VASSP Executive Board
Nominees
Candidate Information
School: Sunshine College
Position: College Principal
VASSP Region: Western Metropolitan
I am the principal of Sunshine College, a multi campus college in Melbourne’s West.
The school supports the learning and wellbeing needs of more than 1000 students from a very diverse community with approximately 50 different nationalities spread within the total student cohort.
The school offers programs for students that are hearing impaired and we support about 65 International Students.
Sunshine College is a Registered Training Organisation and operates a purpose-built Trade Training facility to enhance career opportunities in the trades.
I have managed the complexities that came with initiating a regeneration project, consolidating 4 campuses down to 2, which has meant re-registering the school to become VRQA compliant. I am currently working with the region and the VSBA to fulfil a Master Plan that includes total rebuilds of the two campuses, with a $6million plus build currently in the schematic design stage, construction to commence into 2025.
The above breakdown of my leadership responsibilities is purely to support you in understanding how my concerns and issues place me in a good position to understand and empathise with your work, including the management of staffing & recruitment, D&I, OH&S, policy development & compliance and building /maintenance works.
I have been a member of VASSP for approximately 20 years and in this time, I have represented VASSP on numerous DoE working parties and believe that I have participated and voiced opinion that is reflective of the VASSP membership. I have used VASSP project services at Sunshine College to build capacity in middle and upper-level leaders, and recommend their services.
I am currently a general representative on the State Committee of VASSP and President of Western VASSP.
I believe my experiences that probably mirror your own puts me in good position to advocate on your behalf.
Candidate Information
School: Eaglehawk Secondary College
Position: Principal
VASSP Region: Loddon Campaspe – Bendigo
I am currently the Principal at Eaglehawk Secondary College in Bendigo. Before this, I served as the Assistant Principal at Crusoe College for 12 years. During this time, I gained valuable experience in educational leadership and developed a passion for supporting both staff and students. Over the past 13 years, I have been actively involved with the Victorian Association of State Secondary Principals (VASSP), participating in local meetings to stay informed about the latest Department of Education and Training (DET) initiatives. These meetings have allowed me to exchange insights with colleagues, and in turn, support other principals and teachers in the region.
In addition to my principalship, I serve as the secretary of the Loddon Campaspe VASSP group, where I organize termly meetings and coordinate guest speakers to address relevant educational topics. I also work to expand VASSP membership, ensuring that all principals and aspiring leaders in our area are represented and supported. I believe that a strong, connected leadership network is essential for professional growth and effective school leadership.
Since 2018, I have represented Bendigo at the VASSP State Committee meetings, where I contribute a regional perspective to state-level discussions. I have recently served on the, VASSP Executive Committee. In this role, I continue to advocate for regional principals and ensure that their voices are heard in broader educational conversations.
VASSP has played a key role in my own professional growth, providing valuable resources that have enhanced my leadership skills. I promote these opportunities within my network, encouraging both established and emerging leaders to take advantage of them. As Assistant Principal and now Principal, I have worked with the VASSP Project Services Team to create programs supporting early-career teachers and recently engaged them for a leadership structure review at my school. I frequently seek advice from VASSP Field Officers and share their advice, and recommend their services to others.
As a VASSP Executive member, I am committed to fostering leadership not only in Regional Victoria, but across the system, ensuring emerging leaders receive the support they need to thrive and that long-standing principals and Assistant Principals are kept informed and up to date with the ever-changing nature of educational leadership.
Candidate Information
School: Bannockburn P-12 College
Position: Principal
VASSP Region: Ballarat and Geelong
I have been a member of the principal class for 19 years. During this time, I served as the substantive principal of Lake Bolac P-12 College and Bannockburn P-12 College for the last 11 years. I have experience in leading in rural and regional settings, both in small and larger schools.
