The Mac.Rob Foundation is proud of the work it has implemented since its inception. We have been fortunate to have the strong support of founding members, including past headmistress Toni Meath and alumna Deb Knight who established the vision of the important work we do today.
Take a look through our past events and activities.
International Women’s Day 2020
creativity in leadership
On behalf of The Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School, Palladians and Mac.Rob Foundation hosted an International Women’s Day breakfast 2020. Guest speaker Claire Spencer, CEO of the Arts Centre Melbourne, spoke about her experience as a leader in the arts. Claire joined panellists Prof Cathy Mihalopoulos and Dr Julia Cornwell McKean to answer questions and discuss how they lead their teams with creativity and innovation.
The Christina Montgomery Oration
The Christina Montgomery Oration is named in honour of the first principal of The Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and was created to celebrate the successes and achievements of extraordinary graduates, while simultaneously supporting the current cohort of students. The intent of the Oration is to provide an opportunity for a woman of influence to address the community on a topic of their choice.
On 24 April 2019, journalist, author and presenter Virginia Trioli gave the fourth annual Christina Montgomery Oration at the School. The Oration was a resounding success, with Virginia talking about the importance of living an authentic life, and why she has made this her personal mission.
Virginia spoke about her choices and decisions, and how they are a reflection of her true self, influenced by her inner voice. She also spoke of knowing what your value is, and the importance of women pushing themselves. Virginia’s presentation was a true inspiration, and we thank her for her candour. We are proud to call her a friend of The Foundation.
On Tuesday, 13 March 2018, Professor Gillian Triggs presented the third annual Christina Montgomery Oration. Professor Triggs shared stories of her education, her vocational experiences and portrayal in the media. Professor Triggs superbly articulated the mission of The Foundation, particularly through the sentiment that we should bring our sisters with us. To paraphrase Professor Triggs, whenever women (in all industries) reach new heights, break through ceilings, or achieve new feats, we should all make an effort to reach back and bring less fortunate women forward with us.
Professor Triggs answered questions from the audience, providing words of wisdom and inspiration for past and present Mac.Rob students and their families. Professor Gillian Triggs was the President of the Australian Human Rights Commission from 2012-2017.
The second annual Christina Montgomery Oration, was presented by author and political commentator Jamila Rizvi on Thursday 12 October at The Mac.Robertson Girls' High School Hall.
Jamila has been described as one of the preeminent voices of young Australian women online, injecting her own special brand of humour, irreverence and authenticity into public debate. The oration will include discussion about her recently released first book, Not Just Lucky, a career manifesto for millennial women, exploring modern feminist issues.
Prior to entering the media, Jamila worked in politics for former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Minister Kate Ellis, and has advised governments at the highest levels, with extensive experience in policy areas including women, media, childcare, employment and youth.
The inaugural Christina Montgomery Oration was given by Mac.Robertson Girls' High School Alumna, Dr Clare Wright on 13 October 2016 at The Mac.Robertson Girls' High School Hall.
Clare spoke about her work examining the hidden women of history, referencing Christina Montgomery as an example of voices that are not heard in Australian society.
Dr Clare Wright is an award-winning historian, author and public commentator who has worked in politics, academia and the media. Clare holds a PhD in Australian Studies from the University of Melbourne and an MA in Public History from Monash University and is currently an Associate Professor in History at La Trobe University. She is an internationally recognised scholar in the social history of alcohol and women’s political activism. Her expertise in Australian History covers the gold rush period, 19th and 20th century women’s history, democracy movements, mining history, bushrangers and the hotel industry.
the launch of the mac.rob foundation
The launch of The Mac.Rob Foundation took place on the 5th March 2016 at the National Gallery Victoria.
An amazing night spent celebrating the power of an important school - and marking the efforts of influential and educated women.
The Mac.Rob Foundation has been established to support the educational needs of young women and gender diverse young people in Victoria. For example, every year Mac.Robertson Girls' High School sees many talented students cross the threshold, from all walks of life and many varied backgrounds. As the State's premier selective school for young women and gender diverse young people, The Mac.Robertson Girls' High School is dedicated to giving students the support they need to help them realise their full potential. However, many young women and gender diverse young people, regardless of their talent and abilities, can find themselves held back by simple financial issues: excursions may be out of reach, computer equipment too costly, or the opportunity to study overseas may not be possible.
We believe that all gifted young women and gender diverse young people, regardless of their background and circumstance, should be given the opportunity to be the best they can. With the support of The Mac.Rob Foundation, that is now possible.
The Mac.Rob Foundation provides support through the provision of grants, through bursaries, and through the creation of pathways to tertiary education and beyond.
The launch of The Mac.Rob Foundation has been a crucial first step in creating a steady flow of support, assisting the next generation of young, powerful and influential individuals.
The event was ably captured through the marvellous lens of Agatha Yim.
