Thank you to everyone that particated in such a successful evening. Please enjoy looking thorough the photos and reading sage advice from past presidents.

Don Zoellner Past President 1999-2000

 As a former president and member for more than 20 years, I would have very much enjoyed attending. Unfortunately, I have commitments here in Alice Springs that make it impossible to make it to Darwin.

From my perspective, the links that the NTPA developed with the national primary and secondary principals’ associations were the highlight. NT principals were/are given exposure to national events and policymaking through participation in the executive committees of the larger groups and can bring back to the NT insights and knowledge that most principals in the larger jurisdictions would never be exposed to as an active participant.

From my personal experience, as the NTPA representative to ASPA, I was able to become the board chair of the Australian Principals’ Associations Professional Development Council (the nation’s worst acronym – APAPDC!) and served on the board for 6 years. This group provided PD for school leaders in all sectors and levels and during my time co-developed and delivered many national programs, including Dare to Lead, which aimed at improving Indigenous learning outcomes by supporting explicit school leadership strategies. The other stand out activity was the delivery of the secondary school mental health promotion package – Mind Matters.

From my involvement with Mind Matters I went on to be a member of the National Advisory Council on Suicide Prevention, bringing the perspectives of school leaders to the table and I still remain active in mental health activities here in the NT.

These involvements, and many others, started with being a member of the NTPA.

I pass on my best wishes to those in attendance and are looking forward to what the next 40 years might bring.

Denise Wilkowski Past President 2007- 2009

I can honestly say that being president of ANTSEL was what I consider to have been one of the most satisfying highlights of my career and at times one of the most challenging. I particularly enjoyed visiting schools and interacting with the students and their teachers. One other aspect I felt was vitally important was being available for our members, to listen and to walk them through whatever problem they were experiencing at the time. Even if it was at midnight or once when I was on holiday in Japan.

Britany Roestenburg Past President 2019- 2021

I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations to the Northern Territory Principals’ Association on its 40th birthday—what an incredible milestone and a testament to the strength, spirit and solidarity of school leadership in the Territory.

I’m so sorry that I can’t be with you in person tonight to celebrate this momentous occasion. I would have loved nothing more than to stand among you—to reflect, reconnect, and raise a glass to all that the NTPA has been and all that it continues to be.

As a former President, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the power of this association—its capacity to bring people together, advocate fiercely for our profession, and hold firm to the belief that great leadership transforms lives.

It has been a privilege to be part of an association that not only supports its members but boldly advocates for real, lasting change—like securing principal permanency—ensuring our leaders have the stability and confidence to lead with purpose and impact.

Over the past four decades, the NTPA has not only provided a collective voice for principals across the Territory—it has built a community. A community bound by courage, collegiality, and a deep commitment to the students, staff and communities.

It’s easy to forget, in the day-to-day challenges of school leadership, just how important that community is. But it’s the people in this room—and those who came before us—who remind us that we are never alone. That through shared purpose, open dialogue, and a bit of Territory grit, leaders can face anything.

To my colleagues who’ve shaped this journey—from urban centres to the most remote parts of our vast and beautiful landscape—thank you. Your work matters. Your leadership matters. And this association is stronger because of each of you.

While I can't be there in person, please know I am celebrating with you in spirit—reflecting with pride on how far we’ve come and looking ahead at the amazing possibilities.

So, here’s to 40 years of NTPA.
To advocacy with impact.
To leadership with heart.
To connection that carries us forward.

Happy birthday, NTPA—and thank you for letting me be part of your story which one day I may return too.

Robyn Thorpe Past President 2022-2024

Apologies I could not join you today to share in the wonderful achievements of NTPA over the past 40 years.

I was deeply privileged to be the president of the association for 3 years and represent our school leader voices at not only a local and regional level but across the nation as well.

Making sure that the NT was never forgotten; and that despite our unique challenges, we have some of the most innovative, intelligent and responsive leaders in the nation. And never forget that during this time, despite being the most underfunded education system across Australia, the results that our leaders achieve are remarkable!

I felt deeply connected to my colleagues and fellow educators through the Association and they gave me the strength and resilience both as a principal and president. No one really understands the challenges and complexities of our jobs more so than a colleague. Having someone to share with, who understands, respects the work, celebrates your achievements and can make you laugh at what might sound unbelievable to others is what makes being part of the Association so important.

Congratulations to our past presidents and all those members who volunteer their time to be part of the executive or local chapters; and to all who contribute in some shape or form; you all understand what it means to be a part of something bigger than ourselves to ensure the best outcomes for our NT students. Good luck and best wishes.