BCE educator to lead College that helped shape her career and life

23/07/2025

​​Southern Cross Catholic College, Kippa Ring students Alice, Eli and Marshall with Head of Campus Melissa Fallarino. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Southern Cross Catholic College, Kippa Ring (2025).

​Melissa Fallarino is no stranger to the community she now leads as Head of Campus.

Returning to Southern Cross Catholic College, Kippa Ring in 2008 as a classroom teacher, Melissa brings with her a personal connection to the community, having been a proud former student of the foundational Catholic schools on the Redcliffe Peninsula. 

In the following Q&A, Melissa shares her deep connection to the Redcliffe community, what drives her as a leader, and her goals for the 2025 school year. 

Q: What drew you to school leadership? 

A: The opportunity to make a difference in a community. I’m passionate about the gift of education and creating environments where children can thrive academically, socially and spiritually. 

 

Q: Why this particular role? 

A: I’m incredibly proud to be a staff member at Southern Cross Catholic College. About 30 years ago, our school was formed from separate primary schools coming together. This community gave me an amazing education and many opportunities. I went to Our Lady Help of Christians Primary School, then Soubirous College for Years 8–10, and Frawley College for Years 11–12—now all part of Southern Cross. I feel that working at Southern Cross Catholic College is my way of giving back to the community that helped me thrive throughout my schooling years. 

Q: What do you love most about working at Southern Cross Catholic College? 

A: Our incredible team works tirelessly for our students. And the students themselves are wonderful. One of my favourite parts of the day is gate duty in the morning and seeing our students and their smiling faces eager to learn and give their best each day. Southern Cross Catholic College is a fabulous community. Our motto – Seek the Light – is truly evident across our campuses as we are guided by the light of Jesus; but also, in the way we actively seek the light of Christ and the light of learning each day. 

 

Q: What are your goals for the rest of 2025? 

A: In my first year, I want to walk the journey with the community, understand everyone’s perspectives, and help instil a love of learning and curiosity in students. I believe everyone has the potential to succeed, and I want to help our children discover the gifts they can offer the world as unique individuals. 

Q: Do you have any personal passions that influence your work? 

A: Absolutely—I’m passionate about reading and lifelong learning. I love having a real book in my hands, though I also value the online learning space and the opportunities it brings. I’m currently studying my Master of Educational Leadership, specialising in Catholic Educational Leadership. I never want to stop learning, making connections and discovering new things. 

 

Q: What does the Southern Cross Catholic College community mean to you? 

A: It’s a hidden gem! I love it here. I have three children—Jordan (graduated 2023), Eloise (Year 11), and Jonathan (Year 8)—and I’ve chosen to send them through the same education system I went through. My sister is also a teacher at Scarborough Secondary.  

Q: What's been one of your biggest goals so far? 

A: Learning every student by name. I’m almost there!  Making connections with students, especially when you can call them by name, is incredibly important in fostering community. 

 

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job? 
 
A: Working across different Year levels and watching children grow and change as they move through their years of schooling. With Prep, it’s seeing the school year through their eyes and celebrating their milestones in their first year of school. With Year 6, it’s helping them reflect on their leadership pledge and supporting them as they shape the legacy they’ll leave behind.   With all of our students, it is instilling a genuine love of learning and embracing the gift of being part of Catholic education.  

For more information about Southern Cross Catholic College or to enrol click here. 




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