FEHRING, Gordon Douglas

“What would life be like if we had no courage to attempt anything?” — Vincent van Gogh

On behalf of Denise and I, and the whole Fehring family, we offer our deepest condolences and sympathy to Brenda, Toby, Hilary and partner Steve, and Gordon’s beloved grandchildren, William and Harry.

This tribute marks the loss of our brother Gordon, who was, in so many ways, a centrepiece of our family and community. He will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality and his dedication to local projects that benefited so many people.
Where do you begin when describing the remarkable journey Gordon shared with his family, his dear wife Brenda, his children and, later, his grandchildren?
“Life is my university, and I hope to graduate with some distinction.” — Louisa May Alcott

Gordon was the second of nine children in our unique family. From the time he learnt to walk and began discovering how the world worked, he was always tinkering and having a go at creating something. His individual personality emerged quickly: he could annoy the rest of the family and, at times, present a challenge to his parents, Reg and Janet. From his earliest days, Gordon would try virtually anything. He was a very good horse rider and, along with his brother Brian (Bunny), soon learnt to drive a tractor. His fascination with mechanical systems later led him into that profession for a time. School interested him far less; it simply did not suit his adventurous and inquisitive nature.
When Gordon reached his teenage years and acquired some wheels, he was soon out and about, forming close friendships that, in many cases, lasted a lifetime. Stories came thick and fast about the pranks he did—and did not—get up to. He also survived a couple of close calls, experiences that may well have strengthened his determination to do what he could for others.

For a time, Gordon operated a motor garage in Leitchville, servicing and repairing all manner of vehicles that needed attention.
Gordon and Brenda were highly successful dairy farmers who worked at the leading edge of emerging technology. With the arrival of lasers and their adaptation for land forming, Gordon made his name. Thinking outside the box and working with the late Stan Archard and others, he helped revolutionise irrigation-farm layouts, making better water use and water-saving practices the norm. He recognised that laser technology could level land with great accuracy for the benefit of farmers. Gordon believed technology should work for people, not the other way around.
Gordon also helped develop several automatic irrigation systems that contributed to the sophisticated systems used today. Once again, the key was his practical, straightforward approach. People marvelled at what he achieved and became enthusiastic about adopting the technology.
Alongside their work, Brenda and Gordon raised Toby and Hilary. Together, they sought to give their children the best opportunities life could offer, providing the care and guidance that would help them make the most of their lives.
After leaving the farm, Gordon became something of a community adviser to almost everyone he befriended. People took the time to listen to his solutions, wisdom and advice, and they valued the can-do attitude he brought to every problem.
In recent years, Gordon became the repairer of houses that had already seen plenty of life, rejuvenating them through his intriguing renovation methods. His work clothes became part of the story: usually obtained from the Op shop, they would be covered within a month or so in paint, plaster and whatever else Gordon happened to be working with.
Gordon was also good at playing conversational games. He would announce that he had “a bit of useless trivia “ to share and, when you asked what it was, he would begin at the finish line. You then had to work your way back to the beginning before you could understand what he was talking about. It was Gordon’s way of keeping control and ensuring that every conversation unfolded on his terms.
He also took to the sky like a bird, owning and flying ultralights and becoming the spy in the sky long before drones were invented. A few of us went up with him, and I was among the lucky ones who thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
In many ways, Gordon’s life was a testament to his pursuit of excellence. He leaves a legacy of innovation and kindness that will remain a source of pride and inspiration for our community.
It must also be said that Gordon could be quite cantankerous at times. No doubt the odd bureaucrat felt the force of his determination when he believed something needed to be sorted out properly.
We will all remember one of Gordon’s favourite sayings:

“I am generous with my time — but not with my money.”
There are so many other stories that recording them all would take many days.
His relationship with each person was unique. He was kind, generous and thoughtful, with a knack for making others feel important and for helping those around him in ways that left a lasting impression.
Gordon also had a love affair with machinery, particularly a famous 220-horsepower John Deere and a Colville Laser grader scoop that he rebuilt many times. When the machines were in action, they were formidable. Gordon expected his farming customers to have the fences removed and the ground ploughed, ready for him to begin.
A quotation displayed on a piece of agricultural machinery near Bendigo captures the spirit of Gordon’s life:
I expect to pass through this world but once.
Any good I can do,
Or any kindness I can show,
Let me do it now.
Let me not defer or neglect it,
For I shall not pass this way again.

As we say goodbye to Gordon, we are grateful for the many memories he leaves behind. They will continue to remind us to cherish kindness, community and the joy of being ourselves—qualities Gordon possessed in bucketloads.
Gordon’s loss was so sudden that we still expect him to come through the door or turn up at one of our homes. Sadly, that will be no more.
He leaves Brenda, Toby, Hilary and their family with much to mourn, but also with the rich memories of a life in which Gordon played such a central part. The same sorrow and gratitude are shared by his brothers and sisters: Max, Wally, Eric (deceased), Brian, Elaine (deceased), Russell, Ruth and Owen.
There was never any doubt that Gordon intended to leave this world on his own terms. He asked for a simple farewell: that his ashes be scattered in his beloved Gunbower Creek, which flows into the Murray, and that he be remembered for the legacy he left behind. Gordon, we will take time to honour your contribution to your family, your friends and the wider community, knowing that your relationship with each was different. Perhaps this is the only time we will have the last word.
Life’s race well run,
Life’s work well done,
Life’s victory won,
Now cometh rest.

— E. H. Parker
“Kindness is the oil that takes the friction out of life.” — Unknown author
Rest well, Brother Gordon. You have left us so much to remember, and you will always be spoken of—never forgotten. The communities of Leitchville, Cohuna and many other places will mourn your passing, for you were one of the district’s beloved characters and ambassadors: a man of genuine charisma.

Sending condolences to the Fehring family. I worked with Brenda many years ago and got to know Gordon through that relationship. He will be sadly missed by the family, his friends and the community.
Linda and Ray Ryland