Walter (Wally) R Turnbull
Mercantile Rowing Club (VIC)
The following obituary appeared in the Club's 1971-72 annual report.
It is with regret that we have to report the death, on 14th January, 1972, of one of our oldest and best known members.
Wally joined the Club in 1924 and won his lightweight four at the V.R.A. Regatta of that year, rowing in the bow seat. This was his only regatta win, as was the case of all 10 stone oarsmen competing in those days. However, his wins were many in club and combination eight races over the years.
He was active in the formation in 1928 of the Victorian Sculling Association and was its President in 1959-60-61.
Wally was devoted to the interests of rowing and to his Club, which will always be grateful for the loyal support and generous assistance he gave. He will long be remembered with affection wherever rowing men gather.
Extracted by Andrew Guerin
February 2023