It is with regret that the Burma Thailand Railway Memorial Association records the passing of Past Chairman Hugh Warden.
Hugh Warden was a founding member of the Burma Thailand Railway Memorial Association including terms as Vice Chairman and Chairman.
He also served the Australian Community by his outstanding achievements and contributions as a citizen serving the community and in primary industry in Australia in general but in Western Australia particularly.
Hugh Warden was born on the 17th of November 1935, at “Mt Airlie” Milton, NSW, and grew up on a dairy farm at Ulladulla, NSW. His primary schooling was at Croobyar and Milton Primary schools. in Sydney. High school years were spent at Shore (Sydney Church of England Grammar School).
In December 1953, after leaving Shore, Hugh Warden pursued his love of agriculture “Jackerooing” and working at Merino studs and cattle stations in Victoria, Queensland, and New South Wales before moving to Western Australia where he became. responsible for Wesfarmers livestock operations. in W.A. and live export marketing
Hugh Warden was regarded as a respected and influential manager of Wesfarmers livestock department and later, sheep industry consultant and advocate who played a role in developing sheep genetics exports. He was also an active member of the Royal Agricultural Society for 36 years of active involvement.
Hugh Warden served the Australian Community with great distinction by his contribution to the perpetuation of the memory of the privations and sacrifices of Allied Prisoners of War of the Japanese. He achieved this over a fifteen-year period as a co-founder and office bearer of the Burma Thailand Railway Memorial Association (Inc), being a prime mover in the establishment of the Association.
He was Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Association for many years and travelled regularly on the Quiet Lion Tours.
Hugh Warden was an active member of the Port Beach Polar Bears from its inception…
Hugh Warden was a volunteer as a counselor for the 24-hour Salvation Army telephone counseling service commenced from early 1983.
Hugh Warden’s social and community work has assisted many people in many ways in the forms of advice, guidance, and support.
Hugh passed away peacefully after a long illness on the 8th February 2024. He was the beloved husband of Nette, adored father and father-in-law of Georgina and Kent, Doug and Katherine. Much loved grandfather and great grandfather of Jess, Blair and Ada, Alex and Dan, Annabelle, Ollie and Charlie.
Hugh will be remembered by all who knew him.