The Spring Hill schools—Brisbane Girls Grammar School (BGGS), All Hallows’ School, and St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace—have contributed significantly to the growth of women’s cricket in Queensland. The women’s game has transitioned from a popular 1930s novelty to a fully professionalised, high-participation sport.
Kath Smith played in the first Test match at the Brisbane Exhibition Ground on 28, 29, and 31 December 1934. For many years, Kath took a keen interest in the sporting activities of St Joseph’s Gregory Terrace, assisting with coaching. She was later awarded membership of the Terrace Old Boys Association, the first woman to be so honoured.
In 1996, a match was played to celebrate the centenary of the first schoolgirls’ cricket game between All Hallows’ and BGGS. Held on March 10 at Victoria Park No. 2, both schools embraced the idea of celebrating this momentous event. The atmosphere before the limited-overs match was tense; after the introduction of the teams, the Grammar captain, Georgina Adams, won the toss and elected to bat. Ultimately, BGGS secured victory by five runs.
Kath Smith and the young women from BGGS and All Hallows’ a century ago shared a vision. They believed they had the right to an education and the right to enjoy cricket. That vision and a shared love of the game unite these three Spring Hill schools in a unique way.
Source: Queensland Cricket
