Leonie Rennie — 27 December 2021

My condolences to Christine and all of Peter's family. I am so disappointed at not being able to join the memorial service by zoom. Reading Peter's "final word" on the service document so brilliantly epitomised who he wanted to be, and who, indeed, he was. I will always treasure fond memories of working with Peter, being mentored by him and especially our times with the other science educators in Prato, times which enabled me to appreciate the kindness and generosity of spirit that complemented Peter's unforgettable legacy to not only science education but to everyone who met him. Thank you, Peter

Jenni A Mitchell — 23 December 2021

Many many thankyous for lending your father and grandfather to the world! We all gained from knowing him, talking to him, learning from him and being able to have conversation with him. A man of many talents, ideas and humility We will all remember him and in the remembering listen again to the wisdom. -- blessings Jenni Mitchell and family

Barbara Sommers — 23 December 2021

So sorry. Patrick. My son Mark's great friend. A wonderful tribute Patrick.

Barbara Sommers — 23 December 2021

A beautiful service for a wonderful man. My sympathy to Christine, Mark, Rachel, Rod and families. Love. BBarbara Sommers and family.

Alexander Scutt — 23 December 2021

I am sorry we were unable to be with you in person today. As it turned out at our carol service last sunday we were a contact for COVID and are currently isolating until our test results come through. It was a privilege to be part of this service via Zoom. May Peter rest in peace and rise in glory. Love to you all. My father probably came across Peter at school at MGS and during their respective careers. Philip Scutt was also a science educator and worked at the University of Western Australia. He was born in 1925.

Neil Holm — 23 December 2021

My wife Margaret died the same day as Peter. We joke that some deep and playful discussions occurred that day in heaven -- although Peter may not endorse the concept of heaven! We enjoyed great times with Peter and Christine during their years in Brisbane. These times included our joint membership of Wellspring Community and my attempts to think and write about the relationship between education and the Christian faith both at the school level and the theological college level. His comments were always pertinent, wise, and worth the fullest consideration.

Ann and Ken Turner — 23 December 2021

Anne Semple — 23 December 2021

Scrolling through the tributes to Peter triggered many memories, but collectively the good fortune I had in engaging with so many who contributed to challenging and shaping my professional life and that of others.Peter was one of those luminaries whose personal qualities and vision for an encompassing science education were inspirational. He has left a rich legacy. Vale Peter.

Glyn Howells — 23 December 2021

Peter was a rare man, one of the saints, blessed in equal measure with brilliance and humility, common-sense and vision, drive and an ability to bring others on a journey. His style was informal and unpretentious, and with equanimity and a collaborative spirit he achieved so much. Peter used all these qualities as national chairperson of the Student Christian Movement. With a number of you I attended the National Exec meetings in the ASCM house in Fitzroy and in various places across Australia. Probably most things that happened during my period in the 1970s in ASCM, including the wonderful national conferences, our involvement in social issues, the commitment to solidarity with the SCMs in the Asia-Pacific region -- all bore the wisdom and commitment of Peter, even though he steered the boat so deftly that one was mostly unaware of his genius to inspire and make things happen.I dont think I ever saw Peter dressed formally; I never saw him in a suit and tie. Like his biblical namesake Peter was a rock on whom you could always rely. I see Peter chatting with children and people of all ages. I remember Christine and Peters relaxed informality, their hospitality, and openness to everyone. Vale Peter Fensham.

Judy Hall — 22 December 2021

Sincere sympathy to all the family. Both Christine and Peter were a most positive influence in my son Tim's life. I am sorry that I am not well enough to attend.

tom roper — 24 November 2021

Peter was a great encouragement as we developed the NUAUS Education Equality campaign in the 1960's and in his support for Gough's education initiatives.The Hon. Tom Roper

Margaret Bearlin — 24 October 2021

I found it almost impossible to write and even more so after reading the tributes on Peter's tribute page except by saying after each one as I read it: yes , yes, you speak for me. The appreciation, gratitude and love expressed by those whose lives had been touched and in so many cases transformed by meeting Peter, I found overwhelming.He truly carried into his professional and personal life those values and commitments we had all learnt in the fellowship of the ASCM as undergraduates. His commitment to social justice, truth, and love, found expression in every aspect of his life: his work locally, nationally and internationally in Science Teacher Education, his membership of the church and the ecumenical movement, and his continuing active membership of the Australian Labor Party, and above all his capacity to build enlarging circles of friends. And not least his devotion to his family and his care for Christine. He was truly someone in whom the spirit lived. I will miss Peter's friendship most of all. His life will continue to be an inspiration to me as to so many others. Thank you dear friend for your generosity of mind, of spirit, and above all, of action.

