Results are in: Saint Brigid’s Primary PE teacher crowned best on Gold Coast

The public has spoken and it is time to meet your 2023 Gold Coast PE teacher of the year, plus first and second runner up. Results inside:

The public has spoken, results are in and it is time to reveal the Gold Coast’s best PE teacher voted by YOU.

See who was crowned, plus the first and second runners up who inched their way onto the podium.

RESULTS

Bronze: 9% voted for Leigh Murillo at St Hilda’s School

Silver: 10% voted for Craig Marais at Tallebudgera State School

Gold: 37% voted for Josh Kelly at Saint Brigid’s Primary School

MORE MR MARAIS

Mr Craig Marais is no stranger at Tallebudgera State School.

Before starting his job as a PE teacher in 2008, he attended the school as a student.

“I’ve done the full circle really,” Marais said.

Craig Marais at Tallebudgera State School is one of 45 nominated for best PE teacher on the Gold Coast. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Now, the Talle community has come together to show support for their beloved PE teacher by nominating him as the Gold Coast’s best PE teacher.

“It’s incredibly humbling to be honest ... to see how much support the community has given,” he said.

Marais first heard he had been nominated after his wife saw a post on Facebook.

From there, it was a matter of seeing past and present parents talk about the great work he has done at the school.

One user wrote: “Feel very honoured our kids get to have him as their PE teacher. Encouraging, fun, patient and everyone loves him.”

Marais said is not shy about how much he loves his job

“It’s probably one of the best jobs in the world to be honest.

“I get to come out and work with some great people at the school and the community is amazing,” he said.

“I definitely consider myself lucky.”

Craig Marais at Tallebudgera State School is one of 45 nominated for best PE teacher on the Gold Coast. Picture: Glenn Campbell

For him, it’s about seeing kids grow and succeed while working with each other, the community and staff

“The most rewarding part is seeing students come in and achieve a skill and the excitement they get on their face when they accomplish something they’ve been working on,” Marais said.