Tribute to Robert Phipps

Mr RAY WILLIAMS ( Castle Hill ) ( 16:15:46 ): With the member for Hawkesbury, Dominic Perrottet, I inform the Chamber of the very sad passing of the principal of the Hills Grammar School, Robert Phipps. I can personally say that Rob was a great leader and a great friend. He was the third principal of Hills Grammar, giving a remarkable 21 years of service. Simply put, Rob’s values inspired thousands of children, who knew him as a friendly and compassionate principal with a ready smile. Students remembered how at the end of a school day he would stand out the front asking everyone how their day was, what they had learnt and say goodbye. Sadly, on Friday 22 July, we said our goodbyes at a touching memorial service with the entire Hills Grammar community. I join with the member for Hawkesbury in sending our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Rob’s wife, Jenny, his daughter, Elizabeth, and his son, Ben, as well the school community. They have lost a much-loved husband, father, teacher and thoroughly good man. His legacy will live on in our community. Vale Rob Phipps.