Georgia Hammond, Year 12 student at St Columba's Catholic College in Springwood, playing the French horn.
As early entry offers for universities reach schools across the state, St Columba's student Georgia Hammond has received a "dream come true" with an invitation to study at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
Known colloquially as "The Con", the conservatorium of the University of Sydney is one of the most prestigious and acclaimed music schools in the country.
Ms Hammond, a talented French horn player, had listed The Con as her first choice for further study - but it had been her goal long before any application process.
"I remember from an early age I knew that I wanted to do something with music, and when I found out about the conservatorium I thought that was the place for me. So definitely a dream come true," she told the Gazette.
[Receiving the offer] was crazy, I couldn't believe it to be honest. Relief, excitement, just crazy.
Georgia Hammond standing by the quadrangle at St Columba's Catholic College in Springwood.
Ms Hammond picked up the French horn in her primary school band at St Thomas Aquinas in Springwood.
Discovering her love for the instrument, she continued playing it through high school at St Columba's Catholic College.
Driven by her passion Ms Hammond also took up daily practice, tutor sessions, and extracurricular roles in Mountains Youth Band and some select Sydney orchestras.
A proud school
Her music teacher, Rob Badman, said the news of her early entry offer was "exciting, but not entirely surprising", given her effort and determination to improve.
"[Seeing] over a number of years of Georgia's enthusiasm, willingness to stretch outside of what she might be used to musically, and all those sorts of things, has just made her a much more versatile musician," Mr Badman said.
The school's Partnership and Pathways Coach Nicky Alsemgeest said: "Music here at St Columba's is second to none. All of our staff, including Rob, are just pure gold. If you see the kids who do music here, they flourish."
Ms Hammond will study a Bachelor of Music (Performance), and hopes to climb the ranks of professional orchestras throughout Australia after graduating.
The Sydney Conservatorium of Music opened in 1915 and is one of the oldest music schools in Australia.
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13 Mar 2026
From Facebook
This morning our community at St Columba’s came together to celebrate International Women’s Day with a wonderful breakfast in the College quad. Students, staff and guests enjoyed a delicious start to the day, accompanied by beautiful background music performed by our talented students. Following breakfast, the community gathered for our International Women’s Day Assembly and the presentation of the 2026 Sr Anne Henson International Women’s Day Award. This year’s recipient was Dr Naomi Cooper (College Captain 2007), whose achievements and leadership continue to inspire the next generation of young women at St Columba’s. In her acceptance speech, Dr Cooper reminded us all that progress towards equality is a shared responsibility, telling the College community: “While some days it feels like we are getting nowhere fast in achieving gender parity, I take heart that it is small changes from individuals like you and me that edge us closer to equality. People of all genders have a role to play.” Thank you to everyone who helped make this morning’s celebration so special. Thank you especially to staff and students from Xavier College, Penola, St Finbar's and St Canice's who joined us at the event. Together we continue to honour the women who have shaped our community and encourage the leaders of tomorrow. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Today’s Pathways to Possibility event was a wonderful success! Our First Nations students had the opportunity to hear from a panel of representatives from Macquarie University, University of Wollongong, Australian Catholic University, UNSW, UTS, Western Sydney University, The University of Sydney and Charles Sturt University. After the panel discussion, students enjoyed lunch together before attending an expo where they were able to have one-on-one conversations with university representatives about pathways, opportunities and life after school. Our students were outstanding throughout the day. They embraced the opportunity with curiosity, confidence and respect, asking thoughtful questions and engaging so positively with the universities. We are incredibly proud of the way they represented themselves and our school. A heartfelt thank you to the university representatives who generously gave their time to share their experiences, insights and encouragement. Your presence made the day meaningful and inspiring for our students. It was also a privilege to welcome Aunty Julie Waddell from Jarara Cultural Centre - thank you for joining us. Finally, thank you to the parents who came along in the afternoon to support their young people and be part of the conversations about future possibilities. Your support means so much. Events like this truly highlight what is possible when schools, families, community and universities come together to support our young people. The future is full of possibility! Macquarie University Australian Catholic University (ACU) University of Sydney UOW: University of Wollongong, Australia Western Sydney University UNSW Charles Sturt University UTS: University of Technology Sydney Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
Latest News More news
13 Mar 2026
From Facebook
This morning our community at St Columba’s came together to celebrate International Women’s Day with a wonderful breakfast in the College quad. Students, staff and guests enjoyed a delicious start to the day, accompanied by beautiful background music performed by our talented students. Following breakfast, the community gathered for our International Women’s Day Assembly and the presentation of the 2026 Sr Anne Henson International Women’s Day Award. This year’s recipient was Dr Naomi Cooper (College Captain 2007), whose achievements and leadership continue to inspire the next generation of young women at St Columba’s. In her acceptance speech, Dr Cooper reminded us all that progress towards equality is a shared responsibility, telling the College community: “While some days it feels like we are getting nowhere fast in achieving gender parity, I take heart that it is small changes from individuals like you and me that edge us closer to equality. People of all genders have a role to play.” Thank you to everyone who helped make this morning’s celebration so special. Thank you especially to staff and students from Xavier College, Penola, St Finbar's and St Canice's who joined us at the event. Together we continue to honour the women who have shaped our community and encourage the leaders of tomorrow. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Today’s Pathways to Possibility event was a wonderful success! Our First Nations students had the opportunity to hear from a panel of representatives from Macquarie University, University of Wollongong, Australian Catholic University, UNSW, UTS, Western Sydney University, The University of Sydney and Charles Sturt University. After the panel discussion, students enjoyed lunch together before attending an expo where they were able to have one-on-one conversations with university representatives about pathways, opportunities and life after school. Our students were outstanding throughout the day. They embraced the opportunity with curiosity, confidence and respect, asking thoughtful questions and engaging so positively with the universities. We are incredibly proud of the way they represented themselves and our school. A heartfelt thank you to the university representatives who generously gave their time to share their experiences, insights and encouragement. Your presence made the day meaningful and inspiring for our students. It was also a privilege to welcome Aunty Julie Waddell from Jarara Cultural Centre - thank you for joining us. Finally, thank you to the parents who came along in the afternoon to support their young people and be part of the conversations about future possibilities. Your support means so much. Events like this truly highlight what is possible when schools, families, community and universities come together to support our young people. The future is full of possibility! Macquarie University Australian Catholic University (ACU) University of Sydney UOW: University of Wollongong, Australia Western Sydney University UNSW Charles Sturt University UTS: University of Technology Sydney Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
08 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Congratulations to our Year 8 da Vinci Decathlon team for taking out third place in their competition on 25 February. What a fantastic achievement! We are so proud of the way our teams from Years 7 to 10 represented the College. The students worked incredibly hard across all disciplines, showcasing their ingenuity, knowledge and creativity. Well done!
