Heather Fraser
RGGS student 1971-1975
Heather began her career in 1981 after completing a Bachelor of Education at James Cook University. She began teaching at Pimlico State High School where she quickly established herself as a dynamic educator for whom innovation was a passion. In 1984 she enjoyed a brief sojourn in Britain and Europe. In 1985, she joined the staff at James Nash State High School as Coordinator of the Theatre Department.
In 1988, Heather headed north once again to assume the role of English Head of Department at Ayr State High School. In the words of her Principal, Gail Mackay, Heather transformed the department into a “vibrant and forward looking” team. She continued to coach debating teams into the finals.
Following the birth of her son, Nicholas, in 1990, Heather taught in a part-time capacity as a Speech and Drama teacher at St Margaret Mary’s College in Townsville. Despite the demands of new motherhood and a devastating bout of meningitis that year, Heather quickly endeared herself to the College community.
1992 saw Heather in the position of HOD at Pimlico State High School and she remained there until 1997. Her years at Pimlico High cemented Heather’s position as one of the region’s most valued English educators.
Having been a founding member of ETAQ (English Teacher’s Association of Queensland) Townsville Branch in 1981, Heather continued her active involvement in the Association with various positions and has run the Branch for over 40 years. She was awarded Life Membership in 2018 and is still President today. She has been involved in running various speaking competitions for most of her teaching career and has been the National judge for NEITA (National Excellence in Teaching Awards).
Since 1992 she has been actively involved in shaping new generations of English teachers through guest appearances as a lecturer in English curriculum at James Cook University. In 1996, she edited Challenging the Text a publication that was subsequently nominated for a national award for Excellence in Teaching.
Heather joined the staff of St Margaret Mary’s College once again in 1998, when she took up the position of English HOD. During her time at St Margaret Mary’s College, Heather has overseen the growth of the English Department, as well as the implementation of the Senior English Trial-Pilot Syllabus both within the College, and the region, as B35 District Panel Chair. Heather has had an enormous impact on English teaching in the northern region. Through her innovation, dedication and passion, she continues to make things happen.