29/07/2026
“Always cheerful.”
That was how Mrs Wardle described Sue Barrett (TC 1947) in a school report almost 90 years ago. This week, we had the privilege of welcoming Sue one of our oldest Collegians back to Toorak College, and it was clear those words still ring true.
Sue arrived as a ten-year-old boarder during the war years, when rationing was part of everyday life and a Scotch College tie was carefully altered into her treasured Toorak tie.
Sue shared her photos albums and stories of climbing the tower, boarders sneaking into the roof, running to Canadian Bay each day, adventures in “the Wilderness,” and a time when Mount Eliza village had just two little shops. She recalled the cold, windowless Hamilton boarding house, before adding, “I never wanted to leave for the holidays. School was my family.”
As a proud Hamilton Girl, Sue was joined by our current Head Girl, Deputy Head Girl and the Hamilton House Captains, sharing her stories and the lived history of Toorak. A walk on the hallowed Cloisters lawns was made all the more special as Sue quietly began to recite the school song.
Every word.
After almost 90 years.
It was as though time stood still.
Her visit was a beautiful reminder that while buildings change and generations pass through our gates, the spirit of Toorak never fades. It lives on in the memories we make, the traditions we share, and the lifelong connection that brings our Collegians home.
Thank you, Sue, for reminding us that Toorak isn’t just a place you attend, it’s a place whose spirit stays with you forever. 💙
