Beaudesert’s open spaces are a far cry from the sensory overload of Hong Kong, but new McAuley College principal Jason Pacey has taken it in his stride.
Recognisable by his signature Akubra, Mr Pacey has embraced the regional community spirit, despite his previous urban experiences overseas and more recently in Brisbane.
He started at McAuley College earlier this year, bringing with him an extensive background in educational leadership, including an 11-year tenure as a deputy principal at Padua College, in the inner-northern Brisbane suburb of Kedron, and a five-year tenure in Hong Kong, where he taught English.
Mr Pacey said he was excited about the unique opportunities McAuley College offered its students.
“With a love for scuba diving, paintball, gel ball, fishing, and hiking, I am thrilled for August, which will see our students compete at Camp Draft in Pittsworth,” he said.
“I can’t wait to spend the weekend there and witness my students showcasing their skills in manoeuvring cattle around obstacles.”
Mr Pacey said one of the standout moments of his early days at McAuley College was the unexpected landing of a hot air balloon on the school oval.
“It was certainly a unique experience, and I can’t say I’ve seen a hot air balloon land on school grounds before,” he said.
“It’s all part of the charm of the Beaudesert community.”
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