Meet The Staff
We’re excited to meet you!
Meet Our Staff
At the top of the list when measuring the quality of a school has to be the quality of the teaching staff. We are beyond fortunate to have a team of teachers truly dedicated to positive outcomes for all children.
Meet our teachers below!
Leadership & Administration
Melanie Daly
Principal (Email: mdaly@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
Every day, I’m excited to come to St Brigid’s, a place that has been my second home for over 15 years. Our strong bonds are the heart of what makes our community truly special.
At St Brigid’s, every child and family member is cherished for the unique gifts they bring. We lift each other up, inspire growth, and nurture the talents that make us who we are. I’m incredibly passionate about empowering young people to take bold action in our world, and I feel truly blessed to work alongside so many amazing students and staff.
When I’m not at school, you’ll find me enjoying quality time with my family, out on the golf course, or soaking up the beauty of nature. I can’t wait to continue this journey with you all, making every day at St Brigid’s an extraordinary adventure!
What I believe about education;
Education is about empowering people; to know themselves, each other and the world better. The 21st century needs people who learn independently and collaboratively, who are open minded and creative, discerning and critical thinkers who can transfer their knowledge and apply skills in different contexts, who understand the process of learning and the strengths and weaknesses they bring to them, and who have the dispositions for the common good. It is about educating the whole person, developing emotional intelligence, spiritual connection, physical health and wellbeing, and worldly understandings. Educated, empathetic and empowered people are motivated to use their developed skills and dispositions to work productively with others, as active global citizens, to create a fair, equitable and sustainable world.
Throughout my many years in education, I have had the opportunity to take on various roles and am always learning. I love being part of the students’ learning journeys, amazed by their curious minds and how they find wonder in everything. I’m passionate about children’s literacy and helping them develop a love for reading and writing. St.Brigid’s is a place where students grow together in friendship, develop as individuals and as learners and feel part of a community.
Keena Lane-Kerton
Deputy Principal and Literacy Lead (Email: klane-kerton@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
Throughout my many years in education, I have had the opportunity to take on various roles and am always learning. I love being part of the students’ learning journeys, amazed by their curious minds and how they find wonder in everything. I’m passionate about children’s literacy and helping them develop a love for reading and writing. St.Brigid’s is a place where students grow together in friendship, develop as individuals and as learners and feel part of a community.
Petrina O'Grady
Deputy Principal, Learning and Teaching Leader, Mathematics and Wellbeing Leader (Email: pogrady@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
Education is my passion because I believe in the power of lifelong learning. Each day presents a new opportunity to discover, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment. Having my two children at my school enriches my experience, allowing me to be part of a vibrant community of faith-filled individuals. I am continually inspired by those around me, learning from their diverse perspectives and experiences.
My goal is to nurture the whole child, recognizing the importance of academic, social, mental, and physical development. In fostering a holistic approach to education, I aspire to create a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere where every child can flourish. This commitment to comprehensive growth ensures that we are not just educating students but preparing them to be well-rounded, compassionate, and capable individuals ready to face the world.
Lisa Wilson
Administration (Email: lwilson@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I have been part of St Brigid’s community since 2009 and have enjoyed every day.
When we enrol a child into St Brigid’s, we enrol the whole family. It’s wonderful to be part of such a kind and inclusive community.
You will find me in the office taking care of business Wednesday to Friday.
Outside of school I enjoy going on long walks, wine tasting, eating out and shopping for shoes and handbags!
Teresa Pierobon
Administration (Email: office@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I was lucky enough to join the St Brigid’s community in 2021. I love getting to know everyone including students, parents and staff. At St Brigid’s you will find me in the office Monday to Wednesday, looking after anything from school accounts, first aid, enrolments and many other matters to assist the St B’s community. Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my family, taking a Pilates class or enjoying a sweet treat.
Kieran Connell
Essential Services and school policies (Email: kconnell@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
With a steadfast commitment to excellence, I’ve been a dedicated member of St. Brigid’s School since 1990, at this year I manage our school’s Essential Services and oversee policy implementation. My role ensures that the school operates smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a nurturing educational environment.
Outside of work, I indulge in a variety of passions. I’m an avid salami and sausage maker, relishing the art of crafting delicious, homemade delicacies. When I’m not in the kitchen, you’ll find me caravanning and camping across Australia, exploring the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of this vast country.
