{"id":20782,"date":"2025-12-16T13:10:12","date_gmt":"2025-12-16T05:10:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sthildas.wa.edu.au\/?page_id=20782"},"modified":"2025-12-16T14:36:20","modified_gmt":"2025-12-16T06:36:20","slug":"history-of-the-osa","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.sthildas.wa.edu.au\/zh\/our-community\/old-scholars\/history-of-the-osa\/","title":{"rendered":"History of the OSA"},"content":{"rendered":"

Celebrating connection, tradition, and vision since 1913<\/h2>\n

A Visionary Beginning:\u00a0<\/strong>Where lifelong bonds were born<\/em><\/h3>\n

The St Hilda\u2019s Old Scholars Association (OSA) was founded in 1913 under the leadership of Miss Melina Parnell, then Principal of the Girls\u2019 High School. As the first President, Miss Parnell envisioned an association that would preserve the friendships formed at school and carry forward the values of St Hilda\u2019s. What began as the \u201cOld Girls Association\u201d quickly became a vibrant part of West Australian social history, with early events including dances at the Parish Hall in Claremont and the introduction of badges and blazers to mark membership.<\/p>\n

Growing Traditions:\u00a0<\/strong>From dances to high teas<\/em><\/h3>\n

By the 1920s, membership had grown to 200, and the association was thriving with popular gatherings such as \u201cwhite evenings\u201d to celebrate forthcoming marriages, bridge nights, beach picnics, and high teas. With the opening of St Hilda\u2019s at its present site in 1930, the association evolved to reflect the school\u2019s new chapter, becoming the Girls\u2019 High School and St Hilda\u2019s Old Girls Association.<\/p>\n

United Voices:\u00a0<\/strong>Women supporting women<\/em><\/h3>\n

In 1939, the OSA joined forces with other Perth schools to form the Pleiades group, hosting tennis parties, drama evenings, and musical performances. This collaboration gave women a stronger collective voice, one that continues today. During the 1940s, the OSA brought joy in challenging times with \u201cBack to School Days\u201d and outdoor gatherings, reinforcing the power of community and connection.<\/p>\n

Expanding Horizons:\u00a0<\/strong>From social events to scholarships<\/em><\/h3>\n

By the 1950s, the OSA began broadening its focus beyond social activities. Fundraising became central, supporting initiatives such as scholarships, the long\u2011dreamed Chapel, and even contributing to the construction of Parnell House boarding facilities. Traditional events like country lunches and mentoring programs remained, while year representatives strengthened networks across generations.<\/p>\n

A Legacy of Support:\u00a0<\/strong>Honouring the past, inspiring the future<\/em><\/h3>\n

Over the decades, the OSA has funded projects that leave lasting marks on the School, from the Junior School Portico to the ammonite sculpture celebrating its centenary. Today, the association connects more than 10,000 alumni worldwide, offering events, mentoring, scholarships, and enduring friendships.<\/p>\n

At its heart, the OSA remains true to Miss Parnell\u2019s vision: advancing education, fostering connection between past and present students, and supporting opportunities for women in education, the arts, and sport.<\/p>\n

More than a network, the OSA is a legacy \u2014 one that continues to inspire generations of St Hilda\u2019s women.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\t\t