Timothy Looker – South Australia

Tim’s story is a powerful example of lifelong learning and reinvention. After leaving school at 15, Tim spent 14 years in NT mining camps and instructing equipment operators in Arnhem Land First Nations settlements.

At 30, he returned to Adelaide and signed up as a mature age student to study to become a teacher – a decision that led to a 34 year teaching career.

After serving two terms as an elected local councillor, Tim decided in retirement to study an Honours Degree in Law. On his 74th birthday, Tim officially became a Barrister and Solicitor, a milestone that reflected not only academic achievement but decades of lived experience, service and contribution.

Today, at 75, Tim applies his life experience and legal knowledge as a volunteer in a community legal centre and as a volunteer Justice in a South Australia Magistrates Court.

A lifelong learner who finds the world a fascinating place, Tim has approached his learning with curiosity and openness. His study has never been about getting finished or getting a piece of paper to show he has a degree – it has always been about following his interests.