Inspiration at Our International Women's Day Breakfast

We couldn’t be prouder of our incredible FCJ College community and wider network of friends and supporters who came together on Friday morning for our annual International Women’s Day Breakfast, marking the largest attendance in the event’s history.

Students, staff, and members of the broader community gathered in our Marie Madeleine Centre to share breakfast and hear from an inspiring panel of FCJ College alumni reflecting on their journeys since finishing school.

FCJ College Captain Emily and Vice-Captain Poppy opened the formal proceedings with reflections on what International Women’s Day means to them.

Emily spoke about recognising both the progress made and the work still ahead in the pursuit of gender equality.

"International Women’s Day is a celebration of how far we’ve come, but also a reminder that we cannot stop now."

She encouraged the audience to acknowledge injustice as a first step toward meaningful change and to continue advocating for equality.

Poppy reflected on the many forms strength can take, reminding the audience that leadership is often expressed through quiet determination:

"Strength doesn’t always look like power — sometimes it looks like patience, kindness, and showing up even when you’re tired."

She also acknowledged the women whose courage and perseverance have helped create opportunities for future generations:

"Because of them, doors opened. Because of them, voices got louder. Because of them, the next generation gets to dream bigger."

Principal Mr Joseph Mount spoke about the legacy that continues to shape our FCJ College community:
"We are a college inspired by the teachings of Marie Madeleine d’Houët, a woman who believed that education is for all. Through education we grow in both courage and confidence to face the challenges of this world."

A highlight of the morning was the alumni panel featuring Liz Hayes, physiotherapist; Tymicka Pierce, policy officer at the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action; Sarah Osborne, psychologist; and Rachel Tharratt, senior media manager at Bunnings Group. The panel generously shared insights into leadership, resilience, and the opportunities that can grow from an FCJ College education.

Reflecting on the 2026 theme Give to Gain, the panel spoke about embracing opportunity and supporting others along the way.

Liz spoke about the value of sharing knowledge and lifting others up.

"I’ve learnt that progress does not have to be fast to be meaningful. Knowledge is a gift, and when we share it, start conversations and lift others up, we all have something to gain."

Rachel encouraged students to embrace opportunities, even when they feel uncertain or unprepared:

‍"You don’t need the full plan. Say yes to opportunities even before you feel ready, even if they scare you."

Sarah spoke about the importance of balance and resilience, reminding students that success does not always follow a straight path:

‍"Real resilience is not about pushing through until you’ve completely exhausted yourself. It’s about recognising when you need rest, support and sometimes even a change of direction."

One of the most powerful moments of the morning came as alumni Tymicka shared her personal story of identity and resilience. She spoke about discovering her Aboriginal heritage as a teenager, honestly acknowledging that it didn’t immediately bring pride.

Reflecting on her time at FCJ College, Tymicka shared a moment that still holds deep meaning for her:

‍"Around this time ten years ago I stood here and raised the Aboriginal flag for the first time ever at FCJ College. At the time it felt brave, but now it feels grounding."

Over time, her initial uncertainty about her Aboriginal identity gave way to curiosity, which eventually grew into a deep sense of responsibility.

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She also spoke about growing up in a home affected by family violence and the crucial support she received during her time at FCJ College:

‍"When things were tough at home, school became my steady place — my safe space. The teachers here supported me when I was struggling, and that support mattered more than they probably realised."

Tymicka then reflected on the Give to Gain theme:
"In my role, Give to Gain means that giving genuine listening and respect to community, leads to gaining a deeper understanding and direction. And my lived experience shapes how I show up. With empathy, humility and a commitment to doing better."

Her story is a reminder that gentleness (our school theme for 2026) is not weakness, but a quiet strength, expressed through empathy, patience, and the courage to support others.

She encouraged students to remain open to opportunities and growth:
"I didn’t just grow because of what I studied — I grew because I said yes."

Following the panel reflections, guests engaged in a Q&A session, creating a meaningful space for connection between alumni and current students.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our alumni panel — and to everyone who joined us for this special morning — for their generosity in sharing experiences, insights, and wisdom. Their reflections on leadership, resilience, and embracing opportunities left a lasting impression on all who attended.

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As FCJ College Captain Emily so fittingly reminded the audience earlier in the morning:

‍"Say something, do something, inspire someone — acknowledge where we’ve been, and where we’re going.”

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