Sandy Yule — 19 September 2021

Peter Fensham was a much respected staff member when I joined the ASCM in 1959. When I became General Secretary of the ASCM in 1970, which was a time of significant ferment and change, he was one of the few seniors to increase his presence, taking on the role of Chair He gave us firm and careful leadership in that time. I have valued his friendship ever since. Vale Peter

Lisa Calwell — 16 September 2021

A privilege to have known such a wonderful human.Gratitude for and memories of so much; Blackburn days, precious intro to Aurukun, Phillip Island visits and stays, Easter camps, wooden spoon whittling, hearty discussions, animated stories.Always interested, always kind, laughter with tears, and deep generosity. Thank you also Peter for the meaningful friendship mum, Connie Calwell shared with you.Remarkable indeed and one of the dearest elders in our midst.Love and thoughts to the Fenshams from Lisa and the Calwells.

Jane Cornwell — 13 September 2021

I first met Peter down at YCW beach, where he had a beach house, at Phillip Island in the early 1980s, and was struck then by the fact he wasn't like many other parents-of-friends who you met, and who were cordial but disinterested. Being connected to Rod and Patrick, I saw Peter and Christine over the years, and was always struck by Peter's interest in what I was up to - especially once I began carving out a career as a journalist in London. Many memories of kindness and good humour, and largesse: in 2013, when I was desperate for a book writing retreat, Peter let me use the house at Phillip Island for a bit, where I slept up in 'Private Parts' as his and Christine's bedroom was known. Most recently I saw him at Lisa Calwell's mum Connie's celebration and while clearing struggling, he was the same Peter - kind, smart and interested. A rare dude, and he'll be much missed.

Margaret Fairbanks — 7 September 2021

I worked in administration with Peter during the long term of his time as Dean of the Faculty of Education. At all times the folk on the ground floor were treated with respect as equals by this beautiful man. We worked together closely during the troubled times for our Chinese students during the Tieanamin Square crisis in Beijing. Such men as Peter Fensham pass through our lives so rarely. With fond memories and condolences to his family.

Philippa Ray — 4 September 2021

Peter was so good at tapping into each persons interest, always adding a gem from his own experience. I fondly remember his thoughtfulness and generosity when he and Christine visited our family in Tassie, gifting our 2 eldest sons with some legendary footy cards from the 50s knowing they were lovers of the game and avid card collectors.Our parents, Margaret and George Ray enjoyed a long and lasting friendship with Christine and Peter, connected by children, their strong social justice values, faith and community. Our love and condolences to Pat and all the familyPhilippa Ray on behalf of the Ray family

Glen & Brenda Aikenhead — 4 September 2021

In my professional life, Peter was an inspiration, a mentor, and an encyclopedia of interesting knowledge. Most of all, Peter was a dear friend who was like a father to both of us. We cherish the many times we visited at conferences, in Melbourne, and at his cottage on Phillips Island.

Senka Henderson — 3 September 2021

Sincere condolences to Christine and Fensham family. I will miss you Peter.

Bill and Ros Chandlerand — 2 September 2021

We met Peter and Christine at those memorable and much looked forward to New Years Eve gatherings at Phillip Island. What a gift that we were invited by our mutual friends Jenny and David Green. A classic amalgam of friends, fun and fellowship of a diverse group of people who were well informed and committed to talking about the world and its wonders, and active in making it a better place for the generations to follow. RIP Peter. Our thought go to Christine, Patrick and the whole family.