Grade Prep Teachers
Jess Toniolo
Prep Classroom Teacher
My name is Jess and I am the teacher of Prep JT. I have been a teacher for 11 years, mostly teaching in the prep, junior and middle year levels. I am passionate about having a classroom where everyone feels safe and welcome and looks forward to coming to school. I love creating strong connections with students, parents and the wider St Brigid’s community.
After school, I enjoy riding and spending time with my two horses, Paddy and Tink, walking my Golden Retriever, Teddy and catching up with my friends for dinner.
Perri James
Prep Classroom Teacher
Hi my name is Perri and I am a graduate teacher, working my first year in Prep! It has been a very special experience coming back to the Primary School I attended. This school has such an amazing community feel, where students feel safe, included and their needs are catered for. This close-knit community has allowed me to build strong relationships with staff, students and families. I strive for my classroom to be one that promotes students to learn in an engaging environment, a space where students can be themselves, feel valued and enjoy coming to school each day. Outside of school I love travelling to new places, hanging out with friends and family and playing netball.
Grade 1/2 Teachers
Alex Williams
Junior Classroom Teacher & Religious Education Leader (Email: awilliams@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I joined the St Brigids community in 2022 as a teacher and a parent and love being a part of this small but amazing school. I find being a teacher such a rewarding career. I like to create a safe and fun learning environment where my students can thrive. I believe building strong relationships and trust with my students is key to success.
In my freetime I enjoy playing board games with my family, baking sweet treats and sewing.
Brodie Goricanec
Junior Classroom Teacher (Email: bgoricanec@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
St Brigid’s is an incredible school community that has significantly contributed to my growth and professional learning, shaping me into the educator I am today.
I am dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive and fun learning environment where students can be themselves. I also believe that clear routines and high expectations are essential for helping students achieve their full potential. Building strong relationships with my students and their families is a top priority for me, and I take great pride in knowing each of them, their needs, and their personal interests. The relationships among the staff and our deep community connections make St Brigid’s a very special place to work, grow and learn.
Outside of school, I love all things retail therapy and beauty, trying different brunch spots with my friends, going to the gym, watching the footy, spending time with my dog Ziggy and travelling overseas.
Mariah Plumb
Junior School Classroom Teacher (Email: mplumb@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I love being a part of the St Brigid’s community as it is a welcoming, inclusive and fun place to be. I find immense fulfilment in working at a small school where we can build strong relationships between parents, teachers and the wider community. I believe in creating a nurturing classroom environment where kindness and understanding thrive, enabling each student to flourish academically and personally. It is important to foster connections that inspire and empower students to feel comfortable and reach their full potential. Life’s journey is a path of continuous learning, and I think it’s important to share that mindset to my students. Outside of school I enjoy watching my beloved Bombers play footy, going to the beach, pilates, playing netball and hanging out with my friends and family.
Grade 3/4 Teachers
Luke Carter
Middle School Classroom Teacher (Email: lcarter@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I am very grateful to be a part of the St.Brigid’s community. It is a wonderful place to work and I love the strong values that the school inherits.The kids are always a joy to work with and are so enthusiastic. We also have such a brilliant community where everyone encourages you to be the best version of yourself.
I believe in creating a classroom environment where everyone feels comfortable to have a go. I love seeing kids grow in belief in themselves and seeing the little wins they have each and every day. I feel it is so important to have positive relationships with students and that they get the best out of their learning when they know they are believed in.
In my spare time I like to hang out with my friends, go on hikes, watch the Footy and visit lots of different countries.
Annie Irwin
Middle School Classroom Teacher (Email: airwin@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I am so proud to be part of our St Brigid’s community, where I have been teaching for the past ten years. This school has become a second home to me, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else. The sense of belonging and the strong connections I’ve built with our students, their families and our team, make each day so fulfilling.
I am dedicated to nurturing and supporting every student. Seeing them grow, learn, and achieve their potential makes my heart sing! I believe in creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard, and I strive to create a positive and inclusive space for all.
Outside of school, I enjoy family life with my husband and our two sons. We share a passion for the Tigers and love cheering them on at the ’G’. We also love bushwalking, going to the movies and spending time with our greyhound Brucie, who keeps us active and entertained
Brena Fennelly
Middle School Classroom Teacher (Email: airwin@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
** Currently on Maternity Leave after the birth of beautiful baby Lily! **
Michelle Haller
Middle School Classroom Teacher (Email: coming soon)
Grade 5/6 Teachers
Jayde Turner
Senior School Classroom Teacher (Email: jturner@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I love teaching at St Brigid’s. The school has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, engaging, fun, and resilient environment for my students. Building strong relationships with the St Brigid’s community is incredibly rewarding, and I cherish the connections I make with students, parents, and the fabulous staff members. In my spare time, I enjoy gardening, going for walks or runs, going to the gym, hanging out with friends, and playing with my dogs.
