Ray Merchant passed away 30 October 2024 in his native New Zealand amongst his family and friends. He will also be remembered with great affection by the many Pacific Rim geologists who sought Ray’s help to understand epithermal gold mineralisation. Ray was part of an impressive cohort of geologists that graduated from Auckland University in the 1970’s and entered the mineral exploration industry. He was the life of the Geology Department and at that time developed his reputation for entertaining us with his unique wit, generally when least expected, and which always features fondly in any discussion of Ray.
It is with sadness but also gratitude that we write to let you know of the passing of Dr David Ransom on the 29th September 2024. His time in the industry helped so many companies, so we say farewell with gratitude for his contribution. Loving husband of Josephine, adored father of Dallas and Alex, Thomas and Pia, Ian and Daphne, cherished grandfather of Scarlett, Malo, Clara and Archie.
Pete died on July 10th, in Bathurst. He was 78 years old and leaves behind his wife Christine, two great kids, Nina and Leon, and a geological/exploration community that will remember him fondly. Here is a potted history of a good bloke.
John’s Career Summary John’s Career in Full – a Great Story
Bob’s MSc Thesis – Non Linear Effects in Mineralised Rocks
ASEG Posthumous Presentation to Bob
It is with great sadness that we share with you the news that well-known geologist, historian and SMEDG supporter Tony Hope has passed away aged 82. Born in Hobart, Tony graduated from Sydney University in 1961 and like many of his colleagues, his career developed in the exciting early years of ‘modern’ mineral exploration.
The Hope Factor – Gingko – Arumpo Bentonite – Browns Creek Gold 
Powerpoint as 60!MB .pdf
We’ve lost a good friend, an excellent geologist and, not so well known, a talented musician.
Ian’s life is encapsulated, as best we can, here.
1935-2023
It is deep regret that we inform you that Toby Rose AO passed away on the 15th of January.
He was indeed a giant in both his profession and the NSW Public Sector.
Whilst in the NSWGS he initiated, inter alia, the 1:250 000 geological mapping and metallogenic mapping programs, and the Broken Hill detailed mapping.
He went on to head up the then Department of Mines and subsequently the Department of Minerals and Energy. He retired from government in 1992 and continued in the industry through directorships.
In 1993 he received an Order of Australia for service to mining and minerals research.
Mike passed away 16th May 2022.
Mike was known to most people as a Robertson Research geologist, geochemist and geostatistician based in Sydney and Bowral. He travelled
for the company to many out of the way places around the world and to most mineral provinces in Australia.
Later he formed his own company Minstat Pty Ltd and contracted mostly to Nord Pacific working on their Simberi Island gold project
and Girilambone copper deposits (Tritton).
He moved to Brisbane in 2003 and worked for Hatch and later Nord Resources until his retirement.
1948-2022
In the sudden loss of Bob Harrison, the minerals industry has lost a Tier 1 resource. For those outside the industry, Dr Richard Schodde defines a Tier 1 resource as “a ‘company making’ mineral deposit – they are large, long life and low cost”. They are the crown jewels for the industry and most of us would be lucky to find one in our lifetime.
Robert (Bob) Harrison was a one of a kind. With over 50 years in NSW and national mining title consulting, he was simply the most experienced, knowledgeable and competent practitioner of his ilk in Australia. The mining industry has lost a giant in our field, a true legend and I do not think we will see his like again. Lucy McClean
Bob’s Obituaries, The Eulogy, Funeral Program Cover and Inside and Bob’s Chile con Carne Recipe
It is with great sadness we share with you the news that Dr David Branagan has passed away aged 91. His influence on, and contributions to, so many facets of Australian science will be his legacy, and he will be greatly missed by his many geological colleagues.
Dave Branagan’s awards, contributions and appreciation from his colleagues, students and friends
For over 15 of the 24 years since the creation the Sydney Mining Club Chris Sabin has been our backstop.
His contribution of time, effort and care has been a gift to each one of us as members. His support for SMEDG is also greatly appreciated. A message of thanks.
