Vale John Ewels

Members and friends of Central Highlands Orienteers are saddened to hear of the passing of John Ewels. John has been a tireless cornerstone of the club – as Secretary for many years, and as a skilled orienteering course setter, particularly on the Macedon Town map. John and Lois and their family have been mainstays of on-the-day registration, timing and welcoming crew at bush and urban events. John attended some of this spring’s Wednesday evening twilight events in recent weeks.

As Principal of Macedon Primary School, John inspired students from many schools in the region to experience orienteering. Macedon Primary School reigned as the champion orienteering primary school in Victoria for nearly a decade. Several Macedon PS students and club members have progressed to represent Victoria and Australia in open competition, including Troy de Haas, Kathryn Ewels, Mary Fleming, Lucy Fleming and Sophie Taverna.

John, you have been an inspiration to many people to explore our local bush surrounds, either walking or running, and to compete at high levels. We thank you and the whole Ewels family on behalf of everyone who has benefited from your leadership, vision and hard work.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Lois, Kathryn, Jane and Meredith and the extended Ewels family