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College Leadership Team

Michael Pepper, Principal

Having decided to pursue a degree in education in 1978, I feel blessed to have been working as a teacher and leader in Catholic schools in WA for the past 40 years.

Beginning as a teacher of Design and Technology, I was fortunate to undertake Head of Learning Area and Assistant Principal roles which provided rich and rewarding experiences in the education of students from Years 7-12.

An ambition to work in the Kimberley region of WA became a reality when, following a very brief period working at Luurnpa Catholic School in Balgo Hills, I was appointed to the position of Principal of St Mary’s College Broome in 2012.

Commencing at Bunbury Catholic College in 2020 provided me with an opportunity to work with the outstanding staff and students at BCC, a role which I greatly look forward to each and every day.

We continue to pursue excellence in education and achievement of the personal best for each and every student, while staying true to our College motto, in the words of Micah 6:8, to ‘Act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with your God.’

Deb Garbutt, Deputy Principal

The highlight of my 42-year teaching career has been the privilege of serving the Bunbury Catholic College community as Principal, both in Term 4 (2023) and in Term 1 (2024). My role in the Senior Leadership Team has allowed me to be mentor and innovator; I am immensely humbled to have been able to share the experiences and joys of a hugely fulfilling career, with past and current staff and students alike.
Equally, I look forward to resuming my position as Deputy Principal Pastoral Care in Term 2 2024. This role primarily centres around the pastoral care of students in the year groups assigned to me, as well as a shared responsibility for the wellbeing of staff.
Bunbury Catholic College enjoys an enviable reputation in the South West as a College that offers students every opportunity to succeed, as articulated by our College Vision, with every interaction between students and staff delivering the potential to truly make a difference. This understanding underpins my every action, both in leadership, and in the classroom. I hope that I have made a difference in both roles.

Simon Jones, Deputy Principal

With a rich background in Catholic Education spanning more than two decades, I began my journey as a Science Teacher in 2002, specialising in Biology, Human Biology, Psychology and Marine Science.

My passion for education and commitment to fostering academic excellence led me to leadership roles, including Head of Science at Mater Dei College and Servite College, as well as a Deputy Principal at St Mary’s College in Broome.

Serving as the Deputy Principal – Teaching and Learning means my primary focus is on the academic leadership of the College. In this role, I am entrusted with developing the College timetable and collaborating with Heads of Learning Areas to ensure the delivery of a contemporary education that prepares our students for a dynamic future.

I believe that fostering authentic relationships and providing comprehensive pastoral care are integral components of achieving academic success, and strive to create an environment where every individual can experience success in their educational journey.

Justine Bow, Assistant Deputy Principal

I find it very satisfying to work with my colleagues to enable our students to become flourishing, life-long learners.
As Assistant Deputy Principal I coordinate staff professional learning, student exams and external assessments such as NAPLAN and OLNA. My role as teacher of Year 11 and 12 Economics enables me to participate in curriculum planning and development while also working with other member of the leadership team to ensure the wellbeing of the staff so that they can provide evidence-based pedagogical practices with confidence and energy.
I have previously held the roles of Dean of Professional Learning and Head of Learning — Humanities and am an ex-student of the College.

Daria Smith, Faith Formation Director

My responsibilities include ensuring Religious Education programs for all students follow the mandated curriculum and supporting teachers, so they deliver Religious Education which is thoughtful and engaging. These roles both afford me the opportunity to foster the Marist Charism at the College and in the community.

Education is central to Marcellin Champagnat’s vision “to make Jesus known and loved”. He believed this could be achieved by making the students in Marist schools “good Christians and good citizens”. At the College we work hard to make his vision a reality.

Emily McKelvie, Business Manager

Emily commenced in the role of Business Manager at the beginning of 2024. She has been a Chartered Accountant for ten years and has a background in auditing. For three years prior to joining the College, Emily was employed by Catholic Education WA.

In the role of Business Manager, Emily is responsible for the oversight of administration, finance, property and IT at the College. Emily is passionate about giving back to the community and is the Chair for Relay For Life Bunbury.

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