What year did you start and finish your role?
2006-2021
What are your favourite memories about the school?
I have the fondest of memories of Mooroopna PS. I could always say I was proudly the principal of a great school. This was because of the terrific people at the school — students, families, staff and the community.
Mooroopna is a fantastic town and Mooroopna PS has been a part of this for 150 years — this is an amazing effort. So many students have benefited from a great start in life with their education at the school.
Other favourite memories include student outcomes, our concerts, Easter parades and sporting colour days, particularly when Richmond fans would out number other teams.
Another fond memory is that Mooroopna PS has always been part of such a strong community. The school has been an integral part of the town for longer than anyone can remember and community involvement is essential for the school.
What school staff do you remember?
It is really hard to single out particular staff members — I was fortunate to work with so many great people. We had a particularly tight group as a staff — we cared for each other, the students and the school.
I was fortunate to work with dedicated assistant principals Rob French, Karen Goodwin and Carla May. During my time as principal, I also worked with many inspiring leading teachers, teachers and education support staff.
Most of us were more friends than colleagues. I was continually impressed with how dedicated and professional our staff were. They all cared for students, families and our community. This included looking after wellbeing and ensuring high quality learning.
Do you remember any significant events or funny moments at the school?
We were fortunate to have regular visitors to our school including the minister for education, prime minister’s partner, minister for children, local politicians, local councillors, philanthropists, famous singers, regional directors, and of course former students.
The building of and opening of facilities was also amazing. The school has completely transformed in the last two decades. New classrooms, re-modelling of the original school building, new Family and Children’s Centre, new covered play areas and high-quality play areas.
I think staff would say a funny event was the look on my face if any contractor damaged the beautiful grass on our oval. The oval was always my pride and joy as I insisted on a neat and tidy school and grounds. As such I would have a look of shock on my face should the surface be damaged.
Tell us briefly what you are up to now.
My current role is Senior Education Improvement Leader with the Department of Education in the Goulburn area. This means I am responsible for a network of 24 schools, which fortunately includes Mooroopna PS.
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