Leadership
Aoife McCarthy - Principal
Hello Everyone, my name is Aoife and I’m proud to be the Principal here at Holy Cross. I joined the team in November 2021 and have loved getting to know our warm and welcoming community. I have a passion for learning and am on a continuous quest to find out more about the conditions we can create to ensure children are engaged and supported.
I am excited about the possibilities that our land has to offer our children. Seeing and hearing the children exploring in the veggie garden or out and about in our wide open spaces brings me joy. I grew up in Ireland, all of my family live over there so my favourite thing to do is go back home and spend time with my five nephews and little niece.
I love reading, spending time with friends and taking my two highly energetic dogs to the park to burn off some steam. My husband Cameron and I like to head off for long drives, go camping and check out wineries in our spare time. When we’re not doing that you’ll find us at Holy Cross pottering about in the garden, come and say hello!
Kellie McDonald - Co-Deputy Principal, Wellbeing Leader
Hello Everyone, my name is Kellie McDonald and I have been so fortunate to have been a part of the Holy Cross community as both a parent for over 10 years and now a staff member for the past 7 years. During that time I have been welcomed by families and feel very privileged to get to know the generations that make up these families.
After teaching all year levels and then having my own children, I realised my passion lay with early literacy and I was so thrilled to be offered the opportunity to do further training in Reading Recovery. To be able to help children who are struggling to learn to read and write, even before they are aware, in Year 1, is so rewarding. I love celebrating children’s successes and seeing them accelerate and contribute in class with their peers. Away from school I am happiest when spending time with my family. We have three children all of whom have always been involved in sport so we have spent many hours watching football, cricket, netball and tennis. We also love spending time with our extended family at Lake Eppalock and after a day water skiing, relaxing together listening to music, reminiscing and sharing stories always ends in lots of laughter and fun.
Kate Johnston - Co-Deputy Principal, Learning & Teaching and Maths Leader
Hi Everyone!
My name is Kate Johnston and I am the Co-Deputy Principal/Learning and Teaching leader at Holy Cross. I joined Holy Cross in 2022 and have loved being here in this beautiful landscape. Teaching has always been a big part of my life and I enjoy learning new ways of working. My family and I like to do lots of things in the local area. We often go for long runs together and visit a local cafe afterwards. We also enjoy going on nature walks and fishing. Most weekends my children play soccer, swim or participate in athletics. On a Friday night we often have family movie night or a games night.
Zoe Vandenhurk - Literacy Leader
Hi Everyone! My name is Zoe Vandenhurk and I am the Literacy Leader at Holy Cross. I started at Holy Cross as a graduate in 2012 and love being here. The landscape and the outdoor opportunities for the children are just two of the reasons that make Holy Cross so special. I live in the Macedon Ranges with my husband and two young boys.
We love being outdoors, keeping busy and taking off on as many holidays as we can squeeze into the year!
Kathleen Masters - Learning Diversity Leader
My name is Kathleen Masters and I undertake the role of Learning Diversity Leader at Holy Cross.
I began my teaching career at Holy Cross as a graduate in 2010. Since then, I have taught a variety of grades, including senior high school. My passion in education is working with children with additional needs who require our extra attention and care. I believe in creating positive partnerships with families to ensure the child is always at the centre of what we do.
Holy Cross is, and always has been, such a welcoming place to be. Returning here to undertake this role in the community is a joy and a privilege.
Jill Cannon - Wellbeing Support
Hi there, my name is Jill Cannon and I work at Holy Cross in a Student Wellbeing support role. My children attended Holy Cross when it first opened almost 25 years ago. I have been working here for the past 20 years and I love it for many reasons, but mainly due to the strong community of children, parents and staff.
I never tire of seeing the kids smiling faces as they come into school every single morning. It’s not a bad way to start the day!
In my free time my partner and I enjoy seeing live music, walking in the beautiful Macedon Ranges and catching up with family (4 kids and 6 grandchildren) and friends.
Administration
Sue Grant - Office Admin
Hi there, my name is Sue Grant and I work in the school office. I’ve been at Holy Cross for a long time and enjoy my job here very much. I have a soft spot for all of the dogs that come to visit at pick up time and love hearing the children talk about thier many pets.
Sue McKibbin - Office Admin
Hi, my name is Sue McKibbin and I work in the office here at Holy Cross. My journey at Holy Cross started in 2007 when my son commenced Prep. In 2009, my daughter commenced and in 2010 I joined as part of the Holy Cross staff.
We have such a dedicated staff, wonderful students and very supportive parents. I feel very lucky to work in the office and interact with such lovely students and parents every day!
