Mr Bray has moved to the region from country Victoria, where he was principal of Chairo Christian School for 13 years. 

He takes up his new post following the retirement at the end of last year of Phil Smith, who served Nowra Christian School for 15 years.

Mr Bray said while it’s early days, he’s already impressed by the students. 

“On that very first lunchtime, it was one of those really hot days and I went out and started chatting to the students and I thought I might get a few grumbles about the weather but they were all very friendly and relatable,” he said. 

Mr Bray began his 41 year career as a high school english teacher.

“I initially began my teaching career in the Victorian Education Department, but God led me on a journey that saw me transfer to the world of Christian schooling mid-way through 1994,” he said. 

“It is an incredibly rewarding experience to work as a member of a team to equip and train young people to fully develop their God-given gifts and talents.

Mr Bray said he’s looking forward to leading the school and helping continue its growth.

Mr Bray has moved to the region accompanied by his wife, Sharon.

A keen fisherman, gardener and sports fan, Mr Bray and his wife are delighted to make the Shoalhaven the destination for their first move out of country Victoria.

“In the short time since I have arrived, I’ve been struck by the natural beauty of this region, particularly its waterways and surrounding bushland,” he said. 

“I look forward to exploring it and enjoying the good fishing I have heard so much about, as well as continuing to support AFL football, which I can see is growing in popularity in the area.”