Life beyond Radford
Diana Harvey
What does life look like for you now?
The aim has been to achieve a good work/life balance.
I really find part-time teaching and conducting the school choirs at an all girl school in Wollongong very fulfilling. I balance this with lots of ocean swimming, visits from friends and family, walking my dog, bike riding and a smidgeon of painting.
What’s your most endearing memory of Radford?
No doubt, the craziest/happiest/most endearing memory would have to be working with George Huitker on the wacky musicals such as Little Shop of Horrors and Big. Being the vocal coach was a great opportunity for me to work with very talented young people. What is really memorable is the way George Huitker brought a completely unique blend of spontaneity, professionalism and humour to the rehearsals. The crew would be in fits of laughter one minute and then completely focused and professional the next to bring about spectacular performances filled with wonder. A most endearing memory is when he cast my own little primary aged children as the devil and angel and little Audrey and little Seymour in the days before Radford was a K-12 school. It became a family affair and we all had a ball! Another special memory is getting the whole school with the choir to sing “If I had Words” from Babe as a farewell to Graeme Wigg on his retirement at an awards ceremony.
Who or what left the greatest impression on you during time at Radford?
The wisdom and kindness of Phillip Heath and Graeme Wigg, two Heads of School during my time at Radford, left a lasting impression on me. They truly lived out the concept of the “servant leader”. Their contribution to the history of Radford should be enshrined in our memories. They expressed humility and compassion yet communicated the highest ideals to students and staff.
When you think of your time at Radford, what are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for being given the opportunity to learn so much from my gifted colleagues and educators and the passion of the young people I encountered. I learned so much about education and what it takes to make a rounded person with a love for the arts, a social conscience and life long learning.
What is unique about Radford?
I loved the times when Radford was the “ underdog" high school when we had nothing to lose and everything to gain. We forged our identity as a modern, egalitarian community with a not too shiny image yet a conspicuous flair. I hope this image is remembered.