Meet our leaders: Darling Downs and Lockyer Valley principals help the shape next generation of citizens
From a former restaurant owner to a former detective, the region is home to some amazing principals who are now inspiring the next generation.
Education
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As a child, some of the most influential people in life are our parents, sports coaches, teachers and your principal.
The Darling Downs and Lockyer Valley is home to some amazing principals who are continuing to inspire, teach and guide the younger generations.
From restaurant owners to detectives, these principals have had impressive journeys on their way to teaching the region’s young children today.
Here are their stories.
Dr Linda Evans, Fairholme College
For 20 years, Dr Linda Evans has educated and inspired young women at Fairholme College.
While she took on the role of principal in 2009, Dr Evan’s career began at Kalkadoon State High School in Mount Isa in the 1980s.
“Having, unsurprisingly, not achieved my childhood dreams of being simultaneously an Olympian, an actress and a journalist, I considered a Bachelor of Business but was enticed by my own teachers to pursue education,” she said.
“On most days, I am so grateful.”
Though the journey of being a principal can have many elements, there are some things that make Dr Evans incredibly proud to be in her position.
“The diversity of the role is enticing; no day is ever the same – but most of all, seeing the distance students travel (metaphorically) over time,” she said.
“Particularly, to be part of a journey with students and families through challenges and difficulties, then to see these same students finish their schooling ‘well’ is the ultimate privilege.
“These students personify perseverance, and they give us all hope – what could be better?”
Danny Keenan, Oakey State High School
Now in his 25th year of teaching, Danny Keenan has been the principal of Oakey State High School for seven years.
Mr Keenan began his teaching career in Townsville after stepping away from a six-year stint as a journalist.
“I didn’t always want to be a teacher but had some mates who were and always liked the idea of helping kids,” he said.
Dedicated to living the school’s motto of Own it, Believe it, Achieve it, Mr Keenan said he loved being able to help students to “become even better humans and reach their potential”.
“Everyone deserves an education crafted to suit them and only state schools cater for all comers,” he said.
Brett Munro, Glenvale Christian School
Glenvale Christian School principal Brett Munro first began teaching in 1995 at Rockhapton before making the move to Toowoomba.
Over the past 24 years, Mr Munro has worked at Toowoomba Primary Schools before transfering to Glenvale Christian School seven years ago.
“(I love) working with staff to cultivate a culture of learning, with parents to support their children in their learning, and with students to create learning that is meaningful and worthwhile,” he said.
Luke Barrett, St Monica’s School
Originally the principal at Millmerran’s St Joseph’s School, Luke Barrett knew he always wanted to work in some form of education.
“In my high school and university years, I was involved in sports coaching and outdoor recreation clubs such as Army Cadets,” Mr Barrett said.
“It was through the involvement in these activities that led me to taking up the call to teaching.”
Mr Barret has been the principal of St Monica’s School in Oakey since 2019.
He said the best part of the job was working collaboratively with everyone to make the school the best it can be.
“I have the privilege to work with a very talented, engaging and supportive staff who go out of their way to teach, support and nurture all the students at St Monica’s School in Oakey,” he said.
Brendan Stewart, St Mary’s College
Ignatius Park College, Townsville was the place where Brendan Stewart’s teaching career first kicked off in 1994.
Originally working as an accountant, Mr Stewart realised he wanted to step into teaching when he “understood what corporate accounting was really like”.
For the past two years, he has been the principal at St Mary’s College.
“There are two aspects that I love (about being a principal),” he said.
“The first is getting to know all of the boys at the college. The second is to work with our wonderful staff at St Mary’s College.
“They have been very welcoming and always prepared to take on new ideas. I am very grateful for that.”
Kort Goodman, St Joseph’s College
In 1996, Kort Goodman began his teaching career at Mount Isa.
While he has held the position of principal for almost a decade, Mr Goodman has served the St Joseph’s College community for four years.
“I didn’t want to be a teacher really until I got halfway through my last year of school,” he said.
Previously, Mr Goodman wanted to branch into business, but was thrilled with his life decisions.
“The opportunity to work with teachers, to support them to provide the best education for the students that they have the privilege of teaching – that is one of the things I love the most about being a principal,” he said.
“Our teachers at St Joseph’s College are amazing and I am truly grateful to have such supportive staff at our College.”
Chris Gabbett, Mary MacKillop Catholic College
Since he was 14, Chris Gabbett always knew he wanted to be a teacher. Inspired by a history teacher, Mr Gabbett knew he wanted to teach the subject and be as lively and meaningful in his presentations for his students.
