Dr Adrian Vicary
20 September 1945 – 8 November 2024
It is with deepest sadness that the Graham F Smith Peace Foundation says goodbye to Adrian – a committed member and a loyal friend.
Adrian always responded to our newsletter and to Peace Foundation activities promptly. His most recent involvement was securing, with persistence, our book Art for Peace: The Story of the Graham F Smith Peace Foundation which he supported wholeheartedly in its attention to human rights, social justice and environmental sustainability through the arts.
‘In the Interests of Education: A history of Education Unionism in South Australia’ by Adrian Vicary, 1997. Allen & Unwin.
On a personal note, I was first introduced to the young Adrian by the late Graham Smith about the time of the protests against the Vietnam War, including the Moratorium marches taking place in the 1970s. Adrian and Graham shared strong interests in justice to make a better world. So as Graham was dying, he asked Adrian to take on the project close to his heart of writing the history of the Teachers’ Union. Adrian accepted immediately and the book In the Interests of Education: A history of Education Unionism in South Australia was produced. Adrian was very proud of the book. I shared in this pride.
In the area of education Associate Professor Adrian Vicary was one of UniSA’s inaugural staff members where he held numerous leadership positions including Head of School and Senior Lecturer. It is acknowledged that he excelled in teaching and research in education, political sociology and history. He gained professional qualifications in education and a PhD in political sociology. In recognition of his contribution to the University he held the honorary title of University Fellow.
He also held leadership roles in many non-profit organisations and served on many boards. He was a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Member of the Arts Industry Council of South Australia, and an Associated Member of the Institute of Community Directors Australia. He made special contributions to the Jaipur Literature Festival Advocacy Group, a component of OzAsia and Nexus Arts.
Following his retirement from UniSA, Adrian joined Nexus Arts in 2014. He was Chair of the Board and was proud to advocate for the unique and vibrant intercultural work of Nexus Arts in the interests of global citizenship.
Fortunately, I had the opportunity to connect with Adrian, i.e. when he was not overseas, at monthly social gatherings organised by Alison Fort. We were able to share much information, particularly about his family which he adored. From Alison’s perspective Adrian was a gentle and generous soul and a true friend. We all agree with that.
Adrian had a strong commitment to education, justice and the arts and in these areas he achieved outstanding results.
Thank you, Adrian. Rest in peace. You will be remembered.
Léonie M Ebert