School Council

Introducing our 2026 School Council Members

Brett Fairbank - President

"I joined the school council in 2024 to give back to the school community that my daughter and son benefit from and enjoy being part of. I’m a Partner at a management consulting firm specialising in customer experience, and am passionate about children's education, having worked in the sector for 10 years." 

Anton Freischmidt - Vice President  

"I’m a strong advocate for life-long learning and continue to be amazed seeing our kids learn. I’m looking forward to working on the School Council to help make our great school even better. As an engineer I'm extra excited for the growth of our STEM specialist program."

Liam Gaunt - Secretary

We feel lucky to be part of the school. We have two children at the school and two more on the way. So, it's fair to say we are well and truly invested in its future!

The school is a real part of what makes Newport the strong community it is. I am keen to help protect that character while supporting the school to evolve, adapt and do right by its families and staff.

I'm a commercial and technology lawyer by trade, and over the years I've been fortunate to work with boards and committees across different sectors. I've learnt what I think helps community-centred organisations thrive: good listening, strong planning, and people pulling in the same direction to get the right things done. 

I'm looking forward to contributing where I can, while continuing to learn about the school.

Leah Campbell - Treasurer

"I strongly believe that schools and their structure are so important to our developing children. I have had the privilege of assisting the Finance sub-Committee with its budgeting and strategy decisions for the past 3 years, leveraging my experience and qualifications as a Chartered Accountant, and look forward to doing so again in 2024."

Ben Houkamau - Facilities Sub Committee

"As a parent of two children at NLPS, I joined the Council to support and advance the school in any way I can—whether drawing on my management consulting experience or rolling up my sleeves for a working bee. I'm particularly passionate about enhancing outdoor spaces where kids can play and thrive."

Sarah Keenan - Facilities Sub Committee

I’m a long‑time supporter of our school community and the proud parent of two children currently at the school. Being involved in school life and contributing to a positive, welcoming environment for all families is something I genuinely enjoy.

In my professional life, I’m a family lawyer and partner in a Melbourne law firm. I hope that my experience in communication, problem‑solving, and navigating complex situations will be useful to the council as we work together to support the school’s goals.

Joseph Cavallaro - Policy Sub Committee

"I am passionate about our community. I joined the council to contribute to a collaborative and inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and supported. Leveraging my skills in strategy, innovation and delivery; I’m committed to making a positive impact on our school."

Steve Fuller - Finance Sub Committee 

Our family is well and truly invested in the future of Newport Lakes Primary. With one daughter having already come through the school, one currently attending, and another yet to start, we have been part of this community for years and will be for many more to come.

In my professional life, I am a Chartered Accountant. I hope that my background in finance will be a practical asset and I’m looking forward to assisting in any way that I can be helpful.

Heidi James - DET Representative

Heidi is the Teacher/DET Representative on the School Council for 2026. 

With 15 years as an active part of the school community - first as a parent, then as a teacher for the past 7 years - Heidi is a dedicated member of the Newport school and broader community. Heidi's varied life experiences lend depth to her teaching approach, having lived in many places across Australia and overseas, and a diverse professional background before retraining as a teacher in her late 30s. As the Teacher Rep, Heidi looks forward to listening to the diverse voices around the Council table and contributing her perspective to discussions and decisions that support the school's students, families, and staff.

Mat Williamson - Assistant Principal DET Member

Policy & Facilities Sub Committees

Carly Bannon - Principal DET Member

Finance & Facilities Sub Committees