Our Expert Teachers

Elissa Andrews

Dean of Faith & Mission

With more than 20 years teaching experience, Elissa is a joyful, passionate and dedicated educator who has taught and formed the lives thousands of young people across North Queensland. Having previously taught at Marian Catholic School in Townsville and St Kieran’s Catholic School in Mt Isa, Elissa joined St Patrick’s College Townsville in 2020. She has a passion for the key curriculum areas of Religious Education, English and the Arts. Her classes are engaging, and students are encouraged to find success in a supportive, creative environment. Although Elissa spent several years abroad teaching in London, she is a local at heart. As a busy mother of four, she enjoys those brief spare moments relaxing on The Strand.

Tiffany Apap

Religion Faculty

Tiffany is an experienced educator of Religion, Humanities, and English at a range of different year levels. She holds a Bachelor of Social Science, a Diploma of Secondary Education (Major in History and Minor in English), and holds a Certificate IV in Christian Ministry and Theology.

Tiffany takes care to teach students in a holistic manner, providing them with knowledge to incorporate Catholic values into their everyday lives.

In her spare time Tiffany enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and looking after her plants!

Jojo Butler

Head of Dramatic Arts, Dance & Performance

Dance has always been a big part of the St Patrick's College Townsville extracurricular life, but with a purpose built Dance space, we can now offer it as part of the curriculum. Jojo Butler's vast experience in Performing Arts, and her particular passion for Dance, make her the perfect candidate for building this subject across all year levels. Jojo has a Bachelor of Arts from QUT, majoring in Dance and Drama. For 13 years, she danced professionally with Carnival Cruise Lines and the Integrated Contemporary Company, "Full Radius Dance". She has also worked as a freelance choreographer, personal trainer and Pilates instructor. Teaching and empowering students through the Arts is Jojo's passion. She willingly shares her expertise and love of the form, believing that it not only enriches the soul, but makes a positive difference in the development of a healthy mind and strong body. 

Kelli Chapman

Head of Faculty - Humanities

Over the past 17 years, Kelli has held several key roles at St Patrick’s College Townsville, including Pastoral Coordinator for Years 10 - 12. As Head of Faculty – Humanities, she is particularly passionate about women’s and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history. She utilises creative pedagogy to keep students motivated and engaged. To that end, in 2019, Kelli presented at the Queensland History Teachers Association state conference about how popular music can be used to engage History students. With a Bachelor of Human Movement Science, Kelli has also taught Dance and HPE.

Thomas Collett

Science & Mathematics Faculties

Thomas first pursued a career in Psychology where he worked as a rehabilitation counsellor in Melbourne. However, his passion for Mathematics prompted a career change, and Thomas relocated to Townsville where he completed his Bachelor of Education majoring in Mathematics and Chemistry. After completing a highly successful practical placement at St Patrick’s College Townsville in 2019, Thomas was welcomed back to the College upon his graduation. In his spare time, Thomas maintains a very healthy and active lifestyle but also enjoys playing the odd videogame.

Jacinta Collings

Head of Faculty - Religion

Joining our College community from 2021 as Head of Faculty – Religion, Jacinta brings considerable experience as a middle leader and as a passionate teacher of senior Religion and English. Jacinta has led large departments during her career as an educator, most recently as a Careers and Vocational Education Curriculum Leader and Acting Curriculum Leader of English. Jacinta has also carried out a variety of pastoral leadership roles over the years. With a wonderful balance of both pastoral and curriculum middle leadership experience, Jacinta is an invaluable member of our College Curriculum Team and our Expert Teaching team.

John Dyer

Music Faculty

Raised and educated in Townsville, John cannot remember a time in his life without music. In 2020, John completed a teaching placement at the College, impressing all with his positivity and good nature; we are thrilled to welcome him back as a full-time teacher.  

A talented musician and performer, John will be an invaluable asset to the Music and Performance Department.

Shari Finlay

Dean of Wellbeing

With 15 years’ experience in education, Shari has taught in Richmond, Emerald and Townsville. As well teaching Mathematics and Science, Shari has worked in Boarding and coached School Netball for many years. She loves sharing in learning experiences with students and thrives on being able to ignite their passion for knowledge. In taking on the role of Head of Faculty – Science, Shari wants to continue to build and promote the community of Science enthusiasts at St Patrick’s College Townsville. In particular, she is very excited about playing a part in the growth and development of future female scientists. Shari and her husband can often be found watching live sport or cheering on their two children from the sidelines.

