Great Scot Archive
Issues from 1998
Issues from 1998
 
 
 
 

Publications

Obituaries

Obituaries

ACKERLY Ian Arthur Clyde (’36)
AIKMAN Alexander Michael Hirst (Staff 1961–62)
AITKEN OBE Robert Russell (Staff 1961–64)
ANDERSON Maxwell Barnard Valentine (’32)
ARNOLD William Swinburne (’49)
BARR Maxwell George David (’44)
BENNETT Graham Stewart (’49)
CLARK Ronald Ross (’38)
COSTIGAN Maxwell McFarlane (’31)
COTO Ronald William (’25)
CREELMAN Robert Bruce (’44)
CROSS Ian Wilfred (’52)
DAVIES Roy Bartlett (’39)
EDWARDS Harry Bertrand (’41)
EDWARDS John Neild (’43)
FLETCHER Roderick Alexander (’61)
FORSYTH Robert Graeme (’42)
GIFFORD QC Kenneth Harril (’39)
GRIFFITHS Bruce Wilson (’56)
GRIFFITHS Dr John Garland (’46)
HAMILTON Hugh (’47)
HOBBS Peter Stewart (’57)
HUDGSON Dr. Peter (’52)
INGRAM William Bertram (’60)
JACKSON Anthony Kenneth (Tony) (’54)
LAMBORN Ian Ronald (’41)
LANYON Dale Bernard (’60)
LOTHIAN OBE Thomas Robert Noel (’31)
MACANDIE Alan George (’24)
MACDONALD Kenneth Mitchell (’43)
MACLEAN Hector (’42)
MACLEAN AM Ian (’37)
MACMILLAN Donald Robertson Thomson (Staff 1959–87)
MARCH Lionel William (’47)
MARTIN Douglas Brookwood (’92)
MARX David Gordon (’44)
McCATHIE Colin Campbell (’34)
McCOMAS AM Geoffrey Campbell (’69)
McDONALD Roy Beresford (‘31)
McEACHARN, Ian Malcolm (’50)
McKINNON Alan Graeme (Gus) (’44)
McLAUGHLIN William Anthony (’39)
MELDRUM Richard John (’45)
MELDRUM William Stuart (’39)
MILNE Austin Joseph (’49)
MONK Leslie Graham (’47)
NEWNHAM Neil Wishart (’38)
OSBORNE-SMITH Bruce (’50)
PARKER Keith Woodman (’40)
PHILLIPS Norman Raymond (Staff 1957–89)
POWELL AM KCSJ Rev Dr Gordon George (’29)
ROE John Stewart (’43)
SCOTT Peter Arthur Cameron (’42)
SENNITT Geoffrey William (’58)
SIMMIE Roy William (’37)
SMITH Bruce Osborne (’50) (See OSBORNE-SMITH Bruce).
SMITH Charles Humphrey Graeme (’33)
SPINKS Ronald Frederick (’46)
STAMP Charles Alexander (’29)
STEEL Dr Alfred Robert (’32)
STEVENSON Dr William John (’30)
SWANN Allen Thomas (’30)
TAIT George Gordon (’44)
WATSON RFD RD RANR Dr David Edward (’42)
WESTERN Kenneth McDonell (’49)
WIDMER DFC Ronald (’33)
WITHERS OAM Dr Robert Melville (’40)

Ian Arthur Clyde Ackerley (’36) was born at Brunswick on 19 December 1920, and attended Scotch from 1934–36. He served in the AIF from 1942–46, being a Sergeant in the 26th Motor Transport Regiment, and a Sergeant in the Australian Military Force HQ upon demobilisation. He married Lorraine E. Blair at Scotch on 20 November 1948, and was a bank officer with the Bank of NSW. Ian’s son Doug (1963–67) followed him at Scotch. Ian died on 21 December 2004.

Alexander Michael Hirst Aikman (Staff 1960–61) was born on 9 September 1933 and attended The Geelong College from 1939–51, where he rowed in the GC 1950 and 1951 1st VIII, played in the 1950 and 1951 1st XVIII, was a 1947–48 and 1951 Athletics team member, and a 1947–48 Relay team member. He was a school prefect in 1951. Michael rowed bow in the bronze-medal-winning Australian VIII at the 1956 Olympics, coached by Bob Aitken (see obituary below). This crew included David Boykett (’52). Michael joined the Scotch staff in 1960 as a chemistry teacher, and commanded the cadet corps’ B Company. His 1960 3rd VIII won the Head of the River, and his 1961 3rd VIII won the Intermediate Final. He left to teach at Trinity GS, Sydney. From 1974–98 he was principal of HC, which expanded dramatically, and which set out to better Scotch in all respects. In addition to the creation of HC’s Berwick campus, Michael’s lasting legacy was the introduction of rowing to HC. He coached its inaugural 1st VIII in 1991, and had Don Macmillan (see obituary below) coach its pioneering rowers. Michael battled cancer for several years, and died on 16 February 2005.

Robert Russell Aitken OBE (Staff 1961–64) was born at Melbourne on 21 July 1922. He attended The Geelong College from 1932–40, stroking its 1st VIII in 1940, and being Dux the same year. He served in the AIF from 1942–46, being a Lieutenant in the 31 Aust Anti-Aircraft Battery upon demobilisation. Bob saw action in New Guinea. A member of the Mercantile Rowing Club from 1946, he stroked the 1951–53 Victorian VIII, winning the King’s Cup in 1952–53. Bob coached the 1956 Olympic Games VIII, which won bronze. From 1961–64 he coached the Scotch 1st VIII, winning the Head of the River in 1963. Due to the pressure of work, being a solicitor and partner at Aitken Walker & Strachan, he was to finish coaching Scotch after 1963, but agreed to coach in 1964 due to Don Macmillan being unable to coach as expected. Bob was president of Mercantile Rowing Victoria, and the first elected chairman of Rowing Australia. His guidance of Australian rowing set the scene for recent Australian successes. While Bob’s father did not attend Scotch, his uncles David (1873–80), George (1875–82), James (1878–82), William (1879–87) and John (1880–93) Aitken all attended, with David, George and William being members of the first crew. Bob’s cousin James (1914–20) also attended Scotch. Bob died on 6 December 2004 – within weeks of the death of Don Macmillan, thus removing two Old Geelong Collegians whose service to Scotch gave it five Heads of the River from 1963–73.

Maxwell Barnard Valentine Anderson (’32) was born at Balwyn on 20 September 1914, and attended Scotch from 1931–32, coming from Camberwell Grammar School. Max obtained his BMechE at Melbourne University in 1936. He was a director of Bassett Consulting Engineers, Standards Australia Chairman, IEAust Chairman in 1969, and author of ‘From Tote to Cad’ – History of Julius Poole & Gibson. In 1941 he married Berres Thomas and they had two sons and a daughter. His brother, Graham, attended Scotch (1933–34; died 17 September 1989), as did his nephews John (1959–64), Ken (1962–67), Peter (1966–71) and Nicholas (1972–77), and great nephew David (1985–96). For over 40 years he lived at Killara, Sydney. Max died on 6 September 2004.

