A long-serving educator has received the 2024 Australian Union Conference (AUC) Education Medal.
Rob Wareham received the award on November 13 for his exceptional contribution to Adventist education.
The AUC Education Medal gives recognition to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to Adventist education in Australia. It is given to a professional educator or any individual whose outstanding interest and involvement in Adventist education is worthy of special acknowledgement.
“If our Heavenly Father can take this hesitant, imperfect and insecure child of God on such a journey, all honour must surely go to Him,” Mr Wareham said while receiving his award.
Mr Wareham’s career in education reflects a steadfast commitment to Adventist schooling and leadership. Starting as a teacher at Victoria Park Christian School in Western Australia in 1979, he soon ventured internationally as deputy principal of Kukudu Adventist College in the Solomon Islands. Returning to Australia, he served in various leadership roles at Nunawading Christian College, including principal, from 1984 to 2001. His passion for teaching continued at Brisbane Adventist College, Northpine Christian College and Hills Adventist College.
Mr Wareham officially retired from full-time employment in 2019 after a career spanning 41 years. However, despite his retirement, Mr Wareham has continued to champion Adventist education.
“Rob is highly respected, has a passion for representing Jesus, and is known for his integrity, humility, wisdom and willingness to serve,” associate national education director Jacques Calais said.
“His influence, care and patience has enriched and guided the lives of countless students during his career and well into his retirement. Our Church and schools thank Rob and Anne for their selfless ministry and service.”
Mr Wareham joins a special list of recipients who have served or supported Adventist education with distinction since its inauguration in 2005:
2021 – Mr Ralph Luchow
2020 – Mr Craig Price
2019 – Mr Mark Hinze
2018 – Mr Barrie Westley
2017 – Mr Ross Reid
2016 – Mrs Lorraine Hendra
2015 – Mr Dennis Reye and Dr Marion Shields
2014 – Pr Ian Howie and Dr Allan Lindsay
2013 – Mr Rodney Long
2011 – Dr Allen Sonter
2010 – Dr John Hammond and Dr Don Roy
2008 – Mr Raymond Faull and Mr Athol Grosse
2005 – Dr Arnold Reye
