Dr Peter Casey
Former principal of St Patrick’s College Ballarat, Dr Peter Casey, has been appointed as a Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to education.
Dr Casey was honoured in the 2015 Australia Day Honours list for his “significant service to secondary education as an administrator and teacher, to professional organisations, and to the community of Ballarat”.
The recognition honours Dr Casey’s 45 years working in education, including 13 years as the first lay principal at St Patrick’s College. Dr Casey retired earlier this month.
“I’m delighted to have been nominated for the award,” Dr Casey said. “I see it as recognition for a lot of very good people with whom I have worked within schools, Catholic education and the wider community.”
Highlights of Dr Casey’s tenure at St Patrick’s College include:
- Increasing enrolment numbers from 845 in 2002 to 1432 in 2015;
- Overseeing several major capital work projects rebuilding classrooms and facilities;
- Reintroducing and rejuvenating boarding; and,
- Introducing a specialised Indigenous Education Program.
Current principal John Crowley said the St Patrick’s College community would be delighted to learn of Dr Casey’s latest honour.
“From the youngest student to the most senior Old Collegian, all would be aware of the great impact Dr Casey has had on the life of St Patrick’s College,” Crowley said. “It is with great pleasure that I, on behalf of our wonderful community, formally extend our congratulations to Peter and also our thanks for all he has done and has helped us achieve.
“St Patrick’s continues to enhance its reputation as one of Australia’s great schools largely thanks to the vision and passion with which Dr Casey approached his role as Headmaster.”