After teaching in the United Kingdom, Mr Gabbett is now in his fifth year as principal at Mary MacKillop Catholic College.
“The greatest thing about being a principal is that we get to present and live a vision that is counter cultural,” he said.
“In a world of ‘influencers’ where people seek a quick win, or self-validation via online interactions and ‘likes’, we offer a reality of authenticity, generosity, meaningful encounter and care about the person beside you.
“I want my students to leave Mary MacKillop knowing that success comes from doing the simple things brilliantly, that there is no substitute for hard work, that self-care is important and that they have a responsibility to support vulnerable people around them. There are few jobs that enable that vision to exist.”
Keith Blaikie, St Patrick's School, Allora
Three years ago, Keith Blaikie stepped into the role of principal at St Patrick’s School in Allora.
After graduating from the University of Southern Queensland in 2004, Mr Blaikie was offered a year 7 teaching position with the Toowoomba Preparatory School in 2005.
“Being a rather reluctant and unenthusiastic student at school, becoming a teacher was never a high priority for me when I finished secondary school in 1984,” he said.
With a love of plants and the outdoors, Mr Blaikie completed an Associate Diploma of Horticulture and worked with winter cereals and hybrid sunflowers within government and private contexts, before deciding to be a stay at home parent, and eventually return to university.
“Whilst the role of principal is certainly challenging at times, I really enjoy the opportunity to implement the school’s future strategic vision, where all stakeholders contribute, both from a system, parent, staff, parish and student level,” he said.
“Students must remain at the epicentre of all that we do where our faith, coupled with an innovative curriculum, are used as vehicles to shape our students to become active and informed citizens of the world.”
Sharon Collins, St Saviour's College
Now in her seventh year at St Saviour’s College, with six years spent working as principal, Sharon Collins said teaching was not originally on her radar.
“My initial plan was to work in genetics but then I realised that was not people-centric, and teaching seemed like a natural fit,” she said.
As the college moves into its 150 years of Mercy education, Ms Collins said she was thrilled to be involved with the school, even after originally attending as a student.
“I could not be prouder to be associated with and leading such an outstanding community who genuinely uses education to empower young women for a changing world,” she said.
“I love the fact that my job is, in fact, ‘people’ and through the provision of a quality education you are in a position to liberate those you teach, changing lives for good.”
Tyronne Maher, Sacred Heart Primary School
Now in his third year as principal of Sacred Heart Primary School, Tyronne Maher’s love of teaching strengthened after completing year 10 work experience at primary school.
“I began teaching in 2001 at Burpengary State School. My first class was one of 33 very excited year 5 learners,” he said.
For Mr Maher, seeing children experience success through seeing their own progress is a definite highlight of the job.
“When you know that parents and teachers have worked together to achieve this for the children that we work with, it’s even better. Everyone wins,” he said.
Janine Butlin, St Stephen's School, Pittsworth
Pittsworth teacher Janine Butlin began her career at Oakey State School in 1984 where she taught year 2 students.
Now, she is the principal at St Stephen’s School and has held the position since 2016.
“There are many things I enjoy about being a principal. There are many facets to my job,” she said.
“Whilst there are many challenges, I feel blessed to be able to share the education journey of the pupils in my school. I am fortunate to be part of such a wonderful community.”
Having grown up in Pittsworth and attending St Stephen’s with her brother Ross, she said it was a privilege to come back and hear the success stories of past pupils.
“It is wonderful to return to my hometown and work in this special school,” she said.
Brendan Redinger, St Francis de Sales School
Brendan Redinger has only been at St Francis de Sales School, Clifton for a little more than one year, but has sat in the principal’s chair for six years.
Strong role models throughout his life provided Mr Redinger with passion, energy and dedication to become a great teacher – a dream he has held for a long time.
“I always wanted to work with adults and children, so I could instil the values and quality teaching I had in my life,” he said.
“I am in a privileged position to lead a school community so we (my colleagues and I) can provide a quality learning environment for our community through a new Catholic contemporary, supportive, fun, challenging and enthusiastic style. This is what makes us very special here at Clifton.”
Mr Redinger said his role offered the opportunity to entrust and develop a shared mission and vision with the community.
“As principal, you have the responsibility to lead, and this is what makes the role very challenging but also rewarding,” he said.
“It has been a pleasure to lead communities and grow our lifelong learners into the 21st century and beyond.
