The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester ran into a familiar face while carrying out ministerial duties in Echuca recently.
Mr Chester caught up with 23-year-old Jacquie James from Lakes Entrance, who is now a first year teaching graduate at St Joseph’s College, Echuca.
“Many people might know Jacquie from her involvement with netball, surf life saving, basketball or practically any other sport in Lakes Entrance,” Mr Chester said.
“Since leaving Nagle College where she was a school captain, Jacquie has finished a university degree and landed a job at a leading school – and has collected awards along the way.
“It’s always good to see local people like Jacquie go on to have success in their chosen careers. Her story is another great example of the career opportunities available in regional areas, and the lifestyle benefits that come from living outside the big cities.”
Miss James studied at Federation University in Ballarat for her Bachelor of Education (Physical Education), after a gap year as an Outdoor Education and Sport trainee at Nagle.
At graduation, Miss James was named the most outstanding graduate in Physical Education and also received the Peter Fryar Award, which is given to the most outstanding student among the graduates across all human movement programs.
Just a few weeks ago, Miss James was also named the most outstanding graduate by the Victorian branch of the Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation
“I’ve always wanted to be a PE teacher,” Miss James said. “A university friend was already teaching at St Joseph’s and told me there were jobs going. I applied and they kind of created my ideal teaching position for me.”
This year, Miss James takes Year 10 and 11 Biology, Year 9 Science, Health and Physical Education, and Year 12 Outdoor Education.
She’s also already finding her feet in her new community: she’s coaching and playing netball for Tatura, a 50-minute drive away.
“I’m missing my family and friends in East Gippsland, but I’m enjoying settling into life in Echuca and my first job.”
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester ran into Jacquie James, a familiar face from Lakes Entrance who is now working at St Joseph’s College in Echuca.
