Remembering a remarkable Old Boy

26 Feb 2020

A large crowd of family, friends and former classmates gathered in Chapel on the morning of Saturday 22 February for the Jock Hobbs Memorial Window Blessing, to honour Jock’s memory in the place where he spent his formative years before going on to an illustrious rugby and sports administration career.

“It’s in a really cool place, only two seats back from where Jock and I used to sit when we were in the Chapel Choir,” says friend Mike Greenslade. “Faith was always an important part of Jock’s life. Every aspect of the design is meaningful and relates to his life and experience. It’s an extraordinary work.”

At their 40 Years On reunion in 2013, the year after Jock’s untimely death, his year group decided they wanted to do something to remember Jock. Mike became a member of the steering committee that drove various projects, including the Jock Hobbs Memorial Trophy for the winner of the annual College vs CBHS clash, a book Remembering Jock, and the memorial stained glass window.

Glass artist Suzanne Hanly was commissioned to create the piece. She “immersed herself in all things Jock” and designed a unique artwork that symbolises Jock’s life, family and achievements, reflects his College connections, and meets the requirements of the Anglican diocese. Mike says they were fortunate to have the support and assistance of another classmate – Bishop Peter Carrell – who helped guide the project through the diocese process.

“It was very much a Year of ’73 project and we’ve been very lucky to have all these people involved who wanted to see it through. Although it took seven years to complete, it’s been well worth it,” says Mike. “Jock was a friend to many people. He had a national profile, but was very down-to-earth, very much a family man, and always fun to be around.”

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