08 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Congratulations to Rhianna Jackson (Class of 2025) whose HSC Textiles and Design major work, “Eternal Aureate,” is currently on exhibition at Gallery 76 in Concord West. This prestigious exhibition features just 37 works selected from the 1,488 students across NSW who completed the course in 2025. Being chosen is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to Rhianna’s creativity, dedication, and craftsmanship. “Eternal Aureate” showcases intricate textile techniques and striking colour transitions that evoke warmth, movement, and transformation. It is wonderful to see Rhianna’s talent recognised at this level. We are incredibly proud of you, Rhianna! The exhibition is open until 24 April 2026 and is well worth the visit. Entry to the general public is free during regular gallery hours. All details here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/nesa/awards-and-events/showcases-courses-events/texstyle Embroiderers' Guild NSW Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese NSW Department of Education
27 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Our Year 12 College Leadership Team recently joined student leaders from across the Parramatta Diocese at LIFTED Leaders 2026. The LIFTED Leaders program provides an opportunity for young leaders to connect, strategise and lead change in their communities. During the day the students heard from Bishop Vincent Long, who encouraged them to lead with courage and compassion, just as Jesus did. They shared their leadership goals for 2026 and discussed social justice and spirituality initiatives. This was a wonderful opportunity for our College leaders to reflect, learn and grow alongside other leaders within our Catholic schools.
19 Feb 2026
From Facebook
OPEN AFTERNOON FOR PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES We warmly invite families to visit St Columba's Catholic College for our Year 7, 2027 Open Afternoon on Tuesday 3 March 2026 from 4-6pm. Find out more and register your attendance here: https://info.parra.catholic.edu.au/open-day/stcolumbasspringwood#form-section We look forward to meeting you!
19 Feb 2026
From Facebook
We are so pleased to share some of the wonderful success stories from the College's Class of 2025 in our HSC Achievements publication. You can find a copy in this week's @bmgazette.
17 Feb 2026
From Facebook
🥇NSW Champion! Congratulations James (Y8) on recently winning gold at the Athletics NSW State Combined Event Championships in the 14 boys heptathlon. James has qualified for the Australian Athletics Championships in Brisbane in April, where he will represent NSW in the heptathlon, 100m hurdles and 200m hurdles.
13 Feb 2026
From Facebook
We are incredibly proud of Year 12 (Class of 2025) student Noah Osbourne, who took on an unforgettable challenge after completing his HSC - sailing on a voyage with STS Young Endeavour. Following his exams, Noah stepped well outside his comfort zone, joining a crew of young people from across Australia to learn the skills of tall ship sailing, teamwork, leadership and resilience. Programs such as Young Endeavour offer our students a unique opportunity to challenge themselves, develop new skills and discover what they’re capable of beyond the classroom. Noah’s journey is a wonderful reminder of the value of saying 'yes' to new adventures after school. Well done, Noah — we can’t wait to see where your next voyage takes you! Interested in learning more about sailing with Young Endeavour? Visit: https://youngendeavour.gov.au/ Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Young Endeavour Youth Scheme
13 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Members of the Ag Show Team enjoyed the (literal) fruits of the labour yesterday, finally getting to eat the watermelon they planted last year! 🍉 Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Congratulations Julian (Y12) and Finn (Y10) on their fantastic results at the 2026 Australian Open Water Championships in Bunbury, Western Australia. Julian placed 5th in the 17 years boys 7.5km swim and 4th in the 17 years boys 5km swim. Finn placed 4th in the 16 years boys 5km swim and 5th in the 16 years boys 7.5km swim. Both Julian and Finn were part of a relay team that competed in the Opens relay and placed 6th in Australia. Well done, Julian and Finn, on these incredible achievements!