Duane Wann, St Thomas More's Primary School
Brand new to the position, Duane Wann has been welcomed into the role of principal at St Thomas More’s Primary School.
After starting his teaching journey at St Patrick’s Primary School in Mitchell in 2006, Mr Wann was thrilled to lead the Toowoomba school.
“Like most people, I really wanted to be a professional sportsperson, however with limited talent and ability I ventured down the safe and rewarding path of becoming a teacher,” he said.
“I want to ensure that every student is supported and nurtured as a lifelong learner and more importantly, a human being.
“My goal is for each student to achieve their spiritual, emotional, social, cultural, academic and physical potential in order to become the most amazing version of themselves.”
Libby Rosentreter, Good Samaritan College
Talented and inspiring teachers throughout her childhood led Libby Rosentreter to become a music teacher and one day, principal of Good Samaritan College.
Ms Rosentreter began her teaching career at Mt Maria Secondary College in Brisbane in 1998 as the head of performing arts, before securing work in Toowoomba 14 months ago.
“Good Samaritan College is a small, alternative school for young people who cannot
access a mainstream high school,” she said.
“There is an extremely high demand for more of these schools in Toowoomba which is evidenced by the significant wait list at our college.
“I would like to see more of our young people gaining access to this form of education in our region.”
Though only just over a year into the role, Ms Rosentreter said the ultimate highlight is leading and nurturing young people, and seeing them experience success in their chosen pathways.
Louise Pfingst, St Anthony's School
Originally starting her teaching career at Charleville’s St Mary’s School in 1994, Louise Pfingst has worked as a principal for the past decade.
Now in her sixth year at St Anthony’s School, Ms Pfingst always knew she wanted to be a teacher and was given the chance to inspire students like she was by her educators.
“I love that I get to work closely with students and their families and staff in my role,” she said.
“It is such a great honour to contribute to and witness growth in students and staff.”
Chris Golightly, Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School
A long serving principal in the Toowoomba region, Chris Golightly has worked at Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School for more than a decade.
Mr Golightly began his career at Emerald State School in 1991, and has held the position of principal for 26 years.
“I think deep down I always wanted to be a teacher but didn’t jump into it straight away and had a go at a few other jobs before I headed off to university,” he said.
“They call it a gap year nowadays … mine just went for four years.”
Mr Golightly said he loves working within a team that can change young lives for the better and set them up for success.
“(I love) leading a team that has a powerful influence on how students learn and how they see and act in the world whilst playing an integral role in providing and welcoming families to be part of a positive, supportive and engaging school community,” he said.
Sam Hannant, St Saviour's Primary School
In term 4 of 2022, Sam Hannant was appointed acting principal after working within St Saviour’s Primary School since 2011.
During his time, he has been a classroom teacher, PE teacher, curriculum leader and assistant principal.
“I didn’t always want to be a teacher, however I was inspired throughout the opportunities I had whilst playing sport,” he said.
“Through the various sporting opportunities that I had after leaving secondary school, including working with children in a coaching/mentor capacity, teaching was a very natural and obvious progression for me.”
Mr Hannant began his teaching career at Warwick’s St Mary’s School in 2008, and said he has loved the experience of being the acting principal at St Saviour’s.
“What I love most about working as a principal is being able to serve the fantastic community at St Saviour’s Primary School and working and learning with dedicated and experienced staff who know their students and encourage their students to be expert learners who enjoy coming to school each day,” he said.
Kathy Bliss, Holy Name Primary School
This year marks 10 years as principal of Holy Name Primary School for Kathy Bliss, who first held the position at St Joseph’s School in Millmerran.
As a young girl, Mrs Bliss had her mum and aunt as powerful role models, which would help shape her life.
“Mum was a teacher, and my aunt was a Sister of Mercy, so teaching and the values of the Sisters of Mercy was a strong part of my upbringing,” she said.
“As a teacher, I knew that if I could be half the teacher my mother was I would really make a difference in the lives of the children that I had the privilege to teach.”
For Mrs Bliss, the interactions between families, students and the engagement of the wider school community made the role of principal incredibly enjoyable.
“(I love to see) the joy on students’ faces as they grow as students make my role deeply rewarding.”
Michael Ball, Mater Dei Primary School
In 2002, Michael Ball became a teacher at Jubilee, an ecumenical school near Movie World on the Gold Coast.
Today, he is in his second year as principal at Mater Dei Primary School in Toowoomba.
Mr Ball always wanted to become a professional baseball player, however his focus soon turned to teaching and leadership roles.
