St Michael’s College announces Tony Daley as Principal from 2023  

From St Patricks College, Launceston, experienced educational leader, Tony Daley, has secured the Principalship of St Michael’s College, a leading Catholic school in the Western suburbs of Adelaide. 

After a comprehensive consultation with members of the community, a national recruitment campaign, and a thorough discernment by the interview panel, the St Michael’s College Board has appointed Tony Daley to take the reins of the College commencing at the start of 2023. 

Tony Daley will come to St Michael’s College with a wealth of educational leadership experience. Tony is in his sixth year as Principal at St Patrick’s College, Launceston, and has held a range of senior leadership roles in schools in Queensland, including St Hilda’s School, and John Paul College. 

Tony holds a Master of Education from Australian Catholic University, a Bachelor of Science from Griffith University, a Graduate Certificate in Theology from Charles Sturt University, a Graduate Diploma in Teaching from QUT, and an Executive Leadership Certificate from Notre Dame University. 

Marie Dorrington OAM, College Board Chair, spoke on behalf of the Board, “The College Board is confident that Mr Daley will lead St Michael’s College to not only embrace the challenges of the future but to flourish as it continues to grow and develop in the years ahead”.  

Tony will be welcomed into the community in 2023 supported by a smooth transition process from Acting Principal, Mr Damian Patton. Tony’s alignment with the College’s Lasallian values is felicitous and he has shared the sentiment that “developing authentic relationships with the College community is important for successful leadership; that education needs to be accessible, engaging, creative and challenging, as well as meeting the needs of each student; and that the primary role of education is to equip the young people in our care with the skills, values and virtues to succeed in the world.”  

Br David Hawke FSC, on behalf of the De La Salle Brothers, reflected …  
“Tony brings with him a wealth of educational and leadership experience across Australia including working in several charisms. I am confident that his appointment will be well received as he continues to lead St Michael’s as an excellent Catholic school in the Lasallian tradition.” 

On a personal note, Tony and his wife Tina will fit well into the Western suburbs of South Australia. Coming from a water-loving family and Surf Lifesaving background, being so close to the beach is the perfect location. Whilst Tony’s children live in every capital of the eastern states, he shares a strong bond with them all.  

College Captains, Massimo Cavallo and Avah Topp spoke with Mr Daley earlier this morning, “On behalf of students, families and staff of both campuses, we would both like to extend a warm welcome to you and congratulate you on your appointment.  We know we speak for everyone when we say we look forward to working closely with you towards the new, innovative and exciting ideas that you will bring to our College. We truly hope that you enjoy being a part of our inclusive community as much as we do.” 

As the College welcomes Mr Daley to this new position, they also acknowledge and thank Mr John Foley for his contribution to the College as Principal from 2014 - 2021, and Acting Principal, Mr Damian Patton during 2022.  

For additional information, contact the St Michael’s College Communications and Community Relations Coordinator on  0411 795 826.