Camille Flores

Head of Department - Hospitality & Functions

Acting Head of Careers and Vocational Education & Training

Camille's upbringing in a family that successfully operated hospitality businesses instilled in her a natural passion for the Hospitality Industry and Management. Alongside her Graduate Diploma of Teaching and Learning, Camille holds a Bachelor of Business majoring in Human Resources Management, as well as certifications in Certificate IV Training and Assessment and Certificate III Food and Beverage. Camille's students receive instructions to learn food preparation techniques and develop an appreciation for refined and unique flavour combinations. With extensive experience in hospitality, management, recruitment, and HR, Camille is excited to share her knowledge and passion in guiding students with their Career Development options.

Merryn Gale

Mathematics Faculty

Growing up in East Gippsland, Victoria, Merryn loved Mathematics from an early age. She obtained a first class honours degree in Pure Mathematics and after spending time in schools with her four children, realised teaching was something that came naturally to her.

Merryn has over 10 years’ experience in various schools teaching a broad range abilities, and hopes to share her enjoyment of Mathematics with her students.

Anna Grace

Inclusive Education - Program Leader

Meet our dedicated Inclusive Education Program Leader, Ms Anna Grace. With a profound commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity within the College, Anna brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate heart to our community. 

With more than 20 years experience in education, Anna firmly believes that every student deserves an equitable and enriching learning experience. As our Program Leader, Anna will leAd the charge in creating an educational environment where every student feels valued, empowered, and supported to reach her full potential.

In her spare time Anna loves travelling, spending time with family & friends, and playing sport - particularly swimming or indoor netball!

Johnathon Goulter

Head of Faculty - Music & Performance

As the Head of Faculty - Music and Performance at St Patrick’s College Townsville, John leads a Kodály-inspired curriculum from Years 7-12. He has undertaken continued service-learning projects with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community groups, leading to presentations for Kodály QLD, National Conferences, and the International Kodály Symposium and publication in the Bulletin of the International Kodály Society. Having completed his undergraduate teacher and music education at the Australian Catholic University, John continued to develop his understanding of the Kodály Concept by completing the Australian Kodály Certificate (Secondary) at the Cuskelly College of Music Summer Schools.

John is currently studying a Master of Music in Music Education with Kodály Emphasis at Holy Names University, California. He has a keen interest in practical ethnomusicology, having undertaken independent excursions to Japan, Tuva, and India, and is currently developing ways to adapt the Kodály concept to the genre of Jazz. 

Tenille Hambly

Head of Year 12

HPE and Sport & Recreation Teacher

Tenille is an experienced educator with a passion for teaching and student wellbeing. With 19 years of experience under her belt, she has worked with diverse groups of students in various educational settings. Originally from Townsville, and a local at heart, Tenille's thirst for adventure has led her to explore numerous countries with her family, as well as living and working overseas in England and Singapore. During her time in England, Tenille had the incredible opportunity to work as a teacher and lead the Learning Centre for ESL Students at Wembley Stadium in London. 

In 2018, Tenille joined our expert teaching team, bringing a wealth of expertise with her. In 2019 she took on the role of Head of HPE, combining her love of physical education and enhancing academic performance. In 2020, Tenille embraced a new challenge as Head of Year 12, working closely with graduating students by guiding them through their final year of school and preparing them for life beyond the classroom. Tenille finds great joy in supporting student's personal and academic growth, and helping them navigate their way towards a successful future.

Lara Hansen

Humanities Faculty

An avid traveller since an early age, Lara studied in Canada as an exchange student and has since visited every state and territory in Australia as well as extensively abroad to over 17 countries. Her interests in culture and world affairs, in particularly the role of the United Nations and civil rights, make her a passionate Legal Studies teacher. An expert HPE teacher, Lara models an active and healthy lifestyle for her students, regularly enjoying yoga, meditation and wakeboarding. Our Business students love learning from her first hand experiences working in real estate, sales and marketing with Channel Nine, and owning and managing her own business. Lara is an experienced and passionate teacher. She is a proud mum of two and loves spending time with her family.

