On the evening of 6 September 2025, Lourdes Hill College’s Past Pupils’ Association gathered once again for one of the community’s most cherished traditions, the annual PPA Riverfire Event. As the Brisbane skyline prepared to light up, past pupils from across generations returned to their old riverside home, filling the evening with warmth, laughter and shared memories.

Despite the cool weather rolling in from the river, the atmosphere was anything but chilly. Guests were welcomed with the inviting aromas of fine catering by Wine & Dine ’m, whose beautifully curated dishes set the tone for an evening of relaxed celebration. The hum of conversation blended seamlessly with the smooth, soulful sounds of live music performed by LHC music teacher, Lachlan Matthews. His talent and energy carried across Soubirous Place, creating the perfect backdrop as classmates reconnected and the community came together.

This year saw growing numbers of Past Pupil reunion groups, with vibrant gatherings celebrating 20, 30 and 40 year milestones. Their joyful reunions were a highlight of the evening, with the hugs, the stories and the laughter echoing with the special kind of nostalgia that only school memories can spark. Many cheeky pictures were snapped in front of the large LHC marquee lights, with the twinkling moonlight and city skyline in the background.

When the first fireworks burst above the river, guests were reminded why the LHC vantage point remains so beloved. From the edge of the campus, attendees enjoyed one of Brisbane’s finest views of the Riverfire spectacular, the annual display that marks the opening of the Brisbane Festival. Colours rippled across the sky, reflected in the water below, and for those few moments, the entire crowd stood captivated together.

The night did not end there. Once the final fireworks faded, the energy surged again as the dance floor came alive. Lachie Matthews kept the music flowing, and guests, young at heart regardless of graduation year, filled the space with movement and laughter well into the evening.

The 2025 Riverfire event was more than just a celebration; it was a beautiful reminder of the enduring Lourdes Hill spirit. With growing attendance, heartfelt reconnections and a setting that continues to leave guests in awe, the Past Pupils’ Association once again delivered an evening to remember.

Here is to the memories made, and to many more Riverfire celebrations to come.
Mark your calendars for the 2026 Riverfire PPA celebration on Saturday 5 September, as we prepare some special extras to celebrate our PPA Centenary year.