Obituaries Australia

Mr Simon Fraser, whose death from pneumonic influenza took place at Penshurst (Vic), early on Sunday morning last, was the eldest son of Sir Simon Fraser, and was in his 33rd year. The news of his death (says the 'Argus') will be received with widespread regret, for Mr Fraser was very well known in public school, University, rowing, and pastoral circles. Accompanied by his wife, Mr Fraser, who managed his father's station Nyang, near Moulamein (N.S.W.), went to attend the Warrnambool races last week, and was one of the house party at Mr John McWhae's station, near Penshurst. He was seized by illness on Friday, and died as above stated. Mrs Fraser, who is a daughter of Mr Hammond Clegg, is also seriously ill. Mr. Fraser was educated at the Melbourne Grammar School where he took a leading position in athletics. He was in the rowing crew for three years, rowing stroke in 1915. He was also in the football and cricket teams. He was a member of the school athletic team which won ‘The Argus’ and ‘The Australasian’ Challenge Cup in 1905; and was also a lieutenant of cadets. On leaving school he entered the Melbourne University and was a student at Trinity College. He was a stroke at his college crew, as well as of the University eight, winning his blue in 1908. In 1912 he was chosen as one of the eight to represent Australia at the Olympic Regatta at Stockholm, and he rowed in the famous race when Australia beat Leander at Henley. Mr Fraser graduated bachelor of mining engineering in 1911 at the Melbourne University, and on his return from England after his rowing tour he became manager of his father’s estate at Nyang.

Mr Fraser’s death will also be regretted by a large circle of friends in the Moulamein district. In everything pertaining to the welfare of the little township he was ever foremost, and took a particularly keen interest in patriotic work during the progress of the war. He was councillor of the Wakool Shire. Mr Fraser leaves a widow and three young children.

The funeral at the Brighton Cemetery on Tuesday was largely attended by family friends and old school fellows. The pall bearers were Messrs W. L. Baillieu. An impressive service was conducted.