Rachelle Coats - IT Support
My name is Rach, I grew up in the Macedon Ranges and now live here with my husband and children. I enjoy holidays with my family and friends and looking after my plants, yep I’m a crazy plant lady! I’ve been at Holy Cross since 2015 and I absolutely love it here, we have such an amazing space and I really enjoy seeing the students getting outside and getting close to nature. I support the staff, children and parents with any ICT needs at school and sometimes assist our two 'Sues' in the office.
Classroom Teachers
Agnes Timmins - Prep Teacher
Hello everyone, my name is Agnes and I am delighted to be a Prep teacher at Holy Cross Primary. Our school community is warm and welcoming and my colleagues are kind and generous. This creates a lovely ripple effect around our school and creates a very positive environment for our children to learn.
I believe there is nothing in the world like working with young children. Each day, I am witness to their explorations and get to share in their excitement and wonder. It is a great thrill to see a child develop into a happy, confident learner and a great gift to participate in that growth.
I live close by in Macedon and I love being surrounded by such natural beauty. I love going out for breakfast with family and friends and walking my dog Sparky. I also enjoy having family gatherings where we eat, drink, tell stories and have lovely singalongs – a throwback to my Irish upbringing!
Alice Elston - Prep Teacher
Hi everyone!
My name is Alice and I have been teaching at Holy Cross since 2016. I love teaching here and, after having my two children, it has been wonderful to return to the welcoming community that is Holy Cross Primary School.
I am passionate about developing relationships with my students and their families, fostering emotional well-being, and watching children grow and flourish while at our school.
I currently live in Kyneton with my husband Jimmy and my two children, William and Ivy. We love spending time together. You'll often find us swimming, playing on the trampoline, and having movie nights!
Abby Fiddes - Prep Teacher
Hi everyone,
My name is Abby and this is my first year of teaching and I am so excited to be part of the Holy Cross community. I have always wanted to be a teacher since I was young and I am looking forward to finally having the opportunity to learn and grow alongside the children.
In my spare time I enjoy everything outdoors, including camping and bushwalking. During the summer I spend most of my time along the Murray river enjoying the water and the beautiful towns. I love traveling to different places in Australia and seeing our vast and beautiful country and all it has to offer.
Jodie Davis - Year 1 Teacher
Hello everyone, my name is Jodie Davis and I am very excited to be part of the Holy Cross community as a teacher. It is a privilege to guide children in their learning journey and I look forward to creating strong relationships and to have some fun along the way! I have been teaching in different sectors for over 15 years. All these experiences have increased my knowledge and shaped my own growth as a teacher. I love learning and would like to instil this in the students I teach. I enjoy spending time with my family including my two children and friends. Sometimes you may find me walking around the trails of Mount Macedon admiring the beautiful flora, fauna and fresh air. I like playing softball, swimming, reading and going on waterslides. My dogs and chooks give me joy too. My dogs, Ozzie and Tilly always have a smile and will often sneak in a lick on my face!
Louise Ralph - Year 2 Teacher
Hello! My name is Louise and I joined the Holy Cross team in 2023. I have a passion for helping children to find their love of learning and encouraging them to become the best version of themselves. I live in Gisborne with my husband, and two boys, Cameron and Travis, who all love basketball! I spend many hours after school and on weekends driving the boys from stadium to stadium! When I’m not at basketball, I love to spend time with my family, especially for a movie night and going camping in our caravan!
Mel Cardillo - Year 2 Teacher
Hi there everyone, my name is Melanie and I am a Year Two teacher here at Holy Cross.
I love being a teacher and I feel so very grateful coming to this place each day. It is a real privilege to work with the children, some days I can’t believe this is my job, I do enjoy it so.
Something special about Holy Cross is that we are surrounded by the beauty of nature. It is unique being in a position to watch the children learn and grow in this environment. A kindness towards each other and our surroundings is cultivated in this way. It is not uncommon to hear Kookaburras as we work away together, giving organic pauses to the day. Sometimes too we can stop and reflect upon the goodness in our world under the big, wide sky we reside under.
My family and I live in Gisborne. We love to go to the beach and share funny times together. When I am not teaching I am usually spending time at the beach, bushwalking, painting, writing poetry or being very busy as a Mum to my two big teenage sons, Tim and Luke, whom I love with all my heart.
Cailin Prebble - Year 3 Teacher
Hi Everyone, my name is Cailin and this is my second year at Holy Cross. I was very excited to return to teach at the school that I attended during my own primary school days!
In my personal time I enjoy reading and making music. I taught piano for 3 years whilst studying teaching.