Gloria Dall'Alba — 2 September 2021

An extraordinary human being leaves the world a better place, with an enormous academic, social and family legacy. With gratitude for Peter's sharp intellect, warmth and generosity that have touched so many of us. My sympathy to Christine and the Fensham family in your sad loss.

Lawrence Ingvarson — 1 September 2021

Thank you Peter for more than fifty years as a a generous and thoughtful friend to our family. Each one of us benefited greatly from your deep and continuing interest, support and affection. You will be sorely missed.

Gilbert Best — 31 August 2021

Gilbert Best - 31 August 2021To be a young academic during Peters Deanship and to experience the collegiate spirit inspired by his leadership was a revelation indeed. Thankyou Peter. A great man and a great friend.

John & Shirley Gunson — 31 August 2021

Peter befriended us with hospitality and friendship. It was a pleasure and privilege to share time with him over the past 12 months.He has been a fellow participant in the Victorian Progressive Christian Network in recent years.

Philip Clarkson and Lyn Carter — 30 August 2021

Peter was a teacher to both of us as beginning teachers. Then colleague, friend and mentor. He was inspiring always wanting to sift through ideas bringing his huge intellect and experience to bear. Of course when he disagreed with your brilliant idea his response more often than not came with a grin and chuckle with which you just could not take offence. But you were suppose to think again and more carefully this time. Great loss to us all. Condolences to Christine and family b

Mark Murphy — 30 August 2021

The Prof was always jovial, even on the odd occasions where he dared venture downstairs to Pats domain. Sometimes if he was really game, hed stick his head into the small mid stair doorway that led to the Dungeon. Complete with its own skinny hidden passage, it was once used by many members of the Head Toks band and their motley bunch of associates to escape the clutches of numerous teenage misdemeanours. He knew exactly what we were doing, even though we thought we had him fooled. An incredible man with the wisdom of Socrates and the heart of Jesus. Condolences to the Fensham clan. Go well dear man, love Mup

Gaell Hildebrand — 29 August 2021

Peter identified so many key ideas in science education that have travelled way beyond him. Two for me were: science is leaned with hands, heart and mind; and control the assessment and you control the curriculum. But they are two tiny ideas among thousands that Peter used to light many minds in science education. Thanks, Peter. A giant of a man. Sympathy to Christine and the extended Fensham family on the loss of a generous person. Gaell Hildebrand.

Tim Baker — 28 August 2021

Thank you Peter for welcoming me into your home, letting me stay at your beach house at Phillip Island, for introducing me to ideas of social justice, a compassionate, progressive, ethical and inclusive world view, for taking me to my first anti-nuclear demonstration and my first inner-city theatre restaurant on the same day, for allowing us to sound proof "the dungeon" with egg cartons and carpet underlay for band practice, for stimulating conversation and wry humour. A towering figure in my adolescence who opened my mind to a wider world of possibilities and community.

Michael Buxton — 28 August 2021

Aside from Peter's outstanding research and administrative achievements, he was a brilliant teacher and fostered the careers of many young academics. Peter's social and political interests added to everything that made him such fascinating company. A huge influence to so much and so many.

Jacqueline Hamilton — 27 August 2021

A dear, knowledgeable and friendly man whom I had the please of worshipping together with and alongside Christine. Much condolences to the family.

Barry McGaw — 27 August 2021

Peter was an extraordinary academic with PhDs in chemistry and psychology from which he built an international leadership role in science education. He was also an extraordinary person, deeply spiritual in his Christianity, inquisitive, engaging, caring and interested in others.

Brian Ball — 27 August 2021

I remember Peter fondly as my lecturer at Melbourne Uni and then as a fellow member of Wellspring. A great man who cared deeply.Brian Ball

Peter Gronn — 27 August 2021

A top-flight educator with a passionate and life-long commitment to social justice. Peter believed in the power of education to make a difference, rectify wrongs and realize human potential. He had a capacious mind and was a big presence in every sense.

Alan Gregory — 27 August 2021

A friend from 1956 and a colleague at Education Faculty MonashA truly great scholar, Professor and Dean and a lovely manHe was really special and his contribution to education immenseOne of the greats Sympathy to his family.

