General News
19 June, 2026
Principal tops list
ST JOHN’S School (Silkwood) principal Linda Gaia has been recognised as one of Queensland’s most inspiring emerging leaders, taking home the prestigious Daniel McDonough Award at the Queensland Catholic Principals’ Conference in Toowoomba.
The peer-nominated honour celebrates an early career principal who has made a powerful impact within their school community.
Ms Gaia, who is in her first five years of principalship, was acknowledged for her unwavering commitment to Catholic education, compassionate leadership and the positive influence she brings to St John’s School every day.
She was one of 10 primary school principals from the Cairns diocese who joined nearly 90 Catholic primary principals from across the state for this year’s conference, themed ‘Breaking boundaries for tomorrow.’ The event featured guest speakers, who highlighted the importance of strong, values-driven leadership in today’s rapidly changing world.
The Daniel McDonough Award is presented at each biennial conference, with every Queensland diocese now able to nominate a recipient. Previously, only the host diocese could select an awardee, meaning a principal might only be recognised once every decade. The change ensures more outstanding leaders are celebrated for their contributions.
This year’s host diocese of Toowoomba also designed the award trophy, choosing a handcrafted horseshoe forged by a local blacksmith from the Queensland Museum Cobb+Co.
The award consists of a leadership grant that enables the recipient to attend professional development conferences and the unique trophy was presented in a custom wooden box made by the blacksmith’s colleague.
Ms Gaia said receiving the award was deeply meaningful because it came from peers who understood the complexities of the role.
“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful because it comes from colleagues who understand the complexity and demands of the principal role. It affirms that the values I hold and the work I do are aligned with those shared by principals across our diocese,” she said.
Ms Gaia said her motivation came from a deep commitment to her students and school community.
“I care deeply about the students in our care and the school community. I want nothing but success for them and hope for the students’ futures gives me daily motivation,” she said.
“I have committed a large portion of my career to St John’s School because of what it means to me. It’s where I feel I belong.
“I enjoy working with people to achieve a common goal and I value the input of others. I surround myself with good people who are good at their job and I let them do their job.
“I am extremely humbled to have my efforts recognised and celebrated by my fellow principals. I sincerely thank them and the Cairns Catholic Primary Principals Association.”
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