Vale: Matthew Coleman

(The following article was received upon request from Matthew’s brother, Sean)

There have been over the past month a large number of old boys who have contacted both myself and my brother Robert, to express their sadness and sympathy over the passing of our brother Matthew. I know that he certainly had fond memories of his many mates at school and had remained in contact with a great many of them.

Matthew attended St Mary’s College and St Peter’s School before starting at St Virgil’s Austin’s Ferry in 1973. At SVC he represented the school in swimming and tennis. He also showed great interest in drama which continued with his long involvement in live theatre. A medium level physical disability curtailed any direct involvement in sport towards the end of his time at SVC. However he performed numerous roles especially regarding the First XVIII football teams throughout his matric.

He persevered with his HSC and matriculated after three years. He then achieved a BA at UTAS and after a time which included some international travel, began work in various departments in the Commonwealth Public Service. He then returned to uni to gain a teaching diploma and for many years worked as a relief teacher at several private schools, in particular St Mary’s College. In his late 40’s he returned again to uni completing his Masters and later in his 50’s a Doctorate in Education. Although his physical disability often affected his progress throughout life, he was equipped with a strong quality of perseverance and a single-mindedness that saw him achieve whatever goal he set his mind to. His disability certainly did not define him.

With his permission I have included in part, this tribute from an old school mate of mine Andrew Rollins (SVC 1979-84), which I think will bring both a note of recognition as well as a smile to the faces of a lot of Matts’ old schoolmates. A few days after Matthews’ passing, Andrew sent me this message.

‘I Hope you are ok mate.

He always made me feel welcome and he would do his thing and go on his way especially around your place. He seemed to me back in the 70’s and 80’s to be someone who stood above the rabble of us kids, someone who was gentle and caring, always dressed properly and smart, hugely intelligent and somebody who always carried himself well and was always ready to offer assistance or advice. He was someone to look up to when people like that were hard to find. It is difficult to know what to say on a day such as this, but you can gain some comfort from the many people who have the highest regard for your brother. I am sure Matthew is resting peacefully.’

He was a genuine mate to his brothers, extended family and many old friends. We should value the quiet achiever and the genuine mate in our midst. We all know one.