William Swinburne Arnold (’49) was born on 24 July 1932 and attended Scotch from 1938–49. While not in the 1st VIII at Scotch, he rowed seventh seat in the 1958 Mercantile Senior VIII, and was fifth seat in the winning 1961 King’s Cup crew. In 1963 Bill went to Auckland, NZ, to work for Fibremakers Ltd. He married Diana and was the father of Robert and Dorothy. His brother, Bob (1933–44), attended Scotch, as did his nephews John (1971–76) and Bruce (1973–78), and second cousins Bryan (1931–37; died 26 July 1983), Colin (1931–37; died 13 November 1946) and Frank (1939–47) Martin, and John Ellingworth (1940–45). Bill died at home in Bendigo on 14 October 2004.

Maxwell George David Barr (’44) was born on 16 August 1926, and attended Scotch from 1937–44. He attended Pharmacy College and completed his final exams in February 1950, working as a pharmacist for most of his life. On 15 November 1952 he married Patricia M. Henderson at Scotch, and they had two daughters. Maxwell’s brother, Donald, was also at Scotch (1935–38; KIA 7 July 1943 in action over France). Maxwell died on 20 December 2004.

Graham Stewart Bennett (’49) was born on 16 December 1933, and attended Scotch from 1945–49. He studied art and design at RMIT, then taught in secondary schools in Melbourne and Hamilton. When John Truscott won Oscars for art direction and costume design in Camelot in 1967, Graham was unable to share the recognition, despite having designed the furnishings, the patterns on the women’s costumes and men’s jackets, and the crowns worn by Richard Harris and Vanessa Redgrave. As he did not have a green card he was working illegally in the USA, and could not formally share the awards. The Oscar statuettes were bequeathed to him by Truscott. Graham was an art teacher at HC from 1969–89. He took one of the statuettes to class, where Adam Elliot, a student, was allowed to hold it. When Adam completed his short animated film, Harvie Krumpet, he showed it to Graham and sought his advice, and later wrote to thank him for his guidance and inspiration before going to Hollywood, where he won his own Oscar. Modest but inspirational to many, Graham died on 5 November 2004.

Ronald Ross Clark (’38) was born at Longreach, Qld, on 24 June 1921, and attended Scotch from 1935–38, coming from BGS. He was a member of the 1937 1st XV, and the vice-captain of the 1938 1st XV. He was an Exhibitioner in Commercial Principals in 1938, and obtained his BCom at Melbourne University in 1950. He enlisted in the AIF in 1941, and in 1943 was at Milne Bay, New Guinea, as a cipher operator. Ross was en route to Tokyo within days of the war’s end, and was a cipher operator for the British Army. He was demobilized in 1946 as a Sergeant in the 1 Australian Cipher Section. On 14 January 1939 he commenced a 44-year career with the Commercial Banking Company (CBC) of Sydney (now NAB). He married Helen Wall at St. Phillip’s Church, Sydney, on 3 November 1954. Their son, Stuart, was born in 1956, and their daughter, Gillian, in 1959. In Perth from 1955–56, they were in Sydney again until 1965, after which Ross managed the Adelaide office until 1968, when he moved to the UK. In 1971 he returned to Sydney to head the bank’s International Division, and lived in St Ives until 1998. Ultimately assistant general manager at CBC, he oversaw the introduction of the bank’s first modern computer system, and retired in January 1983. Active in the Presbyterian Church, he was a keen lawn bowler and international traveller, and spent his final years following his grandchildren’s sporting and scholastic achievements. Ross’ brother, Samuel (1935–40), was also at Scotch, as was his nephew, David (1959–69). Ross lived at Turramurra, NSW, and died on 25 August 2004.

Maxwell McFarlane Costigan (’31) was born at Essendon on 17 December 1913, and attended Scotch from 1927–31. He was awarded a 1930 Senior Scholarship, and was a 1931 Probationer. On 25 October 1944 he married Mary Gordon at Scotch, and their children were Susan, Margaret, Wendy and Rodney. Wendy’s son, Tom Carty, also attended Scotch (1996–97). Max died at home on 3 December 2004.

Ronald William Coto (’25) was born at Sale on Australia Day 1909 and boarded at Scotch in Leighwood House from 1924–25. His uncles Daniel (1891; died 10 August 1936) and Thomas (1891; died 23 June 1934) were also at Scotch. Ronald was a chemist and laboratory manager at Melbourne University. From 1940–45 he served in the RAAF, being a leading aircraftman in the 1 Aircraft Performance Unit upon demobilisation. Ninth in the December 2004 Great Scot list of Scotch’s oldest Old Boys, he survived his wife, and died on Australia Day 2005 – the day on which he turned 96.

Robert Bruce Creelman (’44) was born on 27 December 1928, and attended Scotch from 1941–45. He was the 1944 Form Captain of VIe. Bruce married Pamela, and was the father of Michael, Christopher and Wendy. He died on 2 November 2004 after a long illness.

Ian Wilfred Cross (’52) was born at Kew on 10 March 1937, and attended Scotch from 1951–52. He married Marge, and was the father of Lynette, Alison, Glenys and Robyn. Ian’s cousin, David Ford (1957–59), also attended Scotch. Ian died due to cancer on 1 November 2004.

Roy Bartlett Davies (’39) was born at East Malvern on 24 April 1922, and attended Scotch from 1935–39. He was a member of the 1939 Collegian Editorial Committee. Roy enlisted in the Melbourne University Rifles as a private in 1941. He obtained his BSc at Melbourne University in 1943, and his MSc in 1954. For 18 months in 1949–50 he worked at British Insulated Callenders Cables Ltd, during which time he and his wife, Kathleen, cycled 1500 miles through Britain and Ireland, with a three-day trip to Paris. A daughter (one of two) was born in Paris in 1950, and they also had a son, John. Roy was a metallurgist and Senior Research Officer for the Electrolytic Zinc Co of Australasia Ltd. His father, Leslie, also attended Scotch (1896–1901; died 4 November 1967), as did his cousin, Arthur Merry (1916–24; died 22 November 1965), who was also on staff. Roy lived at Moonah, Tasmania, and died on Australia Day, 2005.

Harry Bertrand Edwards (’41) was born at Melbourne on 16 August 1923, and attended Scotch from 1937–40. He served in the AIF from 1942–46, and was a corporal in the 1st Corps Independent Signals. Harry was sales manager at the Richmond Brewing Company. His son, David (1973–79), also attended Scotch. Scotch has only recently been informed that Harry died on 20 May 2002.

