17/08/2026
From the Archives | Memories of Carmichael Hall
For generations of PLC girls, Carmichael Hall has been so much more than a building.
Since opening in 1956, it has been the backdrop to countless moments in PLC life: assemblies, school services, Chapel, dancing lessons, exams, socials, plays and performances. Kookaburra photos were taken on its steps, generations of girls sat beneath its stage lights, and many Old Collegians later returned for weddings, baptisms and other important family occasions.
The Hall was made possible through the extraordinary generosity of PLC founding Council member Donald John Carmichael, who left almost his entire estate to the School when he died in 1941. His wish was to create an assembly hall bearing his name, a place that would bring the PLC community together.
In 1994, Carmichael Hall was dedicated as the Heather Barr Memorial Chapel, honouring much-loved former Principal Heather Barr (1949). Today, it remains at the heart of School life.
As we prepare for PLC’s first Giving Day on Wednesday 2 September, we want to hear your Carmichael Hall stories.
What do you remember?
Was it school assemblies, dancing lessons, exams, drama productions or concerts? Were you married there? Did your children or grandchildren have a special moment there? Perhaps it is simply the memory of sitting on those steps with your classmates.
Share your memories, stories and photos in the comments below. We would love to build a picture of what Carmichael Hall has meant to generations of the PLC community.
This September, our community will come together to help protect this much-loved heritage building for the generations still to come.