18/11/2025
After 9 years in the most honourable leadership role in the sphere of education in Queensland, the time has come for me to officially retire.
My tenure of 2016-2025 didn't quite match my mentor Bernie MacKenzie OAM, but his legacy was definitely advanced in my time.
I shall not speak of programs, innovations nor interventions I put in place, nor shall I do the expected and mention all of the amazing achievements of the young people in the school. They will always be close in my heart. I choose to honour my teachers. They are the most dedicated and proud of all professionals I've worked with.
The executive team has exceptional talent and I thank them for their honesty, collegiality, and creativity. All will be amazing principals one day (soon).
We did amazing things together and got the gains nobody else expected or had achieved.
We continue to be 'the best we can be' every day.
Congratulations to my successor, Mr Frank Brunetto for his appointment to the school as principal taking the community to the next level.
It has been a total honour and privilege to be Principal of Cairns State High. Every single day will live on in my heart forever.
All my best wishes for the future.
Chris Zilm
Principal retired
