Our People
28 March, 2026
Four decades behind the scenes
BOB Hawke was the Prime Minister of Australia the day Sharon McHoul started work at Avoca Primary School. Joining the school in 1986 as its very first clerical assistant, Mrs McHoul has witnessed decades of change, from typewriters and handwritten records to modern computers, all while remaining a constant presence behind the scenes. This week, the school paid tribute to Mrs McHoul’s 40 year innings and her service to countless young Avoca students.
Principal Jacinta Dellavedova said Mrs McHoul plays a vital role in the day-to-day running of the school.
“She’s an integral part of the school,” she said.
“There’s a lot that she does behind the scenes that a lot of people wouldn’t know about, breakfast club, hot lunches, coordinating raffles, answering all the phones, getting messages out to students and paying the bills. Without Sharon, the cog just wouldn’t turn.”
Starting her role 40 years ago, Mrs McHoul admits she was unsure of what lay ahead.
“I walked in here terrified because I had no idea what I was doing,” she said. “I was lucky enough that I interviewed well and got the job.”
At the time, the school had around 165 students and relied on manual systems for much of its administration.
“We had a manual typewriter back then, then we got an electric one, which was pretty exciting,” she said.
“We had an old spirit duplicator, we didn’t have photocopiers back then. We used to do all our bookwork in these massive books that would take up the whole desk. Now it’s so much easier.”
Over the years, Mrs McHoul has seen significant changes across the school, including new buildings, upgraded facilities and the addition of a kindergarten, currently being built on site.
Today, the school has around 99 students, maintaining what she describes as a close-knit, family environment.
“It’s still a small school, it’s a nice, friendly family environment, and the kids are just gorgeous here,” she said.
While her role includes managing the school’s finances and administration, Mrs McHoul said it is the connection with students that has kept her in the job for four decades.
“I do the breakfast club on a Monday and Friday, and that interaction you have with the kids, it’s more social than about them having breakfast. They come in and tell you what they did on the weekend, and it’s just really special. They are like my extended family.”
Her dedication was evident during this week’s celebrations, where she admitted the attention left her feeling emotional.
“I was a bit emotional because of all the kids,” she said. “I think that’s the reason you do what you do.”
Mrs McHoul said while the administrative side of her role is important, it is the students who make each day worthwhile.
“You could do what I do anywhere, but it’s the kids, it’s what makes your day,” she said.
Reflecting on her career, she said the journey has been deeply rewarding and she’d do it all again.
“It’s been a nice 40 years, it really has,” she said.
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