General News
18 February, 2026
Welcome back
PARENTS and children at Mission Beach State School have started the new school year on an uplifting note, delighted to have the school’s much-loved administration officer back at work.
Just before the Christmas holidays, the staffer, Sheryl Shaw, faced uncertainty over her job when she was told she would have to apply for another role, without consultation.
This led to her hours being reduced and she faced having to work in an unfamiliar job she would virtually be forced into doing, despite serving 25 years as administration officer.
But parents have told The Observer that Ms Shaw is back at her desk “as normal” and was welcomed back by a host of students, parents and other staff.
“Welcome back Sheryl,” one social media post said, repeated by dozens of other similar users. “Fantastic news”, “wonderful news”, “great news”, others followed.
“Walking into the front office this morning, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped into a florist shop. A beautiful welcome back for our wonderful Sheryl Shaw. Thank you to our incredible community for the overwhelming show of love and flowers.”
Not only did Ms Shaw return to her role but she did so fresh after receiving an Australia Day award.
Her achievement award was presented during a Cassowary Coast Regional Council ceremony in Tully, proudly recognised on the school’s Facebook page.
“Sheryl consistently goes above and beyond in her support of our staff, students and their families and her care and commitment extend well beyond the school gates into the wider community,” the post said.
“Her professionalism, kindness and willingness to help wherever needed make a meaningful difference every day. “This recognition is well deserved and we are fortunate to have Sheryl as such a valued member of our school community.
“Congratulations, Mrs Shaw and thank you for all that you do.”
At the end of 2025 the school community rallied behind Ms Shaw, including posing for a group photo and putting up supportive signs on the sides of roads and on cars near the school and in the carpark before the holidays started.
Education department officials visited the school over the holidays to consult parents and other staff about Ms Shaw’s situation.
Another parent, Mary Logan, said “she’s a caring, supportive person”.
“She goes above and beyond for everyone. She advocates for herself, her colleagues and her students.
“She’s a very strong person. She’s admired and respected by her peers and the community.”
Ms Logan said the uncertainty about Ms Shaw’s position was felt by many, not only at the school, but in the wider local community.
“My boy, who’s at the school, he’s not a hugger, but when he saw Sheryl at the supermarket the other day, he just ran up to her and just threw his arms around her, which says a lot, you know,” Ms Logan said.
“And you know, she’s been awarded an Australia Day award, which I think speaks volumes about who she is and the respect she has in the community.”
The education department would not confirm whether its holiday meetings were specifically about Ms Shaw’s situation, but parents have confirmed the matter was discussed with them in detail.
“The Department of Education is aware of concerns raised regarding staffing matters at Mission Beach State School,” a department spokeswoman said.
“The department has a responsibility to maintain confidentiality of employee information and therefore does not comment on individual employee matters,” she said.
“The Far North Queensland region is continuing to work with the Mission Beach State School leadership team to communicate with staff and their school community.”
Read More: Mission Beach