Dear ARPParians,

Items in this Edition

REcent Events

Future Events

Stewart House Report

Salary Sacrifice Video

A new ARPP INitiative

Tribute toDavid Bishop

FOSH Report

 

Dear members, Please find below details regarding recent events and and other matters for your attention

As I have been out of action for a  couple of months due to illness my apologies for the delay in sending out updates.

A big thank you to Maurie Bird for sending out lunch event notices.

I Would like to say thank you to all members who have passed on their best wishes Especially those who attended the Abbotsford Lunch back on 1st June I appreciated your comments and thank Robert binns for his artwork

New Secretary  Director General We welcome the appointment of Murat Dizdarwho brings a diverse background  of experience and knowledge of the system and has a wonderful understanding of schools and school leadership

 

Recent Events

Thursday 3rd August28 members and colleagues attended the annual Newcastle ARPP Lunch held at the gates hotel in adamstown.

A big thank you to Brian Collins the ARPPHunter District Organiserwho coordinated the day which provide d everyone with the opportunity to share great memories during a wonderful lunch

A special thanks also to our events coordinator Maurie birdwho assisted with the arrangements for the day. We also raised $245 in a raffle for Stewart House.withThe prize  donated by Brian. We also decided to hold all future Newcastle lunch events on the first thursday of August each year.

Our central coast Lunch has been planned for thursday 19 October to be held at the Bayview hotel WOY WOY Our thanks to Geoff Buckland and Noel West our CentraCoast Organisers for organising the day.  Full details will be advised close to the day

 

Members were also invited to attend the retired Illawarra PrincipalsRIPELLunch held at Wollongong Golf Club 19 July

Our next lunch event is the Emperor’s Garden. The invitation and details have been advised please see below.

You are invited to attend the next ARPP Sydney lunch on Thursday 7th September 2023 at 1pm at the Emperor’s Garden Restaurant, 96-100 Hay Street, Haymarket, Sydney.  We will also be able to meet for drinks from 11.30am at the Covent Garden Hotel, 102-108 Hay Street, Haymarket.

 

There will be a Chinese Banquet lunch with the cost for ARPP members being $48 ($63 for non-members).  ARPP will provide wine with the lunch. The reasonable lunch costs are possible because of the annual subscription payments of ARPP members and the sponsorship by Campbell Financial.

This will again be a pre-pay event. The lunch cost can be paid by cheque to ARPP and sent direct to Noel West at 62 Wagstaffe Avenue, Wagstaffe 2257 or by Bank Transfer to BSB062668 Account Number 10152151. The Account Name is ARPP. Also, for this lunch, to indicate your attendance, please advise Maurie Bird on maubird@ozemail.com.au or by phone on 0434148141. Please send payment to Noel and advice to Maurie by Thursday 31^st August. Advice to Maurie can help with cross-checking in any cases where Bank Transfer payments need followup.

 

We look forward to an enjoyable get-together.

Maurie Bird, Tom Croker, Noel West.

 

Stewart House Report

Over the past three years we have experienced an unprecedented 58% turnover of staff.

The global pandemic and our long shutdown meant a number of our employees assessed their employment futures. In 2022, we saw key long-term staff decide to retire or seek different fields of work.

POST PANDEMIC

Throughout the year the Board of Directors of Stewart House continued to review advice from government agencies to enable management of the Stewart House Program in order to reduce the potential risk of COVID-19 transmission within the broader NSW community and to ensure a gradual and safe return to full operations.

Consequently, the Board adopted those restrictions still prevalent within the NSW health-care and aged-care systems including but not limited to insisting on full vaccination of adults entering the site and offering placements only to children who had received two doses of the COVID-10 vaccine. The Board remains resolute to return our services to pre-pandemic operations in 2023.

• select up to 1,600 public school children from New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory annually for 12 days care in a safe environment at no cost to their parents or caregivers;
• provide these children with dental, optical, hearing, medical and wellbeing screening and treatment; and
• involve these children in educational programs and excursions designed to develop their social and emotional skills, build self-esteem and improve their

overall well-being.

Our Vision for an Integrated Facility

 

In 2022, the Board called tenders from prospective developers to assist in achieving a vision of a fit-for-purpose integrated residential , health and education facility on the carrington parade sie

Stewart House will receive a new fully funded state-of-the-art facility.

The Stewart House Board is  experiencing an era of renewal with very high calibre replacements.

 

Cecilia Wilson who brings with her property and school infrastructure skills

 

Zoe Robinson is the NSW Children’s Advocate who reports directly to [parliament on all issues relating to child wellbeing.

