Welcome - New Staff
Meet our new Enrolments Officer, Carmel!
We are pleased to introduce Carmel Arnol, our new Enrolments Officer, who brings both a strong sense of community and a genuine care for families to her role. Born and raised in Mareeba, she has a deep connection to the town and proudly chose to raise her own family here, with the lifestyle and sense of belonging making Mareeba such a special place for her.
In her role within school administration, Carmel enjoys the opportunity to connect with families and provide meaningful support. She takes pride in helping make each family’s experience positive and stress‑free, particularly during what can be a big and sometimes overwhelming transition into school life.
As Enrolments Officer, she supports families from the very first enquiry through to a student’s first day at school and beyond. Her focus is on ensuring families feel informed, comfortable, and genuinely welcome at every stage of the process. She believes that taking the time to get to know each family and their individual circumstances is the most important part of enrolments, allowing her to provide relevant information and ensure a smooth and positive transition into the school community.
When asked about what stood out to her when first joining St Stephen's Catholic College, Carmel says,
'I was immediately struck by how friendly and inviting the staff are, which creates such a warm and supportive atmosphere', going on to say, 'what I enjoy most is how much it truly feels like a community, where everyone is welcoming, supportive, and connected'.
Carmel's message to current and prospective families is simple and heartfelt: she is here to help. Families are encouraged to reach out with any questions, knowing she will do her best to assist and, if needed, find the right answers for them. In her own words, her aim is to be approachable and supportive, helping families feel comfortable, informed, and cared for every step of the way.
Outside of work, Carmel enjoys spending quality time outdoors with her family and their dog. Whether it’s relaxing at home or heading out to explore together, she values the opportunity to slow down and enjoy time with those closest to her.
Welcome, Carmel!
Meet our new Student Diversity Officer, Sandie!
We are also delighted to welcome Sandie Torchio to the St Stephen’s Catholic College community. With seven years’ experience in a similar administrative role, Sandie brings a strong passion for supporting students and families, as well as a genuine commitment to education and inclusion.
In her role within the Student Diversity team, she provides essential administrative support to ensure students, families, and staff feel well supported. She is particularly looking forward to becoming part of the St Stephen’s Catholic College community and contributing positively to the important work of the Student Diversity team.
Sandie says,
'I’m excited to be part of St Stephen’s Catholic College, particularly its commitment to integrity, compassion, and excellence, and its focus on supporting the whole student.'
Adding,
'I appreciate how calm, respectful, and inclusive the community is. It creates a very positive environment for both staff and students. The welcoming atmosphere and the helpful, supportive staff really stood out to me straight away.
Sandie hopes to build strong relationships with families and students, and her approach to her role can be summed up simply: she leads with kindness, respect, and a genuine commitment to supporting students, families, and staff.
Outside of work, Sandie enjoys cooking, shopping, and spending quality time with her family, interests that reflect the warm, family‑focused values she brings into her professional life as well.
Welcome, Sandie!
We are also excited to welcome four new staff for our tuckshop: Rebecca Campbell, Ashlee Reid, Janette Woodward and Myra VanOrnum Deyden. We also welcome our new Food and Textile Officer, Marlene Ruge.