Dr Ian Baker Wall AM

Dr Ian Baker Wall

AM

ATTENDED PULTENEY GRAMMAR SCHOOL 1939 - 1947

lan was a student at Pulteney between 1939 and 1947. During his time at School, he was noted for excellence in Science subjects, particularly Physics for which he took the School Prize in 1947. For his scholarly and passionate devotion to the Science faculty, he was known as Prof Wall whilst a student.

At the time Pulteney offered schooling to ‘Leaving level’ and lan completed his education at St Peter’s College, having successfully passed eight subjects for the Intermediate Certificate at Pulteney. In 1952, whilst he was studying an Electrical Engineering Degree at Adelaide University, Canon Ray engaged Ian as an Assistant Master, teaching Maths and Science at Pulteney. In 1955 he declined an extension to the teaching contract to join Phillips Electrical Industries.

In 1959, along with two friends, Ian founded the communications technology company, Codan. The company has grown to export to 150 countries, to employ staff in 10 countries, and includes The International Red Cross, The United Nations and Boeing amongst its clients. Ian retired as a Director of Codan in 2009 after 50 years at the company’s helm. Codan was floated as a public company in 2003 with Ian and his wife Pamela retaining significant equity. lan was a consistent and generous supporter of Pulteney by way of work experience placements and technical support for many activities in the School including the provision of radio telecommunications equipment for our Venture and Pedal Prix Clubs. Early in the 2000’s, having always maintained an active interest in Old Scholar activities, lan became a philanthropic supporter of the School. His generosity over the ensuing years has seen him rise to a position where he has become the most significant benefactor in the Schools’ 175 year history. Initially reticent to be publicly recognised for his generosity, lan realised the potential benefit to Pulteney in becoming a philanthropic advocate amongst his peers. Always earnest, humble and self effacing, lan is held in very high regard by his peer group and indeed, the broader Old Scholar community.

In 2008, Ian was awarded The Medal of the Order of Australia for service to business and to the community through philanthropic activities. He was made a member of the Order of Australia in 2019, for significant service to the community through philanthropic activities.

Ian passed away on 26 October 2022, aged 91. LEGENDS PULTENEY