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It is with sadness that The Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) acknowledges the recent passing of two Honorary RASV Life Members Mary de Crespigny and Joy Johnson along with long-term Royal Melbourne Show Horses in Action and Poultry exhibitor Kevin Collins and RASV volunteer Bruce Carroll.

Mary de Crespigny

Mary had a long involvement with the Royal Melbourne Show, having first competed in a horse competition at the age of three. Mary was a competitor in the Horses in Action Garryowen Equestrienne Turnout, winning the inaugural Junior Garryowen in 1940.

In addition, Mary was a Royal Melbourne Show steward for more than 30 years and also judged RASV and Royal Melbourne Show Horse Competitions. In recognition of her service and contribution, Mary was awarded the RASV President’s Medal in 1998 and was inducted into the Garryowen Hall of Fame in 2014.

Mary completed an oral history with the RASV some years ago with the edited transcript available on the RASV Virtual Museum.

Joy Johnson

Joy was a great supporter of the Royal Melbourne Show Art, Craft & Cookery Competition, with a particular interest in decorated cakes. She also volunteered her time as an Art Craft & Cookery Competition steward for many years and was keen to grow the competition and remained committed to ensuring exhibitors were well recognised for their work. In recognition of her many years of support, Joy was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the RASV.

Bruce Carroll

Bruce and his wife, Ellen Kittson have volunteered for many years as stewards at all five of the RASV Award Programs. Bruce was known for his warm personality, encouraging words and provided terrific support for RASV staff and all those that worked alongside him.

Kevin Collins

Kevin was involved as an exhibitor in the Heavy Horse component of the Royal Melbourne Show Horses in Action Competition and the Poultry Competition for many years.