The College has honoured Mr Jim Walker with the John Wesley Medal for his unwavering service, values-led leadership, and lasting impact on our community.

Chair of College Council, Mr Matt Braysher, John Wesley Medal recipient Mr Jim Walker, and Head of College, Mr Ross Barron.

According to our Head of College, Mr Ross Barron, there are times when, as a school, we pause – not to celebrate what we’ve built, but to reflect on who we are and what we stand for. The awarding of the 2025 John Wesley Medal was one such moment.

The John Wesley Medal is the highest honour Wesley bestows. Named after John Wesley, founder of the Methodist movement, the medal calls us to live with purpose – in line with the clergyman’s ideology:

“Do all the good you can,
By all the means you can,
In all the ways you can,
In all the places you can,
At all the times you can,
To all the people you can,
As long as ever you can.”

Since its inception during our Centenary year, the John Wesley Medal has been awarded sparingly. Past recipients include Mr Greg Brown (82-86), Mrs Patsy Russell-Lane and Dr Wally Green (38-43) so it was exciting to add another name to that distinguished list: Mr Jim Walker.

The John Wesley Medal.

Mr Walker’s relationship with Wesley spans nearly two decades. He served as a Council member for 10 years before stepping into the role of Chair from 2016 to 2021. That’s 18 years of voluntary leadership – given not for recognition, but out of a deep belief in what Wesley stands for.

But it’s the nature of his service that sets Mr Walker apart. Speaking to the students at the Assembly, Mr Barron explained the qualities that defined Jim’s leadership: “Integrity. Compassion. Courage. Respect. These are not just words to Jim. They are the compass by which he lives.”

Mr Walker’s story is one of remarkable leadership. From his beginnings as an apprentice mechanic, he rose to become CEO of a multi-billion-dollar company. Yet, his success never distanced him from service. At Wesley, he has driven buses so students could experience life beyond the classroom. He has mentored young people, offered quiet guidance to staff, and been involved in College projects that will impact generations to come – including the Joseph Green Centre, the Mildred Manning Science Centre, the Middle School building, and the Hamer Wing.

Mr Walker has also championed vocational pathways, and the College’s VET Dux award now bears his name. It’s a generous and far-reaching contribution to Wesley.

Mr Barron delivers his speech.

Perhaps his defining moment came during the early days of COVID-19. As uncertainty swept through schools and businesses, many organisations made difficult financial decisions – including widespread job cuts. But Mr Walker stood firm. “He believed – and insisted – that our College is first and foremost a community,” said Mr Barron. “He chose to protect jobs, even when it carried risk. That is what it means to live by your values when it matters most.”

In awarding the medal, Mr Barron used Mr Walker’s story to issue a challenge to students. “You will face moments of choice. You’ll be tempted to take shortcuts, to compromise your values for convenience. But it is your values – not your titles or status – that will define your life.”

An emotional Mr Walker accepts the John Wesley Medal.

Speaking after the Assembly, Mr Walker reflected on receiving the honour: “This award is very special for me because I grew up as a Methodist… It’s not something I was looking to receive, but it’s a privilege. And I have to say, I’ve got more out of being at Wesley than I’ve given – the pleasure of mentoring and coaching has been fantastic. I enjoy it.”

He also acknowledged how emotional he found the moment. “Mr Barron’s words really got to me. Speaking after him was the hardest speech I’ve ever had to make. But it was an honour.”

Wesley College is proud to count Mr Walker as part of our community. His story reminds us that leadership is not about power, but principle. That true service doesn’t seek the spotlight – but leaves a legacy all the same.