St Brendan’s Primary School in Lakes Entrance has farewelled long-serving teacher Lou Battista, who will retire at the end of this year.
Universally known as ‘Mr B’ by generations of students, Lou has taught at the school for 34 years, plus a further eight years at Nagle College in Bairnsdale.
Lou is also well-known across the region for his involvement as a player, coach and club official in football and basketball.
He was given an amusing and emotional send-off at St Brendan’s school assembly this week with students re-enacting a few of Mr B’s mannerisms before a musical presentation.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester attended the school assembly and paid tribute to his friend and brother-in-law.
“Lou has made an enormous contribution to education and community sport across East Gippsland and he will be missed by the students and staff at the school,” Mr Chester said.
“He has made a difference throughout his career and we all wish him well for a long, healthy and happy retirement.”
Pictured: Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, retiring teacher Lou Battista and St Brendan’s Primary School Principal Matt Hamer.
Lookalikes? Student Piper Crawley dressed as her teacher Lou Battista for his school farewell presentation.