As an active member of VASSP for 19 years, I have contributed to the Regional VASSP groups, including chairing the Ballarat Group for 3 years. Additionally, I have been a member of the VASSP State Committee and Executive Board, representing VASSP and its members in numerous stakeholder forums. I am a member of the Expert Principals Advisory Group (SRP), MPB and Integrity Leadership Group.
I bring important perspectives to the State Committee and can represent principals’ varied experiences in a positive and solution-focused way. The expectations and demands on principals have never been greater, and the best support we can offer each other is to be part of a strong, effective, and relevant association.
Candidate Information
School: North Geelong Secondary College
Position: Assistant Principal
VASSP Region: Barwon
I have been a member of VASSP ever since I became an Assistant Principal 8 years ago. I have appreciated the relevant and supportive information and professional learning which is provided. In 2022-2023 I was secretary of the Geelong Region of VASSP, where I, alongside the chair worked hard to revitalise the annual program to successfully enhance engagement across the network. During my involvement with VASSP and our Network I have engaged with VASSP learning opportunities and supported the provision of such in presentations for other upcoming leaders. I joined the Executive board in 2024 as General Representative –Assistant Principal and have attended all State Committee meetings in 2024 as our regional network VASSP representative.
In terms of my relevant leadership experience, I have provided presentations on successful strategies to improve attendance to schools and regional leaders. I support Compass with advice and feedback regularly, for greater efficiencies which, at one stage included a step-by-step guide to help schools communicate immediately and effectively with their communities.
I lead an initiative called Be Bold Be Heard, which inspires teen girls from 15 Secondary Schools to speak up and cause meaningful change in their class, college, and community. In 2023 I was awarded the Bank First VASSP Professional Learning award for this program and utilised this opportunity to engage with school communities in Canada whilst attending the ULead conference.
I engage positively with others and understand the importance of this role. My approach is to listen and commit to action or question for greater clarity. Current issues that we are facing include the principal workload, principal wellbeing and staffing and these sit amongst an array of other challenges faced in our school communities which also affect the ability of principals to carry out their responsibilities effectively. I adhere to the directives of the Executive team and support all VASSP initiatives and provide constructive feedback and effective communication when required.
Candidate Information
School: Brauer College
Position: Assistant Principal
VASSP Region: Southwest Victoria (outer metropolitan)
I have been in school leadership since 2008, working in Melbourne’s most challenging schools and managing complex situations to ensure positive outcomes for students, staff wellbeing, and organisational alignment with core values. My experience spans both international and regional settings, where I’ve successfully addressed difficult circumstances and driven school-wide improvements. One highlight is the transformation of Horsham College into the most successful large secondary regional school in Victoria.
With experience as Assistant Principal, Acting Principal, and Principal, I understand the critical role of Assistant Principals in supporting school leadership and maintaining a cohesive environment. I have developed effective systems to ensure stability during difficult times, and I focus on improving student outcomes while addressing current workforce challenges, including those posed by the new VGSA.
As a long-time VASSP member, I’ve actively engaged in Regional Groups, Professional Learning, and utilised Project Services and Forums. I am keen to join the State Committee to contribute my unique perspective on the issues facing school leaders today. My background in urban, regional, and international schools, combined with my academic experience, including a Master of Instructional Leadership from the University of Melbourne, positions me to offer valuable insights grounded in both research and practice.
My academic achievements, including a Master of Instructional Leadership from the University of Melbourne, have further refined my understanding of best practices in education. I believe my combination of leadership experience, commitment to educational equity, and academic background equips me well to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing work of the VASSP State Committee.
Candidate Information
School: Mickleham Secondary College
Position: Assistant Principal
VASSP Region: Northern Metropolitan
As Assistant Principal at Mickleham Secondary College, I’ve had the privilege of leading the establishment of our school’s teaching and learning program, focused on fostering a positive and high-performing learning environment. Over the past decade, I’ve worked across secondary and specialist settings in Melbourne’s west, north, and the Bendigo Loddon region, which has deepened my understanding of the diverse challenges and opportunities in our schools.
