ENNIS, Brian Colwell (1934-2021)Brian Ennis boarded at The Geelong College from 1949-1951 having previously attended Maryborough High School. He came from Amphitheatre where his parents, William and Eula, worked a farming property. Keen to nurture his sharp mind, Brian’s parents decided to send him to secondary school which was uncommon for the area. His two younger brothers would join him, also attending the College, Gordon OGC 1950 and Tony OGC 1954.
Brian entered the school starting in Form VE. In 1949 he completed his Leaving Certificate and then qualified to matriculate in 1950, which he completed in 1951 with 1st in Physics and Chemistry and 2nd in Calculus and Applied Maths. Brian was Dux of the College along with BJ Coombe.
During his final year, Brian was Bow seat of the 4th VIII rowing crew and served on the Library Committee.
Brian went on to study at the University of Melbourne, residing at Ormond College. He completed a Bachelor of Science in 1955 going on achieve a Master of Science in 1957. Brian was then invited to undertake a PhD. Whilst at the university, Brian met his future wife, Helen, who was studying nursing. She completed her nursing studies before they married in 1963. They have two daughters, Elizabeth and Felicity.
After his studies Brian worked for a short time at Monsanto before joining the Material Research Laboratory where he remained for the rest of his working life.
Apart from his science career, Brian was a keen photographer, enjoyed sailing and cooking. He was a lifelong learner, a good listener and observer, and remained committed to social justice causes throughout his life.
Brian passed away 24 October 2021, aged 87 years.
Sources: The Age 29 October 2021, Vivid Stream 8 November 2021, Pegasus, OGC 1946.