The late Vic Melbourne, 94, who passed away in Narrabri on Saturday, October 4, was a prominent and respected figure in the Narrabri shire community and across the North West.
Mr Melbourne was a third generation, traditional Australian farmer in the sense of his down to earth and no-nonsense persona, but will be remembered particularly as a visionary, an innovator and a leader in agriculture in this district.
In the early 1960s he was a pioneer not only in the cotton and irrigation industry which transformed agriculture in the Namoi Valley, but in introducing new crops into the family’s wider farming programs.
His advice, freely given when sought, was valued by the farming fraternity.
He was a mentor to many.
“Vic was always generous to a fault when asked for help and advice,” said one of his long time friends.
“He truly personified what is nowadays known as ‘the work ethic’ and he was always committed to ensuring the family’s farming activities were the best they could be.”
The late Mr Melbourne was a leader in the Namoi Valley cotton industry and growers new to the industry welcomed his encouragement and support.
Over decades, Mr Melbourne, through his hard work and determination and capacity to embrace new technologies, developed very successful farming and grazing enterprises across several properties with the Melbourne family home ‘Yarral’ mid way between Narrabri and Wee Waa the hub for farming operations.
He was a member of a farming family of many generations which is continued through his family.
Mr Melbourne will be sadly missed by his many friends who join his family in mourning his passing.
