50 Catholic School Principals Across Queensland

Last updated: 8 August 2026.

This is a practical list of 50 Catholic school principals across Queensland. It brings together current school leaders from Brisbane, Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton and Toowoomba, with names checked against official education system or school sources. These leaders work in very different settings, from metropolitan colleges and growing suburban schools to remote communities and long established regional campuses. The common thread is the daily responsibility of helping students, staff and families learn, belong and grow.

Why Catholic school leadership matters

Catholic school leadership is community work as much as it is school management. Principals hold together learning, faith, wellbeing, staff culture, family partnership and the practical running of a school. In regional and remote Queensland, they may also be one of the most visible leaders in the local community. In larger colleges, the same role involves building trust across many teams, year levels and pathways. The people below are worth following because their official profiles show the breadth of that work.

1. Russell Davey

Principal, St Peter’s Primary School

Russell Davey is the Principal at St Peter’s Primary School in Caboolture, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Russell Davey is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Russell Davey as Principal at St Peter’s Primary School. A distinctive detail is that He began the 2026 school year as one of 15 new BCE Principals named in the diocesan leadership announcement. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

2. Alison Gilbert

Principal, St Mary’s College

Alison Gilbert is the Principal at St Mary’s College in Ipswich, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Alison Gilbert is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Alison Gilbert as Principal at St Mary’s College. A distinctive detail is that She was named as one of the 15 new BCE Principals beginning a leadership role in 2026. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

3. Sarah McCarthy

Principal, St Patrick’s Primary School

Sarah McCarthy is the Principal at St Patrick’s Primary School in Nanango, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Sarah McCarthy is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Sarah McCarthy as Principal at St Patrick’s Primary School. A distinctive detail is that Her official profile highlights 25 years in Catholic education and the strength of small school community life in the South Burnett. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

4. Paul Easton

Principal, St Joseph’s College

Paul Easton is the Principal at St Joseph’s College in Coomera, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Paul Easton is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Paul Easton as Principal at St Joseph’s College. A distinctive detail is that He was named among the new BCE Principals who started at a time of enrolment growth and new school investment. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

5. Nathan Haley

Principal, Sacred Heart Primary School

Nathan Haley is the Principal at Sacred Heart Primary School in Booval, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Nathan Haley is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Nathan Haley as Principal at Sacred Heart Primary School. A distinctive detail is that He joined the 2026 cohort of new BCE Principals leading schools across South East Queensland. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

6. Nick Fogarty

Principal, St Columba’s Primary School

Nick Fogarty is the Principal at St Columba’s Primary School in Wilston, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Nick Fogarty is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Nick Fogarty as Principal at St Columba’s Primary School. A distinctive detail is that He arrived as Principal alongside a long awaited library extension and a new wellbeing teacher at St Columba’s. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

7. Bernadette Wright

Principal, Christ the King School

Bernadette Wright is the Principal at Christ the King School in Graceville, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Bernadette Wright is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Bernadette Wright as Principal at Christ the King School. A distinctive detail is that She was named as one of the new BCE Principals beginning in 2026 across metropolitan and regional communities. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

8. Carol Seagar

Principal, St Joseph’s School

Carol Seagar is the Principal at St Joseph’s School in Bardon, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Carol Seagar is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Carol Seagar as Principal at St Joseph’s School. A distinctive detail is that She began her role in 2026 as St Joseph’s School marked its proud 88 year history of faith and learning. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

9. Gavan Minz

Principal, St Mary’s Primary School

Gavan Minz is the Principal at St Mary’s Primary School in Laidley, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Gavan Minz is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Gavan Minz as Principal at St Mary’s Primary School. A distinctive detail is that He was included in the 2026 BCE announcement covering new leaders in small regional schools as well as larger campuses. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

10. Clare Hogan

Principal, Our Lady of Good Counsel School

Clare Hogan is the Principal at Our Lady of Good Counsel School in Gatton, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Clare Hogan is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Clare Hogan as Principal at Our Lady of Good Counsel School. A distinctive detail is that She was named among the 2026 BCE Principals serving communities across South East Queensland. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

