Neil Andary joined the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA) in 2007 when he was appointed to the role of Head of Junior School, Prince Alfred College. During his tenure, Neil was an active member of the SA Branch, led Prince Alfred College with distinction, and took on other senior roles within the school most notably as Deputy Headmaster, Head of Schools and Acting Headmaster. Neil left Prince Alfred College at the end of 2019 to take on the role of Principal of Christ Church Grammar School in Victoria. Neil continued his active association with IPSHA and served his school for five years before retiring in 2024.
As a Full member of IPSHA, Neil has made significant contributions to The Association at both a state and federal level.
• SA and Victorian Branch Member
• SA Branch Treasurer
• SA Branch APPA representative
• Federal Treasurer
• Member of the IPSHA Federal Board
Neil was extensively involved, whilst a Full Member of IPSHA and as Federal Treasurer, in revisiting the federal constitution, working extensively with state branch treasurers to begin streamlining the associations financials and ensuring federal funds were allocated to support new and aspiring leaders. In his role as Federal Treasurer, he fostered several new sponsorship agreements that ensured Federal funds continued to support conferences, member professional development and aspiring leaders. It is noted that Neil’s approach to national finance was to look for ways to spend money. He proactively sought ways to give national funds to the State Branches so they could provide benefits to members at the grass roots.
As an active member for 18years, Neil attended IPSHA Federal Conferences, as well as SA, Victorian and Tasmanian Tri-State Seminars. He readily provided collegial support to IPSHA colleagues and advocated strongly for the Association in all forums. Additionally, Neil energetically encouraged aspiring leaders and staff to engage with IPSHA events and professional development.
This Citation outlines Neil’s outstanding and sustained contribution to IPSHA. Neil clearly meets the criteria for Honorary Federal Life Membership and it is with great pleasure that the SA Branch recommend him as an extremely worthy recipient of The Association’s highest honour, Honorary Federal Life Membership. We seek the Federal Board’s endorsement of this prestigious award .
Carl Salt
Honorary State Life Member
Grant Bock joined the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA), in July, 2002 when he was appointed to the role of Head of Junior School at Westminster School. He served with distinction in that role for 17.5 years before moving to Investigator College as Head of Junior School for 1.5 years in 2024 and 2025. For two years from July, 2007 to July, 2009 Grant took leave from his position at Westminster School to be the Assistant Director of the Principal Adviser Program in the United Arab Emirates.
As a Full member of IPSHA, Grant has made a most significant contribution to The Association at both a state and federal level.
• SA Branch President-Elect from 2008 – 2010;
• SA Branch President from 2010 – 2012;
• SA Branch Immediate Past President from 2012 – 2014;
• SA Branch Representative on Federal Board for 4 years;
• Federal President-Elect from 2016 – 2018;
• Federal President from 2018 – 2020;
• Federal Immediate Past President from 2020 – 2022;
• Member of the IPSHA Federal Board for 10 years;
• SA Branch Heads’ Representative on Deputies’ Hub Group for 6 years; and
• SA Branch Heads’ Representative on the PE Teachers’ Hub Group for many years.
Grant has also been extensively involved, whilst a Full Member of IPSHA, in a number of state and federal bodies, including:
• Independent Schools’ Representative on the SA Primary Schools Amateur Sports Association (SAPSASA) State Executive for 4 years;
• Member of The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) Standing Committee;
• IPSHA Representative on the Australian Primary Principals’ Association (APPA) National Advisory Council (NAC) whilst Federal President, SA Branch President-Elect and SA Branch Immediate Past President for 6 years;
• Member of the Principals’ Australia Institute (PAI) for 4 years;
• 4 years on the National Board of the Australian Council of Health, PE and Recreation (ACPHER); and
• Chair for 3 years of the Association of Independent Schools of SA (AISSA) Primary Heads’ Group.
For his outstanding contribution to APPA, Grant was deservingly awarded Life Membership in 2024.
As a Full Member, Grant attended all IPSHA Federal Conferences, as well as all SA, Victorian and Tasmanian Tri-State Seminars during his 19.5 years as Head of Junior School at both
Westminster School and Investigator College. He also represented IPSHA at the Incorporated Association of Preparatory Schools (IAPS), Independent Schools of New Zealand (ISNZ) and the Elementary School Heads’ Association (ESHA) Conferences, during his time as Federal President.
