Professor Ian McMicking (Fr 1964)
1945 - 2024

The Principal, Council and St Andrew’s College community honour the life of Ian McMicking (Fr 1964) who passed away peacefully on 6th November 2024, aged 79.

Ian was born on 28th February 1945 on a grazing property in the Dirranbandi district of southern Queensland. He was the third child of four, and the second of two boys. His family relocated to New South Wales when his father joined a stock and station agency, with Ian attending The Scots College in Bathurst.

He was a student at St Andrew's from 1964-1967 and quickly became heavily involved in the vibrant College social life. Whilst studying Arts at University of Sydney, during his time at St Andrew's he participated in the Rawson Athletics and played bridge for the College. A 1967 College magazine piece written by his fellow students notes: "There are as many facets to 'Mick' as there are to the Cullinan diamond - perhaps the best broad jumper has seen in recent years...he has a sincere concern for the welfare of the College." Ian held great memories of performing the address to the Haggis at one of the Valedictory Dinners.

After graduating, Ian worked many different jobs, but was yet to find one he truly enjoyed. Driven by the desire to find his passion and see more of the world, Ian took the opportunity to apply for a graduate teaching position in Japan; a decision that greatly influenced the rest of his life, the majority of which was spent living there. In teaching he had found his calling, and ended up following this career path for life, accumulating nearly 50 years in the field of education. He also authored textbooks, and on retirement was delighted to be named an Emeritus Professor.

A keen traveller throughout his life, Ian's other interests included classical music concerts, art galleries and museums and Kendo, the Japanese martial art.

Ian's funeral was held on 10th November in Japan.

Ian's wife Nobuko and the extended McMicking family are held warmly in our thoughts and our deepest sympathy goes out to all who knew Ian.

Above: Ian McMicking (top row on the right) with the 1966 Rawson Athletics team

Above: 1967 whole of College photo