Colin Gair Wheeler Accounting and an iconic and well respected Northern Beaches Accounting  Firm

David Baker who is the Executive Director derivative sales for goldman Sachs

Of course the usual suspects still provide their considerable expertise and historical perspectivees.

Barry Johnson

Tom Croker

Jan McClelland

Julie Kennedy and Ken Dixon

 

Stewart House Staff

Over the past three years we have experienced an unprecedented 58% turnover of staff, The global pandemic and our long shutdown  meant a number of our employees assessed their future employees . This sawkey long term staff retire or sought different fields of work

Patron of Stewart House

It is pleasing to announce that the honorable Margaret Beezley Governor of NSW has accepted our invitation to be the patron of Stewart House.

 

Salary Sacrifice Video Promotion  

Dear Colleagues,

 

The video, in its entirety, is now available for distribution.

Please now access the video via a YouTube link on our website: https://www.stewarthouse.org.au/stewart-house-salary-contribution-scheme-strategy/. A copy of the file has also been sent to you via WeTransfer for download.

 

Please confirm ASAP when and where this video will feature to assist with our tracking.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

I’ll follow up individually to assist and direct you further.

My sincerest thanks for your assistance and support thus far!

 

ARPPMembership renewal for 2023

We find there are several past members who are yet to renew their subs for 2023

A reminder was sent out by our Treasurer  recently and we look forward to those past members rejoining ARPP

A reminder to Life members that they need to register for the Life members  Day to be held on 25 October Details were sent to all Lifemembers recently.

Congratulations to Lyn Davis our most recent member on her appointment as a Professional Support Officer to work with Geoff Scitt and Phil SEymour

 

Tribute to David Bishop

David Bishop, or DGB as he was affectionately known to many colleagues, sadly passed away on the 5th July this year, aged 80. David fought a long battle with cancer and, in recent times, was also suffering from dementia. David was awarded Life Membership of the NSWPPA in 2000 in recognition of his long and distinguished career as a teacher, Principal and leader within the Association.

David was a former Principal of Narellan, William Stimson and Macquarie Fields Public Schools and was a strong advocate for Public Education, as a member of the NSWPPA Executive team. David led the Association’s Annual State Conference Organising Committee with distinction from 1991 to 2003, introducing many innovations and encompassing the increasing use of technology. He brought his love of music and the performing arts to Conference and many students gained their start by performing in opening ceremonies in front of more than 500 Principals. The current esteem in which the NSWPPA Annual Conference is held across the education community, is due in no small part to David’s leadership and innovation.

David is survived by his wife, Margaret and children Michelle and James and grandchildren. The NSWPPA expresses its deepest sympathy to David’s family, friends and colleagues and acknowledges the significant contribution to Public Education and the Association, of a great teacher and Principal.

The current PPA Badge was designed by David during his time as a member of State Counciland as the editor of publication called Statelines,  This was then replacedby “what\s Hot

Information contributed by colleague Ian Adamson and Past President Geoff Scott (OAM).

A new initiative for ARPP

An interesting initiative has been taken up by representatives from the Association of Retired Primary Principals to further support public education across NSW. We have joined a group of other educators –  Retired NSW Secondary Principals, members of Retired Senior Educators & Administrators (IRSEA) to meet regularly and make decisions as to how we can support public education. The strategies involved are being discussed and we will keep you informed of any way in which you can be involved. Many of our members write letters to their parliamentary representatives and Letters to the Editor (SMH) and we definitely encourage this practice!

 

 

Friends of Stewart House Report

FOSH is alive and well again with a new Committee that will continue to drive the fundraising for Stewart House.

Congratulations to Kerryanne Knox – President, Tom Croker- Vice President, Alan Laughlin – Secretary, Robyn Graham- Treasurer and Committee members – Sandra Palmer, Jean Mclean, Lloyd Hogg, Heather Causley, Bill Hamilton, Barry Pecar, and  Ray Gentles. Chris Worthington there are many retired principals in this list so we thank them for their involvement.

We have some interesting plans ahead that do not always rely on fundraising activity. This is also becoming difficult and when we experienced COVID the fundraising side was very hard. We thank all of the Principals  who drink wine and supported the wine drive as this was a successful way to raise money!!!

We will keep you all informed in the future of new options and of course, any fundraising support at events will be appreciated. If you want to rejoin or you haven’t joined yet, please go online at

https://www.stewarthouse.org.au/friends-stewart-house/   and be part of this very friendly group.

 

Tom Croker

President for the Executive Committee

In this Edition please find:

• Welcome to 2023
• Details of our first Lunch Meeting for 2023
• Advice on the Proposed Amendments to our Constitution
• Payment of Annual Membership Fees
• Dates & Venues for the other Lunch meetings for the remainder of the year
• Annual Golf Day
• Recent media report on the plight of Funding for Public Education
• Welfare Update

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

!. WELCOME one and all to our 2023 ARPP year.

