First woman to take the reins at ag school

Monday was a momentous occasion for the WA College of Agriculture — Narrogin, with its first ever female principal taking the helm. Melissa Walker is filling the role while the college searches for a long-term replacement for former principal Stephen Watt. Mr Watt, who had his final day on Friday, is starting a new position at Harvey College of Agriculture. “A good leader is a good leader regardless of gender, but it is very cool to be the first female principal,” Ms Walker said. “I think it’s great that we have such a large number of girls here. The reason they’re here is is that they want to get into those primary industries and they want to be on that pathway to success”. Ms Walker’s previous position was principal of Narrogin Senior High School, a role she will return to next year. “It’s going to be a great opportunity for me to form the links between the ag college and the senior high school,” she said. “I’m really excited about my time here. “The attributes of regional kids really add to what education is all about. “They’re determined and resourceful, they’re confident, empathetic, and they understand nature. “They’re really great kids.” Ms Walker said she hoped her rural background would be an asset. “I grew up on a farm and was educated in Katanning, so I think I bring an understanding of what it’s like to be a country kid being educated in a country school, and the complexities behind that,” she said.