Ryan Bear - First Alumni Member of the BDC College Council

Ryan Bear began his journey at Bishop Druitt College as a Year 7 student in 2002 and graduated in 2007. I still remember the day I met Ryan as part of my very first Sutherland Tutor Group in 2002. It was a pleasure to see this group grow and graduate together. This is his Year 7 photo.

In 2009, Ryan moved to Bathurst to study policing, aiming to become a police officer. However, he soon realised his interests lay elsewhere and switched his focus to a degree in Social Science (Criminal Justice). He remained in Bathurst until 2014, when he returned to his hometown of Coffs Harbour.

Later that year, Ryan began studying a Bachelor of Law at Southern Cross University. It was also the year he met his wife, Kate. By 2017, Ryan had completed his degree, was married, and had two young children.

While completing his legal studies, Ryan began working at Coastal Law in Coffs Harbour. In 2020, he became an owner and Director at the firm, where he now specialises in commercial law.

Ryan’s BDC journey has come full circle. His two children, Flynn (Year 4) and Millie (Year 2), are now proud students at the College.

In 2024, Ryan was invited to join the BDC College Council, becoming the first BDC alumni to do so. He has embraced this opportunity to give back, contributing to the strategic direction and governance of the school alongside a dedicated group of professionals.

The College Council plays a key advisory role to the Principal and supports the effective management and future direction of BDC. Council members offer expertise across fields including education, business, law, technology, construction, health, human resources, finance, and the Church. Each brings a generous spirit, sharing time, knowledge, and wisdom in service of the College.

Beyond his professional and council commitments, Ryan also gives back to the local community through his involvement with the Barracudas Rugby Club and Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club.

Ryan Bear – we applaud your continued dedication and service to Bishop Druitt College. We look forward to seeing your contributions continue in the years to come.

This is a photo of Ryan’s lovely young family.

BDC Staff Alumni Lunch

Recently, a group of past and current BDC staff got together for a long overdue catch up.

Left to right: 
Mike Colless 1997 - 2021
Scott Rodham 1995 - 2024
Geoff McSkimming 2002 - 2018
Dale Graham 2007 -
Mark Doran 1997 - 2015
Mick Booth 1998 - 2017
Mike Hastings 2003 - 2011
Phil Atkinson 1999 - 2009, 2024 -
John Lambert 1998 - 2018

- Barb Kiemski