Vale Don Marles OAM

The Trinity community is deeply saddened by the death of former Headmaster, Don Marles OAM.

Don was an ambitious and foresighted educator, whose leadership was integral in establishing our Trinity culture of educational innovation and excellence in all pursuits. He led the School with passion, dedication and vision from 1979 until his retirement in 1992.

An excellent golfer, Don also coached cricket, football and athletics with great success. He understood that offering a range of co-curricular and student leadership opportunities helped to grow well-rounded young men of service and influence. Under his leadership the School welcomed its first intake of international students, which Don believed would help foster positive relations between Australia and Asia during a time of political and financial tension.

The hallmark of his 13-year tenure however, was the rapid and significant expansion of the School’s facilities, including the purchase and development of the playing fields at Bulleen, the refurbishment of the Junior School, and the construction of the Chapel of the Holy Trinity, among others.

Indeed, it is difficult to imagine Trinity without the Marles Playing Fields at Bulleen, and as such his legacy will continue to be enjoyed by generations of past, present and future Trinity men.

Don is survived by his wife, Fay; son, Richard; and daughters, Victoria, Elizabeth and Jenny.

On behalf of the School Council, our staff and students, and indeed all members of the Trinity community, we extend our collective sympathies to his family and friends.

A funeral service to commemorate and celebrate Don’s life was held at the School on Tuesday 18 April in the Chapel of the Holy Trinity.