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DAVID BEAN - FAREWELL

As is the case with everything David does, he was extremely
careful to do the necessary planning.
Before the program commenced, David forged a strong
relationship with the Warmun community and took Hale
boys on cross-cultural training courses in the Kimberley,
spending time walking the land with Elders. This was all part of
developing relationships and assessing what Hale needed to do
to accommodate Kimberley kids in the future.
Since the program began, there have been well over 100
Indigenous students who have attended Hale, moving onto
further study or traineeships. Hale has seen its Indigenous
graduates become teachers, doctors, artists and businessmen.

The program that David has developed remains a proud
element of Hale School and has taught all students, their
families and staff much about the culture of our First People.
Perhaps of most significance is that David – because of his
service to the communities in the north – received a ‘skin
name’. He is a Gnang-gala man.
4. In rowing.
David’s association with rowing has endured for over 50 years,
during which time he has participated in the sport as an athlete,
coach, administrator, publicist and mentor. David has coached
Hale School crews for 38 consecutive years.
In the Hale Boat Shed, David is a much-loved figure, providing
guidance and mentoring in a wise and gentle manner, often
encouraging and enabling boys who want to further their
rowing to join clubs through the off-season, and encouraging
them to see rowing as a lifelong sport where long-term
friendships are made and the benefits of a commitment to
rowing are appreciated.
So in conclusion, Mr David Bean has demonstrated
extraordinary service to young people at Hale School over 38
years. One could argue that this is simply the job he has been
paid to do; however, that would not explain why he has gone
above and beyond the expectation of his roles.

David’s view on humanity is one of positivity. He believes every
person has a contribution to make and always sees the best in
people. David turns negative conversations into positive ones
and never, ever talks poorly about another person.
David is an unassuming and modest man, who has enjoyed
a varied career at Hale School with now four different
Headmasters over 35 years. As Deputy Headmaster, it is he
who has carried the culture of the School and ensured it has
been passed correctly and appropriate from one to the next. He
has always been the one farewelling the old Headmaster and
supporting the new. With each of those transitions there are
many accolades and thanks bestowed upon the leader of the
School, and yet it is David who has done so much to ensure this
school has become what it is today.
From all of us at Hale School, thank you, Mr Bean.

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