John Neild Edwards (’43) was born at Ormond, Victoria, on 16 August 1927 and attended Scotch from 1941–43. 1942 Form Captain of VII Latin, he was a member of the premiership 1942 1st XI. On 6 September 1954 he married Mary B. Keig at Scotch. ‘Darky’ Edwards played first-class cricket for Victoria from 1955–56 to 1959–60, taking 85 wickets at 29.45, with 361 runs at 12.89. His best bowling and batting figures came from a match against Queensland in December 1957. He took 4/0 to finish with 6/18, helping to bowl out Queensland for 65. John then scored 48 not out. He was a state selector for nine years, and national team manager for 28 local tests, and 62 one-day internationals from 1979–84. John’s grandfather Thomas (1869–?; died 30 May 1913) attended Scotch, as did his great uncle John (1869–?; died 3 April 1936). Scotch has only recently learnt that John died on 29 December 2002. The Australian team wore black armbands in his honour on the third day of the Sydney Test in 2003.

Roderick Alexander Fletcher (’61) was born on 19 April 1943, and attended Scotch from 1949–61. He was a 1961 Prefect, and 1961 Co-Editor of the Scotch Collegian with Peter Gibbs (who died on 16 October 1985). Rod obtained his BA (Hons) at Melbourne University in 1966, and obtained a postgraduate diploma in linguistics at the University of Edinburgh in 1968. He was chairman of the Victorian branch of the Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators 1990–91, and President of the Australian Literary Translators Association 1991–92. Rod translated numerous books, TV programs and operas from Finnish and German into English. His brothers Angus (1951–63) and James (1954–66) also attended Scotch. Rod married Leena Vallisaari, and lived at Helsinki, Finland, where he died after a short illness on 14 November 2004.

Robert Graeme Forsyth (’42) was born at Surrey Hills on 24 August 1925, and attended Scotch from 1937–43. He was a member of the 1943 1st XV. On 2 August 1949 he married Kathleen N. Sutherland at Scotch. Like his brothers, who also attended Scotch, he was known by his second name. His brothers were Leigh (1925–32; died 14 August 1970) and Thomas (1935–38; KIA on 20 December 1944 over Tambar Island). Graeme’s cousin William (1915–18; died 9 April 1965) attended Scotch, as did Graeme’s sons Robert (1962–68) and Jim (1971–76), and nephew Andrew (1957–63). Graeme lived at Point Lonsdale, and died on 28 August 2004.

Kenneth Harril Gifford QC (’39) was born at Melbourne on 8 March 1923, and came from Fintona to attend Scotch from 1930–39, during which he became a King’s Scout. He served in the Melbourne University Rifles as a private from 1941–44. In 1946 he obtained his LLB at Melbourne University. On 26 March 1949 he married Elizabeth Eleanor Lorraine Caldwell, and their son Don attended Scotch from 1959–69. Ken went to the Bar, and became a QC on 28 May 1964. He helped form Canberra’s OSCA branch in 1968, and was President of OSCA in 1971–72, as well as being President of the London branch. He became an Honourary Life Member of OSCA in 1996 for his service to Scotch, which included the provision of his legal expertise on property issues. He was instrumental in defending Scotch from the proposed encroachment on Scotch’s property of the South-Eastern Arterial and bike path. Ken was a Freemason, Procurator of the Presbyterian Church of Australia from 1976–77, a member of Rotary from 1970, a Freeman of the City of London, vice-chairman of the Environment Law Committee of the International Bar Association from 1976–93 (and its chairman from 1993–95), and chairman of the Comparative Government Law Committee of the American Bar Association 1987–91. Best known among his many publications was How to Understand an Act of Parliament, and he edited the Local Government Reports of Australia from 1956–88, and The Town Planning & Local Government Guide from 1956–96. Ken loved Scotch, and was a significant benefactor of Scotch College, and of PLC, which was attended by his late wife. The Gifford Tower commemorates him at Scotch. Ken died on 20 January 2005 after a long illness.

Bruce Wilson Griffiths (’56) was born at Ballarat on 13 October 1938, and left Ballarat College to board at Scotch from 1951–56. He obtained his MB BS at Melbourne University in 1963, became a FRCS Ed in 1968, FRACS in 1971, and in 1996 obtained his Graduate Diploma of Family Medicine at Monash University. He was Honourary Surgeon at Ballarat Base Hospital 1970–75, Sessional Surgeon from 1975–91, Surgeon QEGC 1975–91 and Surgeon at Kimberly 1992–95, following which he was Director of Surgery at Fraser Court Health Service, Maryborough, Qld. Bruce married Wanda June Roberts at Scotch on 2 May 1964. Bruce’s brother, John (1944–46; see obituary below), attended Scotch, as did Bruce’s sons Mark (1979–83), Craig (1981–86) and Ralph (1984–89), nephews Peter (1977–80) and Tony (1979), grandson Caleb (Year 10), and cousin David Skewes (1961–65). Bruce lived at Crescent Head, NSW, and died on 15 October 2004 after a short illness. A memorial service was held for him at Queens College.

Dr John Garland Griffiths (’46) was born at Ballarat on 16 November 1929, and left Ballarat College to board at Scotch from 1944–46. At Scotch he was a member of the choir in 1944. John studied medicine at Melbourne University, and later at Cape Town, South Africa, and in London. His father, William Raymond Dudley Griffiths, mother, Mary Alfreda Skewes, and brother, Bruce, were also doctors. Mary’s brother, David Buick Skewes, was also a surgeon (attended Scotch 1923–27; died 18 March 1989). John was a gynaecologist and obstetrician, delivering thousands of Ballarat babies. From 1974–76 he was President of the Ballarat Fine Arts Gallery Association, and he chaired the Association’s 1980’s building appeals. From 1968 he was a member of the Rotary Club of Ballarat South, and was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow in 1998. John was honourary police surgeon, a life member of the AMA, and a member of the Royal Australian College of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians. He married Lou, and their sons Peter (1977–80) and Tony (1979) attended Scotch, as well as his brother Bruce, Bruce’s sons and grandson (see obituary above), and cousin David Skewes (1961–65). John died at home at Ballarat on 28 December 2004 after a long illness.

Hugh Hamilton (’47) was born on 21 May 1931, and attended Scotch from 1940–47. He followed his father Ian (1920–22; died 4 October 1981) and uncle Kenneth (1922–27; died 11 May 1998) to Scotch. Hugh died at Cabrini on 4 November 2004.

Peter Stewart Hobbs (’57) was born at Box Hill on 31 July 1940, the son of an orchardist. He attended Scotch from 1953–57, as had his father Leonard (1928–30; died 1 January 1988), and as did his brother David (1955–59). Peter married Wendy, and was the father of Leanne, Stewart and Colleen. He died on 19 November 2004.

Dr Peter Hudgson (’52) was born at Surrey Hills on 3 February 1936, and attended Scotch from 1948–52. He married Marise I. Marshall at Scotch on 6 October 1961. Peter was the father of Elizabeth, Catherine, Victoria and Fiona. A medical practitioner, he lived at Gosforth, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom, where he died suddenly on 16 February 2005.

