College Executive
The College Executive Team is composed of experienced educators dedicated to leading the strategic direction of the College. With a wealth of knowledge and a passion for education, they work collaboratively to shape the College’s future, drive innovation, and ensure the best outcomes for students and the wider community.
Executive Members
Alan Connah | Principal
Alan began his teaching career in NSW, later working in international schools in Thailand, Switzerland, China, India and Malaysia, as well as schools in the UK, ACT, Victoria, NT and QLD. He has been a Head of School/Principal since 2004 and joined St Martins in July 2018. Alan is passionate about providing an inclusive Christian based education that develops all aspects of a student’s intellectual, spiritual, physical, creative and social character.
Celia Mara | Deputy Principal
With over 30 years in education, Celia Mara is a passionate leader committed to the transformative power of learning. She has held a range of leadership roles across K–12 settings, driving innovation, improving student outcomes, and fostering cultures of excellence. Celia champions inclusive school communities that prioritise wellbeing and academic growth. Her relational approach is grounded in trust, collaboration, and a deep belief in the potential of every learner.
Jo Patterson | Head of Learning, Teaching and Innovation
With over 20 years of experience in education, Jo brings a wealth of knowledge in teaching and leadership across various educational settings. Her passion lies in helping every student grow and flourish by fostering an enriching environment, built on quality teaching, effective pedagogies, and high expectations. In this key leadership role, Jo plays a vital part in enhancing student achievement and elevating the quality of education across all year levels.
Josh Hein | Head of Wellbeing (R-12)
Josh is an experienced educator with a strong background in wellbeing and pastoral care. He has held various leadership roles in wellbeing across R-12 Lutheran schools in South Australia. Josh is driven by his passion for supporting students in their growth and development. He believes deeply in the value and uniqueness of each individual, seeing every student as created by God with special gifts and great potential. His approach is centred on helping students realise their own capabilities and guiding them toward success.
Trudi Hepburn | Business Manager
Trudi has served as the Business Manager at the College since 2005. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in the College’s growth, not only in terms of student and staff numbers but also in the development and enhancement of its facilities. Her work is driven by a commitment to creating a learning environment where students can thrive. Trudi’s focus remains on delivering new infrastructure and reimagining existing spaces, all while ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the College for future generations.
Wesley Olivier | Director of Ministry
Born and raised in South Africa, Wesley moved to Australia with his family in early 2022. He has been involved in church ministry since 2011 and was ordained as a minister in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in 2017. In 2024 he was granted permission to become a minister-in-association with the Uniting Church of Australia, here in Mount Gambier. His passion lies with preaching and teaching the Gospel message that every individual is “Made in love, by love, and for love – because God is love.” Before the ministry, Wesley was a teacher and a project officer in mental health.
Senior Leadership
At St Martins Lutheran College, our Senior Leadership Team plays a vital role in guiding the educational journey and overall wellbeing of our students. Together, they work in close partnership with the College executive, staff, students, and families to build a vibrant and inclusive College community, grounded in care, excellence, and faith.
Christine Ware | Director of Teaching and Learning (R-6)
With over 10 years of classroom experience across lower, middle, and upper primary, and the past five years serving as R–6 Director of Teaching and Learning, Christine is a passionate educator and leader committed to sharing the love of Christ through her work. She deeply values each child’s agency and connectedness to others, believing these are essential foundations for meaningful learning. A lifelong learner herself, she has dedicated many hours to growing her knowledge of evidence-based teaching and learning practices, particularly in literacy. She has used this expertise to spearhead projects improving literacy outcomes for students across the primary years, driving positive change through research-informed approaches. She aims to ensure every child leaves St Martins equipped for the world beyond school.
Sharn de Nys | Director of Student Wellbeing (R-6)
Sharn brings a wealth of experience in education, having taught across all year levels, from Early Years through to Tertiary education, including ten years of experience within an international context. Sharn has performed various leadership roles throughout her career, and she holds a Masters in Educational Leadership where she has gained a strong foundation in evidence-based wellbeing initiatives that make an impactful difference in the lives of young people. Her approach to teaching and leadership is deeply influenced by her values of faith, family, and a commitment to the holistic development of every child.
Romana Quintel | Director of Student Wellbeing (7-12)
Romana has worked at St Martins for over a decade and has taught across Year 7 to 12, primarily in Humanities and English. It is through her work in interdisciplinary subjects that she developed a passion for student wellbeing and engagement. Romana has held several leadership roles at the College, including Faculty Leader for Humanities, English and LOTE, and Middle School Wellbeing Leader. In 2024 Romana completed a Graduate Certificate in Wellbeing and Positive Mental Health in Education. She has a particular interest in how neurodiversity, mental health, and disability can impact student engagement and learning.