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After nine years leading with faith and grace, Calrossy farewells Principal Mr David Smith and his wife Julie — a team whose warmth and vision have left an indelible legacy.
Vision, Faith and Change
2025 marks the close of a transformative era at Calrossy Anglican School. With the school year now complete, we farewell Mr David Smith, who concludes his nine-year Principalship after a season of vision, compassion and courageous change — a legacy that will be felt for years to come.
Returning to his hometown of Tamworth in 2016, Mr Smith’s appointment was, in many ways, a homecoming. From the outset, his leadership was marked by bold vision, clear strategy and a deep commitment to Christian education. Under his guidance, Calrossy launched the Learn, Grow, Serve strategic framework and later the Calrossy 2025 Strategic Plan, anchoring the School’s future in both faith and innovation.
“Our vision is to develop students who reflect the great love God has for humankind... We are growing young people of purpose and character, full of hope and equipped to serve.” —David Smith.
When he began in 2017, Calrossy operated with Secondary girls at Brisbane Street and boys at William Cowper. The years that followed brought thoughtful restructuring, realigning the School’s campuses to better support learning, wellbeing and connection.
In 2019, Calrossy celebrated its Centenary — a milestone marked by reflection, celebration and the creation of a new school crest, guided by Mr Smith, symbolising both history and future direction.
Faith Through Challenge
Then in 2020, the world changed. Having declared it “The Year of Seeing Things Clearly,” Mr Smith led Calrossy through COVID-19 with calm conviction and grace.
“Thankfully, Calrossy was well prepared and we moved to remote learning confidently. There is nothing like a crisis to reveal the character of those around.” — David Smith.
From virtual Chapels and online assemblies to daily wellbeing checks, his steady leadership and unwavering faith became a source of reassurance for students, staff and families alike.
That same spirit carried into 2021, the “Year of New Beginnings,” which saw the launch of eCalrossy and a new House system — Cuthbert, Hamlin, Nicholls and Sheean — both symbols of growth and unity.
In 2022, the “Year of Gratitude” introduced a new Prep-to-Year 12 uniform, reflecting a united and contemporary Calrossy identity. The following years — Hope (2023), Courage (2024) and Kindness (2025) — continued to reflect the essence of Mr Smith’s leadership: quiet strength, authentic compassion and unwavering faith.
Mr Smith’s leadership extended far beyond policy and planning. He has been a highly visible and deeply engaged Principal — just as likely to be seen in the Prep playground chatting about sandcastles, covered in coloured powder at the Colour Run, or washing cars at a fundraiser, as he was in the Boardroom or presenting at a conference.
“I am in awe of the students who adjusted rapidly to change and got on with life and learning... Resilience is a core value of Calrossy and it has been visible in the lives of students.” — David Smith.
Known for remembering almost every student’s name, his warmth and laughter became part of the fabric of Calrossy life.
Throughout this time, his wife Julie has been a constant and uplifting presence — gracious, genuine and endlessly supportive. Whether cheering from the sidelines, lending a hand at events or greeting families with a smile, she has quietly strengthened the heart of school life.
A Community's Gratitude
As Board Chair Ian Millican reflected:
“We give deep, deep thanks to our outgoing Principal David Smith, and to his wife Julie, for all they have done at Calrossy and in the broader Tamworth community. They have always modelled kindness, love, commitment, grace, patience and a deep trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. We thank them and ask God’s richest blessings on them in the next phase of their lives.”
Those words are echoed right across the Calrossy community:
“I fondly recall David telling me during my interview that Calrossy is all about raising good people — and he kept his word.” — Lee Traynor, current student and graduate
“Thank you for your faithful service in leading Calrossy and for being bold in sharing Jesus with our community.” — Kim Scott, former parent and Board member
“An inspirational leader, passionate educator, engaging speaker and positive presence — he will be greatly missed.” — Rowena Yeo
“Your leadership and dedication have left an unforgettable mark. You’ve inspired Charlotte and Anneka to strive for excellence and integrity every day.” — The Tongue Family
“Thank you both for your incredible service — for leading with generosity, care and wisdom.” — The Clunas Family
“Dave, you have led our school through difficult times and been an inspiration through your quiet Christian commitment.” — Sandy Cudmore
Adding to these voices is the heartfelt reflection of Mia Thompson (Class of 2021), who attended Calrossy from Preschool to Year 12:
“When I look back on my years at Calrossy, I think of the Principal who shaped them with kindness. Mr David Smith had a rare gift — he could make you feel glad to be at school simply by appearing with his warm smile... He knew our names, our stories, and who we were beyond the school gate. Under his leadership, we felt seen and valued, not just as students but as people. I watched him extend that same genuine care to my peers, creating a school where belonging was real. I am deeply grateful for my time at Calrossy, and for Mr Smith, who led with humility and heart. And always alongside him was Julie, offering her own steady support to our community. Their influence remains with me — a reminder that true leadership lifts you and stays with you long after you leave.”
These heartfelt tributes are just the tip of the iceberg — a glimpse into the immense respect, gratitude and affection felt across the Calrossy community for both David and Julie
Mr Smith’s time at Calrossy has been marked by faith, courage and compassion. His influence runs deep — in our people, our values and our story. We thank David and Julie for their faithful service and wish them rest, joy and God’s richest blessings in the years ahead.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
