Our principal and staff

Our school team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. We work together to create a supportive and inclusive school where every child is set up for success.

Welcome from our principal

Principal's message

"Welcome to our school community!

We are proud to offer a rich and diverse learning environment for all our students. Our mainstream classes from Kindergarten to Year 6 provide a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and creative thinking, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. Our dedicated preschool program nurtures early learners with a focus on curiosity, play, and social skills, preparing them for a confident start to their schooling journey.

We are also proud to support our Opportunity Class (OC), where gifted and talented students are challenged and inspired to reach their full potential. Additionally, our four Supported Setting classes provide tailored support to meet the individual needs of students requiring additional assistance, fostering inclusivity and growth.

Beyond the classroom, we offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities that enrich our students’ experiences, from sports and arts to leadership and community projects. This vibrant program is made possible by our passionate and committed staff, who work tirelessly to create a positive and nurturing environment.

Our students are at the heart of everything we do, and we celebrate their achievements, resilience, and enthusiasm. We are equally grateful for the ongoing support and partnership of our families and community, who contribute to making our school a welcoming and inspiring place to learn.

Thank you for visiting our website. We look forward to sharing our journey with you!"

David Galea, Principal of Doonside Public School

Our school leaders

Our school leaders, including our principal, guide teachers and students. They help create a school culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.

Director Educational Leadership
Joanne Gardiner
Principal
David Galea
Deputy Principal
Sesilia Pelesasa
Assistant Principals

Rodylene Celeste (Intervention team)

Rola Halawi (Support Unit)

Emma Paharukov (K-2)

Jai Webb (3-6) Mon - Wed

Priya Singh (3-6) Thurs - Fri

Assistant Principal and Curriculum Instruction

Karen Charles

Sharon Velasco

Our administration staff

Our friendly admin staff provide essential support to ensure our school runs smoothly and that families, students, and staff are always welcomed and assisted.

Admin Staff

Vicki O'Neill (SAM)

Bobbie Wilkinson (SAO)

Louise Skinner (SAO)

Jasmin Skinner (SAO)

Our teaching staff

Your child’s school experience is shaped by the people around them. Our teachers bring experience, care and a passion for learning to every lesson. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.

Our teaching staff

Elise Hutchinson (Pre School)

Josephine Hayden (KH)

Stephanie Kojic (KK)

Mittalben Dhameliya (1/2D)

Gurpreet Kaur (1/2K)

Alex Peacock (1/2P)

Nisha Adulkar (3/4A)

Brendon Cefai (3/4C)

Tyson Smith (4/5S)

Alison Collis (5/6C)

Melissa Jones (5/6J)

Roslyn Chetty (K/3C)

Felicity Stratton (K/3D M-W)

Sheeriza Atiq (K/2D Th/F)

Veronica Burke (2/6V)

Leanne Wood (3/6W)

Anita Swanson (Intervention)

Jade Rennie (Intervention)

Nicole De Roo (Intervention)

Tejinder Arora (Intervention)

Anne Maher (Library)

Tyarne Howard (Intervention)

Our school support staff

Our Learning Support Officers play a vital role in supporting our students by providing personalised assistance tailored to each child's individual learning needs. They work closely with teachers to create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment, helping students to overcome challenges, build confidence, and achieve their full potential. Through one-on-one support, small group activities, and targeted interventions, our Learning Support Officers ensure that every child receives the guidance and encouragement they need to succeed academically and socially.

School Support Staff

Peter Dunn (GA)

Emma Counsellor (AEO)

Angela Ritchie Young (AEO)

Gloria Harrison (CLO)

School Learning Support Officers

Lyne Hodgeson

Lisa Petelo

Rachel Cue Hayburn

Tahlia Nisbet

Jesse Barret

Zach Chambers

Charlie Kefalianos

Sinead Stewart

Rimma Saliba

School Counsellor

Theresa Towner

Karen Core

Our teachers make the difference

Committed to your child’s success

Our teachers ensure every student can thrive. They use proven ways to teach and tailor learning support for their students

Expert, connected and accredited

Our teachers are part of a strong education network. They may hold advanced accreditation. This ensuring high-quality teaching for your child.

Teachers who never stop learning

Our teachers are lifelong learners. They stay current through regular training and keep improving how they teach students.

Teacher–family partnerships

Our teachers build trust through clear communication. Our families know that their child has support and is ready to learn.

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

External Providers

Find out the process on how to submit a request for External Providers, to support your child within our school.

Stories and highlights

Hear about stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.