Dr Deidre Greig MLC Elsternwick 1950 was defined by an insatiable curiosity about the world and a deep passion for learning. From her early school days at MLC Elsternwick, Deidre’s love of education was nurtured and grew, becoming a lifelong commitment.
She believed strongly in the transformative power of learning and, through a generous bequest to the Wesley College Foundation Scholarship Fund, ensured that her legacy would continue to support future generations of students at the Elsternwick Campus.
Deidre Ngaio Fuller was born on 19 July, 1934 and began her education at MLC Elsternwick at the age of 10 in 1945. She fondly remembered her early years at the school, and when she left in 1950, requested that this year be recorded as her alumni year, following the practice of the time. Deidre completed her senior school education at MLC Hawthorn, where she served as a Prefect in 1951 and as Vice Senior Prefect in 1952.
After graduating, Deidre pursued degrees in Social Work and Education, laying the foundation for a distinguished academic career. She lectured at the University of Melbourne for over 40 years, earning a Masters Thesis in Juvenile Justice and a PhD in 1999. Her doctoral dissertation, Neither Bad nor Mad: The Competing Discourses of Psychiatry, Law and Politics, earned her respect as a leading scholar in her field. Deidre was also deeply involved in professional organisations, including the Australian and New Zealand Association of Psychiatry, Psychology and Law, where she served as President.
In 1961, Deidre married Alex Greig, and together they raised four children - Raya, Kendra, Jarrod and Piertra. After retiring, the couple moved to the Mornington Peninsula, where Deidre could focus on her family history research, was actively involved in the local community and travelled the world extensively with Alex.
Deidre’s family remembers her as a tireless learner, who had a deep curiosity and a commitment to personal growth. She had an insatiable thirst for knowledge, whether it was about people, cultures, or the world at large. This kind of mindset often leads to meaningful connections with others and a lasting impact on those around her. They are honoured that, through her bequest to Wesley College, her journey of intellectual exploration will continue to inspire and support young minds for generations to come. Wesley College was the foundation of her lifelong curiosity, and it is fitting that her gift will help foster that same spirit in future students.
This is the living legacy of Dr Deidre Greig - the gift of education.