This Citation outlines Grant’s outstanding and sustained contribution to IPSHA and many other significant educational bodies in Australia over 19.5 years. It is the strong view of the SA Branch that he is, indeed, an extremely worthy recipient of The Association’s highest honour, that of Honorary Federal Life Membership. We seek the Federal Board’s endorsement of this prestigious award to Grant Bock.
David Hine
Honorary Federal Life Member
Nominated by Rebecca Lennon (National Secretary and Qld Branch Member) - December 2025
Paul Clegg has driven inspirational change in IPSHA at a national level. He has been a highly engaged and respected member of IPSHA since 2008. Paul is currently working with IPSHA as the National Executive Officer, leading the Federal/National Board through his leadership.
Paul commenced his active contribution as a leader in the Queensland IPSHA Branch through his work of the Queensland Professional Learning Committee in 2012. While in this role, he advocated for high quality speakers and professional sharing opportunities that brought leaders together in their shared purpose. Paul was pivotal in the inclusive approach to have Deputy Heads attending IPSHA Queensland Branch Meetings and National Conferences, where this was previously seen as quite a hierarchical entrance to the association nationally. This led to a more collaborative support and guidance of the Queensland Deputies Collegiate and enabled this group to mirror the structure of the IPSHA Heads Association and collaboration with the executive team, to develop budgeting processes and professional engagement as an expectation at meetings. In his roles, Paul has advocated strongly for aspiring independent school leaders to be inclusive and to have the opportunity to develop their skills and the representative pathways to be recognised for their talents and abilities.
In 2016, Paul assumed the role as Queensland President Elect, demonstrating genuine care for others as he continued his commitment to ensuring IPSHA was an inclusive association, focused on providing support and collegiality. This was a recurring agenda as Paul assumed the role earlier than planned of Queensland President in 2017. Paul led IPSHA with the same passion, enthusiasm and people-centred skills that had been evident throughout his membership.
Paul volunteered to Co-Chair the National Conference Committee when Queensland hosted this event in 2018 and led into the conference as Queensland President. The conference was an incredible success both from a professional learning and collegial response, but it also set Queensland up in a positive financial position for years to follow. Paul brought a great sense of vision and drive to ensure 2018 set a precedent for high standards in national conferences to follow. Shining Futures: Connect Collaborate and Create, was the driving theme that resulted in extremely positive feedback and highly engaged leadrs. His enthusiasm and passion was infectious and drew many other willing volunteers. With dreams of bringing world class speakers to the conference, Paul oversaw a large and innovative drive to gain financial sponsorship which resulted in highly respected international and engaging speakers such as Patrick Hollingsworth, Robyn Moore and Jean Kitson, all woven together by the skilled Tony Ryan. It was also the first IPSHA conference that engaged student voice and agency.
During his tenure as Queensland President, membership thrived and Paul was invited to nominate for Federal President which was a great step forward with Queensland not being
represented on the Federal Executive for many years. Paul has worked tirelessly to explore the alignment and connection across and between states of Australian to ensure consistency and equity with all branches. Paul has dedicated an incredible amount of time to lifting the association into contemporary practice and maximising IPSHA from a national perspective, through cross State Board member sharing of practice, strategic planning, introducing a fortnightly IPSHA Connect communication to members, and along with the IPSHA Board, reviewing governing documents.
Known as the “COVID President’, Paul demonstrated incredibly strong leadership in his actions, bringing leaders together throughout these challenging times, opening up opportunities for online meetings and webinars, ensuring continued connection within and across the states of Australia in Independent Schools. Paul also has far-reaching global involvement as a contributing member of the International Confederation of Principals and his drive for the Light Up Vanuatu Campaign in collaboration with Solar Buddy. Pauls vision and consequent actions united the states of Australia as one organisation with a shared purpose: to support and inspire Primary Independent School leaders.
Paul is a leader of great integrity and passion who cares deeply for people. He is a quietly inspirational leader who seeks to understand, and problem solve, to improve leadership capacity and ultimately impact deeper learning for students. He is considered a friend by many IPSHA members due to his genuine interest in, and care for others.
