Louise Hobbs
Goroke P-12 College, VIC
Wotjobaluk
Early Career Teacher
Louise Hobbs, Leading Teacher at Goroke P-12 College in regional Victoria, has made a significant contribution to the school community and Goroke’s 80 students. Located 70km from the nearest regional centre, the school is renowned for its award-winning agriculture program, and Louise has been instrumental in developing an interest among students in this area through various initiatives.
Louise has had a profound impact on senior secondary education, particularly in VCE Agriculture, Business, and Biology. She developed a free podcast and an affordable textbook for VCE Agriculture, enhancing accessibility for students across Victoria. Her initiatives have led to student participation in various state competitions, including the Royal Melbourne Schools Poultry competition, the Cows Create Careers program and the Quantum Victoria’s 3D printing competition.
Louise has played a key role in staff capacity building, attending professional development through the Victorian Academy of Excellence and joining the Southwest Region’s Literacy Improvement Program. She implemented whole-school literacy changes, including new testing and intervention programs, and improved communication by moving all timetabling online.
Her work as an Agriculture teacher has fostered strong community engagement, with local farmers supporting the school’s program and the school showcasing student work at the local Goroke show. Her involvement in the Merino Wether Program garnered significant parental support for working bees and farm visits, enriching students’ practical learning experiences.
Recognised as an ABC Trailblazer, Louise has advocated for more resources for regional Victoria, leading to a feature on ABC’s Landline. She also produces free lectures for Earth Ed, a regional specialist STEM centre. Through innovative resource development, effective collaboration and strong community engagement, Louise is helping to make education more equitable for all.