Feng Hua Chinese School principal Caroline Xu Yi among Australia Day honorees
A MARSFIELD woman whose Chinese language school has fostered understanding of two different cultures is among seven northern district people recognised with Australia Day honours.
Northern District Times
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A MARSFIELD woman whose Chinese language school has fostered understanding of two different cultures is among seven northern district people recognised with Australia Day honours.
Caroline Xu Yi, principal of the Feng Hua Chinese School at Eastwood Public School, was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to education and the Chinese community.
“It’s a big surprise,” she said of the award.
“This is a big honour and I’m very pleased to be recognised.”
Ms Xu Yi started the school in 1998 with 12 students.
She and her colleagues this year have 1,000 students to teach.
The school plays an important role in helping Chinese migrants adjust to Australian life.
“We encourage students to be involved in Australian society,” Ms Xu Yi said.
“A lot of Chinese families, in the first two years, they don’t really understand the Australian education system.”
Ms Xu Yi has also guided delegations of principals on visits to China, to learn about the schooling there.
This has helped many understand difficulties for Chinese students in adapting to Australian schools.
“If you understand their culture, you will be able to help them settle in this society,” she said.
Residents to be made a member of the Order of Australia were Prof John Boyages, Dr Roberta Chow and Dr Donald Hector.
Prof Boyages, of Cheltenham, was honoured for significant service to medicine in radiation oncology.
He was also credited with serving medical education, professional organisations and people with breast cancer.
Dr Chow, of Beecroft, was honoured for significant service to medicine as a clinician.
She has pioneered developments in using laser therapy techniques for chronic pain management.
Dr Hector, also of Beecroft, was honoured for significant service to science in the field of chemical engineering, and to business.
One resident in the district, Dr Carol Liston of Beecroft, was made an officer (AO) of the Order of Australia.
She was recognised for distinguished service to the preservation and documentation of Australian history and heritage, and to professional societies and education.
Dr Liston is a former president of the Royal Australian Historical Society and has worked on a range of heritage committees.
Along with Ms Xu Yi, two Cheltenham residents were awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
Dawn Nettheim received hers for services to music.
She has worked on the Ryde Eisteddfod and been a member of the Beecroft Orchestra and Golden Kangaroos Concert Marching Band.
Archibald Park received his medal for service to education and industrial arts.
He had head teaching roles at Muirfield, Macarthur Girls and Northmead high schools, among others.
He also held a range of positions overseeing the study of industrial arts.
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