A Lifelong Connection to BGGS and the Power of Art

In this role, Lorraine is responsible for curating and managing BGGS’s Fine Art Collections, comprising over five hundred artworks, and ensuring that these works of art are thoughtfully integrated into the school environment to create an aesthetic and enrich the daily experiences of both staff and students.

During her time as a student at the School, Lorraine developed a love for languages and thrived in the broader academic offerings at BGGS.

‘My language studies really flourished when I arrived at BGGS. Eventually, I excelled in languages, and that was what led me to pursue a career as a language teacher.’

Her love of languages continued during her university years, where Lorraine studied French, Japanese, and German. Post graduation, she quickly established herself as a dedicated and skilled educator, from her initial appointment to the State education system to eventually becoming the Head of French and later Head of Languages at Girls Grammar.

In 1986, she was awarded a Churchill Fellowship researching the use of computer technology in language learning. She then took this knowledge back into language classrooms, making Girls Grammar among the leading schools in using this technology in language teaching and learning.

In 2003, Lorraine returned to BGGS after some time exploring other professional challenges, and in 2004 she was appointed to the role of Director of International Studies. Her efforts in fostering international connections had already begun in the 1980s and early 1990s when she played a key role in developing the Affiliate Schools Program, establishing exchange and deep cross- cultural partnerships with schools in Japan, China, Germany and France. This furthered the school’s recognition and community on the international stage.

Her work with the affiliate school in France brought her recognition in 2009 when she was awarded a medal from the French Government for her work in fostering cultural and linguistic ties between Brisbane and Angoulême, where our affiliate school is located. The award, presented at a School Assembly, remains one of her proudest achievements.

As a extension of her deep love for teaching and the arts, Lorraine undertook training and volunteering in 1999 as a Gallery Guide at the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) and she works there on most Saturdays.

As Lorraine continued her career at BGGS, she was asked in 2010 to become the Director of the faculty of Creative Arts. She served in that role for seven years before retiring from academic life and transitioning into the position of Manager of Collections. This ensured that Lorraine could combine her love of art with her long-standing connection to the school.

‘I’ve always wanted to work more closely with the School’s Art Collection. It’s important for our students and staff to learn in an environment that reflects creativity and artistic values. Art can inspire and provide a sense of identity and connection to the school and to the world.’

As Manager of Collections, Lorraine has also had the opportunity to connect with many alumnae artists, continuing the legacy of BGGS’s commitment to supporting its graduates.

‘The connections you make at BGGS can last a lifetime. When I meet other Grammar women, there’s an immediate sense of familiarity and shared experience. We are all part of something bigger than ourselves—a community that continues to thrive.’