When Grant Harris first entered the gates of The Armidale School as a student in 1965, he could never have imagined that it would take 47 years for him to leave.
The retiring Deputy Headmaster, who has devoted most of his career to his former school and the boys that have passed through it, was officially thanked and farewelled at a community function at the Hoskins Centre on Monday night (December 3).
TAS Headmaster Murray Guest regaled the gathering with tales of his offsider’s commitment, activities and achievements across many facets of the school as, variously, a boarding housemaster, master
in charge of activities, Commanding
Officer of the Cadet Unit, kayaking instructor, sports coach, chemistry teacher and school 2IC.
While at times it was tragedy that had thrust new responsibilities on him, Grant Harris was a man who deserved to succeed.
“Stepping up is something that a man like Grant Harris just does,” Mr Guest said.
“His untiring commitment reflects his strong passion for creating opportunities for young people.”
Mr Harris recalled many of his experiences and says the TAS of today is a far cry from the school he joined mid-winter as a lonely boy whose family had emigrated from his native New Zealand only some months before.
He also paid tribute to his wife Kim, who had endured “years of not seeing much of me” due to his commitments.
“This is a special place that produces a special type of boy who can get in there in any situation and contribute,” Mr Harris said.
“It’s been wonderful for me and my family, but I’m looking forward to what lies ahead — including dealing in some good Angus steers on our farm just out of town.”