We hope everybody has survived the festive season and are safe and well.

While 2022 was by far a more comfortable year given the ever present Covid Strains, let’s dare to dream that 2023 will be a kinder and more rewarding year.

Please spare a thought for those colleagues, families and friends who have been affected by recent floods & fires as they endeavour to recover from the devastation.

Our hearts and thoughts go out to those brave workers & volunteers striving to protect people adversely affected by the disasters.

2. KIRRIBILLI LUNCH MEETING 

You are invited to attend the first City ARPP lunch of 2023 on Thursday, 2nd March at 12.30pm at the Kirribilli Club, 11 Harbourview Crescent, Lavender Bay.

 We will also be able to meet for drinks in the bar area from 11.30am.  There will be a 3 course lunch with the cost for ARPP members being $55 ($70 for non-members).  ARPP will also provide wine with lunch. If any special dietary requirements are required, please advise when responding. The very reasonable lunch costs are possible because of the annual subscription payments of ARPP members and sponsorship by Campbell Financial.

 This will again be a pre-pay event. The lunch cost can be paid by cheque to ARPP and sent direct to Noel West at 62 Wagstaffe Avenue, Wagstaffe 2257 or by Bank Transfer to BSB062668 Account Number 10152151. The Account Name is ARPP.

Also, to help with number advice to the club, please send your intention to attend to Maurie Bird on maubird@ozemail.com.au or by phone on 0434148141. Please send payment to Noel and advice to Maurie by Thursday, 23rd February. Advice to Maurie can also help with cross-checking in any cases where Bank Transfer payments need follow up.

There is parking available at the club with a flat cost of $12 for visitors. If travelling by public transport, take the train to Milsons Point Station and exit onto Alfred Street South. Turn right and go to Lavender Street and then left onto Harbourview Crescent  (about a 7 minute walk).

 We look forward to an enjoyable lunch together.

 Best Regards,

Maurie Bird (Events Coordinator), Tom Croker (President), Noel West (Treasurer)

3.AMENDMENTS to the CONSTITUTION

At the end of January we will be circulating details of the proposed changes we need to make to our Constitution as was foreshadowed in the December Newsletter.

The proposed Motions and the timetable for the casting of votes will be outlined in the SPECIAL NOTICE for the attention of all financial members as at the end of 2022 and to whom the Notice

is being circulated.

Please show your support and interest by casting your vote and returning it to our Returning Officer by the due date to ensure our amendments are reflective of a strong response from the membership..

4. PAYMENT of 2023 MEMBERSHIP FEES

In late 2021, the ARPP Executive decided to suspend the collection of membership fees due for 2022 and a “year of grace / free membership” was provided to all members who were at that time financial or became financial / paid up by the end of the 2021 year.

 Gatherings had been suspended during 2021 largely due to Covid restrictions and the natural reluctance to be ‘out and about’. During 2022 luncheons have resumed and newsletters have continued to be sent out to keep everyone informed.

 A number of initiatives dating back to late 2019 have been on hold or partially realised such as website upgrade / update, area contacts and attracting those Principals who have retired more recently. Each of these is intended to benefit all retired and retiring Principals.

 It is now time to pay the 2023 membership fees and continue enjoying contact with your colleagues. Fees are due from 1st January 2023 and would best be paid by 30th January for the year.

How to pay

By cheque to ARPP and sent direct to Noel West at 62 Wagstaffe Avenue, Wagstaffe 2257 or by Bank Transfer to BSB062668 Account Number 10152151. Those paying by Bank Transfer need to include their name in the description.

If you have a continuing credit because of lunch cancellation or other factors, please confirm credit amounts by emailing Noel West on nwest@bigpond.net.au.

 With thanks

 Noel West Treasurer

5. 2023 CITY LUNCH MEETING DATES

Dates for the city Lunch meetings have been determined to be held on the first Thursday of the month to ensure consistency.

2nd March – Kirribilli Club (details above)

1st June      – Sydney Rowing Club, Abbotsford

7th September – Emperor’s Garden, Chinatown

7 th December – Epping Club

REGIONAL LUNCH EVENTS

We will be discussing with our Regional Contact members possible dates for Regional Gatherings during the year.

In 2022 Lunch Events held in Newcastle and the Central Coast provided a great opportunity for local retirees to join together.

We look forward to similar gatherings in other centres such as Mudgee/Bathurst and the South Coast.

6. ANNUAL GOLF DAY

The date has been set for Friday 2nd June to be held at Royal Massey Park Golf Course, Concord.

