to connect across seven decades of St Aidan's history, sharing memories, experiences and the lasting impact of their time at the School. Equally we were inspired to hear from alumni who have carried the lessons of St Aidan's into careers in education, law, medicine, pharmacy, human resources, community service and many other fields.

Each attendee was invited to introduce herself, reflect on where life had taken her since leaving St Aidan's, and share a memory or lesson gained from her time at St Aidan's. While the stories reflected very different eras, a number of common themes quickly emerged: lifelong friendships, enduring networks, opportunities for leadership, and the deep sense of belonging that defines the St Aidan's experience.

For many, it was the people who had the greatest influence. Alumni spoke warmly of the teachers, chaplains and mentors who shaped their lives, including Sister Gillian, Ros and Karen Spiller, Chaplain Helen, and many others whose encouragement helped build confidence and resilience.

Several guests reflected on friendships formed at school that have stood the test of time. Laura Sharkey, now a practising lawyer, spoke about connections forged through sport and leadership opportunities that continue to enrich her life today. Others echoed similar sentiments, describing St Aidan's as a place where relationships become lifelong networks of support.

The lunch also highlighted the remarkable history of the School. Ruth, who began at St Aidan's in 1958, recalled the caring atmosphere and flower shows that were such a feature of school life. Jane, from the Class of 1970, shared memories of science lessons in wooden classrooms and watching the first moon landing as a student. Janette reflected on her wartime childhood and remembered air-raid shelters on campus, while Sister Lois recounted being entrusted with the key to unlock the School as School Captain and later attending the Royal Ball during Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Australia.

More recent graduates spoke of how St Aidan's continues to prepare students for life beyond school. Oona, now studying a double degree at The University of Queensland, described the challenge of leaving such a close-knit community, while recent graduate Sam spoke about remaining connected through coaching and supporting current student leaders.

A powerful thread throughout the afternoon was the belief that St Aidan's equips young women not only for professional success, but for lives of purpose and service. Retired GP Elizabeth reflected on the importance of giving back and using one's education as a blueprint for building a meaningful life, while Helen Thomas spoke of the resilience and character developed through leadership and the enduring relevance of the Sister's value toward service; Others Before Self.

Past students had the opportunity to hear firsthand how leadership experiences at St Aidan's have shaped generations of women. From stories of school sports teams and cross-country meets to reflections on leadership challenges and personal growth, the conversation reinforced the lasting value of a St Aidan's education.

As the inaugural School Captains' Lunch drew to a close, there was a strong sense of shared identity among the group despite the decades that separated their school years. Whether they graduated in 1954 or 2025, each woman spoke of the same qualities: community, opportunity, friendship and service.

The event was a fitting celebration of St Aidan's leadership legacy and a powerful reminder that while school buildings and traditions may evolve, the values that unite St Aidan's women remain as strong as ever.

Following the lunch, attendees joined students, staff and families for the annual Leadership Announcement on St Aidan's Day, where the incoming student leaders were formally announcement for the first time. For many of the alumni, it was a special opportunity to witness a tradition that continues to evolve while remaining grounded in the values that have shaped generations of St Aidan's leaders. To round off the day a whole of school Charma is performed of which our older school captains were full, front and centre, linking the School's past, present and future in a meaningful and memorable way.

As current students prepared to embark on their leadership journeys, they did so surrounded by women whose stories demonstrated the many ways a St Aidan's education can shape a life. The presence of School Captains from across seven decades served as a powerful reminder that leadership at St Aidan's is not simply a role held during school years, but a lifelong commitment to service, courage and community.