Twinning! - The Neumann Tale

Twins Isabel and Lucy Neumann will don the tartan for the last time next week. After five years at Fairholme together – taking classes classes together, studying together and sharing all the highs and lows of Senior School together – the twins say it is bittersweet to be leaving.

“It will be strange not being together all the time, but exciting at the same time,” Lucy said. “We have loved being at Fairholme together. But it is time to carve our own paths in life.”

Reflecting on their time at Fairholme, Isabel said being a twin has definitely had its benefits. “It’s great being a twin at school as there is always someone there for you, it’s just like having a best friend with you every step of the way.”

Lucy agrees. “Issy reminds me about things I have forgotten for school. It’s nice to always have her there by my side, as a friend. I think having a twin is special. We have studied together more in our final year, which has been a great support to each other. It has just made school and these finals exams that little bit easier.”

The fraternal twins may not look alike, but their mannerisms and likes and dislikes are similar. Both girls have been active in Fairholme’s sporting life – Lucy loves tennis, cricket, AFL, while Isabelle has enjoyed netball and tennis, “but I’m not as sporty as Lucy!”. Nevertheless, it is their willingness to have a go in all aspects of Fairholme life that has them well set for the future.

Holme Group teacher, Catherine Butler, has watched the girls grow over the past few years from shy Middle School girls to bright young women. “Their differences have been apparent in the way that they approach set tasks and engage in discussions. But they have so much in common, especially their integrity as human beings,” Ms Butler said. “It’s been lovely watching them walk to school together each day, in their immaculate tartan uniforms. Our Holme Group will really miss the way in which Isabel has engaged with the other girls in her gentle and kind manner.”

As the end of Year 12 looms, the girls are reflective about their time at Fairholme. “I am not ready to leave school yet!” Isabel says. “The final year has been great. Everyone gets along in class and it’s a little more fun,” Lucy says. “It’s hard to believe it is coming to an end because I have gone to school as long as I can remember! But we are excited to start a new chapter.” 

“We both feel really lucky to have travelled this schooling journey together. We will really miss Fairholme.”