Obituaries
Betty Cuthbert: Barefoot sprinter who became a record-breaking ‘golden girl’
Betty Cuthbert met Usain Bolt in Barcelona in 2012. The champion sprinter, sitting in a hotel foyer, spotted the Australian and leapt towards her. “Four gold medals and 16 world records!”
- by Tony Stephens
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Oldest survivor of World War II infantry battalion dies, aged 105
One of Australia’s oldest World War II veterans, Kenneth “Smiler” Walters, never wanted to talk about the horror of battle.
- by Peter Allen
Successful architect’s enduring impact in local government
John Chandler was known for his Bryan Ferry-like good looks, Italian suits, charm and wry sense of humour.
‘A true original’: Music industry mourns ‘Dunedin sound’ pioneer
Martin Phillipps - widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s greatest songwriters - penned heavenly pop hits across a five decade long career, while overcoming some of life’s hardships.
- by Hamish McNeilly
Glamorous Australian Olympic swimmer became Greta Garbo’s instructor
Frank O’Neill moved from Olympic swimming to instructing the rich and famous around the world.
Australian sporting icon kept chalking up firsts
Shirley Strickland was one of Australia’s greatest ever athletes, winning seven Olympic medals.
- by Len Johnson
Ice-cream, cake and Olympic gold: Our last high jump winner’s perfect day
John Winter ruled the word of high jump in the years after World War II.
- by Tony Stephens
Genius of broadcasting ‘listened to by half the available audience’
Kyle Sandilands: “Anyone who’s anything in radio reveres Ron E. Sparks.”
- by Glenn A Baker
‘Modesty’ row nearly stopped Australian champion swimming for gold
Ladies’ Swimming Association president: “I am personally strongly against women and girls swimming among men and in mixed audiences.”
Gillard’s adoption apology inspired woman forced to give up daughter
Veronica Smith had been sent to an institution, where she was expected to knit bootees and a matinee jacket for the child she would have to give away.
Trailblazer who could answer the question ‘Why did Jack marry Jill’?
Doctor Warwick Hartin left his mark on the world; he departed in style and grace, accompanied by the music of his beloved Mozart.
- by Coral Brown