We are saddened to hear of the passing of Old Collegian Richard (Dick) Lythgo (SPC 1962-68) who passed away peacefully on 5 March 2025, aged 73, surrounded by his loving family.
Dick had been diagnosed with a rare lung cancer last August and after some initial positive results with a new trial drug, unfortunately succumbed to the cancer. True to his nature he remained positive to the end.
A memorial service will be held at Apollo Bay on 12 April 2025 at 1.00pm at The Mechanics Institute.
Dick grew up in Ballarat East and attended primary school firstly at St Alipius Primary then from Grade 3 at the St Alipius Christian Brothers School.
He matriculated in 1967, however he returned to do a second year Matric in 1968 as he was very young for his year level, having completed Grades 3 and 4 in one year. His results that year earned him a Commonwealth Scholarship and a place at the University of Melbourne in the Science faculty.
During his time at St Pat’s, he was heavily involved with the cadets, culminating with the position of Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM). He received many accolades for the way he fulfilled this role. In his final year at school, he was also selected as a school prefect.
Dick completed his Science degree with a major in Mathematics and then completed a Diploma of Education. His first appointment was to Cohuna High School in 1975. He loved teaching, particularly in a rural setting, and this proved to be the start of a long and distinguished career in education. The big highlight of this first appointment was meeting his wife Robyn, who was a primary teacher in a neighbouring school. In the following years Dick and Robyn moved around and he held positions at Kyneton, Williamstown and Maribyrnong High Schools. During this period he was also recognised for his expertise and seconded to the Curriculum Branch of the Education Department.
However the highlight of his career was his appointment to the position of Principal of Apollo Bay P-12 College. This brought together his passion for education and love of working in a small community. He held a strong belief that the school should be a vital part of the community and established a range of programs to strengthen those ties. He and Robyn loved this idyllic community and committed to stay long term. They raised their three girls, Moya, Zena and Mara there, and were heavily involved in many community activities. Dick served in numerous local organisations, including the Surf Club, Football Club, Bowls Club and Golf Club. He was President of the Golf Club for seven years, only retiring from the position when he became unwell.
Dick was Principal at Apollo Bay for nearly 20 years, but still remained very active in his retirement years. As well as his involvement in the local community, he worked as an Education Consultant with AusAid and other organisations. This included stints of working in schools in Vanuatu, Nauru and Abu Dhabi.
He also became a semi-regular attendee at the Paddies Lunches, where he thoroughly enjoyed reminiscing and yarning with old friends. He will be sadly missed both in his local community and by his many friends.
Rest in Peace, Dick.
Thank you to Gerard Fogarty for his help with preparing this tribute