This is the day after the Sydney Rowing Club Lunch and will provide an opportunity for regional travellers to attend the lunch and then stay over for the Golf the next day.

Our Coordinator, Ray Gentles, will be circulating details as we approach the day.

7. WELFARE UPDATE

Our thoughts and best wishes go out to:

Chris Worthington  – who is recovering from a car accident and required urgent surgery for a badly damaged right hand.

and

Maurie Bird – who will be having a medical procedure next week.

and to other members  not known to us and who are doing it tough.  

PLEASE REMEMBER if you are aware of a member or colleague who is suffering from an illness or a long term health issue please advise

our Welfare Officer, Chris Worthington, at cworthin40@gmail.com mobile 0414 603 603 or any of the Executive Committee.

This will enable us to make contact, reach out to family and offer our support in their time of need.

8. RECENT MEDIA re Plight of Public Education.

I refer to articles that can be found in the attachments below provided by Retired Secondary Principal, John Frew and

Trevor Cobbold, Save Our Schools

– https://johnmenadue.com/the-watchers-directors-of-educational-decline/

Keep well and safe

Tom Croker

President

on behalf of the Executive Committee

 

Labor Kicks the Public School Funding Can Down the Road

Hi Arpparians,

1. MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
   

The Reminder Notice for 2023 Membership Renewal in the recent Newsletter did not advise of the Fees for Membership.

Please note:

For METROPOLITAN MEMBERS:

The annual Subscription Fee is $50.00 which provides discounts for functions and keeps everyone in touch through newsletters, Notices and the Website.

Payment either by:

 Bank Transfer to BSB 062668 Account Number 10152151. Be sure to include your name for Reference

or

Payment by cheque to Treasurer Noel West at 62 Wagstaffe Avenue, Wagstaffe 2257

For NON-METROPOLITAN – Outside of Newcastle, Greater Sydney and Illawarra Regions

The Annual Fee is $30.00 and payment can be made by Bank Transfer or Cheque as detailed above.

We look forward to your renewal and involvement in our various events and activities

2. ******** AMENDMENTS to the CONSTITUTION REMINDER*********

Be sure to complete the proposed changes to the Constitution Special Notice Voting Form and return it to our Returning Officer Graham Hayton

at grahamhayton05@bigpond.com by 3rd February.

3.NSW PUBLIC EDUCATION PARTY

In light of the recent emails  & Reports about the state of NSW public education today, I hope you don’t mind but below please find an attachment with information in relation to the upcoming launch of the NSW Public Education Party.

As you may be aware, this newly-formed political party is seeking to field a candidate that will hopefully be elected to the NSW Legislative Council in the March 2023 election, and to also field candidates for the NSW Legislative Assembly.

More details at www.publiceducationparty.org.au

Stay safe & well

Tom Croker

for Executive Committee

 

Party Launch Notification!! PDF

Dear Members,

Please accept this  update of recent matters.

CONSTITUTION

Following a review of  the ARPP Constitution we now need to make changes relating to various matters including the timing of the collection of Membership Fees and the timeline for the holding of Executive Committee Elections.

We will arrange for an online proposal for the Motions that are required for making changes to the Constitution. Such changes are necessary to enable the elections and collection of membership Fees to occur from the beginning of the calendar year rather than Mid Year.

The Motions will be sent out to all current financial members at the beginning of next year.

The current Constitution is on our Association ARPP Website

RETURNING OFFICER

We are able to announce that Graham Hayton has been selected to be the new Returning Officer with Graham Roberts to be the Assistant Officer.

Our special thanks to Denis Suttling, who has stepped down from the role, for his wonderful support over the past few years.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH REPORT

This was a wonderful occasion with 58 members, colleagues and guests attending the lunch held at the Epping Club on 1st December.

Joining us as special guests were Robyn Evans (NSWPPA President), Barry Johnson (Chairman Board of Stewart House), Phil Canmbell (Campbell Financial), our sponsor and Therese Ardler, a highly regarded  Academic and Abiriginal Elder.

During the lunch we conducted a very successful Stewart House raffle raising $1,2016.00 to support the operation of Stewart House, our Charity of Choice.

A big thank you to all who donated gifts as prizes.

The day also featured our traditional Kris Kringle as part of the occasion

Special thanks to all of the Executive Committee for their assistance with the day and especially Events Coordinator Maurie Bird, Treasurer Noel West, Secretary Kerryanne Knox and Vice President Heather Causley for organising the raffle.

2023 LUNCH EVENTS

Dates for the 2023 Metropolitan Lunch Meetings have been set with the first to be held on 2nd March at the Kirribilli Club

Other venues and dates to be confirmed and to be published in the next Newsletter Jan/Feb 2023

ARPP GOLF DAY

This will be held on Friday 2nd June.