Meg Henderson

Head of Year 7

English & Religion Faculties

When Meg began as a teacher at St Patrick’s College Townsville, she said it felt like ‘coming home’. A proud alumnus, graduating from the College in 2001, Meg has retained strong friendships with her graduating cohort over the years and values the importance of developing a network of strong, powerful, independent women from an early age. With over 15 years' teaching experience, Meg brings with her a wealth of knowledge and a specialty interest in working with junior students during some of the most important transitions of their lives. She is a busy mum of three and loves to maintain an active lifestyle as an open-water swimmer.

Sherri-Lee Hudson

Humanities and English Faculties & Performing Arts Department

Sherri-Lee loves all things history, from the Medieval period to the World Wars. She has a particular passion for combining literature studies with history, and encourages her students to explore a wide variety of genres, including Historical Fiction, which is a personal favourite. Staying physically active is also important to Sherri-Lee, having been involved in dance, drama and sports since she was a student herself. She particularly enjoys assisting with dance choreography and rehearsals for the College Dance Troupe. Sherri-Lee holds a Bachelor of Arts (History and English) and a Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of Adelaide, Master of Teaching (Secondary) from the University of South Australia and a Certificate III in Fitness.

Karen Hyne

English & Humanities Faculties

Karen has worked with Education Queensland for 32 years, having previously taught at Blackwater State High School, Gladstone State High School and Pimlico State High School. She is passionate about teaching English, Humanities, and History at both the junior and senior level. Karen enjoys combining her wealth of knowledge, life’s experiences and travelling stories to bring a personal touch and relevance to the curriculum at hand. Moreover, she enjoys seeing her students grow through competing in local and nationally recognised academic competitions and challenges. When not involved with schoolwork, she is involved with her family’s business, e-commerce, and non-fiction writing. She is an active supporter of a number of charities including Relay For Life and Dragons Abreast Townsville, and she regularly attends NQ Cowboys and JCU Townsville Fire games.

Jessica John

Acting Head of House - Powers

Jessica joins the College with nearly 15 years' experience in education, teaching a range of subjects including English, Maths, Humanities, HPE, and Philosophical Inquiry. Jessica has experience in Pastoral Care/Curriculum Leadership, with her main goal being to inspire students to achieve academic success and become lifelong learners through creative, purposeful, and engaging learning experiences. 

Teaching hasn't always been Jessica's trade, having worked previously as a photographer travelling around Queensland and New South Wales taking family portraits! She enjoys reading, gardening, snorkelling, camping and travel, and LOVES living close to our beautiful Strand. 

Jessica looks forward to further developing her teaching and learning with the students here at St Patrick's College Townsville. 

Anna Kendall

Languages Faculty (Japanese)

With a Bachelor of Languages majoring in Japanese and a Graduate Diploma of Secondary Education, Anna has had over seven years’ teaching experience. Working abroad, she taught English at Yokohama Sogakukan High School in Japan, fully immersing herself in Japanese culture and language. Anna is passionate about fostering a love of languages in her students and supporting them to become global citizens. A highlight for Anna in 2019 was the Japanese Study Tour which saw her accompany 13 senior students to experience firsthand the diversity of Japanese culture. As a busy mum of two, Anna enjoys spending time with her family outside of school.

Rebecca Langford

Acting Head of House - Dominations & Acting College Chaplain

Mathematics & Science Faculties

With over 15 years’ teaching experience, Rebecca is a highly skilled educator. She shares her passion for problem-solving with her classes and thrives on building meaningful relationships with the students in her care. Rebecca utilises a wide range of creative pedagogy to engage students. In her spare time, she enjoys painting and abstract art. Creative, vivacious and empathetic, Rebecca is a welcome addition to the College’s expert teaching team.

Sam Lowry

Head of Sport & Fitness

Three time Country Cricket Player of the Year, Sam Lowry, is a new addition to our expert teaching team in 2023.

Originally from Gladstone, at the age 15, Sam was fortunate enough to receive a sporting scholarship to St Joseph’s Nudgee College in Brisbane where he discovered his passion for coaching and teaching.

Sam went on to study and complete a Bachelor of Health and Physical Education/Business at Central University of Queensland. More than anything, Sam is enthusiastic about providing his students the same wonderful educational experience that he received.

Sam has wide-ranging experience in both coaching and playing sport at a competitive level, and is committed to instilling a love for physical activity and healthy living in our students.

