DUNGOG locals plan to install a new seat at Jubilee Park to honor the memory of Ruth Dircks OAM.
It will be a place for those who knew her to sit and contemplate her legacy.
Sadly, Mrs Dircks passed away in June, 2025.
She was a well-respected science teacher, with interests in science, the environment and the arts.
Her pupils were reputedly disappointed when she retired from teaching in her 80s.
She was hailed on the Dungog High School Facebook page as “a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on Dungog and all who met her.
“Her involvement and commitment to Dungog High School, science teaching in Australia more broadly, our town and surrounding communities was enormous,” the post said. “It covered areas in science, environment and the arts.”
The James Theatre Dungog also used its Facebook page to share its fondness and respect for Mrs Dircks.
“Ruth was a remarkable woman whose dedication to our community was truly inspiring,” the site said.
Mrs Dircks also played key roles in many of Dungog and surrounding areas’ community organisations, including holding the position of President of the Friends of Tocal for almost 10 years.
The James Theatre remembers her fondly with a framed photograph in the foyer.
She was also highly respected further afield, as former President of the Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA).
In 2002 she was the first recipient of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching.
She donated the $35,000 prize money to start the Ruth Dircks ConASTA Scholarship, which supports teachers.
Mrs Dircks was honored with a Medal of the Order of Australia for excellence in teaching and the promotion of science.
Dungog residents Donna Woodlands and Dianne Pope propose to have the memorial seat placed under a shady tree in the park, near the play equipment.At present there are no seats facing the play equipment so parents and carers cannot sit and watch their children play.
The seat would provide a needed resource available for all to use.
Mrs Dircks was part of a local walking group where members enjoyed being outside in nature, and she also worked with children, so the seat’s placement in a public space was deemed an appropriate gesture.
According to Dianne Pope, Dungog Shire Council has approved the seat’s installation.
“Ruth was an extraordinary quiet achiever in this community, and the bench is in recognition of everything she has done,” Ms Pope said.
She and Ms Woodlands are calling upon the community to come together to make the seat’s installation possible.
It will require $5000 to purchase and install the seat.
“Your contribution will help create a meaningful space for reflection and remembrance,” wrote James Theatre Dungog.
“Thank you for considering this opportunity to honor Ruth’s legacy.”
Donations are being accepted online at https://www.gofundme.com/f/memorial-seat-for-ruth-dircks
By Lisa WISEMAN
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