Principal set to hand over reins after 12 years in role

With enrolments at record levels, a new robotic dairy and an equine arena on the way, WA College of Agriculture Denmark principal Kevin Beal has decided to go out on a high.

After 12 years at the helm, Mr Beal will see out the last day of school today before deputy principal Kevin Osborne takes over next year.

After stints at agricultural colleges in Morowa and Gnowangerup, Mr Beal took over from now Regional Development Minister Terry Redman in 2004 as principal and hasn’t looked back.

Mr Beal said he felt like now was the right time to step down.

“I believe the college is in a very good place — we have strong enrolments and are achieving great outcomes with our students and now is a good time to hand over the reins.” he said.

Along with achieving independent public school status for the college, Mr Beal said the creation of a robotic dairy this year and an enclosed equine arena currently under construction were among his proudest achievements as principal.

“(The robotic dairy) has been a real milestone, it’s taken us to the forefront of the dairy industry in WA and it will provide us with opportunities to train students into the dairy industry into the future,” he said.

“Also, being recognised by parents in the Great Southern as a leader in agricultural education.

“Providing opportunities not only for our VET students and pathways into industry but also recognised for our ATAR program and pathways into universities.”

Mr Beal has seen enrolments double during his 12 years in charge but said the increase in female students was one of the most positive changes.

“Next year at the college we have more girls than boys in residence and that’s a first time ever for this school, probably any agriculture college,” he said. “I guess it’s a reflection of the opportunities available for girls in agriculture and the changing face of agriculture.”

Mr Beal said he now hoped to do some travelling and spend more time on his own farm while maintaining contact with the college.