General News
4 July, 2025
MEC principal David Sutton retires after 37 years
After a decade at the helm of Maryborough Education Centre (MEC), David Sutton is closing a remarkable chapter on a career that has spanned nearly four decades.
Mr Sutton first arrived in Maryborough in 1988, immediately commencing after completing his university degree as a newly appointed teacher at what was then called the Maryborough Technical College.
“The Department of Education used to place teachers in schools where the needs were. I was appointed to a graduate teacher position at Maryborough Technical College in 1988 and stayed on in teaching or leadership positions,” he said.
“I have spent my whole career in Maryborough. I was a secondary teacher and taught English and Humanities. Since then, I’ve spent the last 10 years as principal of MEC, but prior to that, I had the previous seven years as assistant principal.”
What followed was a long and committed journey through the town’s evolving education landscape.
“When I started at Maryborough, there was the high school and the tech school, and there were two primary schools and a specialist school,” he said.
“And then in 1994, the high school and the technical school merged to become the regional college. So that was the first experience of a reorganisation that I had.
“Then in 2005, all the schools joined to become MEC.”
Under Mr Sutton’s leadership, MEC has grown into a dynamic, vibrant, and inclusive learning environment where students are supported to thrive.
“Teaching fundamentally as a human pursuit hasn’t changed,” Mr Sutton said.
“It’s about human connection and interaction. Kindness, respect, understanding, and trust are all of those lovely human traits at the foundation of all that’s good in schools.”
Last Tuesday morning, a special farewell assembly was held in his honour.
“[Tuesday] morning’s assembly was really memorable. It’s hard to be the centre of attention all that time, but as for some memorable moments throughout my time at MEC, there are too many to mention,” he said.
“I think what’s given me a kick is the daily interactions with kids – I’ve tried to be as visible as possible.
“The warm connections and relationships I have with students, staff and parents is what has been memorable for me.
“Students have gone on to do great things in sporting fields and academic pursuits – too many to name – but to see young people go on and really excel in their chosen field has been a great thrill for me.”
For Mr Sutton, a vital focus has always been supporting the school community, particularly families.
“It’s been a real honour and privilege to support and work with families. It’s not been lost on me for a minute, and something I really treasure and value and will miss,” he said.
“The hard work of supporting people and families has been the most rewarding and most important to me.”
As term two for MEC students finishes up this week, Mr Sutton will also leave the principal’s office for a final time.
As Mr Sutton steps down, his message is one of humility and gratitude.
“I just really want to put it out there and thank everybody for their support,” he said.
“I’ve really been fortunate to be in the role. I felt very well supported by the community at all times. I felt a high level of trust, and that’s been significant for me.
“It’s helped me through challenging periods, and I feel that I’ve had the support of the MEC staff and the wider community, I’m really grateful for that, and wish to pass on my gratitude.”
David Sutton and Niamh Sutton are not related.