William Bertram Ingram (’60) was born on 14 March 1943 and attended Scotch from 1957–60, commencing in Remove B. He was a member of the 2nd XI and the 2nd XVIII, but was also a football umpire. Bill obtained his BCom at Melbourne University in 1967. In addition to his studies, he was a player and committee member of the Melbourne University Cricket Club, and a friend of many at Ormond and in the Commerce Faculty. Bill was management accounting consultant to William Ingram & Co. From 1991 he was a member of Melbourne University’s Alumni Management Committee, and on the Interflora Audit Committee from 1993–96. Bill followed his father Hec (1923–26; died 28 December 1998) to Scotch, which was also attended by his uncle Bruce (1921–25; died 19 November 1986), brothers Andrew (1953–56) and Bruce (1966–70), cousin Chris (1947–52), and son Angus (1997–2000). He was one of the characters of his year group, which made him the natural choice as convener of the 40-year reunion in 2000. Bill died suddenly while on holiday in Noumea on 4 November 2004, following two years of ill health. He had recently had the satisfaction of becoming a grandfather. Bill’s life was celebrated at a memorial service at Ormond College.

Anthony Kenneth Jackson (’54) was born on 24 February 1937 and attended Scotch from 1947–55. Initially a boarder, he became a day boy from Term II, 1953. Known variously as Tony or Jacko, he was a wine salesman. Tony died on 3 March 2005.

Ian Ronald Lamborn (’41) was born at Canterbury on 22 January 1925, and attended Scotch from 1938–41. He married Joan Freda McCallum at Scotch on 12 November 1949. His brother Donald (1942–44) also attended Scotch. Ian died on 19 February 2005.

Dale Bernard Lanyon (’60) was born at Benalla on 16 February 1943 and boarded at Scotch from 1959–60. On 9 January 1971 he married Lynette Margaret Ashford at Scotch. Dale followed his father Maurice William (1929–30; died 29 October 1974) to Scotch, as did his brothers Scott (1957–58) and Reginald (1959–61). Dale was the father of Josh and Michelle. He lived at Barraport, and died in the Boort Hospital on 21 December 2004.

Thomas Robert Noel Lothian OBE (’31) was born at Mont Albert on Christmas Day, 1915, and attended Scotch from 1928–31. From 1932–33 he attended the Burnley College of Horticulture, then worked for the City of Melbourne in the Fitzroy Gardens before studying overseas. Initially at the Royal Botanic Garden, Kew, UK, he was at the Munich Botanic Garden 1938–40, then returned to Australia to enlist in the AIF. A private in the 2/9 Field Ambulance from 1940–41, he was a lieutenant in the Australian Army Services Corps when demobilised in 1944. His war service included overseeing army farms in New Guinea. Appointed senior lecturer in horticulture at Lincoln College, Christchurch, NZ, he graduated with the gold medal in the six-year National Diploma in Horticulture. For 32 years from 1948 he was director of the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Noel was chairman of the National Parks Commission of South Australia and oversaw a significant expansion of the parks system. From 1965–68 he was president of the Royal Australian Institute of Parks and Recreation, and was made an Honourary Life Fellow. Noel was a judge at the Royal Adelaide Show for 50 years, and contributed to and edited various gardening papers. He conceived, planned and developed the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden in South Australia. Noel was awarded the OBE for services to horticulture in 1961, and the Veitch Memorial Gold Medal was awarded in 1975 by the Royal Horticulture Society in London. Noel married Ngaio Val Chaffey in 1940, and had two sons and a daughter. His brother John (1931–32; died 3 April 1975) attended Scotch, as did their uncle John (1904–?; died 1983). Noel died at Townsville, Qld, on 24 September 2004, and his ashes were scattered at the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden on 8 October 2004.

Alan George Macandie (’24) was born at Hawthorn on 7 May 1907, and boarded at Scotch in Glen House from 1917–24. He married Florence May (‘Bobby’) Stokes at the Paton Memorial Presbyterian Church, Deepdene, in 1939. Alan was a BHP geologist throughout his working life, working at Iron Knob and Yampi Sound before becoming a geological superintendent. Alan’s nephew, Adrian Hibberd, was school captain of Scotch in 1964, and his great nephews Andrew (1983–91) and Alexander Penfold (1983–94) also attended Scotch. Alan was reported in the September 2004 Great Scot as being the sixth oldest known Old Boy. Scotch has since learnt that he died at the Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, on 5 October 1979.

Kenneth Mitchell Macdonald (’43) was born at Camberwell on 3 September 1925, and attended Scotch from 1934–43. He was a member of the 1942 premiership 1st XVIII, and vice-captain of the 1943 premiership 1st XVIII, a 1943 Probationer, and 1943 Captain of Littlejohn. He enlisted in the RAN on 4 January 1944, and was an Ordinary Seaman on the HMAS Lonsdale when demobilised in 1946. At the time of the Japanese surrender he was in Tokyo Bay. In 1962 he married Margaret, and their daughters Allison and Jenny boarded at PLC. Besides farming, Ken’s other passion was the Melbourne Football Club. David Ashton (’65), his first cousin once removed, recalls Ken being a warm, friendly, big-hearted man with a commanding voice, who maintained contact with his schoolmates, and who had time for everyone. Among many relations at Scotch were his father Colin (1909–13; died 11 January 1969) and brother Colin (1933–39). Kenneth died at Melbourne on 26 February 2005, following a two-year battle with motor neurone disease.

Hector Maclean (’42) was born in New Zealand on 11 February 1925 and attended Scotch from 1936–42. He was a member of the 1940 and 1942 Athletics teams, and of the 1st XV from 1940–42, being captain in 1942. Hector was a 1941 Probationer, 1942 Prefect, and won a government scholarship to Melbourne University. Hector became Reader in the School of Germanic Studies at Melbourne University. Also at Scotch were Hector’s brothers Ian (1931–37; see obituary below) and Donald (1937–43), sons Rod (1962–67), Neil (1966–71) and Alan (1971–76), and grandsons Nicholas (Year 5) and James (Year 4). Hector died at Epworth Hospital on 24 December 2004.

Ian Maclean AM (’37) was born at Invercargill, New Zealand on 20 October 1919, and attended Scotch from 1931–37. He was a member of the 1st XV from 1936–37, and played 1st tennis in 1937. Ian was a 1937 Prefect. He won a residential scholarship to Ormond, and obtained a BA (Hons) and a half blue in rugby union. He served in the AIF from 1942–45, joining up at Port Moresby. He was a lieutenant in the 23 A A Battery upon demobilisation. Ian was archives officer of the Commonwealth National Library from 1944–47, and chief archives officer from 1947–60. The Commonwealth Archives Office became a separate authority in 1960, and Ian was its chief officer until 1968. He lived in Bangkok from 1968–74, as principal archivist for SEATO. In 1975 he was deputy keeper of public records for Victoria, where he pioneered double-decker electric compactus shelving. He had earlier invented the standard archive box. From 1976–80 Ian was the principal archivist at the Archives Authority of NSW, now known as the State Records Authority of NSW, and directed by his nephew, David Roberts. Ian retired in 1980, but returned to Canberra in 1990 on a research fellowship with the Australian War Memorial and was a consultant to the Department of Defence until 1995. The Record Continuum: Ian Maclean and the Australian Archives’ First 50 Years was published in 1994, and Ian was awarded the AM in 1996 ‘for service to the inauguration of the system of Australian Archives and to the development of the archival profession’. Ian married and was the father of Rod, Jamie and daughter Andy. Ian was a brother, uncle and great uncle of Scotch Collegians (see obituary above). He died on 26 February 2003.

Donald Robertson Thomson Macmillan (Staff 1959–87) was born on 5 January 1928, and attended GC from 1940–46, both as a day boy and a boarder. He was a 1st VIII member from 1944–46, in the 1942–43 relay teams, and a 1943, 1945 and 1946 Athletics team member. In 1946 he was Captain of GC and of athletics. He rowed in the GC 1st VIII from 1944–46, winning the Head of the River in 1944, and losing to Scotch by three feet in 1946: a bent rigger had caused Don to crab, and a Herculean effort to regain several lost lengths only just fell short. Don’s later contributions to Scotch victories were more intentional. He and his father Wilfred were APS record holders in the mile, and Don was Australian half-mile champ in 1950, 1952 and 1955, and mile champion in 1950–52 and 1955. He ran at the 1952 and 1956 Olympic Games, and the 1950 and 1954 Empire Games, and was involved in the race to beat the four-minute mile. Don taught at GC from 1955–58, before moving to Scotch along with George Logie-Smith, who had taught and also taught with Don at GC. Don was in charge of A Company for nine years, and spent seven summers from 1960 at Scotch at Cowes. From 1963 he developed Scotch in the Alps and was its chief coordinator for seven years. Don taught geography, and studied remedial teaching in 1978, after which he spent eight years developing the area of special education. He served Arthur Rob in 1962, then McMeckan from 1963–73, and finally School House from 1974 until retirement, overseeing many humanising reforms. Don coached the 2nd VIII from 1959–63, for five Head of the River victories, and was to coach the 1st VIII from 1964. With Bob Grant (’52) he was involved in a car accident at the intersection of Burke and Cotham roads, and was unable to coach the 1st VIII until 1965. He coached the crew 16 times until 1986, winning in 1966–67, 1969 and 1973. He encouraged a love of music, and his 1969 crew was known for singing as it trained. Don trained and inspired generations of Scotch athletes, and specialised in the 4x880 (later 4x800). His 1973 4x800 team held the APS record until 1995. Don and the ’73 team reunited for a dinner on the eve of the 1995 APS athletics to inspire the 1995 4x800 team, which smashed the ’73 record the following day. Don lost his first wife, Geva, on the eve of the 1986 Head of the River. Despite retiring in 1987, he remained active, and coached rowing at HC at Michael Aikman’s invitation. He married Meg, and they lived on a property at Red Hill South. While working on the property, Don contracted septicemia, to which he succumbed in the early hours of 19 November 2004 (not 18 November 2004 as previously published). Don’s many family connections with Scotch included his son Gus (1972–83), daughter Mary (staff 1995–2000), cousins John (1944–50) and Hamish (1946–53), and his first cousin twice removed, Jamie (Year 8).

Lionel William March (’47) was born at Camberwell on 1 August 1931, and attended Scotch from 1945–47. He married Margaret, and had a son, Blair, and a daughter, Carolyn. Lionel was a director of William March & Son Pty Ltd, and a member of the Triumph Sports Owners Association (Victoria) Inc. He died on 22 December 2004.

Douglas Brookwood Martin (’92) was born at Melbourne on 9 August 1974, and attended Scotch from 1987–92 as a member of Littlejohn House, having come from Toorak Central School. He was involved in orienteering, scouting, rowing and social services, and enjoyed life at Scotch immensely. In 1993 he commenced a BA at Melbourne University, but the lure of the outdoor life took him to Western Australia’s north in mid-1993, where he worked in mine construction. Later returning to his studies, he obtained his B.Eng (Computer Systems Engineering) with Honours in 2002, and immediately commenced work with the Maritime Platforms Division of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation. His work included designing measurement systems and software for detecting underwater electromagnetic radiation from surface vessels and submarines. Doug loved his work and made many friends in the workplace. His full and busy life included membership of the Army Reserves, and the Banks Rowing Club, at which he won several trophies. He enjoyed sailing, swimming, scuba diving, paragliding and bushwalking, and covered over 150 km a week in cycling to work. In addition to his interest in Victoria’s early history, and in military history, he was writing a book on eucalypts, and studying for his Master’s degree when his life was tragically ended in a traffic accident on 1 February 2005. Doug is survived by his parents, and his brother, George (1989–94), who also attended Scotch.

David Gordon Marx (’44) was born at Hawthorn on 1 July 1928, and attended Scotch from 1940–44. He followed his grandfather, William Flood (1874–81; died 12 June 1930), and brother Jack (1938–40) to Scotch, and was followed by nephews John (1964–72) and James (1967–74), and great nephew Alistair (Year 11). David died on 18 October 2004.

Colin Campbell McCathie (’34) was born at Armadale on 28 August 1918, and attended Scotch from 1933–34. He served in the AIF from 1943–45, being a private in the 106 A D M S upon demobilisation. On 16 August 1944 he married Alison J. Matthew at Scotch. Colin graduated from the Victorian College of Pharmacy in 1948, and was a pharmacy manager. He was a member of the Wilson Botanic Park Friends Committee. Colin’s two sons attended HC, ending three generations of McCathies at Scotch. His brothers Neil (1931–32; died 12 October 1970) and David (1934–37; died 12 August 1943) attended Scotch, as did their father Campbell (1891–94; died 30 July 1941), and grandfather James (1861–62), who died on 9 September 1877 – 19 days after the birth of his son Campbell. Colin died on 20 August 2004.

Geoffrey Campbell McComas AM (’69) was born on 2 May 1952, and attended Scotch from 1966–70. He was a 1970 Prefect, Co-Editor of Satura in 1970, and was involved in Scotch plays. His brother Malcolm (1967–72) attended Scotch, as did son Alistair (1995–2000) and uncles Murdoch Waddell (1918–19; died 21 April 1980) and Reginald Waddell (1932–34). Cam had a life-long love of Scotch, and revelled in being part of the prominent Class of ’69, the details of which are given in the obituary by his classmate John Jeffreys. Cam died on 8 January 2005, following a six-week battle with leukemia.

Roy Beresford McDonald (‘31) was born at Brunswick North on 15 June 1914, and attended Scotch from 1928–31. At Scotch he was a member of the Debating and Literary Clubs and the Christian Union, and had some articles and short stories published in The Bulletin. Dr. Littlejohn’s testimonial described Roy as being ‘exemplary in conduct and of fine character’. He married Patricia Amelia Doyle in 1938, having met her at a school dancing class. They had a son, Ross, and daughter, Maree. Roy obtained his BCom at Melbourne University, and a DipChem and studies in psychology followed later. He was an inspector of Naval Ordnance at Sydney’s St Mary’s base during WW2. He worked for Glaxo Laboratories and in 1958 was involved in starting Tetra Pak (Australia) Pty Ltd, being managing director and chairman of its board upon retiring in 1979. Roy had life membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry of Great Britain. He died on 1 November 2004 after a short illness.