Paul has been heavily involved as a Board Member of APPA and set up a network with the Executive Officer employees from the public, Independent and Catholic sectors. He currently commits extensive volunteer time as the National Executive Officer, guiding and leading the Board in the IPSHA national agenda. Paul initiated the contemporary systems that has ensure IPSHA is contemporary, highly performing and legally compliant in human resourcing, finances and risk management. He initiated and led the development of a new website, a new online member management system and a functional Event Management system which has transformed the processes into efficient and safe practices. Paul has become a mentor for many across the nation who seek his wise counsel.
Paul is an extremely worthy of being recognised as an outstanding leader in education and deserving of this nomination for Honorary Federal National Life Member.
Rebecca Lennon
National Secretary and Qld Branch Member
Keith Dalleywater is a respected and accomplished educator who has made a significant contribution to IPSHA at both a State and National level during the 34 years that he has served in the capacity as a Head of School. Keith became a member of IPSHA (then known as JSHAA) in 1990 when he was appointed Head of Junior School at Illawarra Grammar School. In 1999, he was appointed as the Head of the Preparatory School at The King’s School, where he served for 13 years. He has subsequently served in a number of schools in NSW and Queensland, including Loquat Valley Anglican School, Brisbane Boys’ College and most recently at St. Phillip’s Christian College in Port Stephens where he has been the Head of Junior School since 2020. Keith has, at all times throughout his membership, been incredibly highly regarded by his IPSHA colleagues, a mentor and critical friend to new and experienced members alike, and always present, being a regular attendee at termly meetings and conferences.
Throughout Keith’s career, his calm and contemplative manner, his willingness to serve in our organisation and his commitment to his role as steward to the students and staff in his care have been exemplified in his leadership. He is a valued colleague and a trusted friend to many. We at IPSHA – in both NSW and Queensland, and Nationally, have been blessed to know and work with a colleague of such intelligence, integrity, and commitment. He is, indeed, a role model for all of us to seek to emulate.
Keith’s significant contributions to IPSHA include:
1. Chair of the Academic Portfolio 1996 – 1998
2. President Elect, President and Immediate Past President (NSW) 1996 – 2002
3. Combined Independent Schools Management Committee 2002 – 2006
4. Federal President Elect, Federal President and Federal Immediate Past President 2008 – 2014
5. Principals Australia Institute Representative (NSW) 2008 – 2010
6. Federal Matters (NSW) 2009 - 2012
Keith has been well recognised by his peers for the strength of his leadership. In 2009, he was awarded an IPSHA Fellowship; and in 2021 was recognised by the Teachers’ Guild of NSW when he was awarded an Honorary Fellowship.
Keith’s enduring support for IPSHA has strengthened our organisation, enriched our understanding of what it means to lead, and expanded our influence in the wider educational community. He leaves a legacy of dedicated service, commitment and wise counsel.
In recognition of Keith’s distinguished service to IPSHA, it is my great honour, on behalf of the NSW/ACT Branch, to nominate Keith Dalleywater for Honorary National Life Membership of IPSHA.
Suzanne Floro NSW/ACT Branch President
Deb Dalwood has given an extraordinary contribution to independent education and her exceptional service to IPSHA over an illustrious career.
Deb’s contribution to education has been both significant and enduring. She has profoundly impacted the lives of countless students, staff, and parents, shaping schools and communities through her wisdom, generosity of spirit, and unwavering commitment to young people.
Throughout her distinguished career, Deb has demonstrated outstanding educational leadership in a variety of senior roles. She served as Head of Junior School at Seymour College from 1995 - 2007, as a consultant for the Association of Independent Schools of South Australia, and for ten years as Principal of St Andrew's School from 2011-2020, where her leadership left a lasting legacy. Most recently, Deb served the Pulteney Grammar School community with distinction over four years, both as Interim Principal and then as Deputy Principal, providing steady, thoughtful, and forward-looking leadership through times of both opportunity and change.