Hayley Milner
Senior School Classroom Teacher (Email: hmilner@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I am so grateful to be a part of such a caring and unique school community at St Brigid’s. I have been fortunate enough to make connections with so many wonderful students, families and staff during my time here, being a part of their journey and having support and friendship along my own. I believe each student should have the opportunity to create positive and lasting memories through education, feel successful in their achievements and be themselves. Every student has so much to offer the world!
I love all things music and dance, enjoy playing netball, and spending time with my friends, family and dogs. I have a passion for food, health and the environment, enjoy travelling and appreciate everything I have gained from the places I’ve visited. I have grown up in the Macedon Ranges, lived in Melbourne and London to study and teach and love being back in a country town. Every day brings something new and I look forward to continuing to strive to inspire and be inspired by those I encounter each day.
Specialised Teachers
Jackie Schober
Visual Arts Teacher & ICT Coordinator (email: jschober@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
Hello! My name is Jackie and I feel so lucky to be a part of the St Brigid’s community. I work with Daniel to coordinate the school’s ICT and I teach Visual Arts as well. In my spare time, I love to be with my family. We love live music, travelling, and watching and playing sports. When I’m not with my family or at school, you’ll find me exploring my creative passions. I enjoy graphic design, photography, and collage. Sparking my own creativity not only brings me joy but also inspires my teaching and helps me bring fresh, innovative ideas into the classroom.
I am passionate about nurturing student voice, creativity and self-expression in my students. I believe that art is a vital part of education, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional growth. I am committed to creating a supportive and stimulating environment where every child feels encouraged to explore their artistic potential. I look forward to continuing to grow and learn with the wonderful students and staff at St Brigid’s, and I am excited about the creative adventures that lie ahead!
Jess Glasson
Physical Education Teacher (Email: jglasson@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I have been a PE teacher for over 10 years and I feel extremely fortunate to work in such a caring and student centred community. I feel very passionately about teaching PE as I believe it is a subject that provides our students with very important life skills. Ones that will help ensure their health and wellbeing long after they leave St Brigids. I work hard to ensure that all PE lessons are supportive, engaging, fun, and a space for students to build their interpersonal skills. Sport is a big part of many of our students’ lives, that is why I love celebrating our little athletes by providing wonderful extension pathways through the interschool sports program.
When I am not teaching I enjoy playing netball, running, camping with my family and waterskiing.
Fumie Cox
Japanese through STEAM Teacher (Email: fcox@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
From childhood of cubby house, music lessons, plays, and shops in the garden in Japan. Fumie Cox began a 20-year career in Australia, teaching Japanese to many children in Primary and Secondary schools.
I am excited to introduce Japanese language and culture. Most of all students enjoy learning through Japanese. To believe every student wants to be good. Then, I can do it! Feeling to have focusing sessions. “Hands-on” such as playing games, singing songs, using flashcards and charts, and gestures in Japanese.
Students will be immersed in STEAM experiences through a Japanese lens.
Learning languages broadens students’ horizons about personal, social, cultural, and employment opportunities in an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world.
Daniel Garcia
Digital Technologies Teacher and ICT Coordinator (Email: dgarcia@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I began my career travelling the world, making video games and toys (very grown-up, I know), working at art galleries and with the AFL (football players are really just like Year 9 boys) and teaching Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary students. Now, I’ve found the best place to be: St B’s.
St B’s is a place where students and teachers can be themselves in a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment (gotta love alliteration). We also have amazing digital tech for students to explore, and give them the freedom to make their own discoveries.
Nadine Lawrence
Performing Arts Teacher (Email: nlawrence@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
Hi, I’m Nadine, and I teach Performing Arts. I am so excited and feel blessed to be able to work with the children at St.Brigids and immerse them in my favorite worlds of both Drama and Music.
Drama education nurtures creativity and thinking skills, it improves communication and expression and builds confidence. Music education has been proven to support self-regulation, and cognitive and intellectual development in children, having a positive flow on effect of their ability to learn in the other areas of the curriculum. Plus, they’re both lots of fun!!