Rosie Maguire

English Faculty and Performing Arts Department

Rosie has always had a passion for the performing arts and this eventually led her to study a double degree in Secondary Education and Creative Arts at the University of Queensland. Upon graduation, Rosie jumped at the opportunity of a regional experience and relocated north to Columba Catholic College in Charters Towers. Rosie spent four years inspiring students in Drama, English, Humanities, Dance and Chinese, as well as directing the College Musical. A keen sportswoman, Rosie coaches Netball, Rugby League, Touch and AFL. In 2019, she was the recipient of the Regional Teacher Mentorship scholarship at the Bell Shakespeare Company in Sydney, and in 2021, was named a "Rising Star" by The Educator Magazine. "I am thrilled to be a part of a community that champions young women and helps them realise it’s okay to have a voice and to take up space in the world."

Gerard Marano

Religion Faculty & Visual Arts Department

Gerard is a skilled educator, having taught for many years in Townsville, Ayr, St Michael's School in Sydney and St Thomas Moore's School in Canberra. He has also taught a variety of different disciplines, including Visual Arts, Religion, Humanities and Drama. As an actor, Gerard brings his passion for performance to the classroom, inspiring students to engage with the curriculum. Gerard has worked as a film director, visual artist and freelance cartoonist. Gerard has been a member of the NQOMT, the Burdekin Singers and the Townsville Choral Society, and regularly contributes to the College's Drama Club. Aside from his love of the arts, Gerard loves a game of golf and is a soccer player and coach.

Grant McGregor

Head of Faculty - Mathematics & Digital Technologies

Grant completed his Bachelor of Applied Science (Chemistry) and Graduate Diploma of Teaching and Learning at the Queensland University of Technology in 1994. After teaching Mathematics and Aerospace Studies at Townsville State High School for two years, Grant joined St Patrick’s College Townsville in 2019. As a Mathematics teacher Grant draws on his real-life experiences from his former career as a Chemical Engineer and Technology Manager leading a team of engineers to deliver plant and project improvements. His lessons are always engaging and significant to real-world problems. Grant is especially passionate about engaging all students in Mathematics and Science to open exciting career opportunities to enrich their lives and our community. Outside of the classroom you will find Grant spending time with his family and two children, reading, playing guitar or practising his martial arts, of which he is a Black Belt in Choi Kwang-Do.

Brycean McQuillan

Science Faculty

Brycean is a hands-on Science teacher with a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) in Biology (Major) and Chemistry (Minor) from James Cook University. He is passionate about creating a learning environment that meets students’ needs and has a particular focus on 21^st century skills to prepare them for the real word. 

Through his studies, Brycean spent time in Cambodia with James Cook University, working with teachers and students to enhance learning strategies, while delivering stimulating STEM lessons to Cambodian students. Brycean loves helping others in need; he has travelled to Palm Island to support their educational institutions, and has also spent time volunteering with the Ronald McDonald House Charity.

Whether it's a beach trip or a hike, Brycean loves spending time outdoors with family and friends in his spare time!

Riley Mete

Mathematics & Science Faculties

A North Queensland girl through and through, Riley grew up in Tolga and attended Atherton State High School where she developed a passion for Mathematics and Science. Riley moved to Townsville following high school to complete her Bachelor of Secondary Education at James Cook University, during which time she worked as a Boarding Supervisor at St Patrick’s College Townsville. In 2018, Riley volunteered at a Cambodian school teaching English. 

Riley has become a familiar, welcoming face at the College, building strong relationships with students and staff. As an integral part of our STEM Teaching Team, Riley continues to model the importance of women working in the STEM field.

Conni Mosch

English Faculty

A well-known and loved teacher, Conni has been at St Patrick’s College Townsville since the late ‘90s and is one of the coordinators of the College’s very successful debating teams. Conni has taught at St Mary’s in Charters Towers, Ryan Catholic College and Life Education. She has also worked as a Counsellor and this experience shines through in her teaching and in her relationships with students. Conni says she loves watching the girls become confident and articulate through participating in opportunities such as debating, drama, performance and public speaking events.

Diana Muftic

Religion Faculty

With more than 30 years’ experience in teaching, Diana Muftic is a welcome addition to the College’s expert teaching team in 2023.

Originally from Ingham, Diana has been teaching in Townsville classrooms for the last 16 years in Hospitality, Textiles, and Religion & Ethics subjects. As well as a Bachelor of Education from James Cook University, Diana has a certificate IV in Ministry & Theology, with a strong background in religious studies. Diana is dedicated to helping students explore their faith while fostering an environment of respect, tolerance, and open-mindedness.