“I really enjoy the energy of a school from the staff, students and families,” he said.
“I love participating in morning duty at the school and welcoming all the students. Seeing their energetic faces as they arrive and knowing that they are looking forward to the day ahead is very special.
“The students are a constant source of hope for the future. It keeps me motivated in my role. I believe that Mater Dei is one of the best Catholic schools in Toowoomba.”
Lawson Short, St Joseph's School, Millmerran
Taking on the role of principal at St Joseph’s School in Millmerran has been a “massive learning experience” for Lawson Short.
Though he has been in the position for five years, Mr Short’s career began in 2010 at Cunnamulla’s Sacred Heart Primary School, and has featured multiple Toowoomba Catholic schools over the years.
“The biggest enjoyment for me as a principal is seeing a school’s successes and being able to be the driver of change and development within a school,” he said.
“Seeing the benefits for students and families of initiatives, projects etc is very rewarding.”
Joy Craig, Wilsonton State High School
Wilsonton State High School was lucky to secure a new principal this year, with Joy Craig coming on board after previously working at Warwick and Clifton State High Schools.
“I also enjoyed a semester at Wilsonton in semester 1 of 2016 where I was tasked with leading the consultation on the then proposed separation of the Wilsonton and Lofty campuses into two distinct schools,” she said.
“It is exciting to return and to see the strong identity that has been purposefully developed since that time.”
Mrs Craig first began her teaching career as a HPE teacher in Logan City at Mabel Park State High School in 1989.
“Initially I had a few different thoughts including journalism, teaching and possibly the police force. I chose teaching as I was inspired by my own high school teachers and I really loved the learning process and in fact I still do,” she said.
“(I love) the diversity of the role and the opportunity to positively impact students and staff on a daily basis.”
Andrew Skippen, Meringandan State School
Andrew Skippen took on the Principal role at Meringandan State School in January 2022, nine years after first becoming a principal.
Starting his teaching career in Brisbane in 2007, Mr Skippen worked as a year 1/2 teacher at Eatons Hill State School.
“I was considering becoming an architect but I didn’t really have a clear direction after I finished school. I really didn’t know,” he said.
“After a year off study, working part time in various jobs, I decided to apply to university and get a teaching degree.”
Mr Skippen said he enjoys being able to give teachers and teacher aides the “tools, knowledge, time and space to make the biggest impact possible on their students”.
“Building relationships with the students at my school is also something that is vital to my work,” he said.
“I enjoy helping them to feel safe and valued and making sure they want to come to school to engage with our teaching and learning programs.
“On parade each week I have a captive audience too – this is a great time for a terrible joke or two.”
Dan Lindenmayer, Pittsworth State High School
Becoming a teacher was something Dan Lindenmayer knew he wanted to do from a very young age.
Growing up on the Darling Downs, Mr Lindenmayer said his ‘incredible teachers’ had a significant impact on his career.
One year ago, Mr Lindenmayer became principal of Pittsworth State High School, 11 years on from first stepping into the position at another school.
“The best part about being a principal is having the opportunity to work with amazing educators, support staff and students every day, who inspire me to be the best leader I can possibly be,” he said.
“Working with young people as they journey through high school, guiding them and supporting them to achieve their aspirations and goals is also incredibly rewarding.”
Rosita Lever, Clifton State School
For 10 years this month, Rosita Lever has worked as a principal, with two and a half of those at her current school Clifton State School.
Mrs Lever remembered being torn between a career as a nurse or a teacher, and ultimately decided she enjoyed being around children and helping them to learn and grow.
As a result, Mrs Lever began her teaching career as a Prep/year 1/year 2 teacher at Murray’s Bridge School 37 years ago.
“Being a principal offers me the opportunity to work with our children, their families and the wider community,” she said.
“It’s a privilege to help each child achieve their best learning, working with wonderful staff to make each day count.”
Colin Thompson, Goombungee State School
Previously a deputy principal at Crow’s Nest State School, Colin Thompson stepped into the top job in April 2021 at Goombungee State School.
Mr Thompson began teaching in 1998 at Fernvale State School, and has since taught at Brassall, Kin Kora and Drayton State Schools.
“My role at Goombungee allows me still to do some teaching, which is great,” he said.
“I wanted to be a preschool teacher, so I did Early Childhood as my degree at university. How awesome to be learning out in the sandpit or through painting, singing songs and block play.”
Mr Thompson said a highlight of being principal was getting to know all of the students within the school.
