13 September 2025
We are sad to learn of the passing last week of David Lewis OAM, the choir's foundation Patron, at the age of 80. He was a strong supporter and friend of the choir and was well known to some of our long-term and past members. David was well regarded and highly respected in ACT Rugby circles and beyond, and he was an extraordinary contributor and accomplished administrator over many years. He had commenced his involvement in ACT Rugby with the Queanbeyan Whites Rugby Club in 1964 where he held many Executive positions and was subsequently awarded Life Membership for his outstanding impact on the club's rich history.
David was a major contributor in shaping the future of rugby in our region at a pivotal time during the transition to the professional era. He was awarded Life Membership of the ACT Rugby Union in 1987, following six seasons of devoted service to the various representative teams that he assisted. He is warmly regarded by many of ACT Rugby's greatest players from that era. David was also President of the ACT Rugby Union and ACT Brumbies from 1996 to 1999 and Chairman of the Board for three years. During that time, he was also a delegate Member and Director of the Australian Rugby Union. Fittingly, in 1999 he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia 'for service to Rugby Union football' recognising his significant contribution to the game in our region for over three decades. David also contributed enormously as a volunteer at the Royal Australian Historical Society, Queanbeyan Historical Society, Old Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial.
The choir's annual Patron's Award was instigated by David in 2005 and he donated a silver tray as a perpetual trophy that has since been awarded to many of our members in recognition of outstanding service to the choir, with the winner's name engraved on the tray. David will be sadly missed, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.