11. John Christie

Principal, Marymount College

John Christie is the Principal at Marymount College in Burleigh Waters, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. John Christie is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records John Christie as Principal at Marymount College. A distinctive detail is that He was appointed Principal in 2026 and welcomed the Marymount community during the college’s Open Week. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

12. Charles Brauer

Principal, St Peter Claver College

Charles Brauer is the Principal at St Peter Claver College in Riverview, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Charles Brauer is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Charles Brauer as Principal at St Peter Claver College. A distinctive detail is that He joined the college during its 50th anniversary year, when the community commissioned a First Nations inspired mural. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

13. Duncan Maitland

Principal, St William’s School

Duncan Maitland is the Principal at St William’s School in Grovely, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Duncan Maitland is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Duncan Maitland as Principal at St William’s School. A distinctive detail is that He was named in BCE’s 2026 group of new Principals serving schools across South East Queensland. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

14. Theresa Redgwell

Principal, Holy Family School

Theresa Redgwell is the Principal at Holy Family School in Indooroopilly, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Theresa Redgwell is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Theresa Redgwell as Principal at Holy Family School. A distinctive detail is that She moved from Acting Principal to the permanent Principal role in June 2026, with a focus on belonging, connection and mathematics improvement. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

15. Louise Parry

Principal, St Thomas More Primary School

Louise Parry is the Principal at St Thomas More Primary School in Sunshine Beach, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Louise Parry is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Brisbane Catholic Education source records Louise Parry as Principal at St Thomas More Primary School. A distinctive detail is that She began her first Catholic school leadership role in 2026 and has been using the Marist tradition as a foundation for school improvement. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

16. Katherine Porter

Principal, St Joseph’s Parish School

Katherine Porter is the Principal at St Joseph’s Parish School in Weipa, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Katherine Porter is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Katherine Porter as Principal at St Joseph’s Parish School. A distinctive detail is that She leads a school listed in the Cairns Diocese Northern Region, serving families in the remote Cape York community of Weipa. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

17. Kym Bennett

Principal, St Augustine’s School

Kym Bennett is the Principal at St Augustine’s School in Mossman, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Kym Bennett is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Kym Bennett as Principal at St Augustine’s School. A distinctive detail is that She leads a Catholic school in Mossman, one of the northern communities included in the Cairns Diocese school guide. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

18. David Graham

Principal, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School

David Graham is the Principal at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School in Thursday Island, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. David Graham is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records David Graham as Principal at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School. A distinctive detail is that He leads one of the Cairns Diocese schools serving the Torres Strait region. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

19. Kathy Fleming

Principal, St Therese’s School

Kathy Fleming is the Principal at St Therese’s School in Bentley Park, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Kathy Fleming is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Kathy Fleming as Principal at St Therese’s School. A distinctive detail is that She leads a school in the Cairns suburban region, where the diocesan guide highlights community and learning across the local network. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

20. Leanne Webster

Principal, St Monica’s College

Leanne Webster is the Principal at St Monica’s College in Cairns City, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Leanne Webster is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Leanne Webster as Principal at St Monica’s College. A distinctive detail is that She leads the oldest school in Cairns, a college that values its Mercy traditions and educates the future women of the city. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

21. Brendon Napier

Principal, Our Lady Help of Christians School

Brendon Napier is the Principal at Our Lady Help of Christians School in Earlville, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Brendon Napier is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Brendon Napier as Principal at Our Lady Help of Christians School. A distinctive detail is that He leads a school included in the Cairns suburban region of the Diocese’s current school guide. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

22. Jacqueline Jackson

Principal, St Michael’s School

Jacqueline Jackson is the Principal at St Michael’s School in Gordonvale, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Jacqueline Jackson is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Jacqueline Jackson as Principal at St Michael’s School. A distinctive detail is that She leads a Catholic school in Gordonvale, one of the communities covered by the Cairns Diocese regional network. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

23. Narelle Harney

Principal, St Francis Xavier’s School

Narelle Harney is the Principal at St Francis Xavier’s School in Manunda, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Narelle Harney is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Narelle Harney as Principal at St Francis Xavier’s School. A distinctive detail is that She leads a school in Manunda within the Cairns suburban region and its connected Catholic school community. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

