About the Fellows Program
The aim of the Rex J Lipman Fellows Program is to bring the world’s best thinkers and leaders to the School, encouraging and motivating as many boys as possible. A free public lecture series gives everyone in the community the opportunity to discuss, debate, and engage with leaders and commentators from a diverse range of fields.
As a School, we passionately believe in the value of education and public debate. We are delighted to host distinguished national and international speakers who contribute to the intellectual and cultural life of the broader South Australian community.
Since its establishment in 2011, fifty-nine Fellows have visited St Peter’s College. During their time here, Lipman Fellows:
- Present a substantial public lecture.
- Conduct small seminars on topics of interest to boys and staff.
- Are available for consultation with students and staff.
Recent Fellows
Nedd Brockmann (Athlete and Philanthropist)
A world-class endurance athlete, Nedd Brockmann has undertaken extreme challenges to raise awareness and funds for charitable causes, combining physical achievement with meaningful social impact.
Stephen McGown (Al-Qaeda hostage)
Stephen McGown endured years as a hostage under Al-Qaeda and now speaks about resilience, human rights, and the importance of mental health and support for those affected by trauma.
Stan Grant (Award-winning journalist)
Award-winning journalist, author, and Indigenous rights advocate, Stan Grant is known for his insightful commentary on race, culture, and social justice in Australia and internationally.
Tim Jarvis AM (SA Australian of the Year)
Environmentalist, adventurer, and climate advocate, Tim Jarvis is recognised for his expeditions that highlight climate change and environmental sustainability, inspiring global audiences through action and education.
Grace Tame (Australian of the Year)
A leading advocate for survivors of sexual assault, Grace Tame was named Australian of the Year in 2021 for her campaign to reform Australia’s sexual assault laws and empower survivors to speak publicly about their experiences.
Dr Richard Harris SC OAM (Australian of the Year)
Renowned anaesthetist and cave diver, Dr Richard Harris played a pivotal role in the 2018 Thai cave rescue, saving the lives of twelve boys and their coach. He is internationally recognised for his expertise in underwater cave rescue and emergency medicine.
Dr Gillian Hicks AM MBE (SA Australian of the Year)
Survivor of the 2005 London bombings, Dr Gillian Hicks is a passionate advocate for peace, resilience, and social cohesion, inspiring audiences worldwide with her story of courage and reconciliation.
Prof John Hattie ONZM (Education Researcher)
Globally influential researcher in education, Professor Hattie is best known for his work on evidence-based teaching practices and the impact of learning strategies on student outcomes.
Rex J Lipman AO ED OLH ONM
Dr Rex J Lipman (1922–2015) attended St Peter’s College from 1933–1937 (Short House). After completing his schooling, he served in the Citizen Military Forces and later enlisted in the army during World War II, serving with distinction as a commando in Timor and as a staff officer in the 9th Division.
Following the war, Rex studied dental surgery and established a successful practice in Adelaide. In the 1960s and 1970s, he made significant contributions to banking, finance, and hospitality, including establishing the International College of Hotel Management in 1992, now one of the world’s leading hotel management schools.
Rex was recognised nationally and internationally for his service:
- Member of the Order of Australia (1989 & 2008)
- Chevalier and later Officier de la Légion d’Honneur (France)
- Officier in the Ordre National du Mérite (France)
Rex passed away in 2015. His generosity and vision live on at St Peter’s College through the Rex J Lipman Fellows Program, inspiring generations of students to engage with the world’s most important ideas and leaders.
Rex J Lipman’s generosity will have a lasting impact on generations of students.