As part of Mission Action Day (MAD), the Oakhill College community was inspired by guest speaker Paulie Stewart OAM, who also delighted students and staff by jamming on stage with our College band in the CSC.
A proud Lasallian, mentored by Br Pat McCarthy, Paulie has led an extraordinary life shaped by music, resilience, and service. From his early days as lead singer of the legendary rock band Painters & Dockers, to co-founding the Dili Allstars in support of East Timor’s independence movement, Paulie has used music as a powerful voice for change.
He spoke movingly about the tragic loss of his brother Tony, one of the Balibo Five killed in East Timor in 1975, and how that moment shaped his determination to live fully and fight for justice. Paulie also shared his personal battle with illness, the gift of a life-saving transplant, and the support he received from the East Timorese community he had long championed – a reminder that he gained just as much from them as he gave.
Beyond his career as a musician and activist, Paulie is also an author, mentor and community advocate, dedicating himself to helping young people, refugees, and those on the margins of society. His story is a testament to faith, resilience, and the power of giving back.
Paulie left the Oakhill community with a simple but profound message: embrace opportunities, live courageously, and use your gifts to make a positive difference in the world.