I grew up in the Macedon Ranges and have lived here most of my life and I really look forward to getting to know this lovely St.B’s community which has been so welcoming to me.
When I’m not teaching I enjoy walking amongst trees, yoga, camping with my family, playing piano, singing, watching movies and going to the theatre.
Education Support and Intervention
Chek Stevens
Learning Diversity Leader (Email: cstevens@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I love the community of St Brigid’s. The genuine connectedness between students, staff, families and the wider community makes our school the most wonderfully warm place to grow and learn together. I feel privileged and proud to work in such a supportive, dynamic and inspiring learning environment.
Outside of school I enjoy sports of all sorts and spending time with family and good mates.
Tome Murrone
Pastoral Worker (Email: tmurrone@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
As a dedicated counsellor specialising in social skills development and student well-being, I am committed to fostering positive interactions and personal growth in primary school students. I focus on helping students navigate social challenges and build strong, healthy relationships. My approach combines direct coaching, observational assessments, and interactive activities to ensure students thrive in their social environments.
I continually seek to improve my methods and strive to make a lasting impact on the lives of the students I work with. By nurturing their social skills, I aim to empower them with the confidence and resilience needed to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
Margaret Sacco
Speech Pathologist (Email: msacco@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I have worked as a Speech Pathologist in the north-west for over 17 years in both the Catholic school system and private practice. I am passionate about education, supporting, promoting and advocating for the diverse learning needs of children and their families as well as upskilling and mentoring my fellow educators. My extensive work in Catholic schools has provided me with a strong understanding of the curriculum, experience with various learning and teaching pedagogy, intervention programs and unique skills across all tiers of intervention. I offer extensive clinical skills in assessment, diagnostics and intervention across the areas of literacy, oral language, articulation, fluency/stuttering and pragmatic language (social communication). Witnessing children reach their full potential and thrive in their learning is what continues to drive me in my work! I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at St. Brigid’s so far and I look forward to continuing my support of this beautiful school with a huge heart!
I live locally in Gisborne with my husband and our three gorgeous boys. I enjoy soccer, spending time with my family, pottering around on our farm, cooking, eating, gardening, and catching up with friends.
Emma & Lulu Barker
Enhancement Teacher, Community Engagement Leader, Religious Education Leader (Email: emmabarker@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I love my St. Brigid’s family. As a past student, an involved parent of over 14 years and a teacher, I am a very proud and passionate member of our beautiful community. I could not have wished for a more loving and supportive environment for both myself and my children to learn and grow. Four of my children attended St B’s and each one of them has been loved, nurtured, understood, challenged and embraced for being themselves. They were able to let their great qualities show and build confidence in a small school which goes above and beyond to cater for all the passions and interests of our varied students. Now I am also fortunate enough to be the adoring owner of our school wellbeing dog Lulu, or my 6th baby. She too has been lovingly embraced and once again extended patience and understanding to help her connect and grow within her community. My bucket gets filled everyday witnessing the interactions she has with members of our community who are uplifted by her presence and proud of the connections she has made with so many.
I have held many different roles in my time at St. Brigid’s and in each one I have learnt so much from the students, staff and families I get to connect with. The people in our community are what makes it so unique and my relationships with each of them is what I hold most dear. I never know what each day will bring in our dynamic community but I know I always walk away enriched by my daily dealings with those I am fortunate enough to encounter.
Stephanie Briggs
Middle School Classroom Teacher (Email sbriggs@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
It is an honour to be a part of the St Brigid’s community. I take my job very seriously, but despite my great effort and my good intentions, I sometimes fumble. I was not a perfect student and I don’t expect my students to be. We all learn differently. I encourage those I teach to help me understand how they learn best. I pride myself on knowing an individual’s dreams inside and outside of school. I try to connect with them, for that is where one will find the true joy in learning. I have been teaching locally in the Macedon Ranges for ten years and thoroughly enjoy my role as an enhancement and numeracy intervention teacher at St B’s. I have completed teaching rounds in Western Australia and the Northern Territory, with a great love for Indigenous culture and life. I live in Woodend with my partner Dev, our daughter August who is 7 and a menagerie of pets. Some of my very favourite activities include gardening, bushwalking, bingeing a thriller and reading. I really enjoy spending my weekends exploring new and old places and going on adventures with my family. I hope that alongside the school community, I can ensure my students have a truly remarkable education at St Brigid’s, as I embrace my fifth year at our school wholeheartedly, with passion and the willingness to grow.