As a VASSP member, I’ve valued the opportunity to engage with regional groups and professional learning forums. VASSP has played a key role in my growth as a leader, helping me to leverage its services to support our school’s ongoing improvement.
I am passionate about connecting Assistant Principals to build strong networks where we can learn from each other and enhance our collective impact. In my role, I’ve established a network for APs across primary, secondary, and specialist schools in the Hume region through the DET Network. This network has created a valuable space for collaboration, where we share expertise, support one another, and collectively tackle the challenges we face.
I am seeking election to the VASSP Executive Board to advocate for school leaders as we navigate issues like staff wellbeing, equitable funding, and increasing demands around student learning and mental health. I believe that by connecting leaders, we can amplify our impact within our schools and across our regions, and I’m committed to contributing practical, forward-thinking solutions to support our community.
It would be an honour to represent and support my colleagues as part of the VASSP Executive Board.
VASSP State Committee
Nominees
Dave Armstrong
Candidate Information
School: Wangaratta High School
Position: Executive Principal
VASSP Region: Hume
As Principal of Wangaratta High School in North East regional Victoria, I bring over two decades of school leadership experience to my nomination for the VASSP state committee. My journey spans diverse roles across regional Australia (Victoria, NT, and NSW), encompassing government, international (Vanuatu), and independent sectors.
Having contributed to several State Committee meetings as a guest regional representative, I’m eager to serve more formally. My primary motivation is to contribute to the dialogue about the evolving role of the Principal in our changing educational landscape, with a strong focus on advocating for public education and a responsive and more agile Department.
My career, rooted in remote or regional Australia and the Pacific, has highlighted the unique challenges of education and leadership in these contexts. I’m deeply motivated to address these needs within our system, benefiting all Victorian state secondary schools.
As a VASSP state committee member, I would bring:
- A strong regional perspective: Ensuring regional voices are heard in policy discussions.
- Cross-sector insights: Drawing on experience across government, independent, and international schools to strengthen public education in Victoria.
- Innovation focus: Implementing forward-thinking approaches to strengthen public education.
- Commitment to professional growth: Demonstrated through my MBA, GAICD qualification, and participation in the Vincent Fairfax Fellowship.
- Collaborative leadership: Aligning with VASSP’s mission to support and empower school leaders.
I’m passionate about VASSP’s three pillars – Advocacy and Influence, Support and Care, and Learning and Growth. If elected, I would focus on:
- Amplifying regional principals’ voices in state-wide discussions
- Enhancing support for principals facing regional and remote challenges
- Promoting innovative leadership approaches for our evolving public education system
- Advocating strongly for public education, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of our society
My diverse experience, regional focus, and unwavering commitment to excellence in public education make me a strong candidate. I’m excited to contribute to shaping Victorian state secondary education and supporting fellow principals in their crucial work.
I believe my diverse experience, regional focus, and unwavering commitment to excellence in public education make me a strong candidate for the VASSP state committee. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of state secondary education in Victoria and supporting my fellow principals in their crucial work.
Candidate Information
School: Bendigo Senior Secondary College
Position: Assistant Principal (Principal from 2025)
VASSP Region: North west Region (Bendigo Group)
I have been an Assistant Principal at Bendigo Senior SC for 15 years, overseeing Engagement and Wellbeing, and then Teaching and Learning. From April 2025, I will step into the Principal role, after Dale Pearce’s retirement.
I have been a member of VASSP for most of my time in the Principal Class, where I regularly participate in Regional Group meetings in Bendigo. I have enrolled in many of the Professional Learning opportunities that have been offered through VASSP, as well as having referred many staff members to valuable learning sessions, offered by the Association. I found the project services very valuable, providing high level leadership guidance at various points throughout my career.
