It is with deep sadness that we share with our College community that our founding Principal, Dr Bryan Cowling, has passed away.

Dr Cowling holds a significant place in the story of Thomas Hassall Anglican College. Appointed as the College’s first Principal, he led the College through its foundation years from 1999 to 2007, as the vision for a new Anglican College in the South West of Sydney began to take shape.

Those early years required faith, vision and a deep commitment to Christian education. Dr Cowling helped establish more than the foundations of our campus. He helped shape the character and Christian purpose of the College, setting a direction that continues to be seen in our community today.

His place in our College story is also recognised through the Bryan Cowling Studies Centre, H-Block, which opened in 2011. Located on the corner of the campus, it is home to English and Drama and stands as a daily reminder of his contribution to the foundation and growth of the College.

Following his time at Thomas Hassall, Dr Cowling continued his service to Christian education as Chief Executive Officer of the Anglican Education Commission. His contribution to education, and particularly to Anglican schooling, has been significant.

We give thanks to God for Dr Cowling’s life and faithful service. As we remember him, we are reminded of the words from Matthew 25:21:

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

We extend our sincere sympathy to his wife, Mrs Megan Cowling, and their family who are also known to many in our College community, and to their family and loved ones. We pray they would know God’s comfort, peace and strength at this sad time.