MCGREGOR, Walter Studholme (Wally) (1936-2023)
Wally boarded at The Geelong College from 1952-1953. The family had a farming property in Rochester where he returned after completing his Leaving Certificate. While at school he was involved in a number of sports including football and boxing. He received the Senior Boxing Prize in 1952 and was noted as one of the key players of the 3rd XVIII football team.
After some years working on the family property, Wally returned to study, completing his matriculation. He was awarded a Commonwealth scholarship and began studying medicine while at Ormond College. He then worked at PANCH and the Royal Melbourne Hospital before returning to Bendigo.
He was married to Lesley in 1961 and they have two children, Peter and David.
In Bendigo he soon set up his own practice. He was also involved in local sport, serving as the club doctor for Northen United Football Club for over 30 years. In 1982 he received Life membership and soon after a VCFL medal in recognition for his service to country football. He was involved in the Bendigo Jockey Club for more than 45 years and supported athletics, cycling, cricket, boxing and martial arts. He is remembered as a pioneer in sports medicine and has received multiple accolades, including Bendigo Community Citizen of the Year in 2007 and the Faith Leech Achievement award in 2020.
Wally passed away 15 July 2023, aged 87 years.
Sources: Bendigo Advertiser 19 July 2023, Pegasus, Ad Astra, OGC 1950.