Vale William John (Bill) Walsh

In early February the NSW Chapter learnt that our great friend Bill Walsh was seriously ill and sadly, he died peacefully on the 26 February in Lismore, aged 67 years.

• Became a CEFPI member in 2001-02
• Attended CEFPI conference in Phoenix, Arizona September 2002
• Foundation member of the Australasian Board until 2009
• Foundation member of the NSW Chapter Board from 2006 to 2012
• Secretary of NSW Chapter Board 2006 to 2010
• Member of the organising Committee for the two Sydney Regional Conferences in 2005 and 2011 

Bill Walsh was a foundation member of the NSW Chapter which was established in August 2006. He was an enthusiastic and dedicated supporter of the CEFPI ideals since becoming a CEFPI member in 2002. Bill’s unflagging hard work and generosity of time was an inspirational influence on his CEFPI colleagues and in the development of quality learning facilities in NSW Catholic schools.

In a senior Director role in NSW Catholic education and nationally, Bill was influential in promoting the participation of Catholic school personnel, especially those involved in facilities provision, into CEFPI activities at Chapter level and at annual conferences. Catholic sector participation in CEFPI has been a major support to the Australasian region. Bill also used his senior role to provide material support to the NSW Chapter to help it get it on its feet and become financially viable. 

Bill remained active and influential on the Chapter Executive until his retirement from full-time work and move from Sydney to Lismore in mid-2012. Bill was greatly missed by those remaining to carry on the CEFPI mission and in Catholic education.

There is no doubt that he will never be forgotten. Bill's charm and grace, his positive outlook and encouraging approach to life will keep his memory dear to us all.

Anne Knock

Chair, NSW Chapter