Australian entrepreneur Dick Smith visits Loyola

The Loyola students said they were motivated and inspired by Dick Smith's visit to their school

The Hospitality trade students prepared and served a three-course meal for their visitor

Australian businessman, entrepreneur, aviator and activist, Dick Smith, visited Loyola High School, Mount Druitt on Thursday 28 June to speak with the Years 11 and 12 students and tour Loyola’s Catholic Trade Training Centre (CTTC).

Dick Smith visited the school in August 2011 while the CTTC was being constructed and wanted to follow up with the progress. Arriving by helicopter, Dick was greeted by Loyola principal, Robert Laidler, CTTC assistant principal Tammy Prestage and Catholic Education director system performance, Anna Dickinson.

After touring the trade training facilities, including the carpentry and automotive workshops, hairdressing salon and commercial kitchen, Dick Smith addressed the students and spoke about his own education and life experience, reminding students about their duty to help others in need and encouraging them to make the most of their education.

Teacher, Clinton Boreham said it was a memorable occasion for the school.

‘Dick Smith is an inspirational man and a fantastic motivator,’ said Clinton. ‘He spoke at length with some of our trade training students as he toured the facilities, having been a tradesman himself, he gave detailed advice about their careers ahead.’

‘In his speech, Dick commented on the educational opportunities Loyola students have and discussed his own success in business which the students really responded to,’ he said.

Following the presentation, Hospitality trade students prepared and served a three-course lunch for their visitor and presented him with a hand crafted puzzle box filled with homemade condiments to take home.

At the end of the visit, Year 12 Student John Bundalin, thanked Dick for taking the time to visit Loyola and was thrilled when he asked to take a copy of the speech home as a personal memento of the day.

‘It was very overwhelming for a person of his success to compliment me on my work,’ said John. ‘The best thing about Mr Smith is that he inspires us to motivate others.'

Dick Smith arrived at Loyola by helicopter

Dick was greeted by Loyola principal, Robert Laidler, CTTC assistant principal Tammy Prestage and Catholic Education director system performance, Anna Dickinson

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