Matt McVicar

Eulogy

Malcolm (Matt) Lauchlan McVicar passed away on December 26th 1992, loved husband of Lorna, loving father of Lindsay and Kenneth (dec) (privacy restriction), aged 78 years.

Born in Avoca in 1914, he was the youngest child of Archibald and Margaret McVicar (nee Glover). His brothers and sisters were Archie, Evelyn (Mrs Mossop), Annie (Mrs Telford), Florence (Mrs Hastings), and John, all deceased; and Pearl (Mrs M.) and Selwyn.

In 1911, Archibald selected Block 41 between Torrita and Underbool, and he and Archie rolled the scrub in preparation for cropping. In 1915 the family moved to the farm.

Matt completed his basic education at Underbool State School and then worked for his parents on the family farm.

In 1939 Matt enlisted in the Army, 6th Division and sailed in 1940 to fight in the Desert Campaign in Egypt and Libya.  Early in 1941 the Division was sent to Greece and fought against the Germans in the Mount Olympus region. After capitulation by the Greek forces they were evacuated to Crete at the end of April. Crete was overwhelmed on 31 May after heavy fighting.  Matt was taken as a Prisoner of War to Stalag VIIA where he remained until the German surrender in May 1945.

After returning to Australia Matt married Lorna Mitchell of Clunes and settled in Underbool where he worked for the Lands Department until his retirement. For several years Lorna has been suffering ill-health and Matt devoted his life to looking after her as her quality of life decreased.  She is now a fully hospitalised patient in Ouyen.

Matt's other main interest was his garden of which he was justifiably proud until ill-health and other priorities prevented him from doing the work.  He was also an active member of the Fire Brigade being the Communications Officer, and enjoyed fishing and yabbying.

A man respected by his relatives and friends

May he now Rest in Peace.

Ex-Prisoners of War outside Australia House, London.  Malcolm (Matt) McVicar is on the far right.