Brian Roberts

President Phil indeed had the melancholy duty of informing last Tuesday's meeting of the passing of one of Wollundry's finest, Brian Roberts.

Brian had spent the majority of his life growing up, working and participating in the cultural and sporting life of Wagga Wagga. He was a successful and respected accountant. a leader of his rugby club, a keen gardener and lived life to the fullest.

Brian was conscripted into the Australian Army during the mid 1960's and was quickly selected to train as an officer. After graduation Brian spent 18 months in Singapore and Malaysia. On his return to civilian life he began working with Bush and Campbell Accountants in Wagga, a company he remained with through his working life, becoming a partner and a mentor to many of its younger employees.

Brian's great recreational passion was the playing of rugby with his beloved Wagga City Rugby Club.

He was a life member of the club, with his involvement commencing with the Colts premiership team of 1963. He went onto play in three first grade premiership teams of 1969, 1971 and 1976 and was captain coach of the runners up teams in 1974 and 1975. Brian was a great supporter of the club, attending matches right up until his untimely death.

Brian made a huge contribution to the life of this city through his involvement as treasurer of the Riverine Club for 20 years for which he was awarded honorary life membership. This was only the second award in the club's history since 1881. He was a committed Apexian before joining Wollundry. His contribution was substantial to our club through the organisation of weekly guest speakers. Brian was diligent to the aims and cause of Rotary.

Our sincere condolences to his wife, Michelle, children Andrew and Catherine and their families.

The memorial service will be held at the Uniting Church, Johnson Street at 2pm this Thursday.