24. Janelle Newman

Principal, MacKillop Catholic College

Janelle Newman is the Principal at MacKillop Catholic College in Mount Peter, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Janelle Newman is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Janelle Newman as Principal at MacKillop Catholic College. A distinctive detail is that She leads MacKillop Catholic College in Mount Peter, one of the growing communities in the Cairns Diocese school network. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

25. Katherine Boot

Principal, Mother of Good Counsel School

Katherine Boot is the Principal at Mother of Good Counsel School in North Cairns, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Katherine Boot is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns source records Katherine Boot as Principal at Mother of Good Counsel School. A distinctive detail is that Her school profile highlights a strong social and emotional learning focus alongside its community minded approach. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

26. Candi Dempster

Principal, Ryan Catholic College

Candi Dempster is the Principal at Ryan Catholic College in Kirwan, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Candi Dempster is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Candi Dempster as Principal at Ryan Catholic College. A distinctive detail is that She leads a college that has grown from a small 1979 community school to almost 2,000 students across three campuses. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

27. Megan Wuersching

Principal, Southern Cross Catholic College

Megan Wuersching is the Principal at Southern Cross Catholic College in Annandale, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Megan Wuersching is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Megan Wuersching as Principal at Southern Cross Catholic College. A distinctive detail is that She leads a Prep to Year 12 community built around the motto To Love, To Serve, To Shine. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

28. Timothy Ham

Principal, St Joseph’s Catholic School

Timothy Ham is the Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic School in The Strand, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Timothy Ham is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Timothy Ham as Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic School. A distinctive detail is that He leads a school proudly established as the first Catholic school in Townsville in 1873. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

29. Tracy Nuttall

Principal, St Joseph’s Catholic School

Tracy Nuttall is the Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic School in Mundingburra, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Tracy Nuttall is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Tracy Nuttall as Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic School. A distinctive detail is that She leads a school established in 1924 that continues to describe love as service at the centre of its community life. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

30. Rodney Lane

Principal, St Mary’s Catholic School

Rodney Lane is the Principal at St Mary’s Catholic School in Bowen, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Rodney Lane is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Rodney Lane as Principal at St Mary’s Catholic School. A distinctive detail is that He leads a school founded in 1872 that is described as the first Catholic school established in the Townsville Diocese. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

31. Kathleen McCarthy

Principal, St Margaret Mary’s College

Kathleen McCarthy is the Principal at St Margaret Mary’s College in Hyde Park, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Kathleen McCarthy is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Kathleen McCarthy as Principal at St Margaret Mary’s College. A distinctive detail is that She leads Townsville’s girls only secondary college, where participation, service and student leadership are central themes. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

32. Mardi Grubba

Principal, Mary Help of Christians Catholic College

Mardi Grubba is the Principal at Mary Help of Christians Catholic College in Shaw, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Mardi Grubba is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Mardi Grubba as Principal at Mary Help of Christians Catholic College. A distinctive detail is that She leads a coeducational secondary college that opened its doors to Year 7 students in 2025. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

33. Paul Martin

Principal, Holy Spirit Catholic School

Paul Martin is the Principal at Holy Spirit Catholic School in Cranbrook, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Paul Martin is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Paul Martin as Principal at Holy Spirit Catholic School. A distinctive detail is that He leads one of Townsville’s oldest and largest Catholic primary schools, with more than 750 students from Prep to Year 6. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

34. Helen Wade

Principal, St Clare’s Catholic School

Helen Wade is the Principal at St Clare’s Catholic School in Burdell, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Helen Wade is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Helen Wade as Principal at St Clare’s Catholic School. A distinctive detail is that She leads St Clare’s Catholic School, a community connected with St Anthony’s Catholic College through the St Anthony’s Parish. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

35. Kylie Helmore

Principal, Marian Catholic School

Kylie Helmore is the Principal at Marian Catholic School in Currajong, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Kylie Helmore is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Townsville Catholic Education source records Kylie Helmore as Principal at Marian Catholic School. A distinctive detail is that She leads a school whose motto calls students to strive for love and peace. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