Brendan Gleeson — 27 August 2021

A wonderful life well lived. A scholar of towering accomplishment in his field, science education. A much loved family man and a gentle and generous man to their circles of friends. He left the world a better place.

Jan Fleming — 27 August 2021

I had a wonderful holiday with Peter and Christine in 1998. We camped in Kakadu. I met friends of Peter and Christine's they lived in Darwin. We were able to camp in Arnhem Land. it was a fabulous experience.

Daniel Ingvarson — 27 August 2021

Peter stood gently in the key sliding door moment of my education and therefore my Career. With his characteristic confident softness he took a boy who knew much about something but little about most, and clipped his ear, with just the right challenge. "Why do what your good at, you can always do that, come try something you can learn from". From that moment a CompSci geek became a philosophy devotee graduate with hons in Arts. That tipped the balance that meant I started the first Internet company in education rather than worked in it. And as such, having a very rare skill set, have had career spanning the globe. On balance, Peter, I learnt from you. Thank you.

John Lancaster and Geraldine McMahon — 26 August 2021

Thank you Peter for your inspiration, questioning and love of life that has given us strength, belief and hope over so many years. Always so connected, interested and inclusive and never short of a great story. Sending love and condolences to Christine and family from Phillip Island.

Heather Dawson — 26 August 2021

My condolences on your loss Christine, Rachel, Mark, Rod and Pat and families . So many memories of wonderful times with the Fensham family. Peter and Christine had a gift for making you believe you could be greater than you thought and achieve whatever you wanted. Peter's was a life well lived, always interested, always inspiring, always people centred and living his faith. Holding you all in my heart and feeling blessed to have known Peter.

David Treagust — 26 August 2021

Peter was one of kind with a balance of superb intellect, brilliant ideas and a caring nature. His contributions to Australian science education are immeasurable. I have valued and appreciated Peters mentoring, friendship and care over more than four decades. Sincere condolences to Christine and family.

Ingerid Meagher — 26 August 2021

Peter always took a great interest in what everybody was up to, ever ready to stir up interest in the next social justice issue, mystery or miracle and steering people in a helpful direction in order to expand their thinking. What a privilege to have know Peter!

Blackburn Uniting Church — 26 August 2021

Peter and Christine were greatly loved and respected members of The Avenue Uniting Church community in Blackburn for over 30 years before they moved to Brisbane.Peter was strongly influenced by the Student Christian Movement at Melbourne University and remained an active and enthusiastic friend of the movement throughout his life. He lived his faith and encouraged us in Blackburn to do the same. The annual Palm Sunday peace marches saw us taking the train to Flinders Street for a service in St Pauls Cathedral before marching up Swanston Street to join the groups coming from the Trades Hall - ditto rallies and marches for refugees and climate change. His involvement in politics and his understanding of power and influence made him a formidable advocate for social justice and strengthened the Uniting Churchs witness and prophetic voice.Closer to home, Peter was active locally in Amnesty and the Walk against Want. He supported the establishment and work of the Outer Eastern Asylum Seekers Support Network for many years. He and Christine opened their home to refugees and shared their good fortune with those less fortunate. They were wonderfully, and sometimes chaotically, hospitable. Peter encouraged so many of us to be and do more than we thought possible. The Avenue Church honours Peter and all he stood for. We send our love and blessings to Christine, their children and all the family.

Helen Forgasz — 26 August 2021

Peter was a true scholar who lived and breathed generosity, equity, and social justice. He was justifiably admired and respected by all who met him, studied with him, and worked beside him. It was a privilege knowing Peter.

Amanda Berry — 26 August 2021

Peter was a remarkable and inspirational person who has made a deep and lasting impression on science education as a field and on the scholars who worked with and knew him. I was always impressed by his energy and insight.

Richard White — 26 August 2021

Sylvia Almeida — 26 August 2021

Peter was an inspiration for so many of us in the field of Science Education. I was deeply touched by his humility, intellect and his generosity in supporting early career researchers. My sincere condolences to the family.