I would like to be on State Committee as I can provide a voice about the issues affecting senior secondary education, as well as those affecting large regional schools. In an environment where many schools are experiencing a staffing shortage, I am very interested in how we foster staff wellbeing and leadership in a system that needs to not only attract, but retain, high quality staff. I am also passionate about how we continue to provide the best opportunities to all students, regardless of their background, allowing them to thrive in a transforming world.
Candidate Information
School: Rochester Secondary College
Position: Principal
VASSP Region: Loddon Campaspe
I have been a member of VASSP since 2020 and I am passionate for regional and rural education. I am the Principal of Rochester Secondary College, a rural secondary school approximately two and a half hours north of Melbourne in the Loddon Campaspe Network. Rochester Secondary College has an enrolment of 330 students and an SFOE of 0.4401. I am proud to serve the Rochester community, as I believe that all young people regardless of their postcode, background or personal circumstances, deserve nothing less than high quality public educational opportunities. I am also currently a board member and Deputy Chair of the Campaspe Cohuna Local Learning Network.
Having grown up in the city and being the first in my family to graduate from university, I began my career at Casterton Secondary College and have spent my entire career to date working and living in the country. Prior to Rochester, I was Assistant Principal at Euroa Secondary College and have held several different leadership positions at McGuire College, Shepparton High School and Greater Shepparton Secondary College.
My breadth of experience through the variety of different leadership and life experiences, provides me the foundations for me to understand, support and advocate for the needs of all school leaders across the state. I believe being on the state committee will allow me to ensure that your voice is heard as we tackle the key issues like staffing shortages, adequate funding, and equity in education. I am also passionate for the longevity of teachers and school leaders within our profession and will use my position on the state committee to advocate for measures to support this passion.
VASSP plays a pivotal role in influencing the future direction of public secondary education. My personal values align with VASSP’s and I am committed to advocating and ensuring that the voices of VASSP members are heard, so we as a profession are fully supported to enable us to continue to provide high quality public education opportunities for our students. It would be a privilege and honour to represent you on the state committee.
Candidate Information
School: Brauer College
Position: Assistant Principal
VASSP Region: Southwest Victoria (outer metropolitan)
I have been in school leadership since 2008, working in Melbourne’s most challenging schools and managing complex situations to ensure positive outcomes for students, staff wellbeing, and organisational alignment with core values. My experience spans both international and regional settings, where I’ve successfully addressed difficult circumstances and driven school-wide improvements. One highlight is the transformation of Horsham College into the most successful large secondary regional school in Victoria.
With experience as Assistant Principal, Acting Principal, and Principal, I understand the critical role of Assistant Principals in supporting school leadership and maintaining a cohesive environment. I have developed effective systems to ensure stability during difficult times, and I focus on improving student outcomes while addressing current workforce challenges, including those posed by the new VGSA.
As a long-time VASSP member, I’ve actively engaged in Regional Groups, Professional Learning, and utilised Project Services and Forums. I am keen to join the State Committee to contribute my unique perspective on the issues facing school leaders today. My background in urban, regional, and international schools, combined with my academic experience, including a Master of Instructional Leadership from the University of Melbourne, positions me to offer valuable insights grounded in both research, practice, and lived experience.
My academic achievements, including a Master of Instructional Leadership from the University of Melbourne, have further refined my understanding of best practices in education. I believe my combination of leadership experience, commitment to educational equity, and academic background equips me well to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing work of the VASSP State Committee.
Candidate Information
School: Bannockburn P-12 College
Position: Principal
VASSP Region: Ballarat and Geelong
I have been a member of the principal class for 19 years. During this time, I served as the substantive principal of Lake Bolac P-12 College and Bannockburn P-12 College for the last 11 years. I have experience in leading in rural and regional settings, both in small and larger schools.
As an active member of VASSP for 19 years, I have contributed to the Regional VASSP groups, including chairing the Ballarat Group for 3 years. Additionally, I have been a member of the VASSP State Committee and Executive Board, representing VASSP and its members in numerous stakeholder forums. I am a member of the Expert Principals Advisory Group (SRP), MPB and Integrity Leadership Group.
