Dear members of the Mount Lilydale Mercy College community,
Last year, like many things, the Debutante Ball for Year 11 students was simply not possible and thus we, at MLMC, are experiencing two Debutante Ball seasons in 2021, along with all the discussion and excitement that such occasions bring. Over the past fortnight, the College hosted the first of the Debutante Balls which, of course, reignited the yearly debate by some about the outrage of reasons behind such balls. Each year it leads me to ponder about their true meaning and value: what was their real origin and why do they still exist?
Firstly, the word ‘debutante’ is derived from the French word ‘debuter’ with the meaning “to begin”. So, to the beginning, understanding that it started as a sexist process by which young women of marriageable age could be presented to high society for the first time, so that they could then attend other dances in the hopes of finding a partner. (Source: https://www.solosophie.com/history-of-debutante-balls)
In the UK, the tradition began in the 17th century whereby women in high society were presented in court to the king and queen. They could thus mingle in high society and be treated as adults, again in the hopes of finding a suitable partner to marry. Queen Elizabeth ceased the practice at court in the 1950s.
In the USA, Debutante Balls were a tradition bought over by the pilgrims and by the 19th century, had evolved into a dance and afternoon tea. They were revived in the 20th century and today they flourish, with Cotillion Balls still running; the most prestigious of which is held at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.
In Australia, the tradition is, of course, quite different. Although young ladies still normally wear white to signify purity, they are usually not about ‘high society’ or being elitist, but rather organised by schools, youth groups, churches and other organisations as fundraisers or social events. As a result of societal difference, they have always had a different emphasis and seen as more of a social gathering for all.
This is certainly the case at MLMC; the tradition of the College Debutante Ball has a historical background, with our students being involved since the 1950s and the first ever MLMC Debutante Ball held in 1966. As we celebrate 125 years of MLMC, let us celebrate all our history, including these 55 years of Debutante Balls.
Last weekend saw the Year 12 Debutantes presented; it was both an honour and privilege to share this occasion with them. To be amongst families on such a wonderful occasion is always a pleasure and I look forward to the Year 11 Debutante Balls later in the year. Five Debutante Balls in one year certainly does continue the tradition.
In many schools, the Debutante Ball has evolved into a ‘Presentation Ball’, where participants are presented in groups, with multi-coloured ball gowns permitted and an array of suits worn. Who knows how our Debutante Balls will evolve; I am sure it does not look now, as it did in 1966. For now, let us rejoice in celebrating our students dressing up, enjoying the glamour and formality of their Debutante Ball.
A Word on our Uniform Shops
I am aware that word is slowly filtering out about the future of the Uniform Shops here at MLMC.
Firstly, the Bob Stewart Uniform Shop on campus will close at the end of this term and from Term 3, uniform items will only be available from their Croydon shop (1-7 Maroondah Hwy, Croydon).
Secondly, our Second Hand Uniform Shop, operated by the Parents and Friends’ Association, will close at the same time. This has become necessary due to the high level of administration required in keeping the shop open and the volunteer base needed to do so. We are currently looking for new opportunities to be able to provide such a service in the future, although we understand that there are several online opportunities (through social media) that parents are already using. More information will be available in the near future.
God bless
Philip A Morison
Principal
