Meet our Parish Leadership Team
Fr Tho Van Tran - Parish Priest of St Bernard’s Parish
Having served in various parishes across the Melbourne Archdiocese for several years, I was appointed as Parish Priest of St Bernard’s Parish and moved to Belmont at the end of 2024.
It is a true blessing to be part of the St. Bernard’s and Clairvaux Catholic School communities. I am passionate about sharing our faith and working alongside the Parish Leadership Team. Whether we are celebrating Mass together, guiding our children through the Sacraments, or accompanying those facing illness or loss, I am honoured to walk this journey with you.
May God bless you all.
Fr Tho Tran
Brendan Flanagan - Clairvaux Catholic School Principal
I have been a school Principal and teacher for a number of years in the Sandhurst and Melbourne diocese having been in rural, regional and city-based schools. Education of our young people and family are important to me in the communities that our family has lived in to ensure that our future is based on strong community values.
Noreen Nicholson - Chair
Noreen is a long term member of the Parish Community. Family and Caring for Creation are particular passions and the volunteer focus of retired life. Previous experience in teamwork and managing projects in tertiary education and Ignatian spirituality settings, has prepared me to lead the Outreach & Engagement Pillar and the PLT.
Franca Bonanno - Deputy Chair
I have been an active member of our community since 1999 in several ministries. Currently I enjoy being a Reader and Eucharistic Minister, as well as being involved with the RCIA program. I have three adult children who all attended Clairvaux Catholic School and they are my most treasured blessings.
I am passionate about leading with faith. For 30 years, I have been a teacher at Sacred Heart College, educating students in Religious Education, Chemistry, and general Science. Working with young people in an environment that values our Catholic tradition and education is a privilege and most rewarding.
I lead the Liturgy Pillar as a member of the PLT.
Muriel Powell - Secretary
I moved to Highton in 1995 with my husband and our three children who attended Mercia/Clairvaux schools. I have been involved with the Parish in various roles as a Eucharist minister and Reader at 10.30am Mass. I was a member of the Parish staff, as the Parish catechist, until I retired in 2022. I am now participating in the PLT as Secretary and member of the Liturgy Pillar.
Peter Dunn
I have been actively involved with a number of Parishes, being Parish President at Holy Family Mt. Waverley and a Finance Committee member at St John's Mitcham, prior to coming to live in Highton.
I am a Project Manager and Registered Builder and have had a wide range of experience in local government and not for profit organisations.
Peter is leader of the Infrastructure Management Pillar.
Enza Hughes
My name is Enza Hughes and I am a member of the PLT. I have over 33 years’ experience as an accountant in Geelong. I am married with twin daughters that both attended Clairvaux Catholic School. I also enjoy volunteering at Sacred Heart College Geelong as the Treasurer of their Alumni Association.
Enza is Leader of the newly established Finance Committee and is their representative on the PLT.
Tess Carr - Parish Music Coordinator
Tess has been apart of the St Bernard’s community for many years. Having been gifted with a beautiful singing voice and musical skills, Tess has provided musical accompaniment to parishioners over many years both here in Highton and in Belmont. She now coordinates the parish musicians and conducts the parish choirs. New musicians and singers are always welcome! Tess is also a member of the Liturgy Pillar.
Sibson Santo
My name is Sibson and I am new to the parish and I have recently joined the PLT.
I have over ten years of experience in property management and finance.
I am married and a proud dad to an 11 year old. In my spare time, I enjoy family outings, biking, and a bit of roughhousing with my son.
Sibson is a member of the Finance, Infrastructure and Management Pillar.
Francis Kurian
An enthusiast for community services, Francis started working for the parish from June,2025. A background in architecture and construction management profession
Currently Francis is committed to being a part of the Outreach & Engagement Pillar and the newly formed Youth Engagement Group at the Parish.
Frances O”Reilly
Parish Finance Committee
Enza Hughes
My name is Enza Hughes and I am a member of the PLT. I have over 33 years’ experience as an accountant in Geelong. I am married with twin daughters that both attended Clairvaux Catholic School. I also enjoy volunteering at Sacred Heart College Geelong as the Treasurer of their Alumni Association.
Enza is Leader of the newly established Finance Committee and is their representative on the PLT.
Other Members of the Finance Committee:
PAUL FITZGERALD
JEROME HENRION
St Bernard’s Parish Staff 2026
Administration Officer - Pavlina Solcova
My name is Pavlina Solcova and I originally come from the Czech Republic, Europe. Before moving to Australia, I worked for many years in marketing and business roles in international companies, where I learned the importance of being organised, working with people, and communicating well.
Our family has lived in the United States and since 2024 we have made Australia our home. It has been a big change for us, but also a very special journey that has taught me to be open and adaptable.
I am a mum of two wonderful boys, with a husband also from the Czech Republic, and we share our home with our lovely Labradoodle. I really value being part of a community where people feel welcome and supported.
I truly enjoy being part of St Bernard’s Parish. I like helping where I can, keeping things organised, and contributing to a warm and friendly environment.
Chrissie Puls - Sacramental Coordinator
Hi, my name is Chrissie and I am the Sacramental Coordinator for St. Bernard’s Parish.
I’m married and mother to a 12 year old fur-baby named Bella. I have been a Catholic Primary School teacher for the last 25 years and recently resigned to become a carer for my husband. I am an avid Cats fan, who attends as many matches as I can get to.
Chrissie.puls@cam.org.au
Karen Marshall - Finance Officer
Karen has been a long time member of the Parish community, volunteering as reader and PowerPoint operator at the 9.00am Mass. She has had an extended career in finance while raising her family and is now operating as our Parish Finance Officer.
Karen.Marshall@cam.org.au
Jan Fagan, Baptism Coordinator
Jan has been a long time member of St Bernard’s Parish and has held many roles in our community, firstly in Belmont and now in Highton. She taught at St Bernard’s before continuing her teaching at Clairvaux. Jan was previously a member of the Geelong deanery committee and recently retired from the parish liturgy committee. Jan is now focused on her voluntary role as the Parish Baptism coordinator.