December 2025

Christmas Mass acknowledges two long-serving education leaders  

DOSCEL and Chancery staff at Sion House Warragul came together for a beautiful Christmas Mass celebrated by Bishop Greg Bennett, Vicar General Fr Bernard Buckley and Parish Priest Fr Brendan Hogan at St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Warragul.

During the celebration, DOSCEL Executive Director Paul Velten paid tribute to two respected leaders finishing their employment at the DOSCEL office.

·   Ms Deb Punton - DOSCEL Deputy Executive Director

·   Mr Martin Keogh - Chief Learning and Teaching Officer

Both Deb Punton and Martin Keogh have made a significant impact on Catholic education in our diocese. 

Deb Punton

Deb Punton’s career spans more than 45 years, during which she has served in various capacities, including roles within the Archdiocese of Melbourne as Assistant Director – School Services, Principal, and teacher.

Since joining DOSCEL in 2015 as Deputy Director, Deb has provided exceptional strategic leadership, helping ensure that our schools continue to deliver an inspiring, faith-centred, and excellence-driven education for every student.

Reflecting on her service, Deb Punton thanked all staff across DOSCEL Learning and Teaching, Catholic Identity and Religious Education, and Leadership and Professional Culture for their support, and unwavering commitment.

“When I first began this role, my aspiration was clear: to improve the life chances of every child in every school in this diocese.”

“Together, we have strived to ensure that every student is seen, heard, and supported – regardless of their background or circumstance. Our collective mission has always been to nurture educational excellence so that our children achieve the highest quality faith, academic and social emotional outcomes and as a result, thrive in a world that they continuously contribute to improving – not for their own good, but for the common good.“

Martin Keogh

Martin Keogh’s career spans 38 years - 35 of those within the Diocese of Sale. He has served in various roles, including as a teacher in Maffra and Cranbourne, and as a principal in Orbost and Wonthaggi.

In 2015, Martin joined DOSCEL as Manager Learning and Teaching and has worked closely with Deb Punton to shape and strengthen the strategic direction of our schools. His immense contribution, leadership, and deep knowledge have been invaluable in supporting both our students and school communities.

Paul Velten thanked both Deb and Martin for their outstanding service, dedication and leadership, wishing them every blessing for the journey ahead.