4 minute read
A Remarkable Life
A Remarkable Life
Written by Nikita Blom
As Jim Truesdale approaches his 100th birthday, we reflect on his extraordinary life journey. From his early days as a student at Brisbane Grammar School to his remarkable contributions in the professional world and beyond, Jim’s story is one of dedication, mateship and lifelong connection to the School.
Jim joined BGS in the early 1940s after earning a scholarship during the early years of World War II. He vividly recalls arriving in Brisbane just as the Story Bridge was being joined, marking the beginning of his formative years at the School. “There’s something unexplainable in the school, which poet George Jordan called ‘the school spirit’,” Jim shares. “It’s still with me.”
At school, Jim’s love for sport and aeronautics fuelled his passions—he played in the First XV and spent hours poring over books about planes, a fascination that led him directly from the classroom to the cockpit. “I was going to join the Air Force as soon as I’d done the matriculation exam, much to my mother’s disappointment.”
Three days after completing his final exams in senior school in 1943, Jim enlisted and was soon piloting Liberators during WWII. Stationed in the Philippines, he was preparing for a mission to Japan when the war abruptly ended following the atomic bombings. “War is a dreadful business,” he says quietly. “I try not to think about it.”
Though on reflection, Jim says “I probably would join up again, but not with the enthusiasm that I had 80 years ago.”
Post-war, Jim’s journey took him to South Australia to find work, where he studied accounting at night. After transferring to Melbourne, a chance encounter with a local girl in the office became the start of a 72-year marriage to Lorraine, his beloved wife.
The spirit of the school, the friendships—that’s what stays with you
“She made the rules, and so in Melbourne we stayed,” he quips.
Jim had a successful business career as a financial director that saw him chair multiple public companies and travel the world, but never lost touch with his BGS roots and schoolmates. He fondly recounts memories of mischievous pranks, rugby tackles from his mate Errol Noble, and betting on which master would bolt for Melbourne Cup recess first.
“We all used to line up between the ground floor classroom and the toilet, and we’d all have had a bet on who’d be the first master to go to the 11 o’clock break,” he says.
Even now, Jim keeps his mind and body sharp, by still enjoying swimming in the surf, plenty of walking and following the stock exchange daily.
He is still very interested in history, particularly ancient history, which was his favourite subject at school and has been a lifelong passion, reflecting his curiosity and desire to learn.
“Your brain’s like a muscle. If you don’t use it, it wastes away.”
Now, as Jim approaches his centennial milestone, his daughter Melinda is busy making plans for a celebration with friends and family in Melbourne—a momentous occasion that will not only mark a significant personal achievement for Jim but also serve as a testament to the rich and fulfilling life he has led.
From his formative years at Brisbane Grammar School to his impactful professional career, his life is a tapestry of accomplishments. Jim remains a cherished part of the Grammar community—a living embodiment of its enduring spirit.
“The spirit of the school, the friendships—that’s what stays with you,” he says.
Jim’s legacy will continue to inspire and influence those who have had the privilege of knowing him. We celebrate a century of wisdom, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to BGS.
“I might invite myself back for Foundation Day,” he jokes, still sharp, warm, and ever loyal to the school that helped shape his remarkable life.
There’s something unexplainable in the school, which poet George Jordan called ‘the school spirit’. It’s still with me.