A tribute to Bill Brook
FREDERICA ELBOURNE SUVA – Fiji Sun
18 Dec 2021
A legend in Fiji’s mining history was laid to rest in Nadi in November. Bill Brook, a seasoned exploration geologist, famed for his discovery of the Tuvatu gold deposit in the late 1980s, served the mining and mineral exploration sector for over 50 years.
Dave Roots passed away on 15th December, 2021. Many in SMEDG will remember him as a geology lecturer at Macquarie University and part time tutor at UTS. However, this simple description does not do justice to the life of an unquestionably amazing man. Some indication of his wonderful achievements are here.
Dr Andrew White passed away on the afternoon of his 80th birthday on Sunday 28 March, 2021. Andy was well known as a gentleman, a respected geologist and admired teacher who had many connections through the Australian and international mineral exploration and mining community.
He served in many positions in local companies progressing mineral exploration and thought, and was the founding director of the W.H. Bryan Mining Geology School at the University of Queensland, where he was admired as a competent teacher and amiable mentor. He published his first textbook, The Management of Mineral Exploration, in 1998, the first of its kind to incorporate the commercial and economic aspects of mineral search. At his death he had nearly completed his second text on his views of formation of mineral deposits, involving some radical concepts he had mulled over for years. Andy never liked wasting a precious minute of time.
16 February 1926 – 25 August 2020
Richard Limon Stanton, a distinguished economic geologist, died peacefully in his sleep in Canberra on 25 August aged 94. His life and work were strongly influenced by the Solomon Islands. Indeed, he once said that his life could be divided into two parts: that before he first went to the Solomons, and the much longer time since.
1928-2020
David was amongst the most successful minerals exploration geoscientists of the last 60 years, having participated in the discovery of at least 12 major ore bodies that have become major mines since, including Escondida (Chile), Toro Mocho (Peru), Pierina (Peru), and closer to home, the down-dip, faulted-off part of San Manuel/Kalamazoo in Arizona, applying the then evolving alteration zoning concept for drill targeting.
1941-2019
Steve was a world-renowned professor of geology at University of Toronto. He loved geology, the camaraderie of the academic world and the adventure of exploring new worlds such as the deep ocean. His passion and enthusiasm were contagious and spread to all his students and colleagues the global Scott Diaspora. He was loved and respected around the world and will be greatly missed.
27 Sept. 1928 – 18 Aug. 2019
Economic geologist Spence Titley joined the University of Arizona geoscience faculty in 1960. Upon retiring he was named Professor of Geosciences Emeritus. Spence mentored dozens and dozens of geoscientists-in-training in his nearly 60-year affiliation with UA. Dr. Titley passed away on the morning of 18 Aug. 2019.
Service details will be announced by his family at a later date.
Missed and remembered fondly by friends, colleagues and students from many parts of the world.
Before coming to Australia in 1972 to take up the appointment of Professor of Geophysics at Macquarie University, Keeva Vozoff was already well known in the geophysical world. By 1958 he was known as the father of 3D EM modeling, and in 1969, the father of 2D magnetotelluric (MT) inversion. These milestone achievements were continued at Macquarie University when, in 1975 he became the father of Joint Inversion of DC resistivity and MT and in 1978, 3D MT modeling. Keeva was born on January 26, 1928 in Minneapolis, Minnesota where he obtained his first degree, in physics, in 1949. Then followed a MSc in Pennsylvania State in 1951 and a PhD at MIT in 1956. During the period from 1951 to 1991, Keeva applied his talents to many positions in private geophysical companies including Geophysical Service Inc. and academically, he was a visiting Assoc. Prof. at the University of Alberta, the University of California (Berkeley) and at the University of Cologne. In 1981, at Macquarie, with his characteristic drive and enthusiasm, he established the Centre for Geophysical Exploration Research (CGER), such an institute being unique in Australia at that time. As well as EM, it dealt with seismic processing and numerical modeling and by hosting visiting post-graduates from many countries, produced outstanding research results. Keeva retained the chair at Macquarie until 1991 and continued to be active in research at the age of 80. All this and more is summarized in the SEG wiki site
A Man of modesty and grace.
