WATSON, John Kenneth Darnton (1960-2023)
John boarded at the College from 1973, starting in Form I. At Senior School he joined the rowing crews, starting in the 8th VIII. He made lifelong friends as he progressed through the crews, reaching the 1st VIII in 1978. Over this time he received multiple Coles House colours for cross country, athletics and rowing. He was also appointed Coles House co-captain in 1978 and received School colours for rowing.
Following school John spent a couple of years jackarooing before studying farm management at Marcus Oldham College. He then returned home to De Kerrileau, Wodonga to manage the family property. John married Christine in 1987 and they have three sons.
John was community minded and involved in a number of local organisations such as Apex and agricultural societies. He was elected to Wodonga City Council in 1997, serving to 2004. After this time he moved away from farming to become a Hungary Jacks franchisee. In 2012 he was re-elected to the council where he served as a councillor to 2022. In recent years John also started bee keeping.
John passed away 24 August 2023, aged 62 years.
Sources: Border Mail 30 August 2023, P Stephens, Pegasus, OGC 1978.