The research reported in this paper has been developed to support the priorities of the National Centre for Science, ICT and Mathematics Education for Rural and Regional Australia (SiMERR) through the work of its local Hub, which is located at Australian Catholic University in Canberra, Australia. The Centre aims to support student achievement and to enhance teacher growth through research and professional learning, by working collaboratively with communities, educational authorities, professional associations and industry groups. In particular, the Centre seeks to address problems faced by teachers who otherwise might be professionally isolated in rural and regional areas.