The list of Sir Arvi’s achievements before and beyond his executive life is a book in itself. But he was admired for so much more than his success in business. Ask any of the many who knew him and they will identify his modesty and good grace as the surest measures of the man.
He was a great contributor to the development of Australia, fellow titan of the second half of the 20th century, Don Argus, said on Tuesday.
He was just such a lovely man. You needed to listen to him. He never wasted a word. His knowledge and his judgment were the two things that stood out. Some have knowledge but no judgment. He had deep reserves of both. He was able to develop views that others had no chance of getting to.
Sir Arvi on Mining and Minerals – A Timeless Presentation
From his friends at Delta Gold: Gerry was part of the “glue” at Delta, always with practical, down-to-earth advice when circumstances required.I will miss his wise counsel… and, I remember driving Gerry and his wife around all of Deltas Zim properties back in 1988. His advice and mentoring during this fortnight will remain with me forever. Sad news indeed… and, Gerry was always a true gentleman, maybe we should have a few drinks in honour of a great geoscientist at the Rag & Famish soon… and,the passing of another gentleman in the true sense of the word a man to remember for his counsel, his kindness, his professionalism and his humility.Very sad news.
It is with sadness we announce the passing of Don on Friday, December 28, 2018, age 83. He is survived by his loving wife Eleanor (Doherty); his children Vicki Williams (Michael), Cameron (Alicja), Sharon and Geoffrey; his grandchildren Lewis and Sonia; sister Janet Bourgeau (late Angus); and brother James Sangster. Don was a research scientist with the Geological Survey of Canada for 33 years. An avid canoeist/canoe craftsman, community firefighter volunteer.
5 July 1936 – 31 December 2018
Beloved husband of Charlotte Elisabeth (dec). Cherished papa of daughter Chrissie, son-in-law Keith and grand-daughters Lottie and Tessa. Much loved by Joanna, Anthony, Eloise and Daniel Keary, his many grand-children and his brother Gordon.
Lincoln was an accomplished geologist and enthusiastic explorer with a focus on field work following up on concepts he created based on a long life of geological experience. He was also a good friend and colleague to many in SMEDG and the wider geological community and will be missed by all who knew him.
Passionate geologist, lifelong baseballer and proud animal lover.
A remarkable man and a remarkable life
8 July 1957 – 12 December 2018
My heart aches with grief upon the realisation of Greg’s passing. Over the last 19 years Greg and I have had lunch together almost every day, worked in the bush together on many occasions, and shared our love of rocks, science, family and the outdoors while tossing around our grand dreams for exploration success. Greg’s kind gentle soul and aura instantly connected with everyone who met him. This humanity coupled with exceptional geological skills, an embrace of new technology and love of field work made him a rare gem. I have lost a true best friend whom I admired and respected but I’m comforted in knowing that his kindness and integrity will live on in our memories and actions for generations to come. Rob Rutherford.
David was educated at Brisbane Grammar and the University of Queenslandthen, after a brief stint at Bougainville, replete with a PhD from Melbourne University, he embarked on a lifelong career with CRA/Rio Tinto. David worked with and is remembered by many of the great characters of the global mining industry. A true leader, modest and funny, his was a life well lived but gone too soon. We send our condolences to Georgia, Sam, Rachel and grandson Leigh; and to David’s sister, Ann and brother, John.
 J. Muessig.JPG)
The plaudits will be flowing in from everyone who fell into Sigs orbit, especially from his time with US Borax, at Getty Oil and his close involvement with the SEG. At least two major mineral discoveries have Sig’s imprint; The Escondida porphyry copper deposit in Chile is one of the worlds great mines and the Jabiluka uranium deposit in Australia, one of the worlds best U deposits unfortunately trapped by political elements and which remains in the ground. He was a wonderful man, kind, thoughtful and a very good geologist. LA Times Obituary and Sig,from SEG Newsletter – Views
Warren was known to many SMEDG’ers. He was one of the good guys. The man behind the Argyle discovery and who spent his outstanding working life with Rio Tinto.
