About our 2025 Winners

Laraine Kelly nee Eaves (Class of 1963)

The Spirit of Clayfield Gold Award – Old Collegian

Laraine has been a champion of the College, a leader in her career and a dedicated member of the broader community for decades.

Her career as an educator began in the mid-1960s in Queensland, where she quickly rose to prominence as a leader in her profession. In 1972, Laraine made history by becoming the youngest woman to be appointed Senior Mistress at Wavell High School, an extraordinary achievement that marked the beginning of her remarkable journey in education.

After taking a break from teaching to add six children to her family, she returned to the education industry, implementing a revolutionary new program for English as a Second Language at Shaftson House. She managed this successful preparation program for several years and transitioned to delivering the ESL program for exchange students. Her next challenge came in the form of being a regular external marker for the Queensland Senior Certificate testing in English and Creative Writing, a responsibility she still enjoys today.

In addition to her career, Laraine has been deeply committed to volunteering and giving back to her community. Her leadership was particularly evident in her role as President of the St John’s Youth Outreach Program in 2007 and 2008, where she made a lasting impact. Laraine also served on the St Paul’s School Council for many years, chairing the Learning and Innovation Committee. She was also a member of the Somerville House Board of Management from 2010 to 2014, contributed to the Somerville House P&F Association and served as a Director of the Somerville House Foundation.

Despite her extensive work across numerous institutions, Laraine has always maintained a deep affection for her alma mater, Clayfield College. As a young graduate, she volunteered for the then Old Girls’ Association, organising events, fundraisers, and serving as Co-President. Over the past decade, she has played an integral role on the Old Collegians’ Association Executive Committee, guiding the historic transition from Old Girls to Old Collegians. She has also been instrumental in coordinating the annual High Tea for Emerald Club Members.

Laraine’s impact extends to the Clayfield College Foundation Board, where she has served as a Director since 2017. In this role, she has provided exceptional philanthropic advice and contributed to significant developments and refurbishments across the College.

A true master of fundraising, Laraine’s dynamic approach - especially with raffles - has become the stuff of legend, as she has an incredible ability to inspire participation and enthusiasm.

Throughout her life, Laraine has truly let her light shine before others in countless ways - through her dedication to her profession, her selfless service to the community, and her unwavering support for our College. Her generosity of spirit, infectious laugh, and her deep passion for seeing the College flourish have made an undeniable impact on its growth and success.

A truly deserving recipient of the Spirit of Clayfield Gold Award, Laraine’s remarkable contributions have touched so many lives, and we are incredibly grateful for all she has done for our College and beyond.

Tara Ryan (Class of 2017)

The Spirit of Clayfield Green Award – Old Collegian

Tara engaged in all aspects of College life as a student, excelling academically, athletically, and artistically, as well as demonstrating strong leadership skills.

Beyond school, she pursued a dual Bachelor of Chemical Engineering (Honours) and Economics at the University of Queensland. During that time, she actively participated in student organisations and sustainability initiatives.

While completing her Master of Environmental and Natural Resource Economics in Copenhagen, she co-authored a paper, led a Sustainability Careers event, and was nominated in 2023 as an Exceptional Young Woman in Resources for her work with the CSIRO.

Now based in London, Tara is a Sustainability Consultant at Min-viro, working to decarbonize metal supply chains while continuing her environmental advocacy. Her passion for positive change, and meaningfully reducing environmental impacts, is an inspiration.

Raewyn Morris

The Spirit of Clayfield Award – Community

Rae embodies the true spirit of the Clayfield College community through her unwavering dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm. She has consistently volunteered her time and energy, working at every event bar and assisting with the setup of major events such as the College Fair and On The Green. Rae is a regular supporter of sports activities, attending breakfasts and cheering on students, and she is a steadfast presence at all music events. Her involvement extends to welcoming prospective families by supporting the enrolment team at tours and events, fostering a warm and inclusive environment.

As P&F President since 2023, Vice President from 2020 to 2022, and P&F Sport Support Group Chair in 2019, Rae has encouraged parent engagement and played a pivotal role in shifting the focus from fundraising to “friend-raising,” strengthening community bonds. Her passion, leadership, and commitment to the College make her an outstanding overall winner for the Spirit of Clayfield – Community Award.