Order of Australia medal holder named as shire’s Australia Day ambassador
January 6, 2017
Order of Australia recipient and Australian Centenary Medal holder Duncan Stalker is Colac Otway Shire’s 2017 Australia Day ambassador.
Mr Stalker, who is from Warrnambool, will speak of his services to Australian education and community service as part of the official Australia Day presentations at Apollo Bay on 26 January.
During his 23 years as Principal of Warrnambool’s Brauer College, Mr Stalker was also President of the Victorian Secondary Principals’ Association and the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association. He was also a Council member of the International Convention of Principals for two years and in 2000 was awarded the Sir James Darling medal in recognition of his contribution to education.
He was also recognised with a life membership by the British Heads Association.
Mayor Chris Potter said Mr Stalker’s contribution to Australia Day would help recognise the importance of education in shaping a strong future for Australia.
“Every Australia Day we come together as a community and as a nation to reflect on our achievements, with a sense that we have a bright future,” he said.
“Duncan’s contribution to education is significant in its length, as is his commitment to focusing on youth for the benefit of an Australia we can all be proud of.
“Duncan’s contributions will highlight the importance of not just appreciating what we have in Australia, but our responsibility as Australian citizens to contribute to and protect the future of those things we hold dear, such as freedom of speech, religion and association; democracy; a ‘fair go’ for all; gender equality and cultural diversity.”
At present Duncan is the Vice President (Country) of The Victoria Branch of The Order of Australia Association (OAA), a member of the finance and general committees of the Warrnambool RSL, a member, past president and Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary Club of Warrnambool. He also has past membership of numerous youth, charitable, church and professional organisations.
Mr Stalker and his wife Margaret have two adult daughters. Official Australia Day presentations start at 11.30am at the Apollo Bay foreshore. A range of free family activities will follow.
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