Paul Makin

Journalist

When you Google the word ‘Teacher’ it comes up with this gem “Teachers truly are the backbone of society, they are role models to children, offer guidance and dedication, give young people the power of education and because of teachers, countries are able to further develop socially and economically”.

Pretty important stuff but local teacher Louise Walker isn’t one to look too deeply into the whys and wherefores of her profession, she just gets on with it each and every school day. Well at least she used to. Louise is about to retire after 47 years of teaching. Apart from 8 years at other schools, Louise has spent 39 years at Mossman State School.

The primary school proudly boasts that they value strong relationships with parents, carers and the community and welcome everyone into their school. That could also be the catch cry for Louise Walker who is loved by everyone at this place of learning and will be sorely missed. Her friends, family and colleagues held a shin dig at the Port Douglas Yacht on Friday night in her honour and the stories flowed like the beer and wine.

Louise told Newsport on the night “It’s been a busy time and you don’t realise until you look back just how much is crammed into that time but it’s always been an honour to teach these wonderful kids”. Hubby Bennett Walker, who was playing in the Walker Brothers Band on the night, was bursting with pride and told Newsport his wife was so committed to her role as a teacher “She has a great work ethic, I mean she would be up at 6am working on school stuff and 11pm at night as well” he said.

Bennett reckons Louise will enjoy the break and a bit of ‘me’ time but “If the occasional teaching gig comes up in the future, I’d say she’ll jump at it, but right now I think she needs a rest” he said. Bennett and Louise could have started their own school with 4 children themselves, 23 Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren.