A much-loved religious studies teacher has died after collapsing at his desk at Shalom College in Bundaberg, Queensland. James Kiernan, a father of three in his 50s, suffered a heart attack and could not be revived despite colleagues performing CPR before paramedics arrived.
College principal Dan McMahon confirmed the death at 10:50am local time on Tuesday, by which time Mr Kiernan's wife Peta had arrived at the school. Mr Kiernan had been at his desk since approximately 7:30am that morning.
Friends and colleagues have paid tribute to the teacher, who joined Shalom College in 2021. Principal McMahon described him as a much-loved member of staff who loved his Catholic faith and lived it. Friend and colleague Dale O'Connell said Mr Kiernan was 'one of the most genuine blokes I have ever had the honour to call a mate and colleague'.
St Edmund's College, where Mr Kiernan taught from 2008 to 2017, also expressed sympathy. A former pupil wrote on Facebook: 'I was lucky enough to have this amazing teacher... he was such an inspiration to work hard.'
Shalom College is offering counselling services to help students and staff cope with the loss.