I bring important perspectives to the State Committee and can represent principals’ varied experiences in a positive and solution-focused way. The expectations and demands on principals have never been greater, and the best support we can offer each other is to be part of a strong, effective, and relevant association.
Candidate Information
School: Monbulk College
Position: Principal
VASSP Region: Eastern Metropolitan
My name is Mark Quinlan I am seeking your support to join the VASSP State Committee. I am currently the Principal of Monbulk College. I have been a Principal for over 5 years in various schools and a VASSP member for over 10 years. I am an active participant at regional group meetings, forums, workshops and conferences. I continue the utilise the services VASSP provides to enhance leadership teams.
The current issues that principals face are complex and include, but not limited to; principal wellbeing/burnout, teacher shortages, budget constraints, administrative demands and staff/student/parent management. Current and new Principals need access to strategies and resources that allow them to manage their workloads sustainably. I would advocate for policies and professional development that focus reducing operational/administrative overload. Encouraging systemic approaches, such as the use of shared services for non-pedagogical tasks, could help principals regain their focus on leading learning. On the VASSP Committee, I would advocate for increased focus on sustainable leadership practices and the well-being of school leaders’ outcomes.
Candidate Information
School: Parkdale Secondary College
Position: Principal
VASSP Region: Southern Metropolitan
As a VASSP and Principal class member for 17 years I have held positions as an Assistant Principal, Campus Principal, Acting Principal and Principal at four very different government schools. These schools range from a very high to a very low SFOE, a school with a highly diverse multicultural background, a multi campus school, an all-girls’ school and a large coeducational school. It is this breadth of experience as an educator, administrator and leader that enables me to understand all schools point of view on issues that are raised and speak from a unique understanding of the inherent differences between schools and the challenges they face.
This experience together with the ever-increasing demands and accountability measures being placed on schools we need a strong voice in discussions with the DE and the government. This is imperative as we try to balance our primary role as educators for our students with the compliance requirements, OHS, student and staff health and wellbeing, parent demands and the myriads of tasks that cross our desks each day.
VASSP plays an integral part in this role. It gathers the opinions of its members who lead public education in this state. It is a forum for those who are leading the work in schools to discuss issues and inform and influence policy. It also assists in developing the future leaders of public education.
I have been a member of the state committee for the last six years. If re-elected, I will continue to draw on my experience and give you, my Principal class colleagues, a strong voice in these discussions, and promote VASSP and its role in supporting and developing our leaders which is so important moving forwards.
Candidate Information
School: Mornington Secondary College
Position: Principal
VASSP Region: Southern Metropolitan
I wish to be considered as a General Representative on VASSP State Committee.
I am a highly experienced Principal with 9 years at Mornington Secondary College and 7 years as Assistant Principal at Carwatha College P-12.
I have been a member of VASSP since 2009 and been on State Committee twice. Once as Assistant Principal and once as Principal. I have attended the VASSP conference each year and I bring my Principal team with me.
I have a love for learning and have a Masters in School Leadership Currently I am enrolled in the Harvard Certificate of School Management and Leadership with my Principal team.
I am also network co-chair of the Central Peninsula Network and thoroughly enjoy this role. Our focus has been collaboration, supporting each other and developing relational trust by sharing data and opening our schools for leadership teams to visit.
I have led initiatives that prioritize student engagement, wellbeing, and academic success, aligning with the values of the public education system.
I am passionate about advocating for the needs of our students, staff, and the broader educational community. This includes engaging with policymakers to ensure that the voices of school leaders are heard and acted upon.
VASSP has been a wonderful support for me over the years and I believe that serving on the VASSP State Committee will allow me to use my experience, knowledge, and passion to contribute to the development of policies and initiatives that support school leaders and, ultimately, our students.
I am deeply committed to the ongoing success and future direction of VASSP, and I would be honoured to represent my colleagues as a member of the state committee.