36. Nicole Anderson

Principal, St Paul’s Catholic Primary School

Nicole Anderson is the Principal at St Paul’s Catholic Primary School in Gracemere, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Nicole Anderson is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Nicole Anderson as Principal at St Paul’s Catholic Primary School. A distinctive detail is that She stepped up from Assistant Principal Curriculum and has made high expectations, teacher capacity and authentic Catholic identity key focus areas. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

37. Sheila Challacombe

Principal, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School

Sheila Challacombe is the Principal at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in North Rockhampton, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Sheila Challacombe is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Sheila Challacombe as Principal at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School. A distinctive detail is that She brought a strong focus on inclusive education and differentiated learning when she commenced in 2026. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

38. Lisa O’Brien

Principal, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School

Lisa O’Brien is the Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Clermont, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Lisa O’Brien is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Lisa O’Brien as Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School. A distinctive detail is that She arrived after more than 30 years as a primary teacher and four years as Assistant Principal Religious Education in Gladstone. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

39. Mathew Mills

Principal, St Anne’s Catholic Primary School

Mathew Mills is the Principal at St Anne’s Catholic Primary School in Sarina, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Mathew Mills is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Mathew Mills as Principal at St Anne’s Catholic Primary School. A distinctive detail is that He relocated from New South Wales with his family and began 2026 focused on trust, collaboration and high expectations. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

40. Samantha Suthers

Principal, St Francis Catholic Primary School

Samantha Suthers is the Principal at St Francis Catholic Primary School in Tannum Sands, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Samantha Suthers is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Samantha Suthers as Principal at St Francis Catholic Primary School. A distinctive detail is that She brought 18 years with the Rockhampton Diocese and a strong commitment to student centred learning into the role. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

41. Marie Martin

Principal, Emmaus College

Marie Martin is the Principal at Emmaus College in North Rockhampton, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Marie Martin is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Marie Martin as Principal at Emmaus College. A distinctive detail is that She returned to a Catholic college setting after senior work in Biloela, Monto, Longreach and Emerald. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

42. Paul Poutney

Principal, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School

Paul Poutney is the Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Blackall, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Paul Poutney is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Paul Poutney as Principal at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School. A distinctive detail is that He moved from Melbourne to remote Western Queensland and drew inspiration from the school’s Josephite history. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

43. Karla Falzon

Principal, St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School

Karla Falzon is the Principal at St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School in Rural View, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Karla Falzon is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Karla Falzon as Principal at St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School. A distinctive detail is that She brought 20 years across state and Catholic education and a clear focus on inclusive, holistic and student centred learning. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

44. Janelle Agius

Principal, St Patrick’s College

Janelle Agius is the Principal at St Patrick’s College in Mackay, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Janelle Agius is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Janelle Agius as Principal at St Patrick’s College. A distinctive detail is that She led St Patrick’s College during the transition that brought the former St Patrick’s and Mercy College communities together. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

45. Michael Roach

Principal, St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School

Michael Roach is the Principal at St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School in North Rockhampton, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Michael Roach is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton source records Michael Roach as Principal at St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School. A distinctive detail is that He was pictured welcoming an international education immersion that explored student wellbeing, safety and inclusive classroom practice. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

46. Stephen Koch

Principal, Downlands College

Stephen Koch is the Principal at Downlands College in Toowoomba, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Stephen Koch is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Downlands College source records Stephen Koch as Principal at Downlands College. A distinctive detail is that He leads the only Prep to Year 12 independent Catholic day and boarding school on the Darling Downs. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

47. Peter Cuskelly

Principal, Our Lady of the Southern Cross College

Peter Cuskelly is the Principal at Our Lady of the Southern Cross College in Dalby, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Peter Cuskelly is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools source records Peter Cuskelly as Principal at Our Lady of the Southern Cross College. A distinctive detail is that He leads a Prep to Year 12 college formed when two historic Dalby Catholic schools unified in 2008. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

