Our Team

Gilly Paxton, Manager

It's my privilege to manage Camden Haven & Manning Valley Community College. Our College provides vocational and lifestyle courses for our communities that promote lifelong learning.

There is something for everyone and always an opportunity to get involved and be inspired. We provide a supportive and inclusive environment for students to learn new skills for work and life. I enjoy bringing my skills to the college and working with a  professional and dedicated team.

We live in a part of the state that is rich with culture and blessed with nature's best.  I enjoy the great outdoors and love showing my many visitors around.

Caitlin Facey 

As an Administration Assistant at Laurieton Camden Haven Community College. I cover lifestyle enrolments and admin while completing my Cert III in Business through the college.

Juggling phone calls, emails, and front desk duties can be challenging, but with my training and experience, I handle it all with ease. Being able to make a positive impact on people's lives is the most rewarding part of my job.

 In my free time, I indulge in my passion for history, reading historical novels and watching documentaries.

Dianne Henderson

Im the Lifestyle Coordinator &  Senior Administrator located at the Taree Office. I have only recently joined the team in March, replacing Mikaela who is currently on Maternity leave.

This was the first position I applied for after leaving a 27 year career in the hire industry and I was fortunate enough to be successful.    I'm new to adult education and I have lots to learn. I'm excited about this role as it presents new opportunities for learning and growth.

 I love walking on the beach and just enjoying the ever-changing scenery the beautiful Mid North Coast offers.  

Kylie Brittliffe

I moved to this beautiful coastal town from Newcastle, looking for a smaller community near the ocean. In my previous job, I worked in the Out of Home Care sector as a Caseworker and Property Officer, where I discovered my passion for helping others.

Last year, I completed my Certificate III in Individual Support and Certificate IV in Disability with the College, and I was impressed by its supportive and flexible learning environment. I'm excited to continue learning about VET education and to assist students in achieving their educational goals.

I love starting my day with a swim in the ocean, followed by a cup of coffee

Mikaela Peterson

I began working for the college at the start of 2020 as the Lifestyle Program Coordinator.  I have loved the creative freedom within my role and the nurturing support to expand my skill sets and bring innovation to the college. 

Prior to my work with the college, I had been working in the hospitality industry since I was 14 years old.

I spend any 'free' time raising my 4 beautiful boys - Levi, Phoenix, Zander  and Elim - and  getting up to all sorts of fun with them. We live on a bit of land in Nabiac and love to grow our own food and spend time with our Mini Nubian goats and dogs! Our weekends are usually filled with sport, adventures, church and gardening.

Sarah Manderson

I am a Registered BAS Agent and bookkeeper contracted by the college to help keep the finances and reporting in order. 

I spent the earlier part of my professional life in Corporate Banking working in London (Shipping Finance) Brisbane and Sydney (Trade Finance, Corporate Finance and Transaction Banking encompassing roles in Credit Risk Management and Sales).

I also spent a couple of fun years in the French Alps, ostensibly working, but mostly skiing. I am a country girl at heart and love animals.

Hayley Proudfoot

I am the Manager of the Camden Head Pilot Station, which is a heritage listed community managed facility located at Camden Head 6km east of Laurieton.

I have only recently joined the team in 2019. I still maintain a consultancy and research business locally specialising in Cultural Fisheries. Before going independent I was a research academic at Southern Cross University.

I grew up on a heritage listed property and am passionate about preserving and celebrating the diverse voices and stories of those who occupied the land in this beautiful area I am lucky enough to call home.

Valerie Evans

I’m the Vocational Education and Training (VET) Compliance Manager of Camden Haven Community College.  I have over 38 years’ experience in the VET sector across a range of positions.

My casual role with Camden Haven Community College allows me to stay connected and continue my commitment to lifelong learning and communities such as ours that are involved, engaged and empowered through learning. 

On a much lighter note – I love fine food and wine (not always in that order), love being a Grannie, and enjoy my morning walks on the beach with Ruby, my cavoodle.

Veronica Peterson

I am the Training Manager for Camden Haven Community College and program coordinator for Taree, Laurieton and Gloucester areas specialising in aged care, disability and home and community qualifications.

I have been a qualified trainer and assessor since 2006. I am  a business owner and a business partner in designing and developing contexualised training resources.

My passion is focused on delivering quality training and assessment to those disadvantaged in our community.