Message from the Principal

Earlier this week, I was pleased to share with staff that Mick Baker, a longstanding Deputy Principal at Balmoral has been successful in a statewide merit selection process. Mick has been appointed as Principal of Senior Secondary at Indooroopilly State High School and will commence his permanent role at the beginning of Term 3.

While we will certainly miss Mick’s leadership and presence at Balmoral, this appointment is richly deserved and reflects the outstanding contribution he has made to our school and the broader community. On behalf of the Balmoral team, I extend my sincere congratulations and wish Mick every success in this exciting next chapter.

As we prepare for a busy Term 3, particularly a period of heightened communication with students and families in senior, it is essential that our Senior Secondary portfolio continues to be led with expertise and consistency. To support this, I have worked closely with Executive Principal Sheena from Indooroopilly State High School to arrange for Peter Whitby from Indro to join us for Term 3.

Peter brings extensive experience, currently serving as Acting Year 12 Deputy Principal, where he supports over 400 students. He has also held the roles of Acting Year 11 Deputy Principal and other Deputy Principal portfolios at Indooroopilly, with his substantive position being Head of Department – Senior Secondary. Peter’s depth of knowledge will provide valuable continuity and stability while a statewide recruitment process is undertaken later in term 3.

I am very grateful to Peter for stepping into this role and supporting both Sarah and me, particularly as we continue to work closely with some of our more complex senior families and ensure strong support structures for all students.

I would also like to acknowledge that Alyce Goodacre, Head of Department – Technologies, commenced maternity leave today. We wish her all the very best as she begins this exciting new chapter. In her absence, I am pleased to share that Sarushan Moodley, currently Shadow Head of Department, Technologies at Springfield Central State High School, will be joining us next term. I would also like to extend my thanks to Emma Swindley for her support of the faculty during this transition.

It is always energising to welcome new staff and continue strengthening the positive learning culture that defines Balmoral State High School. Today was a highlight, with our Year 9 Market Day bringing learning to life through an authentic business experience. Students engaged in entrepreneurial thinking, gaining valuable insight into profit, loss, and the realities of operating a small business. It was wonderful to see their creativity and enthusiasm on display.

Looking ahead, next Tuesday our Year 12 leaders will be hosting a fundraising event in support of the Black Dog Institute. As part of their campaign, staff will be participating in a “Soak the Staff” activity that will bring plenty of excitement and of course some very wet colleagues.

To further support this important cause, we will also be holding a free dress day next Tuesday, with students encouraged to wear black and orange to raise awareness and bring a gold coin donation. I am certain our social media channels will capture some memorable moments from what promises to be a fun and meaningful day.

Thank you for your continued support of our school and our students.

Timothy Barraud

Principal