Ian Malcolm McEacharn (’50) was born on 24 September 1932, and attended Scotch from 1944–50, coming from Camberwell Grammar School. He rowed in the 1950 1st VIII. Malcolm’s father Ian (1917–18; died 25 January 1947) attended Scotch, as did his grandfather James (1888–89; died 24 May 1941), who was a member of the 1st crew in 1889, and his great uncle Ernest (1899–1901; died 2 September 1950). Malcolm married Rozel, and Scotch has only recently been informed he died on 14 November 2001.

Alan Graeme (Gus) McKinnon (’44) was born at Ballarat on 22 June 1927, and boarded at Scotch in School House from 1940–44. He was a 1944 House prefect, and the 1944 vice-captain of swimming. Known variously as Macka, Graeme or Gus (because, in the opinion of classmate Peter Ulrich, he ‘looked like a Gus’), he graduated with BDSc and LDS after his name in 1949, and set up a dentistry practice in Maffra. He was a member of the interim committee that became the school council of Gippsland GS (aka STAGGS), which was founded in February 1960. A pioneer council member, he was also on the finance committee. In 1975 he left Maffra and dentistry to buy ‘Larra’ at Derrinallum, which became a showpiece property over the next eight years. When a 1977 bushfire destroyed many surrounding properties, Graeme formed a committee to successfully sue the SEC for its power lines’ role in starting the fire. He later moved to Melbourne, Merricks, Holbrook (NSW), then to ‘The Ridge’ at Violet Town. A move to Wangaratta saw him returning to dentistry, but he later repurchased ‘The Ridge’ and resumed farming. Graeme married Helen Christina (‘Jill’), daughter of Old Melburnian Ormond Foster, at the Maffra Anglican Church on 14 February 1953. Graeme’s sons Angus (1966–73) and Lachlan (1976–81) attended Scotch, as does his grandson Tom Hutton (Year 12). Graeme died on 28 October 2004 after a long illness. A friend wrote, ‘Scotch College should be very proud of him.’

William Anthony McLaughlin (’39) was born at Elsternwick on 9 September 1922, and attended Scotch from 1937–39. He was a private in the AIF from 1941–43, then served in the RAAF from 1943–45, being a flight sergeant in the 99 Squadron upon demobilisation. He married Clarice Nourish at Scotch on 6 September 1949, and was the father of Peter, Stephen and David. William died on 19 October 2004.

Richard John Meldrum (’45) was born on 12 July 1928, and attended Scotch from 1 June 1937 to 29 August 1940. He married Barbara Anne Simpson at Scotch on 5 December 1952, and later married Colleen. An architect, he was senior partner in Meldrum, Burrows and Partners, which prepared Scotch’s 1987 Master Plan, and designed VFL Stadium at Waverley. In 1978 he was elected to the Melbourne City Council, and was Lord Mayor of Melbourne from 1991–92. Considered both conservative and radical, he wanted to ban cars in the CBD, and broke his arm in a skateboarding accident. Richard was on the boards of the College of the Arts, Bethesda Hospital and the RSPCA, and was a director of the Asthma Foundation. His sons Tim (1968–79) and James (1972–83) followed him at Scotch. Richard died of cancer on 17 October 2004.

William Stuart Meldrum (’39) was born at East Malvern on 20 December 1923, and attended Scotch from 1935–39. Stuart served as a private in the AIF in 1942, then served in the RAAF from 1942–46, being a flying officer in the 158 Squadron RAF upon demobilisation. He was a brother of Scotch boys Ross (1938–42; died 19 December 1967) and Geoff (1939–44), all of whom followed their father William’s footsteps (1911; died 16 April 1974). Scotch has only recently been informed that Stuart died on 4 June 2002.

Austin Joseph Milne (’49) was born on 30 May 1931, and attended Scotch from 1943–47. He married Margaret L. Brown at Scotch on 3 September 1955. He lived at Mordialloc, and died on 7 September 2003.

Leslie Graham Monk (’47) was born on 6 May 1930, and attended Scotch from 1941–47. He was the 1941 Class Captain of IVa, and 1942 Form Captain of Vb. He married Wilma R.S. Sleigh at Scotch on 23 March 1954. Leslie’s nephews, Peter (1956–67), Anthony (1958–69), David (1962–73) and Geoff (1964–76) attended Scotch, as do his great nephews, James (Year 10) and Lachlan Bell (Year 8). Leslie died on 15 October 2004.

Neil Wishart Newnham (’38) was born at Camberwell on 13 October 1921, and attended Scotch from 1934–38. Neil served in the AIF from 1942–45, being a sergeant in the Allied Geog. Sec. upon demobilisation. He married Audrey Harrison at Scotch on 17 December 1946. He obtained a diploma of journalism at Melbourne University in 1952, and by 1965 was features editor of The Herald. His brothers at Scotch were Harvey (1934–35; KIA 24 May 1941 at Crete), and Eric (1936–42; KIA 9 May 1945 at Tarakan), and grandsons Jonathan (1998–2003), Andrew (1999–2004) and Cameron (Year 8). Neil died on 5 December 2004.

Bruce Osborne-Smith (’50) was born on 11 October 1933, and attended Scotch from 1943–50 as Bruce Osborne Smith. He played hockey, and was a Scout troop leader. In 1970 he obtained a Diploma of Management at RMIT, and was later National Manager, Quality Control, for the Roy Morgan Research Centre Pty Ltd. Bruce was a member of the MCC and the Tally-Ho Tennis Club. He was a lieutenant-commander in the RANR. On 24 July 1964 he married Alison Robin Homer at Scotch, and he was the father of Michelle and Malcolm. Bruce died on 7 February 2005.

Keith Woodman Parker (’40) was born at Ballarat on 17 April 1923, and attended Scotch from 1935–39. On 10 February 1942 he enlisted in the AIF at Mataranka, NT, and was a Warrant Officer Class 2 at the 1 Australian Base Ordinance Depot upon being demobilised on 2 September 1946. Keith married Eileen Lorna Nation at Scotch on 3 October 1945, and they had one son (Creighton) and two daughters (Kerry and Margaret). Keith was an administrator at La Trobe University. He died on 15 March 2005.

Norm Phillips

Norman Raymond Phillips (Staff 1957–89) was born on 7 August 1932, and taught in the Junior School at Scotch from 1957–89. He published a poetry and art book at Scotch, and a science book with Roger James and Fred McGuinness. Norm’s building and design skills were evident in his boys’ scale models, and in the fact that advice was sought from him on various school building projects. In 1974–75 he had a year’s leave to teach at The Berhamstead School in the UK. Norm primarily taught Years 5–7, and taught some Year 7 and 8 Senior School classes. He was secretary and president of the Federation of Film Societies in Victoria. His sons Brett (1966–73) and Darren (1971–78) attended Scotch, which he left to run a small business. Norm lived at Kingston, Tasmania, and died on 13 January 2005. Additional details are provided in this obituary by Garth Tapp and Laurie MacLennan.