“I also get to work with the amazing staff we have at Goombungee and look at ways for us all to improve in our practice. It is also a privilege to connect with other groups in our wonderful community,” he said.
Doug Braiden, Faith Lutheran College Plainland
January 2020 saw Doug Braiden step into a new adventure as principal, after a fascinating career in another admiral field.
Now based at Faith Lutheran College Plainland, Mr Braiden said becoming a teacher was not his initial plan as a child.
“I always wanted to be a pilot in the air force growing up but was unable to pursue that dream due to asthma,” he said.
“It was my love of physics and mathematics that drew me to teaching initially and what brought me back to the profession after working as a detective in the CIB (Criminal Investigation Branch) for several years.”
In 1999, Mr Braiden began his teaching career at Genesis Christian College, however after one year, left to join the Queensland Police Service.
He stepped back into teaching in 2010, where he worked at Trinity Lutheran College, West Moreton Anglican College and was a senior investigator at the Queensland College of Teachers.
“The reason I got into teaching is because I love working with kids and I want to help change their lives,” he said.
“As the leader of the school, I know I have the ability to have a positive impact on the whole school community.”
Michael Bray, Highlands Christian College
For the past 18 years, Michael Bray has dedicated his life to Highlands Christian College, where for the last nine years, he has been principal.
As a young man, Mr Bray explored a variety of options, but said nothing other than teaching ever felt like the right fit.
“This is my 25th year in education and I still believe I am where I am meant to be,” he said.
“I love that I get to walk the journey of learning with families from prep right through to year 12.
“Being a part of their story through the challenges and the successes is such a privilege. When I see our students graduate as amazing human beings, loaded with potential, l know I don’t want to be doing anything else.”
Heidi Mazz, Darling Downs Christian College
Following in her father’s footsteps, Heidi Mazz stepped into the role of principal at Darling Downs Christian College two years ago.
Ms Mazz previously taught English and bible in Japan for more than two years before returning to Australia to graduate with her degree in 2003.
“The following year I started living my dream in year 1 at Brisbane Adventist College,” she said.
“All I have ever wanted to be is a teacher; I dreamed of inspiring and equipping young people to confidently go out and make the world a better place
“One of the things I love most is being able to help and empower people in ways I might not otherwise be able to.”
Lou Oberholzer, Clifton State High School
For two decades, Lou Oberholzer has been a deputy principal or principal in countless schools, but it all started in 1989.
Originally working in South Africa, Mr Oberholzer always wanted to be a teacher and was motivated by his own teacher who taught graphics and furnishing.
For the past seven years, Mr Oberholzer has been the principal at Clifton State High School.
“(I love) working with students and supporting outcomes for their futures, and supporting teachers in their needs to create better futures through curriculum delivery,” he said.
“(I love) to influence and negotiate new and better facilities for our students and community with a new equine centre and school hall to create pathways for student futures within the agriculture and equine industry.”
Simon Lees, Toowoomba Anglican School
In 1997, Simon Lees began his teaching career as a geography and physical education teacher in England.
For the past decade though, he has been the head of school at Toowoomba Anglican School.
“When I was at university, I was not sure what I wanted to do. It was not until I worked with disadvantaged children in Northern Ireland as part of a summer recreation program that I realised that I wanted to work in education. It’s a decision I’ve never regretted,” Mr Lees said.
“I love working and engaging with children and having a positive influence on their futures. It’s a great honour to be able to lead a school and I love my job.”
Tanya Appleby, St Ursula's College
It all started with an English teacher at an independent school in Sydney.
From there, Tanya Appleby has embarked on a long career as a teacher that has seen her become the principal of St Ursula’s College.
“My desire to be a teacher was inspired by my mother who was an outstanding educator who taught English to adult immigrants,” she said.
“I was in awe watching her build life-giving relationships with her students that impacted on their capacity to thrive.
“I was privileged to teach alongside her as I completed my studies at Sydney University.”
Mrs Appleby said as a teaching principal, she loves the daily interaction with students who bring ‘enormous joy’ when they grow into their capabilities.
“There is not a day that goes by that they do not bring a smile to my face,” she said.
“As a principal, I am also privileged to mentor and work in collaboration with staff across the college on varied projects. This is so mutually fulfilling.
“I enjoy the variety in my work and engaging with the families in a social context is always an opportunity to foster and build new relationships. I love my job.”
Dr David Jeffs, Toowoomba Christian College
A former head chef, hotel owner, two-times restaurant owner and mobile espresso business owner, Dr David Jeffs can now add principal to his hat.
