Honour was a surprise

The Rev Dr Peter Swain of Umina was honoured with one of Australia's highest accolades on Australia Day.

Dr Swain received a Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of his many achievements, which include teaching in Australia and overseas, and serving 20 years as a chaplain in the Army Reserve.

Dr Swain was also a founding member of the Australian Association for Religious Education, and later became state then national President.

"I was surprised," said Dr Swain.

"I didn't know anything about it until I received a letter from the Governor-General.

"The most heartening thing about getting the award has been all the letters, cards and emails I have received from all over Australia and even overseas.

"It never occurred to me that I was doing anything remarkable, I think my family was more excited than me at first."

Dr Swain has been archivist and historian and has been been published in journals, magazines and books.

His most recent book was a history of Newington College.

Among his local involvements, Dr Swain has served on the board of Woy Woy Community Aged Care.

He is the past president of the Woy Woy Probus Club and is currently active in the Umina Uniting Church.

Stuart Baumann, February 17