All Hallows School Closes Suddenly After Tragic Event in Brisbane
A sudden closure at All Hallows School, one of Brisbane’s oldest and most respected girls’ Catholic schools, has left families seeking answers. The unexpected event followed the loss of a Year 9 student and has brought conversations about wellbeing, crisis response, and school support measures back into focus.
What Happened at All Hallows School?
On July 22, 2025, parents at All Hallows School in central Brisbane received an email at approximately 1:30 p.m. advising them of a significant event at the school. The message, sent by Principal Catherine O’Kane, announced the cancellation of a scheduled parent-teacher evening and other planned activities. Soon after, additional emails were sent to notify that the campus would close at 12:30 p.m., after which parents would pick up their children outside the Ann Street campus by 2:00 p.m.
The school community was informed of the “profound sadness” felt by administrators following the death of a Year 9 student. The principal reiterated the family’s request for privacy and urged staff, parents, and students to be cautious and sensible during this challenging time.
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Timeline of Events
| Date | Event Summary |
| July 22, 2025 | All Hallows School announces closure after “significant event” |
| July 22, 2025 | Email to parents: parent-teacher event cancelled |
| July 22, 2025 | Campus closed, parents collect students by 2:00 pm |
About All Hallows School
Founded in 1861 by the Sisters of Mercy, All Hallows School has served generations of Brisbane families. The school is renowned for its academic achievements, its longstanding commitment to supporting young women, and its comprehensive approach to student well-being. The campus is located at 547 Ann Street, Brisbane, serving year groups 5-12 and boasting more than 1,550 students enrolled. The school’s values, which include compassion, respect, and integrity, are a powerful tenet.
| School Name | Type | Established | Principal | Enrolment | Address |
| All Hallows School | Girls, Years 5-12 | 1861 | Catherine O’Kane | 1,562 | 547 Ann Street, Brisbane |
Parent and Student Communication at All Hallows School
- School leaders sent numerous updates to parents via email.
- The late notice was apologised for by the acting Deputy Principal, Scott Adamson, who emphasised that the decision was not taken lightly.
- Cultural and sporting activities, as well as all other activities of the day, were cancelled.
- The guidelines on student pick-up and community resources to get support were clear
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Key Messages from the Administration of All Hallows School in 2025
| Official | Message Highlight |
| Catherine O’Kane | “With profound sadness. The tragic loss of a Year 9 student. Please respect the family’s privacy.” |
| Scott Adamson | “We apologise for the late notice and appreciate your understanding… Further info to follow.” |
School Wellbeing and Support Services at All Hallows School
All Hallows School has a strong focus on student wellbeing, with counselling and support services available to students and families. The school emphasises a frank discussion on mental health, solution-based counselling, and coordinates opportunities to utilise community-based programs as necessary. Families have received information on how to cope with grief and to support young people, and all communications included contact details to Lifeline and Beyond Blue.
Support Contact Table
| Service | Contact Number | Purpose |
| Lifeline | 13 11 14 | Crisis support hotline |
| Beyond Blue | 1300 22 4636 | Mental health support, resources |
| School Counsellor | On campus | Student and family assistance |
School Context: History and Values
All Hallows School stands as Queensland’s first secondary school for girls, established by the Sisters of Mercy. The occurrence has been the same with a motto in the school: God and Duty, which makes the school appreciative of community, learning, and service. Its employees are committed to both academic and personal growth, and several teachers have been recognised for their long-term employment and service.
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Community Response & Crisis Procedures in 2025
- There was a smooth pickup, as parents and students could see this being done, with staff assisting in the process.
- The school’s approach mirrored best practice in crisis response—clear, rapid communication, support offerings, and family reunification.
- The Queensland Police also did not make any direct comments, as such an event is rather sensitive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What led to the closure of All Hallows School?
A “significant event” occurred, confirmed to be the death of a Year 9 student. This led the administration to close the school at 12:30 p.m. on July 22, 2025, and cancel all activities.
Q2: Who do parents or students have to call?
Families are encouraged to reach out to Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) for crisis or mental health support, as well as the school’s on-site counselling service.
Q3: Has the school given directions on how to communicate the news to young people?
Yes, the principal encouraged parents to talk to their daughters about the news, providing a guideline on how to react with a good heart and the practical use of social media.
Q4: Is the closure of the school permanent?
The temporary nature of the closure is related to the community’s needs in terms of safety and support. The school will be provided with updates on families about the decisions to be made regarding the reopening event.
Q5: What is the history and reputation of All Hallows School?
All Hallows School was established in 1861 and is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious girls’ schools in Queensland, upholding strong values, academic achievement, and a caring community.
