Federation

Caesia 'Federation' is the coming together of the staff, past-students, family, and friends of Loreto schools from around Australia. It has been held every 2 years since its inception in 1955 when the first one was held at Loreto Mandeville Hall.

The Loreto Family gathers to fulfil the vision of Mother Gonzaga Barry who wrote in 1897 of her desire for all Loreto girls to . Federate in a great league for a noble end..........to lend a helping hand to whatever is good and beautiful, noble and useful in the world around. To engender... enthusiasm for your cause..be earnest, be persevering, be humble and then with God's will you will succeed.

The Loreto family has more than a million past students around the world. The IBVM has representation at the United Nations (NGO) and now, through these contacts and 'Mary Ward International', we hope opportunities will grow for increasing contact across geographical, social and cultural boundaries that might just help to make a difference.

The last Federation was held at Loreto Kirribilli in May 2007 and was co-hosted by Loreto Kirribilli and Loreto Normanhurst Ex- Students Associations. The theme for the 2007 Federation was "Building Bridges", covering tolerance, respect, justice and morality. It was a truly inspirational weekend.

The conference started with an Opening Liturgy by Sr Christine Burke, Provincial, Leader Loreto Sisters, with music and singing provided by the Normanhurst Brass Ensemble and school choir. This was followed by a welcome cocktail party, attended by over 200 guests.

The conference was opened by key note speaker, Governor of NSW, Her Excellency, Prof Marie Bashir. Prof Bashir spoke of the need to "build bridges" within our community and told us of the work she has done and continues to do with Aboriginal communities. This was followed by a panel of three women from very different backgrounds who spoke of how they "build bridges" in their daily lives. A debate themed "The Media Builds Bridges" was also held with participants including Sr Elisabeth Murphy (past student), Nick Greiner (past student and past NSW Premier), Emma Simkin (past student and SBS reporter), and Anthea Burton and Amy Woods, Head Girls of Loreto Kirribilli and Normanhurst.

Federation concluded with Mass celebrated by Fr Christopher Gleeson. The entire Federation event was a great success and a wonderful experience for all who attended. The next Federation will be held at Loreto Coorparoo, Brisbane in 2009.