Mary Ursula Grachan

Sister Mary Ursula Grachan (born Alma Veronica Grachan; 17 September 1901 17 July 1992) was Professed as a Sister of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1925. She was the first woman to receive a Diploma of Education at the University of Tasmania.

Sister Ursula was born at Beaconsfield, Tasmania.

Sister Mary Ursula Grachan died on 17 July 1992 at Launceston, Tasmania.

Early years Alma Grachan was the eldest of five children born to a miner William Grachan and Emily Ross. While in the Primary School at Beaconsfield she showed spiritual and academic potential and which Mother Gertrude O’Sullivan noticed and hence arranged that she attend boarding school at Sacred Heart College in Launceston.

Alma was 21 when she entered Launceston convent on 13 August 1922, when she was given the name Ursula. and a Licentiate of Music (A.Mus.A. [Teacher]).

Sister Ursula also taught Music before and after school hours, in this way, no doubt, contributing to the meagre income of the Sisters. She taught for 12 years in Hobart and was Head of St Mary's College there for three years.