Principal Update
Message from the Principal
This week has been filled with celebration, connection, and forward planning as we continue to build on the success of our Balmoral community.
Our Football and Netball Academy Awards were a highlight, recognising the dedication, teamwork, and outstanding achievements of our student athletes. The energy in the room reflected both pride in this year’s accomplishments and excitement for what’s ahead in the 2025 sporting year.
We were honoured to welcome Matt McKay as our special guest presenter. Matt shared reflections on his leadership journey, his drive to compete among the world’s elite, and the mindset required to perform at the highest level. A former Brisbane Roar captain, Matt holds the club record for league appearances (272) and famously led the Roar to their first-ever A-League Championship and Premiership in the 2010–11 season. His message of perseverance, humility, and teamwork resonated deeply with our students and staff alike.
This week also marked the announcement of our 2026 House Captains. These emerging leaders joined me for their first leadership workshop on Thursday, where together we began co-designing our Student Congress for next year.
The Congress will bring students together from across the school to gather feedback, discuss key priorities, and lead solutions-focused initiatives aimed at enhancing the student experience.
Our 2026 House Captains are as followed:
Coffey: Lincoln Clark, Bowie Webb
Toyne: Jackson Dunford, Dakota Liddell
Tunstall: Nala Milani, Oliver Davis
Wilson: Cleo Gricks, Lily Cooper-Sio-Lokam
In addition, our school had the privilege of connecting with Anthony Lee, Director of Australian Country Choice (ACC). Students and staff gained valuable insight into the ethical and operational complexities of managing a large-scale agricultural enterprise based right here in Morningside. The discussion highlighted ACC’s strong culture of sustainability, innovation, and excellence, along with their deep commitment to developing future talent.
We are thrilled that ACC will join us for our upcoming Industry and Pathway LunchBox Sessions, coordinated by our Guidance Officers Kate Niland and Helen Martschinke.
These sessions will explore the breadth of career pathways within this dynamic industry—from digital engineering, systems and data analytics to electrical trades and production operations. We look forward to continuing to build partnerships with local industry leaders to create forward-thinking opportunities that inspire our students and connect their learning to the world beyond school.
Thank you to all staff, students, and partners who continue to make Balmoral such an inspiring place to learn and lead.
Regards,
Timothy Barraud
Principal