100 years of service and community
In 2025, the Sydney Grammar School Women’s Association (SGSWA) celebrated their 100 year anniversary, reflecting a century of service, leadership, community and connection.
Established in 1925, in the years following the suffragette movement, the SGSWA emerged as one of the first formally recognised female parent support groups in an Australian school. At a time when women’s voices were only beginning to be acknowledged in institutions, the Association played a key role in shaping parent engagement at Sydney Grammar School.
Pictured: Driving to a regatta ca.1950 Credit: Sydney Grammar School Archives
Pictured in header: SGSWA committee and volunteers helping at Weigall in 2022
Over the past 100 years, the SGSWA has grown alongside the School, evolving from a small group of dedicated mothers into a vibrant, diverse and inclusive Association creating an enriching environment for both parents and pupils.
Throughout its history, the SGSWA has contributed to many of the traditions that define College Street life today. A registered not-for-profit charity, the Association manages the Grammar Shop, ensuring families have access to affordable uniforms and essentials; oversees the Weigall Canteen, a beloved hub of hospitality during key sporting events; and coordinates the Annual Second-Hand Book Sale, promoting sustainability and affordability for families. It also organises key social events that help parents connect and build meaningful relationships, and creates fun, safe and inclusive co-educational events for boys. The Association also provides financial support to the community in agreement with the Headmaster.
Pictured: Carla Zampatti, Kate Brown and Virginia Kahlbetzer at a SGSWA parade in 1981 Credit: Australian Women’s Weekly (1981) and Sydney Grammar School Archives
An afternoon tea was held on Friday 28 November 2025 to mark the centenary and to acknowledge the many significant contributions made to the SGSWA and the wider School community. Past and current presidents, executive and committee members, and volunteers were recognised, along with the SGSWA Office Manager and the Grammar Shop Manager, whose dedication continues to support the Association’s work.
Pictured: SGSWA School Fete 1952 Credit: Sydney Grammar School Archives
As the SGSWA celebrates this extraordinary milestone, it honours a legacy built by generations of volunteers whose commitment, generosity, and spirit of service have enriched the School for a century. This milestone not only honours the past but also signals a renewed commitment to evolving with the needs of today’s families and embracing fresh ideas that will guide the Association into its next century.
Pictured: Past, present and future presidents and committee members at the centenary afternoon tea
Sydney Grammar School
College Street, Darlinghurst
NSW 2010 Australia
Phone: (02) 9332 5800
Edgecliff Preparatory School
Alma Street, Paddington
NSW 2021 Australia
Phone: (02) 9366 0100
St Ives Preparatory School
Ayres Rd, St Ives
NSW 2075 Australia
Phone: (02) 8302 5200