The extent of Deb's significant contributions to the Association at both a state and federal level include:
• Federal Immediate Past President 2016 – 2018
• Federal President 2014 – 2016
• Federal President Elect 2012 – 2014
• Federal Projects Officer 2004 – 2006
• Past President (SA) 2004 – 2006
• IPSHA APPA NAC Representative (SA) 2002 – 2004
• President (SA) 2002 – 2004
• President Elect (SA) 2000 – 2002
• Projects Officer (SA) 1998 - 2000
Deb's influence has clearly extended well beyond individual schools in holding senior leadership roles within IPSHA, including Federal President and State Chair of IPSHA South Australia, and has served on the Australian Primary Principals' Association National Executive Council. Her outstanding contribution to educational leadership has been recognised through honours including IPSHA State Life Membership, Fellowship of IPSHA, and the John Laing Professional Development Award.
As Federal President, Deb led IPSHA with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to supporting heads and principals in their vital work. Her leadership strengthened the association nationally, fostered collaboration across states, and elevated the professional standing of independent school principals throughout Australia. A particular highlight of her federal presidency was the organisation and leadership of the IPSHA Federal Study Tour to Canada in 2016, which provided members with exceptional professional learning experiences and strengthened international connections for the association.
Deb Dalwood embodies the highest ideals of educational leadership—wisdom, compassion, dedication, and service. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide independent school leaders for generations to come.
In grateful recognition of her exceptional service to IPSHA and to independent education in Australia, the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia proudly confers Honorary Federal Life Membership upon Deb Dalwood.
Julie’s association with IPSHA (formerly JSHAA) reflects a lifetime of visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to independent primary education. Her connection to the Association was both personal and professional, shaped early by her godfather, C.A.S. “Barney” Viney, a founding participant of JSHAA in the 1950s during his tenure as Head of Junior School at The Hutchins School, Hobart. His example of professional service and collegial engagement laid a foundation for Julie’s own enduring contribution to the Association.
Julie joined the Association upon her appointment as Head of Junior School at St Michael’s Collegiate, Hobart. Within the close and collegial Tasmanian network, she quickly established strong professional relationships and demonstrated exceptional leadership capacity. In 1994 she was elected Federal Chairman of JSHAA (1994–1996) and, during this period, became the first female National President to lead the organisation. Julie guided it into a period of growth and strengthened representation at a time when the Association’s leadership was largely male-dominated. She navigated cultural resistance with courage and conviction, effectively challenging the prevailing “boys’ club” environment.
Her presidency coincided with a period of significant growth and renewal. Julie introduced strategic planning to the National Board, strengthening governance structures and sharpening the Association’s mission as the national voice for independent primary schools, their students, and their leaders. Her strategic approach enhanced organisational clarity, accountability, and long-term sustainability. She also led the highly successful National Conference in Hobart—the first IPSHA National Conference ever held in Tasmania—delivering a landmark event that strengthened national collegiality and elevated the profile of the state within the Association.
Beyond her national leadership, Julie served for fifteen years as Head of Junior School at St Michael’s Collegiate, where she championed excellence in primary education and prioritised high-quality professional learning for teachers. After completing her doctorate in 2000, she established a centre for professional learning at Collegiate. Through partnerships with Curtin University and later the University of Tasmania, the centre enabled teachers across government and non-government sectors to pursue postgraduate qualifications. These initiatives supported fifty PhD graduates and numerous Master’s graduates, while also creating meaningful pathways for teacher assistants to enter the teaching profession through vocational education.
Following 33 years at Collegiate, Julie served in advance education as Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Tasmania, Chief Judge of the National Excellence in Teaching Awards, and President of the Royal Society of Tasmania. After 25 years as NEiTA Chief Judge, Julie retired from this role in December 2025, and was honoured with a farewell at the State Library of Victoria in Melbourne.
Her distinguished service exemplifies the spirit, leadership, and enduring impact recognised through National Life Membership of IPSHA.
Citation for Honorary Federal Life Membership: Sally Ruston
Sally Ruston joined IPSHA (formerly JSHAA) in 2000, when she became Head of Junior School at Abbotsleigh, where she has served with distinction for 25 years retiring at the end of 2024.
In a career of over 40 years, Sally has worked across a number of Independent Schools in NSW; All Saints College-Bathurst, Tudor House, Trinity Grammar Preparatory School, Newington College-Linfield and Abbotsleigh.
