After 45 years of dedicated service to public education, today will be the final day of work for Mr. Clive Palmer, Port Lincoln High School’s longest-serving employee.
Last night, current PLHS staff were joined by Clive’s wife and several former colleagues for a wonderful farewell party on the Stamford Floor. During the festivities, heartfelt speeches and testimonials were delivered by:
- Current Principal, Mr. Craig Akehurst
- Former Principal, Mr. Greg Barry
- Education Director, Mrs. Rowena Fox (who read a letter from Department for Education Chief Executive, Professor Martin Westwell – transcript below)
- Governing Council Chairperson, Mr. Brian Gabb
- Former Principal, Mr. Tony Green
- Former Principal, Mr. Todd George
- Former student & current colleague, Mr. Shaun Thomas
- Former student, Finn McGown
- Former student & colleague, Mrs. Amy O’Brien
The culmination of these thoughtful presentations was a wide-ranging and emotional farewell from the man of the moment himself. Finally, Clive was presented with some tokens of appreciation for an incredible career in education.
On behalf of the Port Lincoln High School community – which includes the thousands of students and staff who have benefitted from being taught by or working with Clive – we wish him all the best in his thoroughly well-earned retirement.
Farewell and thank you, Clive.
TRANSCRIPT OF PROFESSOR WESTWELL’S LETTER TO CLIVE:
Dear Mr Palmer,
I am writing to extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to you on the occasion of your retirement after an extraordinary 45 years of dedicated service to the Department for Education. Your commitment to public education has been truly remarkable, and your impact on Port Lincoln High School (PLHS) is immeasurable.
Throughout your career, you have been a distinguished teacher and leader, particularly in the fields of senior mathematics and physics. Your ability to inspire and engage students in these challenging subjects has been widely recognised and greatly appreciated by both your colleagues and students.
In addition to your teaching excellence, your contributions to the areas of daily organisation, human resourcing, and timetabling have been invaluable. Your skillset in these areas has ensured the smooth operation of the school and has greatly supported the educational environment at PLHS.
Your leadership and dedication have left a lasting legacy, and you will be greatly missed by all who have had the privilege to work with you. On behalf of the Department for Education, I thank you for your unwavering commitment and the significant contributions you have made to the education community.
I wish you all the very best in your retirement and hope it brings you much joy and fulfilment.
Yours sincerely,
Professor Martin Westwell
CHIEF EXECUTIVE