Full details to be provide early in the new year by our Coordinator Ray Gentles

REGIONAL EVENTS

We will be working with our new Area/Region Contacts to arrange for Lunch Meetings during the year.

A big thank you to those members who have accepted the role of Area Contact:

Brian Collins (Hunter), Suzie Smith & John Salt (South Coast), Vicki Harris (Riverina), Bruce Roberts (Central West) & Geoff Buckland & Noel West (Central Coast).

We continue to look for a member to take on the role in the Blue Mountains, the Mid North Coast. & North Coast.

TRIBUTE to BOB WINDER

Secretary Kerryanne Knox has provided this tribute following the passing of former Director- General Bob Winder.

I had the privilege of meeting with Bob when I first became involved with the NSW Primary Council back in 1986. He was a wonderful educational leader and a great ambassador for public education

“I feel like this information is part of a milestone in my own history as I can remember vividly receiving information signed “Bob Winder” many many times in my teaching career. I am sad to inform you that another one of our education family has died. As his family simply said in his death notice “respected educator and administrator.”

 Bob recently passed away and was privately cremated so there was no chance for colleagues to bid farewell. We can all raise a glass to Bob at our next meeting or gathering…a fitting reason for a round of drinks!

 Geoff Baldwin and Alan Laughlin provided some stories and history……Robert Winder, born in 1930 entered the Department of Education in 1948 and despite being a good teacher, was getting a reputation as a highly organised young man.

 If I mention names such as Doug Swan and Bill Nay, Bob worked at the same time as a senior administrator. In fact, some people will remember him as “Doug Swan’s right hand man”.

Although appointed as a Director-General, it was a very short time in office as the Government changed and Terry Metherell breezed in with the untimely goodbye to Bob. Bob retired and went to live in Terrigal and enjoyed the Central Coast life.

Just remember Bob and his service to education and give thanks that public education had the experience of a great educator and administrator . Time to rest now Bob…..your service to students is recognised.”

SUPPORT FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION 

Attached are recent articles relating promotion of the funding support for our Public Schools provided by Trevor Cobbold, Save Our Schools National Convenor and an article in the Guardian relating to elitism and inequality in funding of our schools

https://saveourschools.com.au

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/dec/04/observer-view-labours-pledge-to-remove-private-schools-charitable-status

GET WELL PARADE

Our best wishes go out to all of our members and friends who are unwell or recovering from medical procedures.

In particular we have Secretary Kerryanne Knox (knee operation), Events Manager Maurie Bird (shoulder injury) and member Malcolm Sandstrom (injury fall)

No doubt we have several members who are also in recovery from a bout of COVID and we wish them all a speedy and safe recovery.

THANK YOU members for your support and involvement in our various events during 2022. Without your participation our Association would not be able to function and provide the opportunity for colleagues to meet and network as part of our retirement.

May we take the opportunity to wish you a very happy and safe festive season and we look forward to meeting up in the new year.

The executive Committee

Association of Retired Primary Principals

Hi Members,

Hope this Update finds you well and safe as we approach the end of the 2022 year.

This Edition contains:

• Report on the APPA/NSWPPA Conference
• ARPP XMAS Lunch Reminder
• 2023 membership Renewal advice
• A Research Study of Retired Principals – note the Attachments
• A Year in Photographs  attached

APPA/NSWPPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE & LIFE MEMBERS DAY

This was held last week and was a resounding success. I had the opportunity to attend several sessions and was very impressed by the quality of speakers and especially the wonderful student performances.

It was undoubtedly a tremendous experience for the 740 delegates from NSW and across Australia.

The Life members Day was a great success as we welcomed 41 Life members to a gathering with the PPA Executive followed by a special lunch provided by the NSWPPA.It was very special to have Barry McConville the 1993 Life Member recipient as the longest serving Life Member in attendance

The organising Conference Committee is to be congratulated on an amazing effort which is all the more significant as NSW is the only State that organises their own Conference unlike the other States that engage professional Conference Organisers.

We congratulate and welcome the new LIfe Members:

Brent Kunkler, NarelleHunt, Kerry Barker, Andrew Pryor, Ian Reeson and Lyn Davis.  It should be noted that Lyn Davis and LM Graeme Dixon are the first couple to be Life Members.

We hope they will in due course become members of our Association.

