VALE JOHN MACKLIN
Many members will be saddened to hear of the passing of John Macklin in September. John was well known to many members through his long membership of Beefsteak and Burgundy and in the role of General Secretary.
John’s Beefsteak and Burgundy association commenced in the 1970s when the President of the Caxton Club nominated John for membership. John soon learnt about the history of Beefsteak and Burgundy, serving in most committee positions including as Club President in 1982.
During his time with the Caxton Club, John was asked to speak to a group about forming a new club. As a result the new club, Yarra Falls, was formed with John as their Charter President. Thus John was a member of two clubs to enhance his Beefsteak and Burgundy enjoyment.
In 1994 John relocated to Adelaide and joined the Adelaide B&B Club, joining the committee at the same time. Thus John’s involvement with the administration of Beefsteak and Burgundy nationally and internationally commenced. John was the International President in 1997 and 1998.
His strong involvement continued when he accepted the role as the Chair of the 50th Anniversary Convention organising committee which was held in Adelaide in 2004. The Convention was attended by 420 delegates.
John’s contribution continued when he took on the role of the General Secretary in 2005, a position which he held for 4 years when his health required him to “retire” and enjoy a quieter B&B life until he relocated to Melbourne in 2009.
John was a great ambassador for Beefsteak and Burgundy. He thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie and friendships he formed during his many years of membership and the many interesting and fine wines tasted. He particularly enjoyed visiting other clubs when the opportunities arose, including returning to the Caxton Club.
We extend our sympathies to his wife Rosemary and his two daughters.
(Our appreciation to the Caxton Club for contributing to this article.)
