Edward Millear was a cherished member of the Melbourne Grammar School community.
A Year 12 student, Edward collapsed during a rowing training session on 18 February 2025. Despite immediate expert first aid and medical care, Edward died in the early hours of the following morning.
We were all devastated by the terrible news.
We drew on all our expertise to ensure that the Millear family and each student, coach and staff member was cared for and supported as they came to terms with the loss of Edward.
Many fine tributes have been paid to Edward. Of note, Edward’s crew, the Second VIII, performed a ‘row past’ at the Australian Henley Regatta, leaving Edward’s seat empty, adorned with a simple bouquet of flowers.
A memorial service was also held at the School on 7 March 2025.
We extend our deepest sympathy to Edward’s parents, Dimity and Spencer Millear (OM 1983), his siblings Simon and Eleanor, and his wider family.
From Otto Mayo, Vice-Captain of the School and Captain of Boats
Otto Mayo gave a speech at the Head of the River Dinner held on 22 March 2025. Here is an excerpt.
Rowing can teach us a lot. In the frustratingly minute technique adjustments, it teaches us patience and self-control. In the rewarding of togetherness over individuality, it teaches the value of teamwork and selflessness. In the unmatched physical pain and effort of ergos and races, it teaches mental toughness that really can’t be found in other parts of life.
But I learned four and a half weeks ago that there are some things that rowing can never prepare you for. Life is harsh, reality is unforgiving, and it can be cruel. We learned that this season.
When I have imagined this day, my final Head of the River, which I can assure you I’ve done many many times, it’s been an incredible mix of emotions. I imagined joy, the melancholy of the end of the season, sadness to never row with these boys, but what I never imagined was grief.
Four and a half weeks ago, we lost a part of ourselves. Eddy’s death was shocking and incomprehensible. He was a crewmate to some, a best friend to others, but to all of us he was a brother.
The way the community has come together since our mate’s passing has been so incredible. Dean’s [coach] Second VIII is the most impressive group of boys I’ve ever seen. So many would have ended the season there, and indeed everyone would have understood, but they bounced back, and they charged on. I’m so proud of you boys.
George Millear, Big Ed’s uncle, came to the sheds last week and gave us a message. He told the Second VIII that this afternoon [at the Head of the River], Ed would be rowing in the boat with them. It’s no wonder they won then, with a ninth rower to take them over the line, to everyone else’s eight. He will always be with us. The Second VIII victory today is a testament to his memory, to the strength of our love for him and for each other.
To Spencer and Dimity, a deep thanks. Thank you for sharing your beautiful son with us for the last four years. He brought us so much joy.