COUNTRY BOY MADE GOOD: James Sheahan Catholic High school teachers Margaret Bastick, John Mealings and Greg Hill and 1984 graduate (front) Julie McDonald reminisce about former student Sean Aylmer.
ANYBODY who grew up in a country town can achieve great things according to James Sheahan Catholic High school teachers.
The comments follow the news that former student Sean Aylmer, who graduated in 1984, is the incoming Sydney Morning Herald editor-in-chief.
Staff members who taught Mr Aylmer said he was a quiet boy but were not surprised he’d landed such an important job.
English teacher Margaret Bastick said while he was quiet he was full of surprises. Mr Alymer played one of the lead roles in the school’s production of Johnny Fabulous.
“He was musical, even though he was quiet he could be outgoing,” she said.
Geography teacher John Mealings said Mr Aylmer was much like his four siblings.
“They were all very studious and really, really nice kids, all very supportive of each other,” he said.
Former classmate Julie McDonald said she wasn’t surprised Mr Aylmer had flown high.
“He was always in the smart classes,” she said.
Mrs McDonald said she remembered Mr Aylmer’s infectious smile.
“He was always a person of high integrity and had a really friendly smile,” she said.
“He was always one of those people you just knew would do well in life.”
Commerce teacher Greg Hill said he was proud to see former students achieving high goals.
“Many students who come through the school go on to do great things,” he said.
“He was a local boy who went to the local Catholic school and has gone on to achieve.”
nicole.kuter@ruralpress.com