James Eric Bain, known as George, was born in Wauchope on June 10 1916.

His parents, James and Ivy, lived on their farm of Clareville surrounded by the Hastings River and Yippin Creek, off Bain Street.

George’s father was the son of Wauchope’s historic statesman, Duncan Bain.  Duncan’s father had come from Scotland with his family, and he and his brother settled in the Hastings and it’s been home to the Bain families ever since.

Wauchope benefited from Duncan’s vision for the town, and he donated much land for communal use and enjoyment – hence Bain Street, Bain Bridge and Bain Park.

George married Edie Monkley in 1940, and they had three children – James, Frank (deceased) and Patti (Chelman).  

They had five grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, and all of them enjoyed many happy hours with their grandparents in George’s garden at his home in Bain Street.  Sadly, Edie passed away in 2008.

George worked for many years on the family farm, but then handed it on to his son and bought a taxi in Wauchope. He loved the driving life and reluctantly retired at 65, giving him more time for his garden and golf.

Sport was a love of George’s and in his youth, he was a keen and very capable boxer and footballer. In later life, he was instrumental in setting up and training young boxers in the Wauchope Boxing Club, with Rud Steel.  He played golf until he reached 93 years.

George came from a strong Christian background and attended the Free Presbyterian Church all of his life, until his great old age made it impossible.

During his time in the church, he took on many roles, including deacon, elder, Sabbath school supervisor, fellowship supervisor and groundsman.

In June, he celebrated his 100^th birthday at Bundaleer Nursing Home and in Bain Park with family and friends.  He believed his longevity was down to good genes, keeping fit and eating home-grown produce.

His daughter Patti said he had dementia, but was always cheerful.

“He loved company right up until the end and tried his hardest to be entertaining,” she said.

George broke his hip in April so he had to use a wheelchair after that, but he could still go into the garden.  

“That’s where he spent his days, in the sun,” she said.

George’s funeral was held this week at the Free Presbyterian Church in Wauchope, and family, friends and carers all came to say farewell.

“Everyone had a story about him.  He was very special to a lot of people,” said his daughter.