Mrs Harney, who has now just celebrated the end to a successful first term at St Pats, took over the role following an extensive teaching career at catholic schools in both Stawell and Ararat.

Throughout her career, Mrs Harney has taught from kindergarten through to year 12. She has taught Religious Education, English, Maths, Art, Physical Education, Studies of Society and Environment, Home Economics and English in the secondary sector.

Mrs Harney's extensive experience includes one year at St Mary's Primary School in Ararat, 22 years at St Patrick's Primary School in Stawell and 16 Years at Marian College in Ararat.

Positions Mrs Harney has held during that time include Religious Education Co-Ordinator, Physical Education Co-Ordinator, Maths Co- Ordinator, Vice Principal St Patrick's Primary School, Leadership Team Marian College, Wellbeing Co- Ordinator Marian College, Year 7 and Transition Co-Ordinator at Marian College.

As well as her strong interest in education, Mrs Harney said she enjoys spending time with her family, particularly her grandchildren.

Other interests include wine, food, friends and farm life, while Mrs Harney loves spending time skiing on both water and snow, playing tennis and squash, sailing with friends and travelling, in particular touring Europe and America.

St Patrick's Primary School has also welcomed a number of new teachers this year, with Fiona Harney, Meggy Boan, Lynette Cox Hayward and Jenny Mackley joining the team, while Marnie Fenwick returns from maternity leave.