Meet the young women shaping the Burpengary community this International Women’s Day

From stitching hearts to crafting hope and advocating for those in need, these four young women from St Eugene College, Burpengary, embody the essence of International Women’s Day (8 March). 

All it takes is a bit of heart

St Eugene College Year 11 student Evie has a heart for making an impact in the lives of people who need it most. 

When former St Eugene College Carol House Captain Joseph experienced a serious football accident in 2023, Evie knew exactly how she could help support, with a hand-sewn heart. 

Since the accident, Evie’s hands have never stopped stitching the precious felt items with 200 hearts delivered to Joseph, visitors, families, students and staff. 

Evie said the felt hearts came about while her grandfather was in palliative care. 

“I wanted to find a way to support my family, and others experiencing palliative care,” she said. 

“Anyone can take a heart. 

“It shows a bit of comfort when they need it, so they know they’re still loved and supported.” 

Evie eventually crafted 1,400 hearts with the felt crafts delivered to her school counsellors office, The Princess Alexandria Hospital and the Prince Charles Hospital. 

Crafting courage

For St Eugene College Year 11 student Amelia, a crochet hook became a way to spark conversations and remind others that they are never alone. 

Since 2023, she has crocheted more than 60 small octopuses and jellyfish, all tagged with mental health messages and resources. 

Her creations live in guidance counsellor offices and the school library, waiting to be held by any student who needs comfort or reassurance. 

Leading through service 

Despite a busy Year 11 schedule, St Eugene College student Kaitlyn still makes time to contribute to the St Vincent de Paul, taking part in the charity’s Leadership Society, a program for young people wanting to make a difference. 

As part of the program, Kaitlyn has had the opportunity to volunteer in Vinnies stores, take part in the CEO Sleepout, helping raise awareness for homelessness, and contribute to raising $2000 for those in need.  

She graduated from the program last November, now carrying those experiences into her everyday life and leadership. 

In 2025, St Eugene College, Burpengary, also raised $12,000 worth of food, toiletries and gift items for those in need locally. 

International Women’s Day 

As College Captain in 2026, Year 12 student Kya has brought thoughtful innovation to this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations.  

Working closely with staff and her leadership team, she sought to make the day not just symbolic, but empowering. 

“This year, students will be able to write messages of thanks to the women who inspire them,” she said. 

“I have also arranged for everyone to wear purple ribbons, inspiring students to help uplift the women in their lives and show appreciation for them.”  

St Eugene College Principal Louise Olley said, “St Eugene College students consistently show what it means to be global citizens and good human beings”. 

“St Eugene himself was known for having a heart as big as the world, and our students share their big hearts daily in their service of others. 

“Through their compassion, leadership and willingness to serve others, these young women demonstrate the values our community holds and our mission to ‘enter to learn, dare to grow, leave to serve.’” 

For more information about St Eugene College, Burpengary or to enrol click here.

Image caption: (From left to right) Kaitlyn, Amelia, Evie and Kya from St Eugene College, Burpengary. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Eugene College, Burpengary (2026).