For any enquiries please direct to Mrs Kathia Faranda, International Student & Homestay Coordinator, who will be more than happy to assist.
Phone: 075568 4365
Mrs Tonia Wilkes
Head of Indigenous, Head of International
Phone: 07 5568 4386
Tonia has been a part of the International team at Elanora State High School for 7 years as Head of Department. She currently teaches the Diploma of Business. She is a passionate advocate for all international students who have come from a diverse array of backgrounds and works to provide a high quality international educational experience for students. The aim of the International program is to provide international students with a life changing experience. International students enhance our school community by sharing their culture, perspectives, knowledge and experiences. The success of the program is evident in students testimonials.
Mrs Kathia Faranda
International Student Coordinator
Phone: 07 5568 4365
Kathia has called the Gold Coast home for 24 years, living in the Currumbin and Tugun area with her husband and two children. Originally from Brazil, she brings a rich cultural perspective shaped by her experiences living and studying in Brazil, England and more recently, Austria. Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish, Kathia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, a Diploma in Youth Work & Counselling, and certifications in Mental Health First Aid and Business Management. As the coordinator of Elanora's International Program, she fosters a welcoming and supportive environment where students thrive. The program's success is reflected in both student feedback and its continued growth under her leadership.
Ms Laura Paech
Homestay Coordinator
Phone: 07 5568 4365
Originally from Germany, Laura has called Australia home for the past 11 years. Her passion for cultural exchange stems from her own experiences studying and living abroad, including completing a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology in the Netherlands and spending a year as an exchange student in California.
Fluent in German, English and Dutch, with a basic understanding of Spanish and French, Laura values clear communication and creating a supportive environment for both homestay families and international students. Having navigated the challenges of adapting to new cultures herself, she is dedicated to ensuring that students and host families have a positive and enriching experience in the international program.
Outside of work, Laura loves being in nature and leading an active lifestyle. She enjoys surfing, exploring the outdoors and prioritising health and well-being. Her love for the ocean and adventure perfectly complements her commitment to helping students feel at home and supported during their time in Australia.
Mr Brook Rees
International Student Support/EALD Teacher
Phone: 07 5568 4365
Brook has been a part of the International Team at ESHS for 6 years and his diverse roles sees him working with our ISP students in a number of capacities including EALD support, assistance with Subject Selection, Surfing Program Facilitator and he attends our ESHS excursions and camps to support students with their activities whilst away on our amazing adventures - you may even have Brook pick you up for the airport when you first arrive in Australia! Brook teaches Music, Japanese, Media Arts and Psychology at Elanora State High School in addition the work he does with our Surfing Program. He has spent many years living and working in Japan where he met his wife and together with their two daughters live in Burleigh Heads - when not surfing he is gigging as a bass player around the East Coast of Australia. Working with International Students is his favourite part of his job and he prides himself on working with the best International Team on the Gold Coast.