​St Edward's Primary School Daisy Hill Principal, Rick Sheehan, was named the 2025 Neil Bloxsidge Leadership Award winner at the annual Brisbane Catholic Education Leadership Dinner on Saturday 15 November.

The Neil Bloxsidge Leadership Award, first presented in 2010, honours the late Neil Bloxsidge, a much-loved and highly respected member of the BCE community who exemplified exceptional leadership.

Each year, the award recognises a leader who demonstrates outstanding qualities aligned with the BCE Leadership Framework and contributes significantly to the development of others.

BCE Senior Leader, Patrick Davis said Rick's leadership was defined by humility, service, and a deep commitment to faith-filled practices.

“At St Edward's Daisy Hill, Rick has cultivated a confident and empowered leadership team grounded in trust, accountability, and strategic clarity," Patrick said.

“His approach has fostered a culture of high expectations, professional growth, and inclusivity, ensuring the dignity of every individual is respected and celebrated."

“His ability to listen deeply and respond with wisdom has created an environment where staff feel valued and students thrive."

Patrick said that Rick's influence had extended beyond his school.

“Leading from the heart, he models what authentic Catholic leadership looks like, anchored in faith and focused on community."

“Rick has been a mentor to many of us in leadership roles and embodies the spirit of shared leadership that this award represents," Patrick said.

“Generous with his time and knowledge sharing, he has strengthened leadership capacity across the system."

Although Rick was unable to attend the dinner, his colleagues proudly accepted the award on his behalf, acknowledging his remarkable contribution to Catholic education.

“Rick's legacy is one of empowerment and inclusion," Patrick said.

“He reminds us that leadership is not about position, it's about service, and that's what makes him so deserving of this honour."

About Neil Bloxsidge

Neil passed away suddenly in 2010. At the time, he was the Director of School Service Centre South. As well as an exceptional leader, he was a much-loved figure in Catholic Education.  He was also a natural born leader, deeply committed, very genuine and very personable with a wicked sense of humour. He was always an accomplished professional.   

You only needed to spend a very short time with Neil to know that his leadership style was inspiring, it was built on relationships and trust and above all, he empowered and built trust in people. His sometimes relaxed and natural style masked a person with great inner strength, focus and strategic ability.  The people who have received the Neil Bloxsidge Leadership Award also show these great leadership traits.