Other Awards recognised at the Ceremony were:

Distinguished Service Award – Judi Albans,Virginia Latta & Greg Grinham

Professional Award – Trish Peters & Drew Janetzki

Aboriginal Education Award – Paul Byrne & Owen Dalkeith

Social Justice & Equity Award – Helen Craigie

Fellowship – Michael Burgess & Bek Zadow

Congratulations also to the newly elected 2023-4 PPA Executive to be led again by President Robyn Evans.. We wish them well in their endeavours to support schools as they confront the many challenges, demands and pressure to perform at their highest level.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH REMINDER

The ARPP Christmas Lunch for 2022 will be held at The Epping Club, 45-47 Rawson Street, Epping on Thursday, 1st December at 12.30pm.

Our lunch will be in The Grand Ballrooms 3 and 4. The 12.30pm start is earlier than our usual 1pm lunches to cater for the canapes and pre-dinner drinks, the 3-course lunch, the gift giving and the Stewart House raffle draw.  We hope it will enable all colleagues, especially those who have travelled long distances, to enjoy the full lunch experience. We will also be able to meet for drinks in the 45 on Rawson Bar from 11.30am.

Costs and Inclusions

Cost for ARPP members will be $70.00 ($85.00 for non-members). We are able to keep our costs as low as possible because of the support of Campbell Financial and the payment of annual fees by ARPP members. The cost includes canapes with pre-dinner drinks (selection of champagne, beer, soft drinks, orange juice and iced water), a three-course lunch, wine with lunch and tea/coffee. This lunch will be a pre-pay event.

(If any special dietary requirements are required, please advise when responding).

Parking

There will be some limited parking at the Club. To use the club carpark, press the buzzer and advise attendance at the Retired Principals’ Lunch. If club parking becomes unavailable, parking in nearby Chesterfield Road or Chelmsford Avenue is recommended. Alternatively, there is a free Council Carpark located on Rawson Street (Time restrictions may apply).

Train Travel

If coming by train, alight at Epping Station and walk across the pedestrian overbridge and then through The Epping Club Walk (about a 3 minute walk). For train travel, the Central to Newcastle services and Newcastle to Central Express services have limited stops including Epping.

Kris Kringle

We ask that all attending bring a Christmas gift to the value of around $10 for a Kris Kringle gift sharing.

Stewart House FOSH Raffle

We will have a Stewart House FOSH Raffle. Tickets can be purchased at lunch. Bring some cash for the raffle. Any donations for the raffle can be advised by contacting Kerryanne Knox on kknox@bigpond.com or Heather Causley on causleys@bigpond.net.au.

 

How to advise attendance

Please advise Maurie Bird of your attendance by email maubird@ozemail.com.au or by phone on 0434148141 by Thursday, 24^th November. Numbers need to be advised to the club at this time.

 

How to pay

All those attending should send payment to Noel West by 24^th November. The lunch cost can be paid by cheque to ARPP and sent direct to Noel West at 62 Wagstaffe Avenue, Wagstaffe 2257 or by Bank Transfer to BSB062668 Account Number 10152151. If you have a credit because of lunch cancellation or other factors, please note this on your payment eg “Balance paid by $35 credit”. If required, credit amounts can be confirmed by emailing Noel West on nwest@bigpond.net.au.

 

We look forward to a very enjoyable Christmas get-together. This end-of-year lunch is a great opportunity to catch up with colleagues. We hope to see as many as possible at this event.

RENEWAL NOTICE – 2023 ARPP Membership due 1st January 2023

In late 2021, the ARPP Executive decided to suspend the collection of membership fees due for 2022 and a “year of grace / free membership” was provided to all members who were at that time financial or became financial / paid up by the end of the 2021 year.

Gatherings had been suspended during 2021 largely due to Covid restrictions and the natural reluctance to be ‘out and about’. During 2022 luncheons have resumed and newsletters have continued to be sent out to keep everyone informed.

A number of initiatives dating back to late 2019 have been on hold or partially realised such as website upgrade / update, area contacts and attracting those principals who have retired more recently. Each of these is intended to benefit all retired and retiring principals.

 

It is now time to pay membership fees and continue enjoying contact with your colleagues. Fees are due from 1st January 2023 and would best be paid by the end of January for 2023. Metropolitan members $50 and Regional members $30.

How to pay

By cheque to ARPP and sent direct to Noel West at 62 Wagstaffe Avenue, Wagstaffe 2257 or by Bank Transfer to BSB062668 Account Number 10152151. Those paying by Bank Transfer need to include their name in the description.

If you have a continuing credit due for a lunch cancellation or other factors please confirm by emailing Noel West on nwest@bigpond.net,au

Noel West Treasurer

A STUDY of RETIRED PRINCIPALS REFLECTIONS ON School Based Trauma

Sue Walkom, a PhD candidate from Newcastle University has been referred to us by Robyn Evans NSWPPA President, seeking the recruitment of a number of retired primary principals into a study which hopes to describe the experience and observations of principals post retirement.

