URGENT UPDATE: Long-time educator Kerri-Anne Hubble has officially announced her retirement after an impressive 43-year career in education, marking the end of an era for the Dungowan community. Hubble’s journey began in 1982 at Moree East and culminated at Dungowan in 2025.
Reflecting on her career, Hubble remarked, “It’s been a wonderful and rewarding journey.” She recalled the swift transition into her first teaching position, having just three days to prepare before starting her role on a Monday, following a last-minute appointment. “I packed up my little Ford Escort and embarked on a 500-kilometre journey from Newcastle to Moree,” she said.
This significant milestone in Hubble’s life comes with mixed emotions. “I still felt I had something to offer, but I think it’s time to hand over the reins,” she noted, emphasizing the need for fresh perspectives in the Dungowan educational environment. Throughout her tenure, she established profound connections with students, families, and staff, calling these relationships “the most rewarding” aspect of her role.
Hubble’s impact on education spans decades, witnessing significant changes in teaching methods and opportunities. “When I left school, you stayed in the one position. Now you can work in different areas at all stages in life,” she said. She highlighted the shift toward student-centered learning, emphasizing the importance of inquiry-based methods and environmental education.
As she prepares for retirement, Hubble is excited about her future plans. “My husband and I are in the process of building our own container home,” she shared. Travel is also on her agenda, with aspirations to visit Uluru and Tuscany. “To sit in a vineyard in Tuscany would be nice,” she added with a smile, recalling her past adventures backpacking around Europe.
While Hubble is stepping away from her full-time role, she expressed interest in remaining involved in education, stating she would like to take on “casual” teaching days. “I don’t want to haunt the place,” she joked, indicating her desire to stay connected without overstepping.
This retirement not only marks a personal milestone for Hubble but also represents a significant transition for the Dungowan educational landscape. As she embarks on this new chapter, her legacy of dedication and passion for teaching will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the community.
With her departure, the Dungowan school community is encouraged to reflect on Hubble’s contributions and the transformative role she played in shaping countless lives over more than four decades. The future is bright, and as Hubble herself said, “I’ve achieved more than I ever thought I could.”
Stay tuned for updates on the new leadership at Dungowan as the community embraces the next phase of its educational journey.
