23-07-2025
'Very sad and difficult time': Brisbane elite private girls school in shock after sudden death of student leads to closure
An elite all-girls Catholic school in Brisbane has been left shaken after a student died by suicide over the weekend.
All Hallows' School closed the 159-year-old institution on Tuesday, bringing all activities to a complete halt after breaking the news of the passing of a Year 9 student.
The school's principal Catherine O'Kane sent an email to parents, caregivers and the extended school community in the afternoon that read: 'It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of Stella Medeiros-Hodge, Year 9 (Whitty), overnight on Sunday.
'Stella is the beloved daughter of Lucia and Iain and the sister of Isabella (Year 12).
'The family have shared with us that Stella died by suicide.
'At this very sad and difficult time, Stella's family have requested privacy.
'I know that our community will respect this with the utmost sensitivity and care.
'I also encourage you to speak with your daughter about responding to this news with compassion and the thoughtful use of social media.'
On Tuesday, parents were seen rushing to the school to pick up their children by 2pm as it closed in light of the tragedy.
Ms O'Kane advised parents to monitor their children's engagement with social media and the amount of time they are spending online.
She also noted scheduled school activities have been postponed revealing no clear timeline of when it will return to normal operations.
'I also want to let you know that we have postponed the spirit week activities that were planned for the remainder of the week, and the Adderton house mass scheduled for tomorrow (Wednesday morning) has been postponed," she wrote.
'At this time, it is our expectation that all other scheduled activities will continue as planned. I know that you will keep Stella and her family in your hearts and prayers and I will provide details of Stella's funeral when these become available.
'The following prayer may offer a way for your family to come together in support during this time: Loving God, in times of sorrow and loss, you are with us. May your love surround the Medeiros-Hodge family, bringing comfort and strength. Help us to trust in your mercy and to carry Stella's memory with love and grace. Be near to all who are grieving and grant us your peace. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.'
The sudden closure has sparked a demand for transparency around the institution's values and its students with parents and alumni now pressing for clear answers.
