95th Anniversary Celebrations

In 2026, Stella Maris College proudly celebrates 95 years of educating young women, shaping minds and hearts, and building a community grounded in faith, compassion and excellence.

Since opening our doors in 1931, generations of students, families, staff and alumni have contributed to the story of Stella—each chapter marked by learning, friendship and a shared commitment to living out our values. As we honour this significant milestone, we invite our community past and present to celebrate, reflect and look forward together.

Our History — 95 Years of Faith, Service and Education

Since opening its doors in 1931, Stella Maris College has stood as a light of academic excellence, spiritual growth and compassionate community on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

But the story of Stella Maris reaches even further back — into the heart of 19th-century efforts by the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, who arrived in Manly dedicated to caring for the neglected and educating young people. The College’s roots lie in the Star of the Sea Convent, established in 1881, where the Sisters first provided an industrial school and orphanage that welcomed children from all walks of life and taught them the skills they needed to thrive.

On 4 February 1931, Stella Maris College was formally established with an initial cohort of just 33 students. From these humble beginnings — educating primary children and young girls — the College quickly grew, and by the mid-20th century had transitioned into the all-girls secondary school our community knows today.

Over the following decades, Stella evolved into a vibrant learning community grounded in the Benedictine tradition and the parable of the Good Samaritan. These guiding principles shaped an environment where academic rigour, spiritual reflection and compassionate action were inseparable.

Today, nearly a century on, Stella Maris College is home to close to a thousand students. It offers a rich curriculum, strong pastoral care and a thriving co-curricular life — all while retaining the warmth, care and sense of belonging that have defined the College since its earliest days.

As we celebrate our 95th anniversary, we honour the generations of students, educators, families and supporters whose energy, faith and dedication have written this remarkable story — and we look forward with joy to the chapters yet to come.

95th Anniversary Events

To mark this special year, a series of events will bring our community together to celebrate Stella’s past, present and future. We warmly invite you to join us.

95th Anniversary Opening Mass

Thursday 12 February 2026
Our anniversary year will begin with a celebratory Opening Mass, celebrated by Most Reverend Bishop Anthony Randazzo DD JCL , giving thanks for 95 years of faith, learning and community, and asking blessings for the year ahead.

95th Anniversary Gala Ball

Saturday 12 September 2026
An elegant evening to celebrate this milestone in style. The Gala Ball, to be held at the Manly Pacific Hotel will be a highlight of the year—bringing together past and present members of the Stella community for a night of connection and celebration. Further details and tickets coming soon.

Alumni and Past Parent High Tea

Saturday 24 October 2026
A relaxed and elegant afternoon welcoming alumni and past parents back to Stella. This special High Tea will be an opportunity to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate the shared history that unites our community. The afternoon commences at 1.00pm with a special service to remember former classmates and staff who have passed.

Our Principals Through the Years