Obituaries Australia

Michael Rush, 1906

photo supplied by Stephen Gard

The death occurred early on Sunday morning at Shelta, Croydon-road, Hurstville, of Michael Rush, a prominent sculling enthusiast, at the age of 79 years. As far back as 1877 deceased took an active interest in sculling, and in that year he was beaten by the late Edward Trickett for the world's championship on the Parramatta River, Trickett covering the 3 miles and 330 yards in 23m 27½s. On that occasion Rush had not become accustomed to the sliding seat, which was used by Trickett. Despite his advance in years, deceased continued his athletic exercises, and on Saturday he spent several hours ploughing on a small selection at Hurstville. He was in good health when he retired, but died suddenly on Sunday morning. Deceased was well known on the Clarence River, and he was in that district during the time the late Edward Hanlan paid a visit there. Deceased pointed out the then great sculler, the late H. E. Searle, and remarked "How would you like to have him on?" Hanlan replied, "No, I don't want any Searle in mine." The late Mr Rush maintained his interest in sculling, and he was present at the welcomes to A. D. Felton and E. Barry prior to their race for the world's championship on the Parramatta River.

The interment took place in the family vault at the Waverley Cemetery yesterday afternoon, the chief mourners being his sons, Messrs J. T. and T. Rush and his grandson Mr. J. McGuren. Among others present were:—His Honor Judge Edmunds, Messrs John McLean (ex-champion sculler), R. Coombes, W. T. Corbett, J. Alcock, T. J. Houghton, F. Ross, D. Hellmrich, D. Gard, ex-Inspector Cowie, D. G. Garvan, D. McGoldrick, T. B. Rice, D. H. Elsmore and J. J. Giltinan.