STAFF HIGHLIGHTS

Our staff are the Bayside difference!

We encourage you to read the following articles that highlight some of the many achievements and personal stories of our staff. We hope you will enjoy these anecdotes and recognise the wonderful journeys that have brought our staff to Bayside Christian College.

Shay Russell

Teacher Aide

My name is Shay Russell and I’m fortunate enough to be a Teacher Aide in Year 1 at Bayside Christian College!

I am extremely passionate about nurturing the growth of the whole child; for every child within my care! I’ve been working in the education system for eight years, in many different roles and look forward to continuing on this path for many more to come.

I enjoy a little side hobby of photography, listening and singing to a wide range of music, playing sports, and spending time at our many glorious beaches with my two young boys.

Joining this incredible, supportive community was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I can’t wait to be an even bigger part of this ongoing journey together.

Rickey Burge

Grounds and Maintenance

In 2011, my body could no longer perform the work that I had done and loved for 24 years (painting). My partner and I decided to sell our home in Darwin and hit the road for a trip around Australia with my family. I acquired an HR license for a coach bus that we purchased. We were on the road for 12 months; the sights and experiences will never be forgotten.

It brought our family closer together and strengthened our bond. When we arrived in Hervey Bay, it felt like home. We checked out the schools, work and housing. Bayside Christian College was where we saw our kids thriving as it had a family feel. Not too big, not too small. I continued painting for another two years, it was still hard on my body and eventually had my hip replaced before returning to painting for another year.

During this time, I got to know Brett and Bianca Carter through my girls from school. Brett mentioned that they were looking for a bus driver/maintenance worker. I handed my resume in. I crossed my fingers and prayed at night. I was turned down, but two weeks later I received a phone call saying that they needed more bus drivers. Being able to work closely with my girls has been a blessing. I love my job and the BCC community.

Bronwyn Ashton

Head of Science and Technology

I have always had a great love for science, with over 20 years of experience as a scientist and an educator. I began my career in 1998, studying a Bachelor of Science in Medical and Applied Biotechnology. I completed an Honours Degree in Forensic Science and Post-graduate research in Biomedical Science.

I discovered my passion for teaching when I took a position at a university as a part-time Biomedical Scientist, part-time educator.

Searching for a new adventure, my family and I moved across the country from rural NSW to Hervey Bay. I believe God led me to Bayside Christian College. When I saw the job advertised, I just knew that He was guiding me and that this would be the perfect school for me. A few months into the position I was asked to take over as Head of Science and Technology. I am thoroughly enjoying my new role and love sharing my joy for science with the students. Seeing their excitement and enjoyment in the subject inspires me every day. Mark Twain said it best: “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”