Principal Profile: Paul Melloy, Good Counsel College
This month we spoke to newly appointed Principal Paul Melloy from Good Counsel College. Paul’s extensive 26-year experience in Marist education has deeply shaped his leadership style, grounding it in the Marist tradition. This background has fostered a faith-based, student-centred, holistic, and strategic approach to leadership.
What do you hope to achieve in your role as principal?
To leave the College in a better place than when I arrived. That would be in all aspects of the College. My primary focusses would be on improved outcomes for our students and growing leadership amongst the staff at Good Counsel College. My secondary focusses would be on improving property, finance and making sure we matched, or even bettered, Good Counsel College’s reputation in our community.
What makes you most proud to be the leader of your school community?
When you witness our values being acted upon. The special character of the College, a Catholic college of the Marist tradition, is our reason for being. When students, on their own, act on our values, it simply means we’re succeeding. A good example of this is fundraising for social justice causes. Students organising, performing and raising funds for people in our community who need help; our society is then enhanced by their kindness. That’s a moment.
How does GCC offer a world-class education?
I think the traditional holistic education provided by our Marist college encourages our students not only to achieve academically, but spiritually, socially, psychologically and physically. In doing so, we are preparing them for an ever-changing world, giving them the ability and skills to enter this complex environment with confidence.
How did your education shape you to be the person you are today?
I had the privilege of going to a Marist Brother’s College in South Africa. The experience not only affected my values and faith but also made me want to contribute. This is my 29th year teaching in a Marist school, my 11th as a principal; for me, it’s an alignment by choice and a privilege to be involved.
What motto, affirmation or prayer do you live by?
Good question, as a prayer The Memorare; for leadership:
Lord, Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
What is the highlight of your career so far?
I think being named as principal of Good Counsel College. It is my third tenure in this leadership role and my aim is to make these years the highlight.
What’s the best thing about living and working in FNQ?
The scenic and untouched beauty of FNQ is incredible. My wife and I travelled this way, as far as Daintree, in 1987 and promised to return. How fortunate are we?
Follow the link to find out more about Good Counsel College, Innisfail.