Just one year after joining the team at Toowoomba Christian College, Dr Jeffs said he only became a teacher in 2008 after a career in the hospitality sector.
“Upon reflecting on my time as a trade chef, I realised the most enjoyable part of the role was training the apprentices into the trade,” he said.
“My interest in teaching was also affirmed to me during the decade I was a senior pastor.
“Again, the most enjoyable part of the role was in the teaching and preaching space. I just love to teach. These experiences propelled me into education.”
Previously working at Riverside Christian College in Maryborough, and temporarily at Emerald Christian College, Dr Jeffs began his teaching career as a hospitality and home economics teacher.
“The experiences and skills I gained from my previous careers have proved to be invaluable in relating to students and adapting to the various challenges and opportunities that come with working in schools,” he said.
“In fact, I think these experiences have been invaluable, given the changed nature of the role of principal, from an instruction leader to today, where most of the functions principals are executing are very similar to that of a CEO.”
While there were many things Dr Jeffs loved about his job, he said the main thing was “empowering, resourcing and releasing staff to undertake their duties”, and supporting them in their areas of passion or high-level roles.
John Kinniburgh, Toowoomba Grammar School
Now in his third year as headmaster of Toowoomba Grammar School, Dr John Kinniburgh said he did not initially want to become a teacher.
Dr Kinniburgh attended university with the hopes of doing sports psychology, however soon found his humanities subjects, more so geography, much more enjoyable.
“I completed a double major in geography with minors in marine science and geology,” he said.
“I had connections at The King’s School, Parramatta and a geography teaching role came up (in 1996), which I was delighted to accept. I was able to teach geography, work in boarding and coach sport.”
Dr Kinniburgh said he had been lucky enough to travel the world through education, and felt proud to be the headmaster of such a special school.
“There are several things that I enjoy about being a headmaster,” he said.
“Firstly, leading Toowoomba Grammar School, a school that prioritises the needs of boys, their education, and their character development.
“Secondly, supporting staff to grow and develop their professional capacity, and thirdly engaging with a positive and supportive, values-based family-focused school community.”
Ken Raven, Toowoomba Grammar School
Originally from Western Queensland, Toowoomba was always the regional centre for Kev Raven’s family, and recently, he became the Head of Junior School at Toowoomba Grammar School.
Mr Raven had previously relocated back from Western Australia, and as a student, had boarded at the school before moving with his family interstate.
“I enjoyed school as a student so that resonated with me at the time (of looking at a career pathway),” he said.
“The variety of roles within teaching and schools has been a surprising feature for me about the teaching profession. There is a wide scope for anyone thinking of teaching as a career to consider.”
Mr Raven began teaching at a small primary school in Perth 22 years ago, and said he loved creating an environment for students to access and engage in learning.
“Schools are inspiring places where we support students, colleagues and families to set bold goals that spark their curiosity and work towards,” he said.
“At TGS we use evidence informed explicit teaching of curriculum to spark curiosity and interest for students to engage and explore.”
Brett Bizzell, Rockville State School
Still relatively new to Rockville State School, Principal Brett Bizzell first began his teaching career in 1991.
Originally at Goondiwindi State High School, Mr Bizzell said his career was inspired and kickstarted because of his father, who was a teacher, and his excellent teachers at Rangeville State and Centenary Heights State High Schools.
“These people were very positive role models in my life and I wanted to have a career helping others. The holidays weren’t a bad enticement either,” he said.
My Bizzell has been a principal for more than 15 years now, and said a positive team makes all the difference.
“(I love) leading a great state school team of dedicated teachers and staff to support all students in our care, regardless of who they are or where they come from, to become the best people they can possibly be,” he said.
“For what teachers deliver in our society, they deserve the utmost respect.”
Ashley Roediger, Toowoomba State High School
The airline strike of 1988 gave Ashley Roediger a “reality check” after completing a Bachelor of Business (Tourism), which ultimately led him down a different life path.
In 1993, Mr Roediger began his teaching career at Hervey Bay State High School, before moving onto Monto High, Oakey High, Blackheath and Thornburgh College, Toowoomba Grammar, Yarraman School and Kingaroy High.
For the past 18 months, Mr Roediger has been principal of Toowoomba State High School after previously being a student between 1982 and 1986.
“My philosophy is that every child is one caring adult away from being a success story,” he said.
“I have the privilege of being that caring adult for over 800 students every year.”
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