Woods, Gavin Lyle

Contributing factors

• Severe and chronic major depressive disorder for approximately 10 years, inadequately monitored after transfer
• Change to less effective antidepressant medication with no psychiatric monitoring in the 6 months before death
• Relocation from Far North Queensland to south-east Queensland creating domestic and financial stressors
• Difficulties performing to expected standard as Deputy Principal at Burpengary State School
• Formal disciplinary investigation and accusations regarding missing chocolate money for which evidence was insufficient and treatment was disparate compared to other staff
• Accusations of excessive internet usage that were unsubstantiated; Mr Woods treated differently from other users
• Formal feedback about perceived lack of capability to perform Deputy Principal role at Burpengary
• Confusion and anxiety about employment status (temporary versus permanent position)
• Threat of Managing Unsatisfactory Performance process after term break
• Referral to Ethical Standards Unit investigation
• Argument with partner on evening prior to disappearance regarding finances and telephone bill
• Lack of continuation of psychiatric care during transfer between regions

Coroner's recommendations

1. The Department in consultation with appropriate stakeholders (such as the QTU) should develop an appropriate policy, procedure or guideline that provides staff with clear direction on information concerning their medical, mental health, rehabilitation and grievance history that should and can be communicated (or communicated with their consent, and information that should not be communicated) when staff are being considered for transfer or relocation, to enable regional staff to better place employees to best fit the needs of the employee and the school and to determine if any particular level of support is required