Vale Gary McAllister

Yesterday the Xavier College community received the devastating news that much-loved Xavier College Health and PE teacher Gary McAllister died in a car-crash at Diggers Rest.

Gary was a passionate and consummate teacher dedicated to his students and their pursuits in Health/PE and Triathlon. He singlehandedly was responsible for the rise of Triathlon at the college, and the development of competitive inter-school Triathlon throughout the APS.

Many Old Xaverians would have known or have been taught by Gary, and recognized his passion for fitness, football and the Essendon Football Club, whom he played for in the Reserves at the age of 18.

For some time, Gary was involved with the Xavier College football program but he is synonymous with the St Bernards Football Club as a Coach and Fitness Adviser.

Xavier College principal Dr. Chris Hayes said, “Gary was a very passionate, gifted, knowledgeable and enthusiastic teacher who took a huge amount of interest in every student he taught.”

Director of Sport Cam Matthews said, “He had an enormous passion for the triathlon program both at Xavier College and within the APS. His energy and vision in promoting this sport was unparalleled.”

Old Xaverians Football Club and the wider Old Xaverians Association wishes to extend their condolences to Gary’s wife Catherine and their children Ned, Allie and Greer.

Today, only standing room was available for a mass held in the Xavier College Chapel to pray for Gary and his family.

Current students, Gary’s colleagues and many Old Xaverians were in attendance to pay their respects to an outstanding teacher and an incredible friend.

As a mark of respect the Premier B Thirds will be wearing black arm bands in their game this weekend while all other six teams will be wearing black arm bands for their games on August 4th.

Funeral details are to be confirmed.

Rest in Peace.