I am privileged to be in a position where I can help students to work towards goals and watch them grow in their learning and into their own person.
I look forward to getting to know everyone and love being a part of the Holy Cross community.
Emily Merrett - Year 3 Teacher
Hi my name is Emily Merrett and I have been teaching at Holy Cross since 2017. I have a unique history with Holy Cross as I attended the school from Grade 2-6. This has given me the opportunity to witness how our school has continued to grow and continues to be a welcoming school community which delivers high quality education and care for the children we teach and nurture.
I truly do love working at Holy Cross and being part of a collaborative and supportive staff. I believe every child should feel safe and free to be themselves as they discover their passions, develop their sense of curiosity and confidence. I am honoured to be able to support my students by fostering a safe and supportive classroom culture which assists them on their journey of learning and of self-discovery.
Sian Leighton - Year 4 Teacher
Hello everyone!
My name is Sian Leighton and I joined the fantastic team here at Holy Cross Primary School in 2022. I absolutely love my job and look forward to the many exciting opportunities that each school day brings. I have the pleasure of working with the children in Year 4 this year. I love watching them grow and take on new challenges in their learning. Outside of school, my family and I enjoy watching our team, the North Melbourne Kangaroos play footy. We also enjoy traveling and exploring our beautiful country that we call home!
Sheree Sullivan - Year 4 Teacher
Hello everyone,
My name is Sheree Sullivan and I have been working at Holy Cross Primary for 10 years. I am privileged to work with amazing staff and be surrounded by the beauty of Mt Macedon and our vineyard. Our students enjoy the freedom of wide open spaces to run and play. They have a strong sense of connection to the land and take great pride in being responsible for our chickens. I am excited to be team teaching this year with Tracey McKenna in the Year 4 area. We have a strong connection to the local community and are proud of our Holy Cross students.
Tracey McKenna - Year 4 Teacher
Hello, I’m Tracey Mckenna and I currently teach Year 4 here at Holy Cross. I've been a teacher in Catholic Education for 28 years and have worked in a part time role here for the last 14 years, it's been an incredible journey. I absolutely love what I do and seeing the impact I can make on my students' lives.
When I'm not in the classroom, you'll often find me spending quality time with my four children and LuLu (my fifth child, our Toy Cavoodle), husband Matt and my beautiful friends. I especially love spending time outdoors either by the beach or spending time at the Murray River. Pilates and yoga are my go-to for staying fit and centered and I love going for long walks to explore our beautiful surroundings here in the Macedon Ranges.
Kate Bloomcamp - Year 5 Teacher
Hello everyone!
My name is Kate, I joined the teaching team at Holy Cross Primary School in 2023 teaching Year Five students. I am excited to be part of such a welcoming community, inspiring the minds of students to achieve their goals. I enjoy everything outdoors, camping and exploring Australia in my spare time with my partner Mitchell and dog Lexi. This makes Holy Cross such a great fit with my philosophy on teaching and learning, incorporating our land and nature in with the curriculum areas we are explorong with our children. I hope to create a calm, collaborative and positive learning environment for students to explore their interests and the ever-changing world around us.
Luke Wenczel - Year 5 Teacher
Hi, my name is Luke Wenczel and I am currently teaching Year 5. I have been at Holy Cross for 15 years and in that time I have been fortunate enough to have worked with some outstanding and inspiring people. The staff here always have the child at the centre of everything they do.
I am passionate about education and assisting children in achieving success in their learning. I enjoy the many challenges that classroom teaching brings. Each year, I strive to create a classroom culture that thrives on respect, teamwork, effort and knowing that mistakes are part of learning. We work hard, but we have a laugh and great fun along the way.
Pat Piazza - Grade 6 Teacher
Hello, Holy Cross community! My name is Pat Piazza and in 2023 I joined Holy Cross in the role of Year 6 teacher. I was lucky enough to attend Holy Cross as a founding family member from 1999 to 2005 before enjoying my secondary education at Salesian College. During this time I have witnessed phenomenal growth within this amazing school, and the diverse Macedon Ranges community that surrounds our beautiful part of the world. With a background in inclusive and accessible education, I strive to provide opportunities for all students to reach personal success both in and outside of the classroom, as well as develop active, critical and resourceful thinkers. I am always seeking opportunities to develop myself personally and professionally, and I look forward to learning from each and every one of the students I have the privilege of teaching.
Growing up on a hobby farm in Riddells Creek, I have always held great affection and affinity for all things outdoors, an interest I love sharing with others. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I come from a family of educators – I am the youngest of three teachers! I also enjoy sports, live music, tending to my vegetable garden, travelling, camping and hiking, and I love to cook…or at least trying to!