Sally has been an outstanding IPSHA member and an example to other primary school leaders across the Association. Throughout her career, and in an ongoing capacity, she has served IPSHA as well as serving on a number of education boards. She has modelled the value of contribution to the wider work of primary school education across the nation.
Serving with enthusiasm, Sally has contributed fully to the life and work of IPSHA for 25 years. She served as NSW Branch Treasurer (2003-2006), NSW President Elect (2006-2008), NSW President (2010-2012) and NSW Immediate Past President (2010-2012), IPSHA Federal President (2012-2014) and Federal Immediate Past President (2014-2016). She served as NSW Representative on the APPA National Advisory Council, and the APPA Board, appointed Vice-President in 2021. She was a key driver in the organisation of the 2014 IPSHA Biennial Conference in Sydney and served on the organising committees of many APPA Conferences.
Sally’s outstanding understanding of governance, procedures and protocols has seen her lead at State and National level with purpose, efficiency and an unbounded determination to prioritise primary education and to ensure IPSHA is a more effective and inclusive organisation.
Sally has been widely respected for her incredible IPSHA knowledge and understanding. She connects across generations as well as across education sectors, highly regarded in the primary school education field. Her advice and counsel have been regularly sought by colleagues and policy makers. She has ensured that she has been across education dialogue, direction and perspectives. She has always shared openly with colleagues and provided opportunity for connection and growth. Her encouragement, and friendly and interested manner, have been highly valued by her peers in leadership.
Sally has given extensive leadership to many professional and community networks. This has involved working at state level on BoS, ISTAA, AIS and NSWCIS committees and working groups, in academic, professional development and sport projects. Sally has also contributed extensively through her membership and involvement with APPA, serving as Deputy President, ACE, ACEL, PETA and AITSL (particularly the AITSL Working Group developing National Professional Standards for Principals 2010-11).
Whilst maintaining a rich contribution to IPSHA and APPA, Sally has maintained a vibrant and strong Abbotsleigh Junior School. She was highly regarded within the school community where she was a transformational leader. She co-ordinated extensive school building projects, initiated an Early Learning Centre from birth to 5 year olds, and provided the opportunity for the girls of Abbotsleigh to be bold, courageous and prosperous. Learning was at the forefront of all her decisions and the students were well placed to have successful futures having been well led,
Carl Salt joined the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA) in 2004, when he was appointed to the position of Head of Junior School at Pembroke School in South Australia, a role he held with great distinction for 18 years until 2022.
Carl served as Federal Treasurer from 2010 to 2016, a period of six years in which he made a lasting impact on the governance and financial management of the Association. He was instrumental in bringing together the federal IPSHA financial reporting requirements and the six state budget requirements, which had previously been kept separately. This was undertaken based on advice from The Association’s Auditors, and Carl accomplished this sizeable task seamlessly and effectively.
Carl was also the architect of updating The Association’s Memorandum and Articles of Association and the Principles and Practices documents to reflect legislative changes to the Not-for-Profit Sector during his time as Federal Treasurer — a significant governance achievement that continues to benefit IPSHA.
Carl attended all national conferences since 2004 and was a key organiser of the 2008 Biennial Conference in Adelaide. As Federal Treasurer, he oversaw the finances connected with all biennial conferences between 2012 and 2016, inclusive. He was also a presenter at three professional learning workshops at IPSHA Biennial Conferences, including the New Heads seminars in 2018 and 2022, and the Deputies’ seminar in 2018.
Carl’s contribution at a state level has been equally significant and sustained. He held the following leadership roles within the SA Branch:
• SA Branch Treasurer: 2008 – 2011
• Branch President-Elect: 2015 – 2016
• Branch President: 2016 – 2018
• Immediate Past President: 2018 – 2020
• SA Branch Representative on the Australian Primary Principals Association (APPA) National Advisory Council: 2018 – 2022
As an active member of the SA Branch, Carl also:
• Was the Coordinator and Liaison Head for two Hub Groups in the SA Branch, namely, the IPSHA (SA Branch) Deputies’ Group and the PE Teachers’ Hub Group;
• Assisted with the effective running of the SA Branch Junior Orator Competition and the Music Festival;
• Organised professional learning opportunities for SA Branch Members for over six years;
• Was the key organiser of the IPSHA (SA Branch) Aspiring Leaders’ Program, which ran three distinct programs beginning in 2014;
• Attended all SA Branch workshops and seminars from 2004 onwards, together with all Tri-state seminars with colleagues from Tasmania and Victoria;
• Mentored a number of new Heads appointed to IPSHA (SA Branch) schools; and
• Was the Chair of the Association of Independent Schools of South Australia (AISSA) Primary Leaders’ Group for four years.