When she is not teaching, Diana enjoys cooking and sewing (we hear she is quite talented at both!), and spending time with her family and friends.

Tracy Nioa

Head of Faculty - Inclusive Education

Tracy has been teaching for more than 25 years and has a particular specialisation in inclusive education. For Tracy, there is nothing more important than seeing students from all abilities succeed and enjoy their education. She loves learning about student diversity and working closely with the College’s experienced Teacher Aide team to support students to embrace every opportunity. A lover of great Australian literature, Tracy enjoys reading in her spare time, as well as maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle gardening, cycling and walking The Strand and Castle Hill. Tracy and her husband have five children, all based in Victoria, whom she visits regularly.

Jacqui O'Shea

Science Faculty

A highly practiced educator with more than 22 years' teaching experience, Jacqui has inspired many thousands of North Queensland students in the field of STEM. Prior to her career in teaching, Jacqui worked as an AQIS Quarantine Officer with the Department of Primary Industries in Townsville, a Scientific Assistant in Veterinary Entomology and a Zoology Tutor at James Cook University. Her extensive industry experience makes her an expert in her field, delivering relevant and exciting lessons in Science, Chemistry and Biology that build upon real-life and current industry scenarios. You will find Jacqui enjoying the beautiful North Queensland lifestyle fishing on the Great Barrier Reef in her boat.

Chris Pacey

Dean of Academic Operations

Science Faculty

Following a 20 year career as a Marine Biologist and Senior Ranger, Chris decided on a change of career, becoming a secondary Science and Mathematics Teacher. Chris has designed and implemented our Marine Science program which has achieved exceptional outcomes, including receiving Advanced Standing for students completing a future bachelor’s degree in Marine Science at James Cook University. In 2016 Chris was awarded the Peter Doherty Outstanding Teacher of STEM Award, he contributed to the College’s 2018 nomination of the Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools, and in 2019 he was a finalist for Department Head of the Year in the Australian Education Awards. Chris is committed to fostering passion and enthusiasm for the environment and developing informed global citizens.

Harrison Parks

Humanities Teacher

A recent graduate, Harrison is excited to join the St Patrick’s College Townsville community as an Economics and Business, Accounting, and Essential Mathematics teacher. Prior to his teaching studies, Harrison completed a Bachelor of Business from James Cook University before deciding he wanted to work with young adults within the education sector. Teaching runs in Harrison's blood; both his parents have been long-term, passionate educators. Harrison has been involved with the College since 2017 as the Head Coach for our Rowing Program, encouraging our girls to strive for success. We are delighted to welcome Harrison to St Patrick's College Townsville.

Gayle Pollard

Mathematics Faculty

Gayle has been teaching for 42 years - and all at St Patrick’s College Townsville! Over the years, Gayle has taught many subjects including Religion and Chemistry, however she is most passionate about teaching Mathematics and raising the profile of the subject as part of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Gayle is a powerhouse of knowledge about the history of the College. A committed Catholic, Gayle is actively involved in her parish and assists with liturgy at the College. Gayle’s infectious laugh and deep commitment to her students means she is much loved and respected by her colleagues and students, both current and former.

Michael Pope

Visual Arts Department

With a Bachelor of Visual Art and a Graduate Diploma of Teaching and Learning, Michael has six years' teaching experience in Australia and a further five years' ESL teaching experience in Tokyo, Japan. Prior to teaching, he worked in the museum and gallery sector at Rockhampton Art Gallery, Museum of Brisbane, Perc Tucker Regional Gallery and Pinnacles Gallery in an exhibitions and education capacity. Michael is passionate about teaching art. He loves working with students to make artworks and developing their capacity to think creatively and understand their world through art. A highlight of his teaching career includes having two senior students awarded with Excellence Awards for the North QLD region in the Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art exhibition, and subsequently, seeing their works exhibited in the Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) in Brisbane. Michael's work has been exhibited in Strand Ephemera (2021), Perc Tucker Regional Gallery (2019), Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts (2018) and Murky Waters Studio (2021). He is a cofounder of Urban Sketchers Townsville.

Megan Qualischefski

English & Humanities Faculty

With over 20 years experience in teaching, Megan is passionate about lifelong learning and holds a number of qualifications, including Master of Education in Teacher Librarianship and a Graduate Certificate in Theology. Prior to joining the College in 2013, Megan taught in a myriad of classrooms, including in the United Kingdom!

