Obituaries Australia

Capt John Percy Chirnside, CMG, OBE, of Brandon Park, Oakleigh, died at a private hospital yesterday. He was the last surviving member of the family of the late Andrew and Mary Chirnside, of Werribee Park, Werribee, one of the most widely known pastoral pioneering families of the State. Capt Chirnside, who was 79, and who was born at Carranballac, Skipton, was educated at Geelong Grammar School, and afterwards became a permanent soldier in the Royal Victorian Horse Artillery, commanding a half-battery at Werribee.

When his father died, Capt Chirnside and the late Mr George P. Chirnside, a brother, divided Werribee Park, the former taking over the portion known as The Manor, and the late Mr George Chirnside the portion still known as Werribee Park.

While living at The Manor Capt Chirnside represented Grant in the Legislative Assembly from September, 1894, to May, 1904.

Capt Chirnside served in the 1914-18 war in the Remounts section. He was then awarded the OBE. After selling The Manor in 1922 he bought Brandon Park, Oakleigh, a smaller property, and lived there till his death.

He was also a brother of the late Mr Andrew S. Chirnside and the late Mr Robert Chirnside. He is survived by his widow, who is in England, and 3 sons. His sons are Maj P. E. F. Chirnside, who has served in the 8th Hussars of the British Army for many years and is at present serving in India; Sqd Ldr A. B. Chirnside, of the RAAF, who is at present stationed in the north; and Mr John Chirnside, of Brandon Park. His daughter, Molly, who married Maj Nicholas Charlton, lost her life in a fire in England last year. The funeral will be private.