Jeremy Cahill

2004

Born April 1948, Cremorne. Moved to East Gordon, aged 1yr, living beside Darnley St Oval (in a house). Mum Win and dad Jack, older sister Megan, older brother Rowan. Spent majority of childhood playing on the oval and running around the bush, occasionally having rock fights with Rory Tuck and his gang (ABHS 1960, died that year hit by a car on “Cracker Night’) Had a great childhood. Stig may remember being shot in the leg by brother Rowan, with a muzzle loading ancient “BB gun” sometime in the early 60s. Fond memories of fantastic bonfires on ‘Empire day’, and bunger fights. ‘

Educated’ East Gordon public, then Gordon Public, until my marble was drawn out of the barrel, sentenced to ABHS way out in the sticks. for a 5yr minimal week-day custodial detention. Shock and horror that I didn’t ‘get’ Chatswood High, or St Ives, not even Normanhurst. Not many know that I gained approval for Normanhurst transfer in early 1960, (brother Rowan being there) but decided not to leave ABHS, as I realised that it would sadden too many newly acquired friends, whom I’m sure to this day will be reflecting just how lucky they were. I won’t elaborate on my Asquith exploits, I think this subject is probably best left alone, Repressed Memory Syndrome some might call it.

Loved ABHS so much that I went back for 1 extra year after passing Leaving Cert in 64, to pass again in 65 with a better result to get a scholarship at Sydney Uni in Medicine, along with Rod Allen and John Brennan for those who may have known them. Formed a blues/ rock band in 61 with Asquithians Larry Dean (bass), John Hopkins(lead), And Greg Stephens (drums). I ‘sang’ (????) and played harmonica. Original name “The Erections” (early performances were quite stiff). We soon became “The Phallusy” and played semi-professionally (many would dispute that), with various personel changes over the next 5 years or so. I think our first professional public appearance was Geoff Webb’s (?) 18 th birthday, at his home in Mt Colah. Is that right Geoff? We had played ourselves into total obscurity by 1970. Graduated end 1971, resident doctor at Ryde Hospital, Sydney Hospital, then Childrens Hospital. Left East Gordon home in 72. Met Maureen,a nurse, in Jan 1972 on my first night as a doctor.

Entered General Group Practice in Orange in 74, married Maureen later that year. Kate born 1976 in Orange, back to Sydney end 76 , Patrick in 77, and Nick in 78. After a Casualty stint (you know, ER) and a Sydney group practice foray, I commenced solo GP in Westleigh, where I have practised for 25 years, soon I may get the hang of it. Kate is now a lawyer practising with a large firm in London. Will hopefully return to Oz in a few yrs or so. Patrick has nearly completed a Business degree at UTS and still resides in Sydney. Nick is an IT graduate, also working in London and having a wonderful time (as they bloody well do nowadays).

My interests/ hobbies/dabblings are in no special order, writing autobiographies, mountain-biking (city, bush and mountains), soccer (over 35s Northbridge 4 th div., still scoring a few goals, especially when we play the nursing home teams), reading (science, history, nature, some fiction), photography, music (last professional ‘gig’ was 2001 at a St Leos Oldies turn as a guest singer with a patient’s band. I must admit good gigs are getting sparser at a rate nearly greater than my hair.) Had a fascinating experience about 3 weeks ago. Played soccer (vs Berowra) on ABHS soccer field. Found myself singing at one point “On playiiiiing fields where now we run”. How good does it get. Eat your hearts out.