Megan's specialty teaching areas include English, Humanities, Drama, and Religion. She is enthusiastic about her subject matter and committed to helping students develop their knowledge and skill in these areas. 

Jodie Roberts

Head of House - Principalities

HPE & VET Departments

Jodie’s educational experience is vast and varied. Having studied and worked in both America and Australia, she settled in Townsville seven years ago. In her professional career, Jodie has learnt that teaching and learning is essentially about relationships. As Head of House – Principalities, Jodie’s aim is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to recognise and harness their unique gifts. She is looking forward to working with the young women of St Patrick’s College Townsville, helping them to be self-reliant, kind, adaptable, generous and open to new challenges. When she is not teaching, Jodie can be found spending time with her family and dogs, and she enjoys all outdoor pursuits. 

Shanelle Rubio

Humanities & Science Faculties

Introducing the newest addition to the College's expert teaching team, Ms Shanelle Rubio. Shanelle is a dynamic Humanities, Business, and Science teacher dedicated to shaping young minds. With passion, expertise, and a commitment to student success, Shanelle looks forward to fostering a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment where students can explore and thrive.

Daniel Santarossa

Mathematics Faculty

Having previously worked at Townsville State High School and Shalom Christian College, Dan has demonstrated strong pastoral and academic skills in his roles as Senior School Coordinator and Acting Senior School Head of Department. He has significant experience developing and implementing curriculum built upon evidence based research and whole-school data. A passionate Mathematics teacher, Dan believes sequential thinking fostered by STEM education helps to create structured, logical and contemporary minded individuals who are work-place ready. Outside of school, Dan loves to travel whenever he can and he enjoys a wide variety of music.

Jaimee Seebohm

Head of House - Thrones

Mathematics Faculty & HPE Department

Jaimee began her career as a professional basketballer in 2005, attending the Australian Institute of Sport for three years before later representing Australia at a Junior level and playing for the Sydney University Flames WNBL until 2013. A career change saw her complete a Bachelor Degree in Human Movement and Health Education at The University of Sydney, graduating with the Vice Chancellor’s Award. Since then, she has worked in education for eight years, teaching at SCEGGS Redlands, St Andrew’s Cathedral School in Sydney and St Francis Xavier College Hamilton in Newcastle. A passionate HPE and Mathematics teacher, Jaimee joined the College in 2019 and has been a welcome and enthusiastic addition to the extraordinary Pastoral Care team as Head of House - Thrones. 

Helen Spina

Religion Faculty

Helen is an experienced and passionate teacher with a love for educating today’s youth. She has an extensive teaching career of more than 20 years, and prior to teaching worked as a Swimming Coach in Townsville, Brisbane, and The Whitsundays. Helen also worked as the Junior Development Officer at the North Queensland Cowboys!

Helen's teaching career has taken her around the world, to classrooms in the Bahamas, Barbados, New York, Miami, Long Island, Maine, Aspen, London, Italy, and more. She spent time travelling with a family with three children, teaching them as they travelled, through distance education. This experience in a variety of environments has allowed Helen to become adaptive and versatile in her teaching style.

Helen is a charismatic and dependable teacher, committed to providing students with the necessary tools to achieve academic goals, and instilling a love of learning with cooperative teamwork. Helen has taught at the College previously, from 2015 – 2018, and we are thrilled to welcome her back to the St Patrick’s team in 2023.

Jordan Stewart

Acting Head of Faculty - Science

Jordan has quickly become a powerhouse of the STEM Department since joining our team in 2018. She completed her Bachelor of Education in 2017, specialising in Chemistry, Biology and Junior Science. In 2019, Jordan was a finalist for The Educator's ‘Rising Star’ awards. She loves being part of a teaching environment that actively promotes girls in Science and prepares students for careers in the STEM fields. Since 2020, Jordan has become a integral part of the College's Pastoral Care Team, helping students navigate academic, social and emotional challenges. 

Aimee Strickland

Humanities Faculty

Meet our new, dynamic Legal Studies and Humanities teacher! With a unique background that blends law enforcement and fitness, Ms Aimee Strickland brings a wealth of diverse experiences to our College community. Aimee is not only an expert in her teaching fields, she also owns and manages CrossFit Townsville, fostering a passion for health and wellness alongside her commitment to education.

