Enjoying his time as a priest for 27 years and describing it as “a great privilege”, Paul left the priesthood to explore other ideas and became one of the foundation members of the University of the Third Eye in Port Stephens.
The university’s secretary Judith Percy says he is very well known and liked in the area.
“No one ever says ‘Paul who?’ everyone knows him,” she said.
A previous course presenter at the university in a range of fields including astronomy, history, Tai Chi and poetry, Paul continues to present poetry sessions and says the Australia Day honour is a wonderful birthday present ahead of turning 90 in March.
“I am grateful for this recognition but see it as a great tribute to the University of the Third Eye and I am very proud of our success as we now have over 300 members just in the local area,” he said.
