Jamie McGahey (1998)

Jamie McGahey graduated from Daramalan College in 1998. Thanks to his favourite teachers, he built up a career as a chef but eventually switched to his other passion, dog training. 

How did Daramalan College influence your life?     

Daramalan influenced my early life with my Rugby career and getting into Food Technology and Hospitality with Mr Cuzner and Frank Djusic. And not being the academic type, I had a love of food. 

Who were your favourite teachers?   

Mr Cuzner and Frank Djusic, along with Dave Garrity in PE. 

What are your fondest memories of your time at Daramalan?   

My fondest memories of Daramalan are playing Eddie’s and Marist on the weekends, seeing brother Dave, his love of the place, and his community involvement. 

What are you doing now, or what did you do before?     

I’ve been a chef for nearly 30 years, working in Canberra and around Australia, from hatted venues to cafes. I’m now following my other passion for dog training both here in the ACT and on the South Coast. 

Helping dogs in all kinds of situations and helping people is very rewarding, emotional, and fun. I help dogs get certified as therapy animals. 

What do you think is your most significant career and life achievement?     

My most significant moments are running the centenary of Canberra event for 5500 people on 3km of table in 5 hours. 

What is your advice for current students?     

Be accountable for your actions; it will make the world a better place. 

Embrace your mistakes like wins. 

Find the lesson in everything you do.  

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What is your favourite dog breed?  

I’m very partial to working dog breeds. I specialise in rehoming and helping ex or unwanted workers transition to suburban life. 

Which talent would you most like to have?     

The talent I’d most like to have would be a mind reader.  

On the photo Jamie is with his business partner Bacon, the “failed working dog “, who now helps dogs with dog reactivity.