Rev. Dr Gordon George Powell AM KCSJ (’29) was born at Warrnambool on 22 January 1911 and was a day boarder at Scotch from 1926–29. In 1929 he was a Prefect, Collegian Editorial committee member, Senior Scholarship winner, and a member (with Sir Archie Glenn and Major General Bill Refshauge) of the 1929 1st VIII that rowed before the biggest Head of the River crowd of all time – between 120,000 and 140,000 people on the Yarra. Gordon obtained his MA at Melbourne University in 1932, his BD at the Melbourne College of Divinity in 1935, and was ordained in May 1938. A scholarship took him to Trinity College, Glasgow, in 1935, during which year he saw a multi-humped long-necked monster in Loch Ness – the Loch Ness Monster. On 3 September 1937 he married Gwenyth Ethelwyn Gilchrist at the Toorak Presbyterian Church. He was an RAAF Chaplain from 1943–45, with the rank of flight lieutenant. Invited in 1945 to become minister of the Collins Street Independent Church, he first took a lecturing tour of the USA. Back in Melbourne, Gordon helped establish its first Alcoholics Anonymous after a drunken man attended a service. In 1952 he was called to St Stephen’s in Sydney, where he soon established his Wednesday lunchtime services as the biggest in the world, with up to 1300 people attending. He expanded his ministry with radio broadcasts for over 30 years from 1953. Gordon and his wife lunched with and sat beside the Queen during her 1954 Australian tour. In 1960 he went to the UK and the USA, and gave the opening prayer in the US Senate, with Vice President Nixon presiding. Gordon was called to Scots Church in February 1966. When the Uniting Church was formed, he and most other Presbyterians joined it, and he became a Uniting Church minister. An honourary LLD was awarded at Pace University in New York, in which city he spent six years, and he was awarded the AM in 1990. Among his publications were Two Steps to Tokyo, Happiness is a Habit, Freedom from Fear, and Innkeeper of Bethlehem. His brother, Sidney (1926–30; died 30 August 1991), also attended Scotch (and rowed in the 1930 1st VIII), as did his son, David (1950–51), and nephew Dr. Harley (1950–59). Gordon died at Strathdon Nursing Home, Forest Hill, on 1 February 2005.

J S Roe

John Stewart Roe (’43) was born at Benalla on 15 March 1925, and boarded at Scotch from 1941–42. John’s son, Stephen (1981–83), was also at Scotch. John was a grazier at ‘Glen Shee’, Benalla. He died at the Benalla Hospital on 11 January 2005.

Peter Arthur Cameron Scott (’42) was born on 21 December 1925, and attended Scotch from 1940–42. Also at Scotch were his brother, Ian (1935–37), grandfather William (1873–74; died 15 August 1895), and great uncle William Thomson (1871–?; died 25 April 1938). Peter married Betty (whom he survived), and their children were Ian, Rob and Sue. Peter died at home on 17 December 2004.

Geoffrey William Sennitt (’58) was born on 11 September 1940, and attended Scotch from 1951–58, having been a CGS student from 1949–50. Geoff was a member of the 1957 1st XVIII, the 1958 premiership 1st XVIII, and the winning 1958 athletics team. He was a 1958 probationer. With him at Scotch were his brothers Jack (1948–53) and Doug (1949–55), who were followed by Geoff’s nephew Tony (1971–81) and great nephew Mitchell (Year 2). Geoff married Judith Frances Deague at Scotch on 21 May 1964, and their children were Robert and Libby. Geoff died at Exeter, NSW, on 8 November 2004.

Roy William Simmie (’37) was born at Footscray on 16 July 1920, and attended Scotch from 1934–37. He was a member of the 1937 athletics team. Roy served in the AIF from 1942–43 as a private in the 1 Tank Transporter Coy A A S C, then served in the RAAF from 1943–45, being a leading aircraftman in the 5 Service Flying Training School when demobilised. Roy married Nova Marie Roberts at Scotch on 17 May 1947. They had a son and a daughter, and Nova died on 24 October 1998. Roy was an owner–builder with Simmie & Co Pty Ltd. His brother, Jack (1936–39; died 23 June 1994), attended Scotch, as did his cousin John (1935–42) and grandsons Ashley (1998–2003) and Andrew Ball (Year 11). Roy died on 19 December 2004.

Charles Humphrey Graeme Smith (’33) was born at Bognor, Sussex, United Kingdom, on 15 November 1917, and attended Scotch from 1929–33. Graeme obtained his DipChemE at Swinburne in 1940, and his DipAppChem at RMIT, also in 1940. A consultant industrial chemist and chemical engineer, he was a member of the Australian Chemical Industry Council, and worked for Shell both in Australia and overseas. Graeme married Margaret, and they had a son and a daughter. Graeme died on 2 January 2005.

Ronald Frederick Spinks (’46) was born at Kew on 22 March 1928, and attended Scotch from 1942–44. He married Margaret T. Pooley at Scotch on 27 October 1951, and was a hotel–motel director. Ron’s brothers Francis (1937–39) and Geoffrey (1946–47) were at Scotch, as was his son, Andrew (1965–69), his nephews John (1961–67) and Murray (1964–70), and great nephew James (1992–2000). Ron died on 1 January 2005.

Charles Alexander Stamp (’29) was born at Carlton on 16 October 1910, and attended Scotch from 1915–27. During this time he left to attend HC, but returned to Scotch in 1922. Charles had the distinction of attending three Scotch campuses. He began at Parkville High School – a school purchased and run by Scotch from 1915–18 to cope with the overflow of students on the East Melbourne site. From 1922 he attended Scotch at East Melbourne, and in 1925 he moved to the Hawthorn campus. He served in the RAN from 1941–44, attaining the rank of OA III upon demobilisation, at which time he was serving on the HMAS Magnetic. He became a consultant mechanical engineer. Charles married Hilda Tipping, and his son, Charles, attended Scotch (1963–68). Also at Scotch were his brother, John (1912–16; died 17 August 1986), and sisters Wynne (1915–?; died 10 July 1982) and Isla (1915–?; died 3 July 1991). Both sisters attended Scotch’s Parkville HS campus. Charles’ cousin Eric (1915–?; died 17 November 1967) attended Scotch, as did nephews John (1945–52) and David (1948–58). Charles was the last known survivor of Parkville HS. Charles died on 11 November 2004.

Dr Alfred Robert Steel (’32) was born at Malvern on 18 January 1915, and attended Scotch from 1930–32. He obtained his MB BS at Melbourne University in 1941, then served in the AIF from 1943–46, being a Captain in the 109 Aust. Cas. Clearing Station upon demobilisation. He married Myrtle Mary, and they had one daughter, Ann. Alfred worked as a GP. His brothers at Scotch were John (1927–28; POW, died 23 October 1944), John’s twin brother Thomas (1926–29; died 13 December 2000), David (1928–29), and Francis (1930–34; died 11 July 1981). Also at Scotch were his uncle John (1906–08; died 11 March 1968) and nephew Richard (1956–66). Alfred lived at Ferny Creek, and died on 15 November 2004.

