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We recently received the sad news of the passing of Mrs Pat Harris. Pat was a member of staff at Calrossy Anglican School from 1985 to 2007. She had recently been treated for cancer and passed away after a short illness.

Pat was a highly accomplished and dedicated English History teacher at our school, also holding roles and supporting teachers through the Northwest branch of the History Teachers’ Association. She undertook research of the McGaw Report on the restructure of the HSC and was a regular HSC marker. In 1991 Pat received the Lowenthal Prize by the Royal Australian Historical Society based on research and capacity to demonstrate historical empathy.

Pat played a key role, with Rev. John Jenner in developing a Central Australia experience for students and Calrossy was among the first schools that were given permission by elders to enter Arnhem Land. This trip was awarded the 1993 Telecom National Prize for innovative teaching in the International Year of Indigenous People, awarded in recognition of the film about teaching of indigenous issues in History that Pat edited.  Recently, in partnership with Tamworth Sound and Film Archives, our Calrossy Archives team has digitised the VHS recording that includes Pat’s detailed commentary.

Upon retirement she coordinated the Calrossy Past Staff luncheons that maintained the collegial connections of friendships that continued to exist beyond teachers’ final staff meeting. The regular Staff Luncheon continues each month to this day.

During the 2019 Centenary, Pat was instrumental in the establishment of the Foundation Scholarship honouring Ruth Munro, a close colleague and past English and History teacher. Pat discovered the writings of Ruth and collated The Book(let) of Ruth which showcased the literary talents of the much loved Miss Munro.

In her retirement Pat maintained involvement in the University of the Third Age, regularly giving lectures and pursuing her lifelong love of learning. Pat kept in contact with family, friends and a close eye on Calrossy.

At Pat’s 2007 Farewell Former Head of English Mark Harrison remarked, “Pat’s command of the English language... her ability to speak extempore on almost any topic in fluent, elegant and often mellifluous prose …Wit and dry sense of humour… Discussions on all sorts of topics such as Theology, morality, politics and English literature.”

She was a true intellectual whose interests in all matters academic made for a stimulating companion. This was encouraged and embedded into the lives of her students and fellow staff members. She will be remembered for a significant contribution to the success of the School and its students”

On behalf of our Principal David Smith and the Calrossy School community, we share our deepest condolences to Brian, Kristen, Mitchell and their families as they mourn her loss.

Ode to Pat

Not many are aware,
A hippy, the politicians she did scare.
The 60's was a time to speak out,
On important issues they chose to stand and shout.

Pat Harris a Rebel: Is it so hard to imagine?
The issues they broadened,
Pat and Brian they challenged.
The 70's a time for marriage, earth and indigenous rights
Brian and Pat, environmentalists and partners,
promises for life.

Pat Harris a Greenie: Is it so hard to imagine?
A family she did have, Kristen and Mitch are here,
The 80's was a time to settle somewhere.
Cake mix, her favourite thing now, to stir.
Brian and kids, life offers a new kind of whir.

Pat Harris settled: Is it so hard to imagine?
Paving her way at the coal face
The 90's at Calrossy a union rep we did place.
Many a staff issue she did undertake,
Our work a safe and happy place she did make.

Pat Harris a discombobulater: not so hard to imagine?
The 2000's arrived and Y2K it came. (it was fine)
Pat got promoted, in a burst of professional flame, (all in good time)
Always happy and forthcoming, ever willing to please.
The Calrossy staff she organised with ease.

Pat Harris a leader: not so hard to imagine?
2007 brought with it a shock
Pat is set to leave our flock.
Greener pastures filled with trees she does seek.
Busy with grandchildren, history and other passions - retirement peeks.

Pat Harris no longer at Calrossy: It is hard to imagine?
Farewell and Best Wishes from all the staff. - Excerpt from the 2007 Tamworthian