On 4 September, PLC Sydney officially launched its newest initiative, The Elizabeth Webby Portfolio.

Earlier this year, the College established a dedicated portfolio to conduct and facilitate research, exploring evidence-based practices that help children and teenagers flourish. The portfolio supports teachers as reflective professionals and lifelong learners, reflecting our deep belief in the connection between research and practice.

The initiative is named in honour of Emeritus Professor Elizabeth Webby AO (née Loder, 1942–2023), a distinguished ex-student of PLC Sydney and one of Australia’s leading literary scholars. Professor Webby was renowned for her excellence in teaching and research, as well as her generosity in supporting others, particularly women.

The launch welcomed the Webby family, Emeritus Professor Margaret Harris as guest speaker, and members of our community, staff, families, and ex-students. Guests reflected on Elizabeth Webby’s life and legacy, remembering her as a remarkable scholar, a generous mentor, and a devoted mother.

The event also provided an opportunity to showcase the Elizabeth Webby Collection , kindly bequeathed by her family. Our College Archivist, Nicole Rawson, curated a beautiful display featuring items from her school years and personal study, including a miniature bookshelf of clay books, each inscribed with titles related to her scholarship.

Dr Paul Burgis and College leaders highlighted PLC Sydney’s ongoing commitment to intellectual curiosity, innovation, and inquiry. With several research projects already completed or underway, the portfolio is establishing a strong record of achievement.

The official launch was marked by a symbolic gesture from the younger generation: Elizabeth Webby’s eldest grandchild, Alexander Webby , and PLC Sydney’s Humanities Captain and MC for the event, Roxy Paterson-Brown . Emeritus Professor Margaret Harris, a long-time colleague and friend of Professor Webby, warmly reflected that Elizabeth would have been deeply honoured to have this initiative bear her name.

Fittingly, in her study Elizabeth Webby displayed an artwork inscribed with the words:

“Ideas have an economy when institutions give them currency.”

PLC Sydney looks forward to continuing to develop a strong culture of research and inquiry, honouring the legacy of a remarkable alumna and furthering the College’s tradition of intellectual excellence.