In Memory of Peter Callcott

It’s important to reflect on the people connected to our College’s beginnings over 30 years ago.

Peter Callcott was a member of the WestMAC College Council from May 1995 until 2001. His appointment addressed the need to have someone with a building background on College Council. As a carpenter and builder by trade, Peter was fundamental in guiding Stage 2, 3 & 4 of the building plan, which saw WestMAC take shape. Specifically, building projects included many classroom blocks, Claridge Centre, Chapel of the Good Shepherd and the Central Administration Building.

Peter was also instrumental in developing protocols for the significant buildings, ovals and roadways on College campus. He worked closely with architects such as Bruce Buchanan and Brian Kidd (Burling Brown) and building companies (Rohrig) and enjoyed a close working relationship with Barry Manz who was appointed as the College’s inaugural Facilities and Maintenance Coordinator.

Whilst construction was a passion, Peter was also a strong advocate for respecting the land and the treed environment. Along with Principal Claridge he worked assiduously with planners to reduce the physical footprint and maintain tree cover wherever possible.

In recognition of Peter Callcott’s enormous contribution as Chair of the Grounds and Development Committee, the Boardroom in the Main Administration Building was named the Callcott Room which saw its first Council meeting in 1999.

We give thanks as a community for the life and legacy of Peter Callcott, for the wisdom, kindness, and quiet impact he made in our community.

As we held our final Athletics Carnival this week, I wanted to say well done to everyone who participated - I thoroughly enjoyed the energy, house spirit, and friendly competition. Thank you, as always, to the staff and volunteers who make these events possible.

To finish off the term, our Year 3 students have been away on camp, returning today—no doubt full of new experiences and stories of adventure. At the other end of the College, our Year 11 students are surely looking forward to their Dinner Dance tonight—a wonderful way to celebrate the end of term together.

As this is our final newsletter before the break I want to thank our entire College community for being supportive and engaged throughout the term.

I wish you all a safe, restful, and enjoyable holiday.

Andrew Peach
Principal