Gulf between teacher postings no sweat for Leesa
Published on 11 June, 2004
New teaching graduate Leesa Vacher is not sweating on an early transfer from tiny Croydon State School on the Gulf Development Road, south-west of Cairns.
That is despite the fact many of her graduating classmates ended up at schools on the Sunshine Coast, and despite the fact her fianci and family are also in that region.
Ms Vacher, 22, is so far enjoying Outback life since moving from her previous home in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
She is among 28 pioneering graduates from Central Queensland University's Noosa Hub who will attend CQU's first Noosa Hub graduation ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Coolum on Saturday, June 19 (1.30pm).
These graduates are also among the first to complete CQU's new Bachelor of Learning Management degree, having fast-tracked their studies.
"I am currently one of two teachers and a principal at Croydon State School," Ms Vacher said.
"The school consists of one building (two classrooms, one library and an admin room). However, the school is currently under construction to create a technology/music/distance education room.
"I live in teacher accommodation which is directly next to the school.
"I currently have 21 students in my classroom ranging from years 4 to 7. They are a gorgeous group of students who have a lot of respect for adults.
"I have noticed a major difference in attitude with the Outback children. Although we are a long way out (approx 560km from Cairns), the school receives many visitors who work with the children in sport, art, science and much more.
"My students mostly come from stations which they will travel out to on weekends.
"Croydon itself has a council, cafe, service station, general store and a pub. About half of the Croydon community consists of Indigenous people. The total population including the surrounding stations adds up to about 300 people." Ms Vacher is due to marry her English fianci this September and hopes he will join her in Croydon next year (since his IT job currently keeps him on the Sunshine Coast).
"This is possibly the most difficult year of my life this far as I am fulfilling my dream to teach and trying to arrange a wedding, all while living over one thousand kilometres from my family."