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THE BOY FROM BOONAH Resident Photographer, Anthony Cox, interviewed St Peters HPE stalwart, Russell Haug, on the cusp of his retirement later this year. From funny anecdotes to lasting memories, Russell shares stories from 60+ years associated with St Peters. Pictured: Russell Haug (back row, right) with 1986 PE staff. ANTHONY COX
photograher, graphic and web designer
Anthony Cox Russell, you have a long history with St Peters. Tell us how your journey began.
mention a feast with prawns, oysters and everything else. It was unbelievable.
Russell Haug I remember coming here as a three-year-old in 1954 to see my older brother start boarding. I came back in the 70s to referee Rugby Union games but, due to a drought on the land, I unfortunately didn’t go to school at St Peters, instead attending the local High School in Boonah. My brother, Noel Haug (1958), was School Captain and Head Boarder Boy and my children Becky (1992), Christian (2011) and Sebastien (2014) all attended St Peters.
AC I’m sure you have taught a few sport stars along the journey. Who are some of the ones that come to mind, and what did they go onto do?
AC Where did you work prior to St Peters? RH I taught at Ironside Primary for two years in the early 70s then spent 13 years at Camp Hill High School, from 1973- 1985. I had applied for positions at Grammar and St Peters and got the call up from Carson Dron to join St Peters in 1986, which is when I officially started. AC What is the reason you have remained at St Peters for such a long time? RH The students and staff at the College are a pleasure to teach and teach with. When students thank you at the end of a lesson or coaching session, why leave? AC You have seen a few Heads of College in your time. Can you tell us some of the memories you have with them? RH All of them have been very professional and advanced the College in their own way. A stand-out moment that I particularly remember was Carlson Dron when he performed a ‘Blues Brothers’ rendition in front of a pack crowd of students and teachers in the gym. Watch: Cunningham House farewell to Russell Haug.
Plus Ultra | November 2021
During Sally Chandler's tenure we had a Christmas party that had fairy lights and fireworks over the Chapel Forecourt. Not to
RH I taught Angela Russell (1984) to swim. Angela then went onto compete at three Swimming events at the 1984 Olympics. Yolane Kukla (2013) competed at 2010 Commonwealth Games and the 2012 Olympics in Swimming. I've loved time keeping at QGSSSA and AIC swim meets because I've been able to see how far my 'learn to swim' students have come. I've also coached Jacob Deeb (2022), who was ranked fourth in Australia in 2020 for U16’s shot put. AC Have you always been involved with HPE and what other responsibilities have you performed around the College? RH I've held numerous roles at the College - Director of Swimming for seven years; First XI Cricket Coach for seven years (Premiership in 1991, the only one in TAS/AIC event history). I have also coached Athletics, Swimming, Cricket and Softball. AC I am sure the education system has changed over the years, what are the underlying key elements for helping our students get the best from themselves? RH Just giving students time and being a listening ear. Knowing a little about their background can really assist in student/ teacher relationships. AC We are fortunate to have so many great coaches that have played sport at the highest level and now offer their time to our students. Has this always been the case?
