FIDGE, James Edward (1941-2025)
Jim Fidge, former Geelong mayor and lifelong
community advocate, passed away peacefully aged 84. Born on 19 September 1941
to Mavis Melba Jane Burke and Sir Harold Roy Fidge (OGC 1925), Jim was raised
in East Geelong and boarded at The Geelong College from 1946 to 1957.
His enduring connection to the College continued
through decades of service, including support for the Annual Boat Race Ball and
football programs, and long-standing involvement with the OGCA Committee
(1963-1977, 2007-2019), including serving as Junior Vice President/Vice
President (2012-2017).
Jim’s passion for sport and community was evident
in his leadership roles with the Geelong Amateur Football Club, where he played
from 1958-1968, coached, and served as President, Secretary, and Vice
President. He was a Life Member and also contributed to the Old Geelong
Football Club and the Victoria Amateur Football Association. His commitment
extended nationally as a delegate to the Australian Amateur Football Council.
Jim was also very involved over the years with
Apex, Geelong West Rotary, Geelong Legacy and Geelong Historical Society, and a
member of the Advisory Committee of the Geelong and Districts Cemeteries Trust.
Professionally, Jim worked with the State Savings
Bank of Victoria and later the Commonwealth Bank.
Jim served on the Geelong Council from 1977 to
1993, including terms as Deputy Mayor (1985-1987) and Mayor (1987-1989). During
his mayoralty, he had the honour of hosting Queen Elizabeth II during her 1988
visit to Geelong.
In 2003 Jim was awarded the Centenary Medal for his
service to the community.
A devoted husband to Prue and father to Georgie
(MOC 1987), Zoe (MOC 1990), Freya (OGC 1995), and Peggy (OGC 1998), Jim was
known for his warmth, humour, and belief in the potential of others. He was a
‘people person’ who brought joy and connection wherever he went.
Don McCann (OGC 1954), Jim’s close friend for over
80 years said, "in many ways, Jim was an involved, time generous,
'unheralded' Geelong legend".
Jim’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the community he helped shape. He will be deeply missed.