Obituaries Australia

By the death early on Saturday morning of Mr. Percy Learmonth, Horsham loses one of its leading and most energetic citizens. He was the third son of Mr. Peter Learmonth and Mrs. Learmonth, of Hamilton. Mr. Learmonth was 71 years old. He was born at Hamilton, and was educated at the Hamilton and Western District College, from which he went to Ormond College, Melbourne University. Graduating Master of Civil Engineering, he henceforward devoted himself to that profession. A first notable achievement in his career was the construction of the Wartook reservoir, in the Wimmera district, and this was followed by the formation of the Wimmera Water Trust. In the capacity of engineer, Mr. Learmonth was mainly responsible for the irrigation of the Wimmera district. He was associated with this body constantly until his retirement about two years ago. Besides his activities for the district, Mr. Learmonth took a keen interest in the town of Horsham, holding office in many public bodies. He has occupied the presidency of the Horsham Agricultural Society for many years, and was a prominent Freemason, and also a noted rifleman. In his early manhood, he was a successful athlete, and won distinction as a foothaller and a runner. With Mr. Henty, he held for many years the public school record of 10. secs. for 100 yards. He was stroke for the first Ormond College crew which succeeded in winning the inter-college boat race. In his latter years, Mr. Learmonth was interested in mixed farming. He is survived by two sons and one daughter—Mr. P. Learmonth (Booratta, Frances, S.A.), Mr. Evan Learmonth (Ardlethan, N.S.W.), and Miss Nancy Learmonth (Horsham). The obsequies took place at the Hamilton cemetery on Sunday.