Celebrating decades of commitment to schools
TOOWOOMBA Catholic Schools have recognised those staff throughout the diocese who have achieved a significant tenure within the organisation.
Each year during Catholic Education Week they acknowledge those who have given 20, 25, 30 ,35, 40 and 45 years of service, whether this has been in the Toowoomba diocese or across other Catholic dioceses within Australia.
Two of the Toowoomba diocese’s staff are celebrating 40 years of service this year.
One of those people is Alwyn Rix.
Alwyn has been teaching in Catholic education for the past 40 years and for 36 of those years he has been at St Mary’s College Toowoomba. During this time, Alwyn has held many middle leader positions, including head of department – technology and Year 10 co-ordinator.
Alwyn regularly volunteers to assist at barbcues, breakfasts and other social events at St Mary’s College and has initiated and participated in many camps, retreats and excursions, including the Japanese tour and European history Tour.
One of Alwyn’s proudest initiatives is establishing sailing at the college.
Nicole Davies is the other teacher celebrating 40 years with Catholic education. Nicole has spent the past 30 years at St Joseph’s College Toowoomba and is currently the middle leader for science. Nicole is a passionate biologist and energetic teacher.
St Saviour’s Primary School has three staff members who are being recognised with a Long Service Award.
Assistant principal religious education Judy Smith celebrates 35 years, principal Madonna Sleba celebrates 30 years and Shelley Murphy will receive an award for 20 years of service.
Madonna has worked within the Catholic education system in the Archdiocese of Brisbane and in Toowoomba Catholic schools for 25 years.
Shelley has been a school officer at St Saviour’s Primary School for 20 years.
Brian Cantwell is celebrating 25 years teaching at St Joseph’s College. Brian is the middle leader of design technology.
Scott Edwards and Jaye Singleton are being acknowledged for 20 years’ service. Scott and Jaye have worked at St Joseph’s College for their entire service. Jaye is a teacher aide who has worked in many areas of the college. Scott is passionate about sport and students’ personal growth through sport and is also a pastoral leader.