Farewell to our Principal

Do you remember the first time you spoke to Dr Parry?

My first conversation with him was on the 21st of June 2016. He was in the UK, and I was with other members of the School Council in the McLachlan Boardroom at the school. We were meant to have an initial interview with him via Skype for the role of Principal. Skype failed, and we ended having a conversation over the phone on a poor line. It was the middle of the night for him. They were not the ideal interview conditions, but needless to say, it not stop him getting the job!

I asked my daughter if she remembered her first conversation with him. With her permission, I share the story. She remembers meeting him on the little bridge at the Junior School. She was in Year 1 in early 2017. I know what the conversation was because Dr Parry told me not long afterwards. She said to him, ‘I think you are a friend of my daddy.’ After asking who her daddy was, he replied with a smile, ‘Yes, I am a friend of your daddy.’

I mention this because when we were seeking a new Principal in 2016, high on our list was the ability of the new Principal to be warm and engaging in one-on-one situations.

Dr Parry excelled in this and found ways to engage with people of all ages and roles within the school and community.

Throughout his career, Dr Parry has been a passionate advocate for a holistic approach to education, one that nurtures not only academic achievement but also the personal growth and character development of each student. His commitment to fostering the skills and attributes of the whole person has left an indelible mark on our school and its community. 

Since joining Kinross Wolaroi, Dr Parry's leadership has resulted in a series of transformative achievements that have shaped the school’s identity and future. These include: 

• The implementation of a dynamic learning philosophy rooted in experiential education, initially through the Regional Engagement Enterprise and now embedded across the whole curriculum. 
• The introduction of a taught Wellbeing curriculum that prioritises the mental and emotional health of students. 
• Championing the school’s identity as a community that possesses a regional heart and global outlook, through membership of Round Square, a prestigious global network of schools dedicated to experiential learning and character education. 
• Successfully navigating the school through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership ensured continuity of learning as the school swiftly transitioned to online learning platforms, ensuring that students’ education remained uninterrupted despite lockdowns and restrictions. 
• Establishing a flourishing international and national student exchange program and fostering a deep commitment to social justice initiatives. 
• Strengthening the school’s engagement with the Uniting Church and embedding a robust philosophy of student leadership throughout the school. 
• Introducing a contemporary school uniform that honours the school’s heritage while reflecting its progressive ethos. 

• Developing a clearly defined set of school values, which serve as guiding principles for the behaviours and attitudes of the school community. 

   

Dr Parry has overseen significant advancements in the school’s facilities, including the construction of a state-of-the-art Technology Centre for Metals and Engineering, new learning spaces, and a new boys’ boarding house, the latter set to be completed in 2026. Under his leadership, the boarding houses have undergone extensive upgrades and improvements. 

As we reflect on Dr Parry's tenure, we celebrate the profound impact of his leadership and dedication. His vision and tireless efforts have elevated Kinross Wolaroi School to new heights, ensuring that our students receive an exceptional educational experience.

While today we celebrate Dr Parry’s leadership, it is also a moment to recognise someone who has supported him unfailingly throughout his years at our School.

Josephine, we are deeply grateful for the encouragement, warmth and generosity you have shown our community. Your presence at School events, your support on tours and your quiet dedication behind the scenes have made a meaningful difference. Thank you for the grace with which you have shared this journey.

While the conclusion of the 2025 academic year will mark the end of Dr Parry's tenure as Principal, his contributions will resonate within the fabric of our school for years to come. On behalf of the entire school community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr Parry for his unwavering commitment, exemplary service, and inspirational leadership.

Dr Parry's Portrait Unveiled

One of the traditions of our School is to commemorate the leadership of each Principal with a portrait. The School commissioned artist Angus McDonald to paint Dr Parry, and the portrait was unveiled at the Speech Day Assembly.

Angus McDonald is an award-winning artist and documentary filmmaker. He has been a frequent finalist in numerous national art awards including Australia’s biggest art competition, the Archibald Prize, where he has been selected as a finalist on seven occasions. In 2024, his portrait of Indigenous academic & writer, Professor Marcia Langton AO received the Archibald Prize’s People’s Choice Award. It was the second time Angus had won the People’s Choice, also receiving the award in 2020 for his portrait of Kurdish Iranian writer and filmmaker, Behrouz Boochani. His work is held in private and public collections including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Art Gallery of NSW.