Celebrating 35 Years
As part of Frederick Irwin Anglican School’s 35th Anniversary Celebration Events, school families recently came together in a vibrant display of community spirit to farewell the Bishop of Bunbury, The Rt Revd Dr Ian Coutts, before his retirement later this year, at a special Family Colour Run event – the first one ever for both of our primary schools!
More than 300 students, staff and family members gathered for the occasion in their crisp white shirts and clear googles, which began with a formal farewell recognising Bishop Ian’s year of dedicated service.
Bishop Ian has long since had a wonderful relationship through the years with Frederick Irwin Anglican School, leading many of our pinnacle events including (just in the past five (5) years) leading our Founders’ Day Eucharist (2026), Commissioning our Halls Head Early Learning Centre and Administration Building (2025), licensing Assistant Chaplain Alicia Tearle (2024), Commissioning our Kwobadiny Sports Centre (2023), performing Baptisms (2023), Commissioning of Principal Mrs Tracey Gray’s (2022), and Commissioning of School Chaplain Canon James Tabor (2021).
Principal, The Revd Tracey Gray acknowledged his significant contribution and ongoing connection to the school before presenting him with a photo frame gift highlighting events at the School over the years that he led, in appreciation of his support. A highlight of the tribute from the Principal was a beautifully crafted two-tier cake, made and decorated by a Frederick Irwin Anglican School parent and caterer, featuring a beautifully detailed replica of the Bishop’s mitre, cross and Bible.
Following the ceremonial cake-cutting, Bishop Ian officially started the Colour Run, shifting the tone of the afternoon to one of energetic celebration. Bursts of colour and enthusiastic participation across all age groups created a joyful and inclusive atmosphere, with staff joining alongside students and families as colour puffs filled the air as participants ran laps around our Secondary Oval.
The event, organised by our new “Friends of FIAS” committee and coordinated by a 2005 Alumni parent, along with the support of many dedicated parent volunteers, was a great success. It highlighted the importance of relationships, lived values and a connected community in supporting student wellbeing, engagement and pure JOY!
“I am so happy that our families were able to come together to celebrate 35 wonderful years of Frederick Irwin, and at the same time recognise the love and effort and support that Bishop Ian has provided the School over the years.
“We wish Bishop Ian the best for his retirement later this year,” said Principal Tracey Gray.