Cathie Roby and Reg Elder — 26 August 2021

We enjoyed many New Year's Eve celebrations with Peter and Christine and others at Phillip Island where they shared their house with friends and family. Peter always enjoyed providing stimulating topics for discussion. The next day we would all go on a walk and further discuss the topics of the night before.In later years, we admired the way Peter continued to be engaged intellectually, with the community and with friends. In addition, he became a devoted carer for Christine.

Ruth McCall — 26 August 2021

Sincere condolences to all the family at losing Peter. I met him thru Margaret & George Ray, when Peter & Christine moved to Kew. A joy to be with. I will miss his warmth, and my mother Betty Lane in unit 8 at Karana also sends her love to the family.

Kathryn Lancaster — 26 August 2021

So many wonderful memories; family meals, Easter camps and Phillip Island. Always interested in our lives. Such a special friend to David and Shirley.Always so kind and humble. The memories will always make me smile.

Stephanie Hogg — 26 August 2021

Peter was a man of both science and faith; and a devote husband to Christine. He was a long-time member of the Wellspring community and dedicated to justice for all. It was a privilege to have Peter join our Victorian group in recent years.

Ilana Snyder — 26 August 2021

Peter was a wonderful man whom I deeply admired. I was inspired by his ideas about justice and equality in education. He was warm and funny, always great company over lunch. I will miss him.

Marilyn Fleer — 26 August 2021

Peter has been a real inspiration to the Science Education community. His leadership and the mentoring he has provided to a generation of scholars is an amazing legacy. In this community not only does his memory live on, but his research and passion for Science Education will continue to grow. He laid the foundation that others are taking forward. A true scholar.

Jean and Jill Giese — 26 August 2021

A rare soul who was always there for us with warmth and encouragement. What a privilege to have shared so closely in Peter and his family's lives over so many years.

Peggy Goldsmith — 26 August 2021

Peter was a member of the Wellspring Community with strong social justice principles and practice. I supported and enjoyed his challenges to unfair situations. He was devoted to Christine, his dear wife.

Leo West — 26 August 2021

A wonderful person- Brilliant, Kind, Caring, Humble. I was privileged to have known him as a mentor, collegue and friend.

Annette and Noel Gough — 26 August 2021

Peter was a friend and mentor for nearly 50 years and his contributions to both science and environmental education were significant. His passion for these fields and for social justice inspired so many. Sincere condolences to Christine and family.

Brian and Shirley Sharpley — 25 August 2021

He was a great inspiration to me and many of his students. I am forever in his debt for providing me with opportunities and direction in my professional life. He made a difference.

Howard and Jenny Brown — 25 August 2021

An inspirational leader in Education and Environmental Science who always made time for his students and colleagues.

Richard Gunstone — 25 August 2021

My most sincere condolences to Christine, Rachel, Mark, Rod and Pat. Fifty years of working closely with the extraordinary man that was Peter, and being both a colleague and friend, has been for me the most remarkable good fortune. Peter's profound intellect, personal humility, and ubiquitous commitments to equity and social justice have given so much to so many.

Gary Bass — 25 August 2021

Always an inspiration, always a cooler approach to education issues, Peter will be sadly missed.

Anne & Ian Payne — 25 August 2021

Sending our loving thoughts to Christine & the Fensham family at this sad time for them. Peter has touched our lives and will be loved & respected by all those who knew him.

Eileen MacDonagh — 25 August 2021

To my old buddy Patrick and Family, my sincere condolences for the loss of The Prof. A sharp intellect and a contemporary thinker. A father, an educator and a man who has sowed, nurtured and now leaves an impressive contribution in many fields for generations to come. Vale Prof.

Doug and Isabel Hewitt — 25 August 2021

Condolence from us both

Georgie Stubbs — 25 August 2021

Dear Peter - such a beautiful man - always with caring and engaging interest in each person and passion for his faith journey and love for Christine - he was a blessing for the world Tho I only met him occasionally over the years through the ecumenical movement it was always a joy and connection I send my deep sympathy to the family , especially Christine In peace and with prayers and love from Georgie Stubbs