The Loreto education tradition has flourished for 400 years, first inspired by Mary Ward, founder of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and brought to Australia by Mother Gonzaga Barry ibvm and her nine companions in 1875.
Mother Gonzaga Barry was determined that a Loreto education would form women of faith and integrity, equipping them to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields while remaining dedicated to supporting those in need. Today, this educational legacy is found around the country, fulfilling Gonzaga’s desire that each generation leave behind them something on which others can build.
This year, the Loreto community celebrates 150 years since the pioneering Sisters arrived in Melbourne and established a foundation in Ballarat. Aged between 18 and 55, they dedicated their lives to advancing education in Australia, in the Mary Ward tradition.
Loreto is proud to have shaped generations of young women who lead with faith and purpose and embody the Mary Ward values that underpin the Loreto spirit: Freedom, Justice, Sincerity, Verity, and Felicity.
These celebrations are underpinned by the tagline “Being Faithful to Grace”, which is reflected in the artwork designed to mark this occasion. This artwork was designed by a current Year 10 student at Loreto College Ballarat and proud Dja Dja Wurrung woman, Evie Davidson. It serves as a visual representation of this theme.
o mark this milestone, Loreto schools have collaborated on a travelling exhibition celebrating the network’s rich history and vision for the future. The creativity and union expressed in this exhibition celebrates the building of persons as a core value, the gift and grace of being faithful to the vision, and the beauty of love and connection.
The exhibition showcases a diverse range of creative works, including:
The travelling exhibition will tour Australia throughout 2025, with unique events at various Loreto schools. Please refer to the website below to discover when the exhibition will be showcased in your local Loreto community.
This year-long commemoration is not only a reflection on Loreto’s rich history; it is a call to action for the future. As Sr Sandra Perrett ibvm states in her opening reflection, this year is an exciting opportunity to showcase the creativity, resilience, and evolving impact of the Loreto network. As the Loreto community celebrates this milestone, it reaffirms our commitment to providing excellent education in the Mary Ward tradition.
Discover the diverse range of creative works featured in the travelling exhibition and upcoming events on the 150 years microsite: www.loreto150.org.au
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