Newhaven College farewells founder and Life Governor
Newhaven College acknowledge the passing of the Honourable Mr Peter Reith.
It is with much sadness that Newhaven College acknowledge the passing of College Life Governor and Founding Secretary of the school, the Honourable Mr Peter Reith.
It was in the living room of Peter’s home in Cowes in 1976 that interested parties gathered with the idea of establishing a Christian community school on Phillip Island. Through Peter’s hard work and commitment, along with other dedicated residents and parents, Newhaven College was founded. Peter’s vision was for a school that co-operated between all Christian denominations, committed to academic excellence and with a global view on education and a strong commitment to the community. Peter’s vision is the very school we see today.
Peter was not only a significant figure in Newhaven’s history but a great Australian. In addition to a successful career in law and business, Peter was a senior cabinet minister in the Australian government from 1996 to 2001. He was a key figure in Australian politics throughout the 1990s and was deputy leader of the Liberal party under Prime Minister John Howard.
It was wonderful to welcome Peter back to Newhaven College for Founders Day celebrations last year. Despite battling illness, he was determined to visit and could not have been more proud of the school we have today.
Everyone at Newhaven College offer their sincerest condolences to his wife Kerrie, his four sons, their families and loved ones.
The school is forever indebted to Peter for his legacy. He truly was the founding father of Newhaven College.