It involves two interviews, the first of about one hour and second  for an opportunity to add or reflect on the earlier interview.

Her interest is specifically in the Newcastle Region in the first instance.

The Information  is attached for those interested in participating.

Studies such as this provide a wonderful opportunity for us as retirees to contribute to the development of information which will inform support for the principalship

A YEAR IN PHOTOGRAPHS

A big thank you to Noel West and other members who have contributed to the collection of Photos bringing back many fond memories of the past year.

Tom Croker

President for

ARPP Executive Committee

Hi Arpparian;s,

Welcome to the latest ARPP Newsletter. This edition include:

• Central Coast Woy Woy Lunch Invitation
• Update of ARPP Events
• Teacher Shortage Submission
• Professional Register Nominations
• Member Profile
• Welfare Update
• NSWPPA Conference
• Stewart House & FOSH News
• Public Ed Media Updates

1. SPECIAL NOTICE: CENTRAL COAST LUNCH

 

You are invited to attend the ARPP Central Coast lunch on Thursday 13^th October 2022 at the Bayview Hotel and Brasserie, 2/16 The Boulevarde, Woy Woy. We can meet for drinks from 11.30am for a 12.30pm lunch. This lunch has been organized by Central Coast members Noel West and Geoff Buckland.

The Bayview Hotel is just 300 metres from Woy Woy Station. All Sydney to Newcastle and Newcastle to Sydney trains stop at Woy Woy.

Those attending this lunch, order and pay for their own choice of lunch on the day. ARPP will provide wine with lunch.

Please send your attendance advice to Maurie Bird on maubird@ozemail.com.au or by phone on 0434148141 before Thursday, 7^th October, 2022. This will help Maurie to give Noel and Geoff the numbers, so that they can advise the Bayview Hotel.

We have enjoyed several lunch meetings at Woy Woy over the years and look forward to seeing you there.

 

Best regards,

Geoff Buckland, Noel West, Maurie Bird, Tom Croker.

