Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

After finishing school and working as a window dresser in Thomsons Hamilton, he was converted on a farm in Coleraine then studied theology at Melbourne Bible Institute (MBI). He was briefly in the army in 1941-42 but got an exemption on grounds of being minister of religion. About 1940-55, he became a missionary and teacher with United Aborigines Mission (UAM) in West Australia including Mount Margaret Mission via Kalgoorlie, Gnowangerup, Sunday Island, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing and Roelands Mission Station. In 1955-63, he was a NSW Aborigines Welfare Board Relieving Officer then District Officer in North West NSW based in Moree. In 1963-1978, he then became colporteur with Bible Society of Australia (British and Foreign Bible Society) in Townsville, Bendigo and Geelong. Later in 1979 he became Presbyterian Home Missionary in Cannon Hill and Graceville Brisbane. After he retired in about 1985, he wrote 3 books on missions "Westralian Gems for Christ's Crown", "Bibles to thousands" and "Enriching Australia through educating indigenous people" (first 2 published, last still coming) which were very popular. The first book is in several libraries. He was a violinist in Hamilton Orchestra and played in conventions and church services. He conducted MBI and aboriginal choirs. He was controversial, outspoken and sometimes had difficulties with people but in end came out on top with innovative ways. He went back with UAM colleagues to Kimberleys WA to deliver aboriginal translations of Bibles in 1990 through Bible Society and UAM collaboration. He had a strong heart for people and was a great communicator. He could deal with anybody.