Robyn Delaney
Education Support & Literacy Intervention (Email: rdelaney@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
Hi, I’m Robyn and I’m a Learning Support Officer here at St. Brigid’s. I love the sense of belonging and community felt here, built by the relationships between students, staff and families. I believe this is St. Brigid’s greatest strength, one reason my children attended the school and why I’ve been here since 2000.
At St. Brigid’s we truly know our students – their individual needs, learning styles, motivators, likes and dislikes and their abilities. Our teamwork creates successful partnerships and improves the learning outcomes for all students – whatever their starting point.
I encourage each student’s personal belief in their ability to succeed – so that they are engaged and feel they belong, in an environment which is both playful and yet challenging.
When I’m not at St. Brigid’s, I enjoy being with my family and friends, and getting away in the bush camping and getting back to nature.
Leanne Humphreys
Education Support (Email: lhumphreys@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I have been at St Brigid’s since 2020 as an Education Support Officer. I have an Associate Degree in Education Studies. I love working in the Seniors classroom and enjoy working with children in small literacy groups. I am passionate about seeking out the strengths in each child. Outside of St B’s you will find me in my garden, organising trips away, at yoga or reading the latest fiction crime thriller.
Natasha Jolly
Education Support Officer
Tanya Modola
Hi my name is Tanya, I’ve been working as an Education Support Officer at St Brigids since 2022. You will find me in the Junior area where I just love being with our younger students. I have been working with children for the past ten years with different ages and various roles. Before coming to St Brigids I was a lead Educator of a local three year old kinder, co lead with Tash who is also working with the Juniors. I have also worked with Leanne as an ESO at another local primary school. We have all joined the St Brigids team and became a part of the St Brigids family. As an educator I am passionate about supporting students with their learning and building relationships with them. I also love to be creative so you might offen find me in the Art room along side the children exploring the wide variety of resources St Brigids has to offer.
I have lived locally in Gisborne for the last eight years with my Husband and Two children. I enjoy spending time with my family camping or going on beach holidays and I enjoy spending time in my garden.
Genevieve Serong
Education Support Officer
Hi, I’m Gen and I have been working as an educational support officer and the Japanese class assistant at St Brigids since 2021. I hold a Diploma in education and have over 7 years of experience working in kindergartens and primary school. I have loved becoming a part of the St Brigid’s community and enjoy every day of being able to support our students as they grow and learn.
Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my family, taking my two dogs to the beach and exploring other countries on my holidays.
Kylie Vacirca
Education Support Officer
St. Brigid’s is such a warm and welcoming community that I am so grateful to be a part of. Being able to make a positive impact in a child’s life is something truly special. It brings me joy every day to be supporting our wonderful students and staff.
I try my best to create a warm, supportive and inclusive environment for all students. I love seeing the children learn, grow and achieve their personal best whilst having a laugh along the way!
Outside of school I enjoy gardening, baking and watching movies. I love spending time with my family, including my furbabies, Roxy and Taco.
Susan Cairns
Education Support Officer
Hi, I’m Susan and I am an Education Support Officer in the Senior Hub. I was fortunate to be offered a position at St. Brigid’s whilst completing placement in 2021 and enjoyed the first few years supporting junior classes.
I consider myself lucky to be part of a little school with a big heart, where every student is valued equally, differences are embraced and all successes celebrated.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, going to the football and gardening.
Mick Day
Education Support Officer
Here at St Brigid’s School, I am thrilled to work full-time as an Education Support Officer. My role involves assisting teachers across Grades 1-6, providing targeted literacy intervention for students in Grades 3-6, and supporting the school’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content and programs. I also have the pleasure of teaching chess during second play on Mondays and Tuesdays in the Learning Street, sharing my passion for the game with our students. Recently, I began collaborating with four enthusiastic students to paint Lulu’s House, a creative project that has brought us all a great deal of joy.
Michelle Beven
Education Support Officer / Pastoral Care Officer: (Email: jlunn@sbgisborne.catholic.edu.au)
I have been lucky enough to be part of the St Brigid’s community since 2023. I love how supportive and inclusive our school is. I really enjoy working with and supporting our students, seeing them become happy and confident members of our school community.
Outside of school I am a proud Mum, who spends most of her spare time supporting my kids with their after school activities and sports. I also enjoy being creative, catching up with friends or pottering around our farm with our horses and dogs.
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