Our People
16 December, 2025
Remembering Des Weller
THE life of Desmond John Weller was shaped by service, humility and a steadfast commitment to others. Des passed away on 8 November, 2025, aged 91. Born on 30 April 1934, he grew up as the third eldest of thirteen children in a lively St Kilda household. His childhood was filled with the simple joys of footy, swimming, bike riding and sharing the spirited companionship that only a big family and neighbourhood mates can provide.
He began his schooling at Sacred Heart Primary before completing his secondary years at Christian Brothers College, finishing in 1952.
As a young man, Des felt the pull toward a life of purpose. He entered the priesthood and spent five years in monastic life before discerning that this was not his calling. Instead, he stepped into a different form of service - one that would come to define much of his life.
In 1960, Des joined the Citizen Military Forces (CMF), undertaking extensive training and rising to the rank of corporal.
At the time he was working at a chemical company, always keeping his weekends free for his CMF duties.
Six years later, he answered the call to join the Regular Army and soon deployed to Vietnam, where he ultimately served two tours, the first with 6RAR and then finishing his tour of duty with 2RAR in Sydney.
Post that tour, he became a jungle warfare trainer and later a transport instructor at RAR Headquarters.
It was during his second tour that Corporal Des Weller came under the command of Lieutenant Peter Cosgrove, later General Sir Peter Cosgrove.
Their time together was brief in years but lasting in impact.
In a letter to Des’s wife Pam on Des’s passing, he reflected with deep admiration on the calibre of soldier and the man that Des was:
“Des was experienced… he knew his craft – he was exactly the sort of Australian soldier that I prayed to have to help lead the platoon… He was a jungle fighter and a consummate example and leader… Everybody liked, respected and admired Des Weller. They followed him… not just through the professional relationship as their boss but because it was impossible not to see what a thoroughly good and genuine person he was.”
Sir Peter described the bond among the soldiers as a “Band of Brothers,” and he noted that Des remained one of the men who represented the best of us.
His courage, wisdom and humanity left an indelible mark on all who served alongside him.
After returning from Vietnam, life brought Des and Pam together.
They married and spent many happy years in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs, raising three children and later welcoming four grandchildren who became a great joy in their lives.
Twenty-six years ago, the couple moved to Beaufort, where Des quickly became a much loved and central figure in the community.
As a proud returned serviceman, Des joined the Ripon RSL and Ararat Legacy, committing himself to the welfare of veterans and their families.
He initially supported sixteen Legacy widows. He continued his role with compassion and dedication as numbers decreased.
Many locals will remember Des selling ANZAC and Remembrance Day badges with his familiar welcoming smile.
Des was recognised posthumously with Life Membership of the RSL and this was presented to his family at his Memorial Service along with a beautiful quilt to Pam by Legatee Alan Alder.
But Des’s service extended well beyond his military ties.
In 2011, he was honoured with the Pyrenees Shire Community Volunteering Award.
His contributions included fifteen years with Neighbourhood Watch, cheerful visits to the local hospital where he ran bingo and provided companionship, and many years supporting the Beaufort Food Bank as its Secretary.
A humble man, Des never sought recognition, yet his life overflowed with generosity, service and genuine care for others.
Whether through his military leadership, his volunteer roles, or simply the kindness he showed to neighbours and friends, Des consistently demonstrated what it means to live with purpose and heart.
In his final years, Des faced illness with the same dignity and quiet courage that had guided him through life.
As Sir Peter Cosgrove wrote, “We will miss him and always remember him… Vale, Des old friend – we’ll see you again, bye and bye.”
Des is survived by his wife Pam and children Lindy, Stephen and Tracey, grandchildren Chloe, Michael, Jack and Jono and eight siblings Vincent, Grace, Barry, Dawn, Kevin, Brian, Valmai and Sue.
Des leaves behind a legacy of integrity, community spirit and unwavering service. Beaufort and all whose lives he touched are richer for having known him.
May he rest in peace.
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