W J Stevenson

Dr William John Stevenson (’30) was born at Caulfield on 11 October 1912, and attended Scotch from 4 July 1927 until December 1927. He was a member of the school orchestra. Bill graduated from Surgeon’s Hall, Edinburgh, with a medical degree in 1942. He served in the RAAF from 1941–46, being a Flight Lieutenant in the 1 Personnel Depot Staff when demobilised, following service in New Guinea and Borneo. His personal supervision of health and hygiene ensured his was one of the fittest units. Due to join the occupation forces in Japan, a tropical leg ulcer forced his discharge. In 1947–48 Bill obtained diplomas in public health and tropical diseases, and a Rockefeller Scholarship took him to Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, where he obtained a master’s degree in public health in 1949. A Victorian Health Department Field Officer in 1950, by 1956 he was senior district health officer. He was RAAF specialist epidemiologist from 1963–71, and squadron leader and patron of 11 RSU. Bill was an epidemiology consultant to the Fairfield Infectious Diseases Hospital from 1964–73, a member of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (with life fellowship), a Fellow of the College of Medical Administrators and chairman of the public health and veterinary committees of the National Health and Medical Research Council. He won an NH&MRC travelling fellowship to study infectious diseases and polio vaccines, and lectured at Melbourne University and the College of Nursing. From 1971–75 he was chief health officer, and was chairman of the commission of public health. Having a particular interest in zoonoses (the study of the transmission of disease from animals to humans), he co-wrote A Synopsis of Zoonoses in 1980, and investigated brucellosis, leptospirosis and Q fever. He was given honourary membership of the Australian Veterinary Association. In June 1972 he married Nancy Nancarrow, who survives him. Bill died on 20 November 2004.

Allen Thomas Swann (’30) was born at St. Kilda on 6 February 1915, and attended Scotch from 1929–30. He married Marjorie Credwin Green in 1941, and their sons Robert (1956–60) and Graham (1957–62) attended Scotch, as had Allen’s brother, Norman (1922–23; died 19 February 1972), and as did his grandsons Daniel (1983–94), Michael (1984–95) and Andrew (1989–2000), and great nephew Timothy (1980–87; left to attend GGS). Allen was the managing director of Radio Parts. He died on 28 February 2005.

George Gordon Tait (’44) was born at Ascot Vale on 18 July 1926, and attended Scotch from 1941–44. He served in WW2 in the AIF from 1945–47, being a lance corporal in the 2/1 Guard Regiment upon demobilisation. George married Nancye, and was the father of John and Fiona. His brothers were also at Scotch: John (1939–41; KIA 10 April 1945 in action over Leipzig, Germany), Maxwell (1943–46), Donald (1944–49) and Douglas (1952–57). George died on 6 February 2005.

Dr David Edward Watson RFD RD RANR (’42) was born on 11 April 1924 and attended Scotch from 1936–41. David was a signals commander in the RANR. In 1948 he graduated from Melbourne University with a BDSc and LDS, and became a dentist in private practice. On 28 March 1958 he married Margery Jean McAlpin at Scotch. Their sons David (1968–78), Peter (1968–79) and Rob (1969–80) attended Scotch, as did David’s well-known great uncle, surgeon and professor Archibald Watson (1861–66; died 30 July 1940). David was a member of the Naval and Military Club, the MCC, the committee of the Wallaby Club, and Rotary (Prahran) from 1962–66. David died on 20 March 2005 after a short illness.

Kenneth McDonell Western (’49) was born on 7 August 1932 and attended Scotch from 1945–49. He was a member of the 1948 and 1949 1st XI. Ken married Alison, and their sons attended Scotch: Richard (1975–80) and David (1981–86). Ken was an accountant, and a member from 1969 of the Lions Club of Forest Hill. He died on 5 March 2005.

Ronald Widmer DFC (’33) was born at Ultimo, Victoria, on 12 March 1916 and attended Scotch from 1930–33. He rowed in the 1933 1st VIII. On 4 September 1939 he joined the RAAF, which he served until 1945. Ron became a squadron leader, and was awarded the DFC. On 1 March 1945 he married Constance Ray Alexander at Scotch. Their sons Bruce (1957–64), Geoff (1958–67) and Richard (1959–69) attended Scotch, as did nephews Philip (1961–66) and John (1964–70), and grandsons Scott (1987–94), Tim (1995–97) and Michael (1995–99). Ron’s brother Blair attended Scotch (1929–32), and rowed in the 1st VIII, as did Geoff (who won in 1967) and Tim (who rowed 1996–97). Ron’s working life included jackerooing, hobby farming, and working for TAA. He lived at Mt. Eliza, and died on 31 October 2004.

Dr Robert Melville Withers OAM (’40) was born at Brighton on 9 February 1923, and left HC after winning a scholarship to attend Scotch from 1938–40. He served in WW2, being a private in the 46 Battalion 3 Division. In 1946 he obtained his MB BS at Melbourne University, and practised medicine until 1989. Bob married Selma Christine Saleeba at Scotch on 29 April 1948 and Hariclia Joanna Viglopoulo on 21 November 1964. Interested in horticulture, he wrote Liliums in Australia in 1967, and was an expert on liliums, rhododendrons and camellias. A camellia hybrid he named the Hari Withers (after his wife) was recently featured in a set of Australia Post stamps. Bob was awarded the OAM in 1995 for services to horticulture, was made an honourary life member of the Royal Horticultural Society of Victoria, was a fellow of the Australian Camellia Research Society and was awarded the Veitch Gold Memorial Medal by the Royal Horticultural Society, London – the highest award for a non-British resident. His cousins, Adiel Harris (1917; died 24 June 1971) and Adrian Graley (1942–43), also attended Scotch. Bob died on 24 January 2005, survived by his wife, and children Suzanne, Sally and Stuart.

Rev. Dr J Davis McCaughey, AC, 12 July 1914–25 March 2005. The School wishes to acknowledge the significant contribution that Davis McCaughey made during his term on the School Council from 1953 until 1980. McCaughey was committed to the academic focus of the School. In ‘A Deepening Roar’ he recalls ‘The first thing we exist for is the teaching of what is concerned with the classroom, the laboratory, the library. We cannot teach everything. The intellectual content of our teaching comes first’. Condolences are extended to the McCaughey family.

Condolances are extended to former staff members Keith Darling and Laurie MacLennan upon the recent death of their wives. Rosemary Darling and Ailsa MacLennan were both wonderful members of the Scotch Family and will be sadly missed.


Obituaries are compiled by Paul Mishura (unless otherwise stated) from information held or obtained by Scotch, or provided to Scotch by families or friends of the deceased. Eulogies, obituaries and any other biographical information are welcomed and must include exact date of death to permit publication. Information can be forwarded via email to paul.mischura@scotch.vic.edu.au, by fax on 9810 4334, or c/o Old Scotch Collegians’ Association, 1 Morrison Street, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122.

Updated: Monday 24 June 2013