Leaders pay tribute to ‘ generous man’

COMMUNITY leaders can’t speak highly enough of the man they credit for “shaping the North’s young men”.

Prominent Townsville businessman Brad Webb, who is an Ignatius Park College old boy, said the school could take credit for assisting countless boys to become worthwhile members of the community.

“In my everyday dealings with people in this city, I come across so many good, decent men who are Iggy Park old boys,” he said. “Michael can take a lot of the credit for that. He is an honest, consistent, hardworking person. I think students look up to the example he set for his life and they also aspire to be honest, consistent, hardworking people.”

Greg Leslie, managing director of his own auto electrical business in Townsville, as well as managing three Battery World businesses based in Townsville and Brisbane, said Mr Conn was a “generous man” with his time and advice.

“I don’t know where he finds the time but he takes great pride in being available for the community and for the school,” the former Ignatius Park College student said. “Michael has steered the Iggy Park ship for the past 15 years and I know he is most proud of the fact that the young men that graduate are quality young people who respect their community and make a contribution to their community.”

Optometrist Virginia Henry, who is on the board of Ignatius Park College, said Mr Conn was determined to make the school the best it could be.

“He is known for being approachable for the boys and the families,” she said. “He is motivating and hard working. The boys work hard to please him. He has shaped the school and helped shape so many young men’s lives.”