Here’s to the shared adventure ahead!
Lisa Peake - Year 6 Teacher & Faith Leader
Hi. My name is Lisa Peake and I have been working at Holy Cross for 8 years. I currently teach one of our Year 6 classes. I took on the role of Faith Leader in 2022 and am loving the added challenge of supporting the students in their faith development.
Teaching has always been a huge part of my life and I feel that Holy Cross is the school where I’m meant to be. The staff and families are so supportive of one another and it’s a joy to come to work here every day.
When I’m not at work, I’m a very busy wife and mum of 3 gorgeous children, Lachlan, Victoria and Thomas. We are heavily involved in our local tennis club in Sunbury, and all of my children enjoy a social hit.
My other great love is travel! As a family, we have been on countless road trips around Australia and have even been fortunate enough to travel overseas a few times. I couldn’t pick a favourite place, as we have made so many great memories in so many towns over the years.
Other interests of mine include musical theatre, painting and drawing, cooking, catching up with friends and spending time with my family.
I feel blessed to have such a wonderful job at Holy Cross. It truly is a special place in our community.
Casey Gaunt - Grade 6 Teacher & Sports Coordinator
Hi, my name is Casey and I am working in the Year 6 team this year at Holy Cross. I have been teaching for 17 years and I am motivated by the difference that I can make in the lives of young people. I am also a proud Mum of two Holy Cross students and it's fair to say that I love the environment that Holy Cross provides to all of us.
When I'm not teaching, I love spending time with my family. We love heading out on caravan trips and water skiing. Nothing beats s'mores by the fire after a big day of swimming and spending time with friends.
Specialist Teachers
Caitlyn Blake - Outdoor Education Teacher
Wominjeka! My name is Caitlyn and I am the Outdoor Education/ Sustainability teacher here at Holy Cross. I first joined this wonderful community in 2015, before heading off to teach in England for 2 years. In 2019, I came back to teach in the Holy Cross community, and have been here ever since. I have a strong passion for the natural world, looking after our environment, and caring for the land.
When I am not teaching, I love to garden, go hiking and bushwalking, or head off on an adventure in my caravan, with my family and our two whippets.
Helen Coughlan -Performing Arts Teacher
My name is Helen Coughlan and I have been teaching Performing Arts at Holy Cross for the last 7 years. I love working with the children to develop their creative talents. I have as much fun as the children singing, playing, creating and performing.
When I’m not at Holy Cross I’m busy looking after my family whom I truly adore. I love family time and in particular going to the beach for holidays.
Kathy Shelton - Visual Arts Teacher
My name is Kathy and I feel blessed to work amongst such a dedicated and inspiring team of teachers who strive to make learning rich and meaningful for all our students.
I’ve worked at the school as an art specialist for fifteen years now and have a greater appreciation for the way the arts complement learning, encouraging sensory exploration, emotional engagement and greater self expression. I enjoy challenging and extending the children’s creative ideas and I am often surprised by their imaginative interpretations, and the personal connections and sensitivity which they bring to a task. I am continually reminded of how unique and special they all are.
I have a wonderful family whom I love to spend time with. Although my kids have grown up and left home, we still like to get away for short holidays together. Generally we go to places where we can do some hiking and spend lots of time outdoors in nature. I have a beautiful garden which attracts lots of birdlife and other creatures too! I enjoy spending time pottering in my garden when I’m relaxing. Recently I became a gran-gran which has been an unexpected joy and I love spending time chasing my very active grandson around.
Yoshi Uemera - Japanese Teacher
Konnichiwa! My name is Yoshi Uemura and I am called “Sensei” by students. I grew up in Japan, went to university in America, studied my Diploma of Education in Australia, and have been teaching Japanese at Holy Cross since 2004. I am doing my best to foster the friendship between my home country Australia and my mother country Japan, by introducing the language and the culture of Japan to Australian children.
I am a practitioner/instructor of two Japanese martial arts: judo and karate. I am also into rock music: mainly rock bands from the ‘60s such as The Kinks and The Small Faces. The list of my favourite Australian artists includes The Masters’ Apprentices, The Easybeats, EVEN, The Stems, Wesley Fuller, etc.
Please do not hesitate to greet me with “G’day” or “Konnichiwa” when you see me
Leonie Wallis - PE Teacher
Hi my name is Leonie and this is my third year teaching at Holy Cross and so far I have loved being here. I love giving every child the opportunity to have a go, have fun and feel successful in sport lessons. Before I taught Sport I was a classroom teacher and have taught all classes from Prep to Year 3. I have lived in this area for 6 years now having previously lived in suburbia so I am loving this tree change and all this wonderful fresh air.
