Obituaries Australia

Mr. George Frederick Wigan, one of the most lovable characters ever to grace the central western district of Queensland, died at his Collaroy, Sydney, home as a result of an accident on 18th February last. It was his birthday. He was born at Armidale, N.S.W., in 1878, where his late father, Dr. George Wigan, practised for many years, besides being one of the founders of The Armidale School.

The late Mr. G. F. Wigan was one of the first pupils of T.A.S., and from there he set out to gain experience in the pastoral industry, first as a jackeroo on one of the White's stations, and in due course as a station manager. He received the management of Oakey Creek Station, where his efficiency and all round thoroughness so impressed the owners that one of them went into partnership with him in about 1914 to purchase Connemarra Station, near Longreach. During the 24 years he was there the late Mr. Wigan set an outstanding example to the district by the way he improved the herd of Shorthorn cattle on Connemarra, both in quality and type, and methods of progressive management. He took a very active part in all the local affairs of the district, and endeared himself to a wide circle of friends.

His first wife was Miss Ethel Macdonald, of Wallabadah, Quirindi, N.S.W., and his second wife, whom he married in 1938 on leaving Queensland, was Miss Nell Hurley, who survives him. They made their home at The Rock, Coolah N.S.W., before moving to reside in retirement at Collaroy eight years ago.