When Stella Maris College opened in 1931, it began with 33 primary boys and girls before becoming an all-girls school in 1944. Ninety-five years later, close to 1,000 students fill the Iluka Avenue campus — and one local family has been part of the journey for almost the entire time.
The milestone was marked last week with a special Opening Mass, bringing together students, staff, alumni and families — a reminder that on the Northern Beaches, schools often become part of a family’s story.
Among those attending was 99-year-old alumna Margaret Duffy, believed to be Stella’s oldest former student. Her great-grand-niece now walks the same grounds (the pair pictured below!)
“There’s a real sense of belonging that stays with you long after you leave,” Margaret said.
“To see younger members of my family now walking the same grounds is very special.”
In a part of Sydney where families often stay put for decades, that kind of continuity carries weight.
Growing With the Northern Beaches
Stella’s roots trace back to the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, who were educating and caring for orphans in Manly in the late 1800s before the College formally opened in 1931.
As the Northern Beaches developed, the school grew with it. What began as a small convent school is now a secondary college of nearly 1,000 students.
But scale isn’t the headline here. Stability is.
But scale isn’t the headline here. Stability is.
Principal Sharyn Quirk said the anniversary is an opportunity to acknowledge the families who have shaped the College across generations.
“Stella has always been part of the fabric of Manly,” she said. “We’re proud of the generations of local families who have entrusted us with their daughters’ education and of the strong sense of community that continues today.”
On the Beaches, where secondary enrolments are competitive and decisions are often made years in advance, reputation matters. For many families, continuity and community matter as much as facilities or programs.
Looking Ahead to 2026 Enrolments
Anniversary events will continue throughout 2026, including a Gala Ball and alumni high tea reconnecting past and present members of the Stella community.
With enrolments for 2026 underway, Stella Maris will host an Open Evening on Wednesday, 18 March from 4pm to 7:30pm.
Families can tour the campus, meet students and staff, and learn more about the College’s academic and pastoral programs.
“Ninety-five years is a wonderful milestone,” Principal Quirk said. “But what matters most is continuing to provide an environment where young women feel supported, challenged and inspired, just as they have for generations.”
As Stella edges closer to its centenary, the through-line remains consistent: a school shaped by its community, and a community that continues to choose it.
Stella Maris College Open Evening
When: Wednesday 18 March 4pm – 7:30pm
Where: 2 Iluka Avenue, Manly
Stellar Maris Open Evening Details