When I am not teaching I love spending time with my family and 2 dogs. We love going on picnics, walks, visiting cafes and visiting new places around this beautiful area. We do enjoy playing a game of Fortnite as well.
Co Educators
Natalie Burt - Co Educator 
My name is Natalie and I am blessed to work at Holy Cross as a Co Educator and facilitator of the reading intervention program Macqlit. I began working at the school in 2014 while my daughter was in Year 2. My daughter is currently in Year 12 at Salesian and has a wonderful relationship and bond with Holy Cross. This is what makes our school so special, our beautiful and passionate teachers, a wonderful community spirit and a sense of belonging.
I am lucky to be supporting our Year 4’s this year – a role I cherish as we witness our children grow and thrive throughout each term.
When I am not at school I love watching musicals especially live theatre shows. I also love travelling, spending time with family and having a coffee at the beach.
Bernie Stewart - Co Educator/ First Aid Officer
Hi my name is Bernie and I have been part of Holy Cross since 2005 when my eldest son started prep. Each of my four children attended Holy Cross. 10 years ago I became a Co-Educator at the school. I am currently supporting the Year 5 children. I am also the first aid officer at school as I am a retired nurse.
When I am not at school I love to go out to my vegetable garden and enjoy the great outdoors as a cub scout leader.
Kath Pennisi - Co Educator
Hi, I’m Kath Pennisi, I have been part of the Holy Cross community since 2004 when my eldest daughter started as a preppie, followed by my twins in 2011. I have volunteered in classrooms supporting the younger levels with reading & been on some wonderful excursions, met lifelong friends at the working bees and have laughed & danced at social events.
In 2017 I joined Holy Cross as a co-educator.
It brings me joy everyday, to be supporting our wonderful staff & students.
When I’m not at school I love to catch up with family & friends to celebrate any occasion. I love a good chat or a wander around a market. The ocean is where I love to revive, luckily my family live in Queensland, I get to visit a few times a year, otherwise I’m on the Mornington Peninsula
Leanne Wilson - Co Educator
Hi my name is Leanne Wilson, I feel very blessed to be a Co educator at Holy Cross. I love coming to work each day knowing that I’m here to help and support each and every single student to believe in themselves to do the best they can. Nothing is ever impossible. We work together to make it possible . Holy Cross is a supportive and caring environment to work in.
When I’m not at Holy Cross I’m hanging out with my family cooking up a storm or cheering along the tigers.
Maryanne Johnstone - Co Educator
Hi, my name is Maryanne Johnstone and I work as a Co-Educator here at Holy Cross. My 4 children attended Holy Cross from when it first opened and during their time here I volunteered and helped out in any capacity that was needed. Then in 2008 when my final child was in Year 6 I was given the opportunity to become a Co-Educator. Fourteen years later and having been involved with many classes and children, I still love coming to Holy Cross and being able to make a difference to our young people. Outside of school, catching up with family is very important to me now that we have 2 granddaughters to cuddle.
Wendy Tattersal - Co Educator
Hi, I’m Wendy
I just love my job as a co-educator, getting to work with amazing children, often those with additional needs. Making connections with the children throughout their journey at Holy Cross, seeing them grow, learn and achieve their goals is very rewarding.
I feel privileged to work in such an environment. How lucky we are to have so much open space to use for learning, have access to our veggie patch, chicken coop etc and be surrounded by trees and Mt Macedon.
I am also a family support worker and I have 4 children of my own. When I’m not working I am watching my boys play soccer, roller skating with my daughter, having family game nights, or long lunches with friends. I’m a lover of the outdoors, sports, arts and music.
Tash Breen - Co Educator
Hello, I'm Tash. I've been working as a co-educator at Holy Cross for the past three years. I previously worked in Early Childhood Learning for 9 years. I am very passionate with collaborating with children and teachers to help students reach their educational and social goals.
Witnessing their growth and success, as they gain confidence and achieve their goals, is truly fulfilling for me. Outside of work, I love traveling, photography and adventures with my family.
Michelle Campbell - Co Educator
Hello, my name is Michelle Campbell and I am excited to be joining Holy Cross Primary School as a Co Educator in 2024.
I am originally from the UK and have lived in Australia for nine years.
I live in the Macedon Ranges with my husband Kieran and four children aged between 9 and 17 and our French Bulldog Louie.
My eldest daughter has a disability and type 1 diabetes, and I am a passionate advocate for those with additional needs.
In my spare time, I like to run 3 to 4 times per week and enjoy reformer pilates.