With a teaching career spanning over eight years, Aimee began her journey in the Police Force, where she developed strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of justice and civic responsibility. Transitioning into the realm of education in 2015, she found her calling as an educator, empowering students to think critically and explore the intricacies of the legal system and complexities of business.

We are thrilled to have Aimee as a valuable addition to the College, enriching the educational journey of our students.

Nikea Tompkins

English & Religion Faculties

Trained as both a Teacher Librarian and classroom educator, Nikea has taught for over nine years in the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. While Nikea has taught a wide variety of subjects, she particularly loves Humanities which she believes allows us to understand ourselves, and others, better.

Nikea is committed to fostering lifelong learning and is determined to support her students navigate the unique challenges of senior schooling.

McKye Turner

English & Religion Faculties

McKye’s career as an educator stems from an admiration for his own teachers at school. Hailing from Mitta Mitta in country Victoria, McKye specialises in English, but has also held positions as a Year Level Coordinator and Middle Years Engagement Leader.

McKye hopes to support his students to be independent, empathetic, responsible and resilient learners, and looks forward to helping them create and share their stories.

Jillian Turner

Head of Faculty - English & Languages

Since joining the College in 2020, Jillian has held a number of key roles including Head of Powers House and the Director of Marketing, Events and Community Engagement. An experienced English and Drama Teacher who has been nominated twice for National Education in Teaching Awards, Jillian loves working with students, finding great joy in helping girls’ develop their confidence and discover a love for learning. She is passionate about supporting young women to be intelligent, confident and active learners.  

A former Head of Music and the Arts, Jillian’s passion for theatre and performing arts has seen her produce and direct 14 productions and six plays and she uses these skills to enhance content delivery. Devising the College’s annual Book Week celebrations is a challenge she can’t wait to tackle in 2023.

Kate Tomerini

Head of Department - HPE

Growing up in the Atherton Tablelands, Kate developed a passion for all things sport. With a background in competitive sport, and a Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology, Kate understands the psychological benefits of regular, meaningful activity to facilitate good mental health. She has lead our new senior program of Aquatic Practices and is the Vice President of the Marine Teachers Association of QLD.

As well as a keen desire to promote healthy lifestyle choices, Kate is committed to helping young women be strong, confident and happy in their everyday lives.

Nicole Torrisi

Humanities Faculty & HPE Department

A recent graduate, Nicole is a specialist teacher in the areas of Health and Physical Education & Business. From a young age, she dreamt of being a teacher and she is excited to share her love of learning and knowledge with students. Nicole is committed to creating meaningful connections with her students to help them follow their passions in all aspects of their lives. Being a HPE teacher, she plays a wide range of sports at varying club and representative levels, including: netball, basketball, touch and softball. Over the past three years, Nicole coached Ryan Catholic College's QISSN Netball team at State competitions.

Gayle Walkom

Defence School Mentor

Mathematics Faculty & VET Department

This year, Gayle expands her role at St Patrick’s College Townsville as the Defence School Mentor. With over 25 years’ experience in the military in the technical and vocational field, Gayle qualified as a secondary teacher in 2019, specialising in Mathematics & Business. Teaching has been a lifelong dream for Gayle and she looks for creative and innovative ways to inspire her students to follow their passions.

Jonathan Wallace

Mathematics & Science Faculties

Born and raised in Charters Towers, Jonathan has a love of community and an enormous respect for the rural way of life. He completed a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering at James Cook University Townsville in 2011, followed by a Graduate Diploma of Education in 2013. Jonathan lived and worked in Mount Isa for four years at Good Shepherd Catholic College before relocating to Canberra where he worked at Radford College. A lover of good coffee and great food, Jonathan welcomed the return regional Townsville. A football enthusiast and coach, you will often find Jonathan at the Ross River Football Club where he is a coach and coordinator.

Kirsten Walsh

Head of Department - Visual Arts & Exhibitions

Kirsten's art education began in textile and fashion design at Falmouth University, UK. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in three-dimensional design, jewellery and silversmithing and a post graduate degree in teaching Art and Design from Birmingham Central University. In Queensland, Kirsten has worked for Education Queensland as a Literacy Presenter, and at Cannonvale and Proserpine State schools teaching a wide variety of subjects. She has been a QCAA confirmer and classroom profiler. For many years, Kirsten was the Wearable Art coordinator for the Whitsundays. A passionate, dedicated and highly skilled educator, Kirsten is a welcome addition to the College's Expert Teaching team.