New Principal commences at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Clermont

Although the weather has been inhospitable, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Clermont has rolled out the welcome mat for new Principal, Mrs Lisa O’Brien, this year.

In the midst of flooding and torrential rain, Mrs O’Brien said she had received the warmest of welcomes from the St Joseph’s school community.

“Moving to Clermont involved a baptism of wild weather - but the staff, students and families at St Joseph’s have been wonderful, demonstrating everything that is great about Clermont,” Mrs O’Brien said.

“Their smiles, helpful natures and hard-working attitudes are evident in their everyday lives, and this was certainly at the fore in the wake of the weather events at the start of the year.”

“That strong community spirit within the town, together with the legacy of the Josephite Sisters was on full display – rolling their sleeves up and helping all those in need,” she said.

Mrs O’Brien said she was enjoying getting to know the community and unearthing the real treasures that exist in the Central Queensland township.

“Clermont is known for its gold and copper – but once you scratch the surface, there are so many other gems to be found here including its welcoming spirit, sense of community and wealth of activities to become involved in,” Mrs O’Brien said.

As a highly experienced educator, Mrs O’Brien commenced her new role as Principal after serving over 30 years as a Primary school teacher including the past four years as Assistant Principal: Religious Education at St John the Baptist Catholic Primary School, Gladstone.

“I am very much focused on the provision of quality teaching and learning and continuing the tradition of educational excellence within a faith-filled environment that has always featured so strongly at St Joey’s,” Mrs O’Brien said.

Mrs O’Brien paid tribute to school staff and former St Joseph’s Principal, Mrs Sheila Challacombe.

“St Joey’s is loved by the Clermont community, and I hope to emulate the tremendous dedication shown by Sheila which has seen the school prosper during her six- year tenure,” Mrs O’Brien said.

“I am very excited about working alongside such committed teaching professionals and support staff. It’s a real privilege to be part of this wonderful school community,” Mrs O’Brien said.