Thank you, Vanessa

Thank you, Vanessa Gabriel

It is very difficult to properly capture what Vanessa Gabriel’s contribution has meant to Woodleigh.

After 16 years of deeply committed volunteerism, Vanessa has stepped down from the Board, leaving a legacy felt across every part of our School. For the vast majority of that time, Vanessa was Board Chair; first, at Penbank, where she was pivotal in guiding the merger that brought our communities together. That moment alone would define many people’s contribution. For Vanessa, it was only the beginning.

What followed was a period of extraordinary change and, at times, deep uncertainty. Leadership transitions, a new Principal, the sideways shift in the world as Covid hit, the disruption and dislocation that Victoria experienced so acutely at the start of the decade.

Here at Woodleigh, that disruption was profound. David began his time as Principal, arriving at a school comprised of empty campuses. For months, no one was allowed on-site, and the sense of community that defines Woodleigh had to be sustained without the physical environment that feeds our culture.

During those days, then weeks, then months, Vanessa steadied and reassured us all. With the support of all Board members, she undertook an enormous amount of work behind the scenes, with clarity, purpose and care. Communication was frequent, open and transparent. Families and staff knew what was happening, even when there were no easy answers.

Throughout her involvement, as a parent of Francesca, Lucia and Aurelia and as a board member, Vanessa’s ability to remain calm, see beyond the immediate moment and think clearly about what lies ahead has been invaluable. 

Its value has been particularly clear to the three principals she has worked with – Vivienne Wearne, Jonathan Walter and David Baker. Vanessa understands the complexity and weight of school leadership and the importance of standing beside those entrusted with it. Yet, true to character, she has never sought recognition. There has been no desire for the limelight – just a consistent, thoughtful commitment to doing what was best for our School and its people.

Because of her commitment, Woodleigh now stands in a position of strength. Our governance is sound. Our strategy is clear. The culture of purposeful learning, respect and care that defines Woodleigh School has been protected and strengthened through a time that might easily have unsettled it.

Vanessa’s contribution sits quietly within it all – in decisions made, stability preserved, and relationships sustained. We’ve been blessed to have someone who truly understands Woodleigh, guiding it for such an extended period. And she really does understand. For Vanessa, “Woodleigh offered our children something different – an education pathway that felt compassionate and individualised. A pathway that valued student voice and agency and that understood that there are many roads to travel to reach each student’s destination.”

On behalf of the entire Woodleigh community, we offer our sincere and heartfelt thanks to Vanessa Gabriel. The School is stronger for Vanessa’s leadership, and we are deeply grateful for the care, wisdom and humanity she has given so generously over so many years.

Best wishes, Vanessa. Enjoy the extra time with Tony and the girls, and thank you.