Principal’s Welcome

Principal Message

June 2025

If you are a first-time visitor to Mirboo North, our website and/or our school – Welcome. We are very proud of our town and its beautiful environs. Mirboo North boosts many beautiful trees and nature walks. It is also home to the Mirboo North koala and other native wildlife. Many of our students enjoy living in nature and the opportunities it provides for things like motorbike riding, sports, and outdoor activities.

Originally from New Zealand, I too attended a rural high school. I remember my years there extremely fondly as I know many of our community do. Mirboo North is a great place to grow up! Prior to arriving at Mirboo North Secondary College, I was the Principal at Korumburra Secondary College for five years, and prior to this, the Principal at Neerim District Secondary College for four years.

I am passionate about State Education, teaching and learning, and student and staff wellbeing. In addition to my teaching qualifications and a Masters in School Leadership, I also have a Graduate Diploma in Psychology and am a keen writer of young adult fiction.

As a Mirboo North resident, I am motivated to see this community thrive. I believe the principal’s role is to serve the local area, and to work with students, staff, and parents to provide a safe and welcoming school which creates opportunities for each and every student to be successful. Our school not only prepares students for life but also for their future careers. Although small, we boost a strong VCE program as well as many hands-on learning options which lead into apprenticeships and trades.

This year, we are seeing a return of positive student data post COVID, and the building of strong student leadership across the school. A highlight each term are the Celebration Days that our students organise and run. With ongoing and stable staff and leadership, MNSC is regaining its position as an excelling school within South Gippsland.

Vaya Dauphin

College Principal