Claire Harrison

The dedication of the staff who put on the musical productions was above and beyond.

Claire Harrison’s love of giving back to community began when she joined Yarra in 1994 — one of the first group of girls to enrol in Year 10 at the school.

“I was with a great group who really wanted to be at Yarra – there were lots of very capable and ambitious girls and plenty of leadership opportunities,” she says.

Claire joined the school’s Community Links program and remembers tin rattling each year to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

“That sparked my passion for being part of the not-for-profit sector. I’ve chosen a career in philanthropy because I’m motivated to contribute where I can, to be part of something bigger than myself, and to facilitate ways for others to contribute.”

While Maths and Science were her focus at school, Claire was heavily involved in Yarra’s musicals. During her final year, she played a leading role in The Wizard of Oz.

“I played Glinda the Good Witch and ‘flew’ down the side of the PAC on a harness wearing a massive dress – quite an adventure! John Farnham was in the audience because his children went to Yarra and afterwards he came backstage and congratulated everyone, which was a thrill!

“The musicals are my favourite memory of Yarra and the year after I left the school, I returned to help with the musical because I loved being part of it so much. You become part of a family and see everyone progress and grow in confidence. It was a very positive atmosphere.”

The confidence and skills Claire developed on stage, as well as with the school debating team, have proved valuable in her career.

She currently works with the Royal Women’s Hospital fundraising team and often speaks publicly about various programs at RWH to help boost donations and support.

Most recently, Claire spoke at Yarra’s annual Mother’s Day Breakfast as proceeds from the event were donated to a hospital program that supports women who are homeless and pregnant.

“Working in healthcare, you get to see the immediate impact of a donation – you see the patients who are being helped or an important piece of equipment that has been paid for through donations. Being a small cog in that wheel is a privilege.”

While she graduated 27 years ago, the Yarra motto still has relevance for Claire.

“Sometimes there is merit in stopping to look up, seeing the bigger picture and being grateful for what you have.”