2. 2022 EVENTS UPDATE: –  NEWCASTLE -On 30 June a Lunch Meeting was held at Adamstown in Newcastle providing an opportunity to catch up with our Newcastle & District colleagues. It was great to chat with 20 retirees who attended and were treated to a wonderful lunch. A Stewart House Raffle on the day raised $150 and our special thanks to member Brian Collins for coordinating the event.    – EMPEROR’S GARDEN – On THursday 8 September we held our city Lunch Meeting at the Emperor’s Garden Restaurant Haymarket commencing with a Meet & Greet at 11.30am at Covent Garden Hotel. 30 Members were in attendance and we were treated to a very delightful lunch providing the opportunity for a catch up with our colleagues. A big thank you to Vice President Heather Causley for the coordination   3. SUBMISSION In support of our colleagues and a fair go for public education we submitted our Response to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Teacher Shortages. This is attached and will also be posted on our website. Our special thanks to Secretary Kerryanne Knox for the coordination of the Submission.   4. ANNUAL GOLF DAY Due to the extensive wet weather, this will now be held at Massey Park Golf Course in October. The day is open to ARPP members & friends, to club & social players. Executive Committee member Ray Gentles will be coordinating the day. 5. MEMBER PROFILE A big thank you to those members who have returned their Member Profile information. To date we have received 30% and we would encourage those members yet to complete their profile to do so asap. The information enables us to update our database and provide us with details of your years of service. MEET A MEMBER Snapshot: Our member for this edition is Suzie Smith who trained at Nepean College of Advanced Education (WEstmead Teachers College). Suzie’s first teaching appointment was to Guise PS followed by Sarah Redfern PS, and then a period of time as a Liverpool Region DSP Consultant.Suzie then moved to become Assistant Principal at Warragamba PS then on to Campbelltown North PS as Deputy. Suzie was then appointed as Principal at Campbelltown North and then as Principal of Macquarie Fields PS from where she retired. During her career Suzie served on the PPA State Conference Committee as a member, Executive Officer and Convenor. Suzie also was Convenor for the South Western Sydney Regional Conference. A wonderful career. Well done Suzie 6. PROFESSIONAL REGISTER– As mentioned in earlier Updates we are planning to establish a Professional Register which will provide the opportunity for members to contribute to discussions and issues on behalf of the ARPP. The NSWPPA would also welcome our assistance with matters relating to the Reference Groups. To that end we are now calling on interested colleagues to nominate an area of interest relating to the current Reference Groups: Reference Groups Aboriginal Education                                                          Principal Support Assessment Planning & Accountability                              Schools for Specific Purposes Asset Management                                                              Student Wellbeing Curriculum                                                                          Teaching Principals Disability Programs                                                             Technology Finance & Administration Human Resources In addition there are several Standing Committees that can be included: Leadership, Legal Issues, Rural Education, Communication & Engagement If you would like to be involved with any of the above Groups please advise Secretary Kerryanne Knox (kknox@bigpond.com) or Geoff Scott (geoff.scott@det.nsw.edu.au) 7. WELFARE NEWS Our thoughts and well wishes go to Alan Laughlin, Malcolm Sandstrom and Brian Anson who are recovery from recent medical treatment VALE: Sadly, since our last Newsletter the following colleagues have passed away: Tom Larkin – for those who can recall the Glenfield Conference days Tom was a great supporter of the Conference and remembered especially as the ‘Movie Man’ providing lots of fun and enjoyment with his selection of movies He was a great guy and the life of the Glenfield Conference. He had a great passion for army vehicles and on one occasion turned up with an old army tank much to the delight of all in attendance.He met regularly with the                                 FOGS (Friends of Glenfield) and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. John Notley – John was the principal of Gymea Bay PS from 1995-2011 his last principalship. Prior to that he had been Deputy Principal at Engadine West PS under the principalship of Bob Smith and where he gained his 4th List. He was a past member of ARPP for several years and great mates with Mick Tattam. Robyn Evans, the current NSWPPA President worked with John at Gymea bay PS had this to say about John ” John was deliberate in his intent and cherished the absolute essence of his school & community, the staff and students.The opportunities were endless for every student and staff member.Iam humbled John saw something                                in me and I am ever grateful he pushed me forward to explore what might be possible. That’s a legacy!”. Greg Prior –   Greg, a former Primary Principal, CEO and Deputy Secretary School Operations (formerly known as DDG) passed away on  Saturday10 September. A special Tribute to Greg is being prepared as a special Notice for                                            members and friends who have shared in his outstanding career. 8. NSWPPA/APPA CONFERENCE A reminder that the Conference will be held from 1-4 November at the Wentworth Hotel. This year it is being hosted by the Australian Primary Principals Association. The invitation to Life members has been circulated and takes place on Thursday 3 November commencing at 12.00pm followed by lunch and the NSWPPA Awards session. Please Remember to Register for the day. 9. STEWART HOUSE This is our Charity of Choice which has since it began over 90 years ago has supported 150,000 students. This is a unique organisation for public schools in NSW & ACT not seen anywhere else in Australia with the purpose to change lives of students in difficult circumstances and give them hope & aspirations for the future. The target of 1600 students in a 12-day Residential program has been not possible during the pandemic and is currently limited to 40 students during Terms 2 & 3. The good news is that the number will return to the full quota of 86 students in Term 4 Special thanks to those principals & staff that assist with the coordination of students attending Stewart House. The decline in revenue from the salary contribution scheme continues and now only provides 30% of the annual operating expenses. Stewart House continues to promote Strategies for increasing the contributions and greater awareness of the needs of Stewart House with representation being made to NSW Department, Premier & Cabinet and NSW Teachers Federation. A recent Meeting with the PPA President and SPC President highlighted the importance of promoting support from teachers and principals. All teachers & principals, both current and retired, are encouraged to support the campaign.    10. FOSH Update ARPP is a major driver of the Friends of Stewart House, and it is pleasing to have it back in action. There have been two events to date: another Wine Drive which raised $1,625.00 and a recent fund-raising outing to Doyle’s for a wonderful lunch. It is pleasing to note that FOSH, despite the downtime due to COVID, was recently  able to donate $10,000 to support Stewart House. Thanks to everyone who supports this very important organisation We appreciate your ongoing assistance and commitment to Stewart House.   MEMBERSHIP DRIVE We Welcome back Malcolm Sandstrom, Barry Cant, Alan Kerr & Bruce Thompson who have renewed their membership for 2022 We continue to seek your support in promoting our organisation as a strong advocate for our schools, Leaders & NSWPPA and a continuing voice for public education. ARPP was established to provide an avenue for retirees to keep in touch and to be able to meet and share their life in retirement. All retirees whether they are metropolitan, or country can be involved through the various groups as they meet during the year. If there is anyone whom you would like to contact, please inform Kerryanne Knox at kknox@bigpond.com, President Tom at mtcroker@bigpond.net.au. or Geoff Scott at geoff.scott@det.nsw.edu.au. PUBLIC ED MEDIA UPDATES Attached are articles which I am sure will be of interest to many of you  regarding the current views on funding and support for our public education schools. Enjoy. Stay well and travel safely ARPP Executive Committee   A Public Education Agenda for the New Education Minister-1 ARPP submission-1 Response to Trevor Cobbold-1 Waiting for Gonski - A Review Essay Revised-1