Thursday, 5 February 2026

 Sonya KILKENNY (Carrum – Attorney-General, Minister for Planning) (09:52): Last weekend Seaford Primary School hall was overflowing as we farewelled one of my community’s most loved and respected people, Michael Browne, retired principal of Seaford Primary School. Michael treated students, staff and parents with the same calm respect. Quietly but clearly, he sent a powerful message that every child mattered and Seaford Primary was a safe place where they belonged.

Michael was more than an educator. He was a mentor, a leader and a steady presence who shaped generations of students through kindness, curiosity and fairness, values that stay with students long after they leave the classroom. He was a trusted leader for staff, a reassuring face for families and a champion for inclusivity and diversity. In 2024 Michael was recognised by the Allan Labor government for more than 50 years of service to public education, an extraordinary achievement. He worked every day to ensure that students felt seen, heard and respected.

Michael’s leadership and determination led to the major upgrade and modernisation of Seaford Primary completed in 2021, creating a vibrant, welcoming school built for the future. So his legacy lives on in Seaford Primary, in our community and in the thousands of lives he touched. I extend my deepest condolences to Michael’s wife Vicki, his family, friends, colleagues, former students and the entire Seaford Primary School community. It was an absolute privilege to have known him. Farewell, Michael.