In 2025, Macquarie Community College proudly celebrates 75 years of dedicated service to the community. For over seven decades, the College has stood at the forefront of community-driven education across Greater Sydney, delivering real-world outcomes that empowers individuals, strengthen communities, and drive economic progress.
This milestone stands as a powerful testament to the College’s unwavering commitment to creating and providing affordable and inclusive learning opportunities that meet the needs of individuals, organisations and communities.
The College’s ongoing success is made possible by the dedication of its people—including its dedicated volunteer Board members. Leaders like Wendy Chan, Susan Westbrook and Peter Garrard exemplify the passion, experience, and strategic insight that have helped guide the College. Their contributions over the years have helped the College realise its vision of helping deliver stronger communities through the power of learning and connection. Peter, Wendy and Susan played a critical role in establishing Gateway Community High.
A Personal Connection to the College’s Purpose
Board members Wendy Chan and Susan Westbrook both share a profound belief in the transformative power of education, which fuels their dedication to the College’s vision.
Wendy’s motivation to join the Board was deeply personal.
She reflects, “Education has made a big difference in my family’s lives.” She’s seen firsthand how access to education can open doors—building confidence, independence, and opportunities across generations. “Being part of an organisation that creates those opportunities in the community is deeply meaningful.”
Susan was initially drawn to Macquarie Community College because of its reputation for excellence in vocational education and its impactful role supporting learners across Western and Northwestern Sydney. Throughout her tenure on the Board, she has observed how the College honours its community roots while continuously adapting to meet the evolving needs of its students and society.
“Macquarie Community College is not just maintaining its roots; it’s growing and adapting to meet the evolving social and educational needs of today’s learners,” she explains.
This ability to blend tradition with innovation ensures the College’s ongoing relevance and effectiveness.
Peter Garrard, a former board member of the College with a wealth of experience in education policy and leadership, says what drew him to the College was its mission to serve learners who are often overlooked. “What sets Macquarie Community College apart is its deep understanding of the communities it serves,” he shares.
“This is not education for education’s sake—this is education that changes lives, particularly for people who might not otherwise have access.”
Defining Moments: Gateway Community High and COVID-19 Resilience
Among the many milestones, Wendy, Susan, and Peter identify two pivotal moments that stand out as defining during their connection with the College—the establishment of Gateway Community High School and the College’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since 2021, Gateway Community High has given students at risk of disengaging from mainstream schooling in Years 9 to 12 a life-changing alternative. More than just an alternative setting, Gateway offers students a chance to reconnect—with themselves, their education, and their future. Susan describes Gateway as “growing from an idea into a vital space that helps so many young people.”
The School’s innovative approach and nurturing environment have been instrumental in helping students regain confidence and build a brighter future. Wendy echoes this sentiment, adding that Gateway has “broadened and deepened our reach in the community,” allowing the College to extend its impact in meaningful new ways.
Peter agrees, highlighting that Gateway “delivers an education model that meets young people where they are, not where we think they should be.” He adds, “It’s a reminder of the power of education to provide not just knowledge, but hope.”
The COVID-19 pandemic tested education providers around the world, presenting unprecedented challenges to traditional teaching methods. All three reflect with pride on how the College maintained strong connections during a time of uncertainty.
“I wouldn’t have imagined you can do guitar lessons virtually,” Wendy laughs, “but it brought people together—it became a social event every term.” Susan acknowledges the team effort it took to adapt and thrive: “We are recognised as a high-performing provider—that doesn’t come easily. It took commitment, adaptability, and innovation to get us through.”
Peter adds, “In a time of crisis, the College became more agile, more responsive—and more connected to its purpose. That’s not something you see everywhere. What emerged from the disruption was a more resilient, creative, and community-centred College, ready for the future.”
Looking Ahead: Building on 75 Years of Success
As Macquarie Community College celebrates 75 years, Wendy, Susan and Peter express both pride in the College’s rich heritage and excitement for its future. They see an organisation that remains firmly anchored in values of accessibility, inclusiveness, and community connection, while embracing new opportunities to innovate and evolve.
Wendy sums up her experience by saying, “Being part of this organisation feels like being part of something truly meaningful—something that changes lives.” Susan adds a forward-looking perspective, noting that while the future may be uncertain, the potential is immense: “The next 75 years hold so much promise. Our opportunity lies in continuing to evolve—adapting to changing needs and delivering education and training that genuinely transforms lives.”
Peter agrees, saying, “Our mission hasn’t changed—but how we deliver it continues to grow. That’s the strength of Macquarie Community College: it evolves without losing sight of who it’s here to serve.”
Together, their reflections serve as a powerful testament to the College’s ongoing commitment to supporting learners and communities. With a legacy of resilience, innovation, and heart, Macquarie Community College stands ready to meet the needs of future generations and continue its mission of transforming lives through education.