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Deputy Principal - Community Announcement
Sep 1, 2025

Dear Members of the FCJ College Benalla Community,
It is with great excitement that I announce the appointment of Renae Hughes as the ongoing Deputy Principal Community of FCJ College Benalla.
Renae’s appointment comes at a time of great significance in the life of the College as we celebrate 125 years of FCJ education in Benalla. Her ongoing commitment to the College and proven leadership will ensure a strong and faithful continuation of the College’s mission into the future.
After an extensive advertising campaign, we were blessed to have a field of internal and external applicants. I extend my sincere thanks to the members of the Selection Panel, that included current and former principals from the diocese, for their generous and thoughtful contribution to this important process. Renae’s appointment has been approved by Pauline Fisher, Chair of the FCJ College Council.
Renae brings more than two decades of experience in education, including leadership roles at FCJ College since 2017; as a Year 7 Learning Leader, Director of Wellbeing and current Acting Deputy Principal Community.
Prior to joining FCJ College, she taught at Benalla P -12 College, Berwick Secondary College and Cathedral College – where she developed her skills in curriculum leadership and student wellbeing.
Renae holds a Bachelor of Education at La Trobe University, formal accreditation to teach in a Catholic school and was a finalist in the Victorian Education Excellence Awards. She is a proven leader in the space of Wellbeing, Child Safeguarding and trauma informed practice and has actively been involved in professional learning within these fields. Her connections to the FCJ community are outstanding with strong relationships forged with specialist services, schools and families. Renae is passionate about FCJ College and has a deep understanding of the College’s charism and her own faith - a journey that continues within the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) through St Joseph’s Parish. Renae is commitment to promoting our Catholic tradition and ensuring ties to Parish remain relevant and meaningful.
Renae is deeply respected by staff, students, and families alike, and her vision for the College aligns with our Identity Statement, strategic direction and the diocesan-wide Magnify initiative.
I am confident that under Renae’s leadership, FCJ College will continue to thrive as a vibrant Catholic learning community, faithful to the spirit of Marie Madeleine d’Houet and the values of companionship, gentleness, justice, courage, and confidence.
Please join me in congratulating Renae on her appointment and in praying for her as she continues in this important role.
Joseph Mount
Principal
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