URQUHART, Alistair Buxton (1947-2023)
Alistair Urquhart was a champion for people living with disability and public affairs. His drive for connection saw him both thrive in business and community.
Alistair’s interest in public affairs began at an early age. He was enrolled at the College in 1960, starting in Form II. When he was in Form VI, Alistair spent 11 months in the US as part of an American Field Service program. Prior to this his family had hosted an American Field Service Scholarship holder, David Bordine. Alistair stayed with a family in Maryland, near Washington DC. His “American mother” was involved with the Maryland Republican Party, and his “American father” was an admiral in the Navy, giving Alistair insight into politics and government.
Back in Geelong, Alistair’s College days were spent in Shannon House. He was involved in the rowing program, as part of the 5th and 2nd VIII crews. His received multiple house colours for athletics, rowing and swimming. In 1965 he was captain of athletics team and received school athletics colours and cap. Alistair was pipe sergeant in the cadets and playing bagpipes became a lifelong interest. In 1965 he was appointed Company Sargeant Major. After returning from the US he worked alongside his studies to complete his matriculation.
Alistair’s brothers also attended the College: Donald (OGC 1957), Ian (OGC 1959) and Andrew (OGC 1965). The brothers started at the College together in 1960.
Following school, Alistair studied a combined arts, law, history and politics degree at the Australian National University. By the 1980s he had started his own business as a lease and finance broker, eventually becoming Victorian president of the Australian Small Business Association.
In the early 1990s he became managing director of Affairs of State Consultancy Firm. Around this time, he also was founding chairman of WISE Employment (also known as Workplace Integrated Supported Employment). A lifelong passion was helping people living with a disability, and so he was instrumental in founding WISE.
In 2021 Alistair was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to people with a disability through employment initiatives. He served on the WISE board since 1993.
Alistair passed away 16 July 2023, aged 76 years and is survived by his wife Mary.
Sources: Sydney Morning Herald 20 July 2023, Pegasus, Ad Astra, https://www.pmc.gov.au/honours-and-symbols/australian-honours-system, OGC 1961.