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Neil Cole, well known by many in the SMEDG community, a regular on the Cruises and a well-known and respected Sydney mining community identity.
Bob Carter epitomized the true scientist with his firm belief in the scientific method, belief in observable facts, belief in the primacy of science before politics, and a core belief derived from his geological training that what passes for weather and climate today has been experienced and documented many times over for millions of years of Earths history.
One of the best geologists and prospectors of his generation and, from his country upbringing, became a great bushman
Alex formed Search Exploration Services with Peter Elliot and used Scintrex IP equipment for several years, building Search’s reputation as a hard-working, reliable, geophysical contractor. However like many Australian geophysicists, he realised that equipment designed and built on the other side of the world wasn’t giving him the best answers in Australia, where electrically, the overburden often looked like sea
water. At this stage he could have done as most other contractors do and look for an off the shelf solution. Undaunted or perhaps not realising the cost both in time and money in building his own system,
he decided to do just that and with help from Phil Palmer on the hardware side and John Paine on the software side he built what is arguably the best IP system in the world and certainly the best system for Australian conditions. He took his systems all over the world.
Vale – Arnold Offenberg
13.07.1940 – 08.03.2015
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Arnold.
Beloved and devoted husband to Denise. Loving brother of Anneke and Tinneke. Wonderful father to Adrian, Daniel, Laura and Rochelle. Amazing Opi to Alex, Seb, Tess and Lachie. Loved and missed by all.
Arnold was formerly General Manager of Exploration for Newmont Pty Ltd, Newmont Indonesia and Newcrest Mining Ltd over a period of 13 years.He was Vice President of Exploration for Newmont Mining in Indonesia and the South West Pacific Region.During this time he was involved in mine discoveries at Tolukuma in Papua New Guinea, Minahasa, Batu Hijau and Gosowong in Indonesia and Cadia in Australia.He was also responsible for reserves and resources maintenance and exploration at Newmont’s operating mines in Australia. He provided assessments and advice on the exploration potential, resources, reserves and valuations of over 40 various projects and mines in Australia and overseas.He was a Non-Executive Director of Bendigo Mining NL and a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
2014
We mourn the loss of a mighty figure, a great mate and a mining legend.
Dave, the accomplished geologist who was always seeking for the geological truth.
“A net-vein complex fanatic from the mixing of magmas.”
JACK THOMPSON
1922 – 2013
Jack will be warmly remembered by many in the Sydney geological fraternity for his time with Amax.
Michael Leggo recalls, in his letter to John Curdie, President of the Epping RSL sub-Branch, who kindly provided the attached article from the Clubs Routine Orders on Jack: “I worked with Jack for many years with the American mining company which you have mentioned (Amax), where Jack provided strong technical leadership and mentoring of many of our young geologists. His enthusiasm for geology never waned and as you have noted, he could become very passionate about his latest ideas and observations. He was one of the old-timers who would rather head out into the jungle with a horde of porters, food supplies and tent flies and build his camps as he went along rather than rely on helicopters and base camps.” Another geologist remembers Jack from the Getty-Amax Magavara joint venture in Milne Bay Province in 1973: “Jack’s aerial 3D photographs in PNG were legendary. I also remember his amusement at being able to talk to the Amax New York head-office using an SSB radio from a remote Highlands village in PNG via a Port Moresby telephone link.”
Here is Jack’s story by John Curdie.
Ian was farewelled by family, friends and colleagues from Geoscience Australia dating back to the BMR days
Some sad news for the Australian geological community. I’ve just had an email from Bill’s daughter Marian and son-in-law Mike Fellows (a Townsville-based geo) which in part reads:
“A note to advise that Bill Lacy died December 7th in Tucson, Arizona. He was 97 and a half. He enjoyed a full life that would have been more than enough for two lesser men and had a gracious and peaceful ending. He had very fond memories of his time in Australia and the many people who made him feel welcome here. “
Bill had a big impact on minerals side of geology down under, particularly during his time as Professor of Geology at James Cook University. His James Cook MSc course for geo’s working in industry was legendary and touched the lives of many who are now industry leaders. He was a true gentleman geologist and was greatly respected by all he came into contact with.
