Celebrating 30 Years of Howqua

On Sunday 15 October 2023, Lauriston was delighted to welcome more than 500 special guests, alumnae and families, back to Howqua to help celebrate 30 years of innovative education.

As the Lauriston community gathered to commemorate this occasion, it was a time for both nostalgia and appreciation; to reflect on the past three decades of the Howqua program and acknowledge the contribution of those who made it possible.

Old Howquarians had the opportunity to reconnect with their year group, visit their old houses and walk the Ring Road. Some of the Lauriston community members who made the establishment of the campus possible were able to join us for the Celebration Assembly.

The highlight of this assembly was the shared stories, personal and profound, from Old Howquarians and students spanning three decades. Their recollections illuminated not only their experiences at Howqua but also the enduring impact that this Year 9 program has had on their adult lives.

The current generation of Howqua students added their voices to the celebratory chorus, with choir and instrumental music performances and presented 30 tree saplings. These trees will be planted on the campus as a reminder of 30 years of Howqua and the natural environment that surrounds the campus.

One prominent figure was unable to attend the festivities. Past Lauriston Principal Ruth Tideman AM, whose unwavering commitment was instrumental in bringing the Howqua campus to life, shared her thoughts with all who had gathered:

“I am astounded at the number and the variety of the things that girls can learn at Howqua. From the youngest to the oldest, their days are filled with ideas and activities to take them on through life. The Howqua experience is just one such entity, just how big it is laid out here today. There is no question that it suits the Year 9 girl. We can’t imagine Lauriston without it – and hundreds of women are out in the world doing good and great things because hundreds of Lauriston parents, teachers and others have given life to this program. The rolling green fields we bought in 1992 (during a recession) look the same perhaps but don’t be fooled. What has gone on here is a transformation.”
― Ruth Tideman AM, Lauriston Principal 1983 - 2000