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Mr Lewis is no stranger to school leadership, with more than 15 years' experience as Principal across three states, and a career that spans two decades in education. He is currently the Principal of Trinity College in Gladstone, Queensland, and has previously led Penrith Anglican College (NSW) and Swan Christian College (WA). A former Deputy Principal at Maitland Christian School, his teaching career has also included roles at Covenant Christian School, Knox Grammar, and Green Point Christian College.

But what truly sets Mr Lewis apart is the breadth of experience he brings — from classrooms to corporate boardrooms, from student support to strategic planning. He has worked in business and vocational training, led campus mergers, helped establish the first Trade Training Campus in Western Australia, and brings valuable insight into online learning and regional education. While he hasn’t formally led a boarding school, Mr Lewis has partnered with residential colleges and understands the culture within a school which has regional boarders and the importance of supporting rural and remote students.

He’s also no stranger to Tamworth — and neither is Calrossy to him.

“Years ago, I visited close family friends in Tamworth— whose children were attending Calrossy at the time,” Mr Lewis recalls.

“They gave me a lasting impression of the School’s warmth and values. Leigh and I have always enjoyed the country lifestyle, and we’re genuinely looking forward to becoming part of such a vibrant regional community.”

The Calrossy Board, led by Chair Ven Ian Millican, said the decision followed a rigorous national recruitment process.

“Mark’s depth of experience stood out from the start,” said Mr Millican. “He’s a proven leader, a strategic thinker, and a man of deep Christian faith. We’re confident he’s the right person to lead Calrossy into its next chapter.”

Mr Lewis and his wife Leigh have been married for more than 30 years and have four adult children — Jessiah, Caleb, Samantha and Jared — and a new grandson, Malaki. Born in the UK to Welsh parents, he lived in New Zealand before moving to Australia in 1985.

He confesses he doesn't fit the mould of a “typical school principal,” but believes that’s a strength.

“My path has included time in business, in vocational education, and even equipment procurement,” he says with a laugh. “That diversity has shaped how I lead. It helps me see schools not just as places of learning, but as dynamic communities with real-world impact.”

When asked what drew him to Calrossy, Mr Lewis shared, “The Anglican foundation, the strong platform of quality education, the multi-campus structure — and the challenge and opportunity of building on these aspects — really stood out. While Calrossy is unique, many of its cultural and educational values echo the schools I’ve led, and that excites me. This is a school with enormous potential.”

Mr Lewis also expressed admiration for the work of outgoing Principal Mr David Smith, who will continue to lead the School until the end of 2025.

“David has led Calrossy with care and consistency. I’m grateful for the strong foundation he’s built and look forward to working with the community to take the next steps.”

Passionate about whole-student education, Mr Lewis believes in providing “life-changing experiences” beyond the classroom. At Swan Christian College, he helped raise nearly half a million dollars in five years to build a school in Zambia and led numerous overseas service trips for students.

“I’m most looking forward to getting to know the people and dynamics that make Calrossy what it is — the culture, the traditions, the stories. And I’m equally excited to help shape what comes next.”

When he’s not focused on school life, you’ll find Mr Lewis cycling or keeping fit. He’s even completed marathons and Ironman events — evidence, perhaps, of his quiet determination.

Calrossy warmly welcomes Mr Mark Lewis and his family and looks forward to the future with faith, confidence and a shared sense of purpose.