Neil Williams, President, Australian Geoscience Council
23 December 2013
Macquarie Park – Palm Chapel – North Ryde
Monday, 25th November, 2013. 1:15 p.m.
Remembering Dave Clappison The Eulogy – The Limericks – The Anecdotes
was held on Wednesday, 16th November
at Magnolia Chapel, Macquarie Park, North Ryde, NSW.
Please send any messages and memories you would like us to add to Hugo’s memorial
Dave Suppel passed away on 11 March this year after a three year battle with cancer. Many in the minerals industry would have known Dave as the long-time Principal Geologist Metallic Minerals in the Geological Survey of New South Wales. To encounter a Dave Suppel in a career is to have had an experience one should value for a lifetime. Quality individuals such as Dave are unfortunately rarer than we would like to think. Accordingly, Dave Suppel’s death is not only a loss to our professional cadre but also a loss to that small cohort of good men.
Another very good year…..
2009
A very good year…..
2008
A very good year…..
On the twenty-eight of February 2007, the world lost not only a fine geologist and petrologist, but also an outstanding human being.
The Terry Leach Scholarship Remembrances & Reminiscences Messages on Mail Archive Ray Merchant’s last visit with Terry
An inspiring celebration of his life took place on Monday 20th November.
Robin’s two great legacies were revealed – his family & his contributions to geology.
Obituary
Robin Curtis Remembered
Robin Curtis by David Curtis
“Robin was a very upright kind of bloke, well-liked and admired, highly ethical, took no shortcuts and was a very good geologist.”
A very good year…..
2004
Another very good year…..
2003
Paul Riddell passed away in Salt Lake City in August 2003. Paul will be remembered fondly in Australia as a most delightful and capable head of Getty Oil Development Company based in Sydney. Paul and Jackie lived here from 1972 until 1979, made many friends and were missed by all of us when they returned to Salt Lake City.
Tribute to Ilmars “Bill” Gemuts – March 30 1939 – April 25 2003.
Reg Gersteling, geologist and SMEDG supporter, passed away in October. We extend our sympathy to Reg’s family and his wide circle of friends.
via Yerranderie – Historic Ag-Pb-Au Mining Town
140 kilometres in 8 days. No comforts. No care. No responsibility.
Was departing Katoomba on Saturday, 20th October, 2001
Peter, the Mystery Organiser, and great mate to many of us, died on Wednesday, 17th October, 2001, aged 60 years. He was step-weight training to lead the Walking Tour.
Peter’s Farewell was held at 10am, Thursday 25th of October, at the Leura Memorial Gardens in the Blue Mountains.
Please send in any “Mewkill Anecdotes” covering his early days at RMIT, Australian Groundwater Consultants, McPhar Geophysics, Geoquest, the early electrical surveys, Pacminex at Cudgegong, the move to solo magnetics and gravity, the Selwyn-Starra days, Georgetown FNQ Glory, the Iranian Adventure, the US tours, contracts with Amoco, Cyprus, Getty, Delta and the many other exploration groups he worked with.
Text and image contributions are being used to build Peter’s Page
Kerin (Hall) Donovan passed away on Wednesday, July the 4th, 2001. Kerin’s funeral was held at 1.30 pm on Tuesday, 10 July at the Blessed Sacrament Church, Bradleys Head Road, Clifton Gardens.
A Memorial Service was also held for Kerin in Manila.
Kerin, a very capable geologist, was part of SMEDG for many years and, while resident in Sydney, attended most of our meetings and events. She battled cancer courageously and was very grateful for the excellent hospice care she received in the Philippines over the last few years before returning recently to Victoria . Kerin is missed by her many friends and colleagues and we extend our sympathy to her family.
Gold in Madagascar – A Treatise, 1996. Central Africa – Mineral Potential Madagascar Mineral Exploration Africa Symposium
