How good was the Winter Olympics!

Welcome to our February ACHPER Advocate.

Our second Advocate for the year brings very sad

news about three of our most highly regarded

colleagues who recently passed away.

Tribute to Alfred Colvin

National President, ACHPER Australia, 1997-2008

Alfred Colvin was a former President of the New South Wales Branch, and they have provided a wonderful dedication to ‘Alf’ in their Vale below. Alf also contributed significantly to our national organisation.

It is with great respect and admiration that I acknowledge the outstanding leadership of Alfred “Alf” Colvin during his tenure as National President of ACHPER Australia.

Alf’s contribution to Health, Physical Education, Sport and Recreation in Australia was both profound and enduring. His leadership was defined by integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to improving professional standards and opportunities for educators across the nation. He understood that quality physical education was not merely about sport or activity, but about lifelong health, character development, and educational excellence.

During his presidency, Alf demonstrated a rare ability to unite professionals across states, territories and sectors. He strengthened national collaboration, elevated the standing of the

profession, and championed the importance of Health and Physical Education within Australian schools, tertiary institutions and communities. His guidance helped shape a generation of teachers and leaders who continue to benefit from his foresight and dedication.



Beyond his formal role, Alf was widely respected for his mentorship, wisdom, and genuine

care for colleagues. He led not for recognition, but from a deep belief in the value of

education and service.

Alf Colvin’s legacy within ACHPER Australia and the broader educational community

remains significant and enduring. His leadership set a benchmark for professionalism and

commitment that continues to inspire.

Alf was awarded Life Membership of ACHPER Australia in 1988.

Tribute to Rafe Griffin

ACHPER Australia Administration Officer

The Queensland Branch has provided a wonderful testimonial to their Branch Executive Officer, Rafe Griffin (see below).

It is with sincere appreciation that we also recognise the outstanding service of Rafe Griffin during his tenure as our part time Administration and Board Support Officer for ACHPER Australia from June 2023 to December 2025.

Rafe brought exceptional professionalism, efficiency, and reliability to a role that is vital to the smooth functioning of a national organisation. His organisational skills, attention to detail, and solutions-focused approach ensured that administrative operations were carried out to the highest standard. Rafe consistently demonstrated dedication and competence. Beyond his technical ability, Rafe was known for his, at times, passionate and forthright views … he had a great belief in the value of our organisation and potential contribution to Australian communities. He was always approachable and willing to go above and beyond to assist colleagues, volunteers, and the ACHPER Australia executive directors.

Rafe Griffin’s service is gratefully appreciated and acknowledged … his work has left a lasting positive impact.

Len Pavy

Life Member, ACHPER Australia

The Western Australian Branch is compiling a dedication to their 1969-1973 Branch

President, Len Pavy, which we will include In the next edition of the Advocate, along with

recognition of Len as an ACHPER Australia Life Member.

Alfred Ceptus Colvin

2 February 2026 | Aged 88 years



With deep respect and gratitude, we acknowledge the passing of Alfred Cephus Colvin on 2 February 2026, aged 88 years.

Alf was dedicated to Health and Physical Education in Australia. His commitment to the profession spanned more than five decades, beginning with the Australian Physical Education Association (APEA) and continuing as the organisation evolved into ACHPER. Through every change, Alf remained constant in his service, leadership and belief in the power of education to shape healthier generations.

He held numerous Executive roles within APEA NSW and ACHPER NSW before extending his contribution nationally. As State Branch President and later National President (1997– 2008), Alf worked tirelessly alongside state branches to strengthen collaboration and advance the profession. He played a key role in supporting national and international conferences, always focused on building connection and professional growth.

Alf’s dedication was formally recognised when he was named a Fellow of ACHPER in 1984 and awarded Life Membership in 1988 — honours that reflected the high regard in which he was held by colleagues across the country. As ACHPER NSW’s longest serving member, with 55 years of continuous involvement, he remained ever-present and ever-willing to contribute.

Beyond ACHPER, Alf’s legacy is also seen in his leadership within the NSW Department of Education. As Senior Team Leader in the Curriculum Branch during the 1980s, he guided consultants working across Physical Education, Health Education and Dance, as well as major initiatives including Road Safety Education, Health Promotion, Quit for Life, Smoking Control, Daily Physical Education and Jump Rope for Heart. His influence helped shape programs that reached countless students and teachers across NSW.

Alf was not only a leader of vision and integrity, but he was also a steady, caring presence. To his colleagues, he was more than a supervisor or President, he was a mentor and a loyal friend.

We honour Alf’s extraordinary legacy and the strong foundation he helped to build for our profession. His legacy will continue in the work of the many educators he supported and inspired. His contribution to Health and Physical Education in Australia will not be forgotten.

Our sincere condolences to his family, friends and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Rest peacefully, Alf.

ACHPER NSW Branch

HPE Day Wednesday 2 September 2026

Register Your School Here

Why HPE Day Matters

National HPE Day is a call to action — a nationwide initiative to highlight the critical role of Health and Physical Education (HPE) in the Australian Curriculum and its influence on the learning and development of children. HPE teaches essential life skills: movement, resilience, teamwork, respect, and wellbeing. It’s not just about sport — it’s about equipping every young person with the tools to thrive.​

How to Get Involved

Whether you’re a teacher, parent, principal, or community leader — there’s a way for everyone to participate.

In Schools

• Organize a fun run, walkathon, or dance-off.
• Create a circuit of physical activities or ‘play stations’ for students to enjoy.
• Host a healthy cooking class or lunchbox challenge.
• Invite a local athlete or coach for a motivational talk.
• Integrate HPE themes into other subjects — like measuring heart rates in science or writing about movement in English.​

At Home

• Walk or ride to school together.
• Visit a local park, beach, or trail.
• Have a family dance-off or backyard sports day.
• Try a new activity together — like yoga, skating, or rock climbing.​

In the Community

• Partner with local sports clubs for free clinics or open days.
• Organize a community fun run or fitness challenge.
• Host a wellness fair with local health providers.