LINDSAY GRAEME FOSTER SC (1951 – 2021)

 

Lindsay Foster died 21 November 2021 aged 70.

He played two seasons, 1974-75 and 1976-77, with SUCC having previously played five seasons with Northern District.

Those two seasons were mightily successful and memorable for the University 3rd Grade side that was Runners Up and then Minor Premiers under the astute and inclusive captaincy of the much-respected Rob Thomas. Lindsay was an integral part in the success and harmony of those sides.

 

He had been educated at Knox College where he ‘took under his wing’ younger students who may have been otherwise overawed. One of those was Chris Elder who especially remembers Lindsay’s kindness and thoughtfulness towards him. Those characteristics, and a chuckling laugh that put everyone at ease, were to remain with him throughout a distinguished life.

Lindsay studied Arts/Law, was later called to the NSW Bar and was eventually appointed to the Bench.

Some of those who shared those seasons in the mid 1970s have written with much appreciation for Lindsay’s life and influence.

Rob Thomas his captain.

“He was an enthusiastic and jovial team-mate and club member; a stylish batsman with a flourishing cover drive; not only a contributor on the field but great company after stumps. I also recall him as a very dedicated law student. He carved out a successful career as a barrister and as a respected judge.”

Dr Lawrie Bott

“That year of cricket (1974-75) was the most enjoyable of my career…a wonderful bunch of people and future life-long friends.

Lindsay was one of the enthusiastic, happy players who allowed us to achieve great heights that season…a brave batsman with an excellent cover drive.”

Steve Ward

“As I try to picture him, every time the image that emerges is both youthful and cheerful. I cannot recall him without a smile on his face. He was typical of that team that provided me with a stable and highly enjoyable home.”

Chris McRae

“I used to catch up with Lindsay when Trinity played Knox in the Rugby, discussing legal matters…like the lousy refereeing!”

Jock Baird

I knew Lindsay in a number of other respects apart from our playing days: as a barrister when he was at the Bar. I, as solicitor, would brief him (and sometimes be opposed to him), as proud fathers when our respective sons were in the Knox Grammar rugby U13 – U15A’s where we spent many a convivial winter’s Saturday morning doing what fathers do, standing on muddy sidelines on such occasions (mostly drinking coffee to stay warm and discussing the plight of the world, or at least the Wallabies), and finally when Lindsay had been elevated to the Bench and I would appear before him (he was very kind to me and forgiving of my inadequacies on more than one occasion).

He was always good company, especially over a glass of red wine or two, with a lively wit and an engaging smile that often foretold some piercing observation or remark (but never delivered with any malice). He was generous with his time to those who sought his advice and never condescending to those less fortunate or who did not possess his powerful intellect: a true gentleman and scholar. Even when he became extremely ill  he never lost his sense of humour or his curiosity at the world, but bore his pain stoically and with incredible strength and optimism.

 

Lindsay of course had a very distinguished legal career. I knew him as a friend: a good cricketer, raconteur and bon vivant. We shall all miss him.”

The Club offers its sincere sympathy to Lindsay’s wife, Anne, and to their four children.

James Rodgers