While it’s not uncommon for generations of one family to serve on councils, it’s pretty rare to do it simultaneously – but it’s all part of the rich tapestry of council for City of Unley Mayor Michael Hewitson whose granddaughter Rebekah has joined him. Michael tells his story.
By Mayor Michael Hewitson, City of Unley SA
I’m fortunate to have lived for a significant part of my life in the City of Unley where I am now mayor. I spent my formative years in Malvern, a leafy suburb of Unley with a rich history.
I attended Adelaide University, studying microbiology and graduating with a Bachelor of Science (Honours). I also became a Pilot Officer with the Royal Australian Air Force.
A change in my career path saw me obtain a Bachelor of Education and teaching mathematics and sciences in both state and independent schools across South Australia.
This passion for education led me to become Director of the Salisbury Education Centre in Adelaide’s north during the mid-1970s, where I was involved in teacher training and development. During that era, I also helped establish community radio station 5PBA.
In 1998 I was recognised as a Fellow of the Australian College of Education (FACE).
A personal career highlight was my appointment as foundation Principal and CEO of Trinity College in Gawler, a position I held from 1984 until 2002.
In 2013 I was made a Member of the Order of Australia for services to education, the Anglican Church in Australia and the Unley community.
Over subsequent years I was instrumental in the founding of nine schools, re-establishing two schools which were in financial difficulties. I was also a Board Member of Rostrevor, a Catholic boys’ college, from 2014-17.
I am currently a Member of the Australian Board of Education, which is responsible for the national curriculum, reporting on all schools and testing of all Australian children from early primary stage to Year 12. I am also Chair of the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority’s (ACARA) Audit and Risk Committee and sit on the Australian Curriculum committee.
I was a ward Councillor for twelve years prior to being elected Mayor.
My wife Rosslyn and I have resided in Unley for the past twenty years.
Our four married children have three children in each of their families, and nine of my twelve grandchildren live in Unley.
I’m very proud of all of them as a parent and grandparent, and delighted that one granddaughter, Rebekah, has chosen to participate in local government and is an active elected member for one of Unley’s six wards.
I am passionate about the environment and maintaining and improving my city’s liveability by preserving tree canopy, along with Unley’s unique character and heritage as one of the Tree Cities of the World.
Michael Hewitson AM – FACE, B Sc (Hons), Dip Ed, B Ed.
