Our principal and staff

Our school team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. We work together to create a supportive and inclusive school where every child is set up for success.

Staff group photo

Welcome from our principal

I’m delighted to welcome you to our school, where every child is supported to reach their full potential in a caring and inclusive environment. Respect, curiosity and teamwork are at the heart of all we do.

Our dedicated staff work closely with families to create meaningful partnerships that help students feel valued, confident and motivated to learn.

I invite you to explore our website and see what makes our school such a special place. We look forward to welcoming you into our community.

Mr Phil Cavanagh

Principal of Yamba Public School

Photo of our Principal Phil Cavanagh

Our teaching staff

Your child’s school experience is shaped by the people around them. Our teachers bring experience, care and a passion for learning to every lesson. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.

Our teaching staff
  • Philip Cavanagh - Principal

  • Diana Esterbauer - Assistant Principal Curriculum & Instruction

  • James Dean - Stage 3 Assistant Principal

  • Jenni Brown - Stage 2 Assistant Principal

  • Janine Burleigh - Stage 2 Assistant Principal

  • Belinda Smith - Stage 1 Assistant Principal

  • Matt Jones - Librarian

    Classroom Teachers

  • Rebecca McCudden

  • Julia Teague

  • Sheena Mortimer

  • Melinda Auld

  • Leah Wright

  • Sandy Sonter

  • Gina O'Shea

  • Craig Paul

  • Brooke McHutchinson

  • Sarah Jones

  • Jenna Hope

  • Jasmine Grainger

Contact our school to learn about our teaching team

Wellbeing and support staff

Our wellbeing and support staff guide student wellbeing, learning needs and inclusion. They work with teachers to make personalised adjustments. This means each child can take part fully in school life. We make our school welcoming and accessible to every child.

Our wellbeing and support staff
  • Karen Newby - Learning and Support Coordinator
  • Hughie Stanley - Aboriginal Education Officer
  • Andrew Allen - School Counsellor
  • Sally-Jane Loy - Wellbeing and Health In-Reach Nurse (NSW Health)
  • Contact our school to learn about our wellbeing and support staff

Administrative and operations staff

Our administrative and operations staff keep our school running smoothly. They support students, teachers and families every day. You can find them in our front office or on the school grounds.

Our administrative and operations staff
  • Kim McFarlane - School Administration Manager
  • Jane Gosper - School Administration Officer
  • Joanne Bridges - School Administration Officer
  • Rod Menzies - General Assistant
  • Sue Herman - SLSO
  • Donna Soden - SLSO
  • Andrea Devine - SLSO
  • Sharliehn Ackerman - SLSO
  • Tania Shugg - SLSO
  • Contact our school to learn about our administrative and operations staff

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

Additional learning support

Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.

Stories and highlights

Hear about stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.