48. Brendan Stewart

Principal, St Mary’s College

Brendan Stewart is the Principal at St Mary’s College in Toowoomba, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Brendan Stewart is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools source records Brendan Stewart as Principal at St Mary’s College. A distinctive detail is that He leads a Catholic school for boys from Years 5 to 12 with a stated focus on holistic education. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

49. Louise Pfingst

Principal, St Thomas More’s Primary School

Louise Pfingst is the Principal at St Thomas More’s Primary School in Toowoomba, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Louise Pfingst is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools source records Louise Pfingst as Principal at St Thomas More’s Primary School. A distinctive detail is that She leads a school focused on spiritual, intellectual, emotional, social and physical development from Prep to Year 6. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

50. Jessica Wade

Principal, St Saviour’s College

Jessica Wade is the Principal at St Saviour’s College in Toowoomba, Queensland. Their role sits at the point where learning, faith, staff culture and family partnership meet. That makes their work relevant beyond one campus. In a Queensland Catholic school, a principal has to hold a clear sense of purpose while responding to the practical needs of students, teachers and families. Jessica Wade is one of the leaders worth noticing because their current role places them close to the everyday work of building a school community that can learn, serve and grow together.

The official Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools source records Jessica Wade as Principal at St Saviour’s College. A distinctive detail is that She leads one of Toowoomba’s oldest schools, a girls college established in 1873. That detail gives a useful window into the kind of leadership this school community needs. It also shows why this list is best used as a starting point for further learning. Read the official source to check the current role and learn more about the school’s context.

What these leaders show us

Taken together, these leaders show that there is no single Queensland model of Catholic school leadership. Some are leading long established schools with deep local history. Others are opening new campuses, guiding growth or stepping into a role during a year of change. The strongest common thread is attention to relationships. Learning improves when students are known, staff are supported and families can see how the school’s purpose shapes everyday choices.

How to use this list

Use this list as a starting point for learning, connection and professional curiosity. If you work in education, choose two or three leaders whose context is different from your own and compare the challenges they are addressing. If you are planning a school event or leadership program, verify the current role on the official school or diocesan page before reaching out. A list can help you notice people, but the person’s current work and the needs of your own community should guide the next step.

Frequently asked questions

How were these Queensland Catholic school principals chosen?

The names were selected from official diocesan, Catholic education system and school pages checked in August 2026. The list is designed for discovery and professional learning, not as a league table or award.

Does this list cover every Catholic school in Queensland?

No. Queensland has a large Catholic education network, and this is a curated list of 50 current principals across several regions. It is a useful starting point, not a complete directory.

Why include regional and remote school leaders?

Regional and remote principals often lead schools that are central to the life of their communities. Their work shows how school leadership changes with local history, distance, enrolment size and community needs.

How can I check whether a role is still current?

Open the official source linked in each profile and check the school or education system page before relying on the information. Leadership roles can change during a school year.

Can Jonno White help with school leadership work?

Yes. Jonno works with school leadership teams on practical culture, communication, accountability and Working Genius conversations. Email jonno@consultclarity.org to ask for a written proposal.

Conclusion

Queensland Catholic school principals lead at the meeting point of people, purpose and place. These 50 leaders show the range of that work across metropolitan, regional and remote communities. Follow the official sources, learn from the challenges each school is working through and keep asking what helps students, staff and families flourish together.

Related reading

For more practical leadership examples, read 27 Best PD Providers for Catholic Schools in Australia and 33 Inspiring School Leaders Building Staff Culture.

Need help turning leadership ideas into practice?

Jonno White helps leaders build organisations people would move cities to work at. He facilitates practical leadership keynotes, Working Genius workshops and team conversations that help people understand how they work together.

If your leadership team is working through culture, communication or accountability questions, email jonno@consultclarity.org to ask about a written proposal.

About the author

Jonno White is a Brisbane-based leadership consultant, keynote speaker and Certified Working Genius Facilitator, and the author of Step Up or Step Out. He works with schools, corporates and nonprofits around the world. To enquire about a keynote, workshop or facilitated leadership session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.