Vale Allan E S Anderson

Principal of Kinross Wolaroi School, 1978–2001

It is with sadness that we inform the school community of the passing of former Principal, Mr Allan Anderson, who died on 8 January 2026.

Kinross Wolaroi School honours the life and legacy of Allan E S Anderson, whose vision, leadership and commitment shaped the School during one of the most pivotal periods in its history.

Allan Anderson assumed the role of Principal in September 1978, at a time when, by his own words, “the school was on its knees and many thought that it was down for the full count”. These were challenging times, requiring bold decisions and resolute leadership. It was Mr Anderson who fundamentally changed the direction of the School.

Within five years, enrolments had increased significantly and the School’s financial position had been stabilised. After 15 years, student numbers had grown to almost 800, securing Kinross Wolaroi School’s long-term sustainability and future.

Mr Anderson’s 24 years as Principal were characterised by sustained growth and transformation, guided by a clear and enduring philosophy articulated in 1985 as The Best of Both Worlds. He described this vision as:

“What could be better than a school which brings boys and girls together for lessons but lets them go their own separate ways to develop their own interests outside school hours?”

This philosophy informed a wide-ranging program of development that prioritised student wellbeing, strong academic foundations and a broad co-curricular offering. Significant improvements were made to boarding, sporting and recreational facilities, alongside strong support for the Arts and the early adoption of computing as the School entered the information age.

Among the many initiatives and developments during Mr Anderson’s tenure were:

• Introduction of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (1980)
• Cow & Calf Program – a major fundraising initiative to stabilise the School’s finances (1982)
• Separate girls’ boarding at the former PLC site (1983)
• Opening of Sally Kennett Oval (1983)
• Introduction of the first computers at Kinross Wolaroi School (1984)
• Opening of the Eric Solling outdoor pool (1984)
• Centenary Celebrations (1986)
• Use of Croagh Patrick House for boarding (1987–1993)
• Opening of the Indoor Recreation Centre (1989)
• Opening of the Music Centre (1991)
• Library and Computing Centre (1997)
• Creation of two new ovals on the eastern edge of the campus (2000)
• Opening of the Indoor Heated Swimming Pool (2000)

When Allan Anderson retired in June 2001, it marked the endof an era. More than a figurehead, his contribution to Kinross Wolaroi School was deeply personal and extended to his entire family. His wife Mary, along with their children Michael, Christopher, Timothy and Sally, were all actively involved in, and attended, the School.

The opening of the Anderson Centre in November 2001 was a fitting tribute, recognising a remarkable contribution to the life and future of Kinross Wolaroi School.

Allan Anderson’s legacy lives on in the strength of the School community he helped to build.

May he rest in peace.