Carl led his Junior School at Pembroke School with distinction for 18 years. He is an educator of the highest calibre and was greatly respected and valued by the staff, students and parents in his school community. So highly was he regarded that Carl fulfilled the role of Acting Deputy Principal on more than one occasion. He welcomed visits from colleagues in other schools and was seen as an exemplary leader from whom other professionals could learn much.
Honorary Federal Life Membership of IPSHA is granted to those former Members of long standing who have made an outstanding and sustained contribution to The Association at a federal level, with excellence of service evident through membership of the Federal Executive. Carl Salt has made an outstanding, sustained and enduring contribution to IPSHA, both at a federal and state level, as well as to primary education in general. The SA Branch holds Carl as a leader and educator of the highest calibre and that his significant endeavours for IPSHA are reflected in this esteemed honour.
William Wallace David Hine
SA Branch President Honorary Federal Life Member March 2026
Chris became a member of IPSHA in 2012 when he was appointed Head of Newington College, Lindfield Campus. His commitment to service and his deep and enduring interest in education, led Chris to join the State Office Bearer committee soon after his appointment, taking on the role of Professional Development Chair in 2012. During his tenure in this role, Chris lifted the standard of professional learning for IPSHA members considerably, which in turn made attendance at termly meetings ever more compelling. Chris was awarded the PAI John Laing Professional Development Award in 2018 in recognition of his efforts in this field. He was instrumental in the planning and execution of the 2014 IPSHA Biennial Conference, ensuring that the speakers engaged were not only highly regarded but had the potential to be impactful for the broad IPSHA membership nationally.
Chris served on the National Board in his capacity as NSW State President from 2022 – 2024, and then as National Treasurer from 2024 - 2025. His contribution to National Board meetings is always thoughtful, well considered and with the best interests of IPSHA members, and the association more broadly, at the forefront of his thinking. Chris has volunteered countless hours of his time, serving on the Finance Risk and Audit Committee and preparing annual budgets with State Treasurers around Australia. Chris’ contribution at a National Board level has been both significant and impactful. He has concurrently served as the NSW IPSHA representative on the Australian Primary Principals Association National Advisory Council, providing strong advocacy at a national level.
In NSW, Chris has been a valuable contributing member of the NSW State Office Bearers Committee since 2012. Importantly, he served as President Elect and then President during the period where COVID changed everything we did and the ways in which we did it. Always a voice of reason, he compelled us to ensure that our thinking remained positive, our decisions member centric, and our actions of benefit to our members and the people they were caring for during such a challenging time.
Chris is a doer, an action man who gets things done! However, he is also deeply thoughtful and is able to synthesise multiple pieces of disparate information into clear and achievable steps that provide benefit to all involved.
Chris has an outstanding record of attendance at meetings, country weekends and conferences throughout the term of his membership. Whilst he is highly regarded for the work he has done on behalf of our great association, he will also be remembered for his encouragement for members to engage in social opportunities, understanding that this is where the close friendships and professional relationships are developed and strengthened. His knowledge of venues that may be appropriate for these social engagements is legendary, as is his ability to find a venue with live music, wherever we might be!
Chris’ enduring support for IPSHA has strengthened our organisation, enriched our understanding of what it means to lead, and expanded our influence in the wider educational community. He leaves a legacy of dedicated service, commitment and collegiality.
In recognition of Chris’ distinguished service to IPSHA, it is my great honour, on behalf of the NSW/ACT Branch, to nominate Chris Wyatt for Honorary National Life Membership of IPSHA.
Martin Lubrano
Head of Junior School, Barker College IPSHA National President