Monash Memo - articles - 28 November 2001

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Former academic mourned

Monash staff farewelled former Department of Politics academic, Indonesian expert and pioneer of Australia's overseas volunteer movement Dr Herb Feith at a memorial service last week.

Dr Feith was on the academic staff of the Politics department from 1962 until he retired in 1990. He became professor in 1968, and in 1975 he stepped down from the chair, resuming the rank of reader to concentrate on research.

Between his visits to Indonesia, where he was a visiting professor for almost 10 years at Gadjah Mada University in Yogyakarta, Dr Feith remained a regular at Monash Centre of Southeast Asian Studies seminars and events.

Dr Feith had a deep knowledge and understanding of Indonesian society, from the formative years of the nation-state through to recent times.

Described as a brilliant, yet humble man, he was well known for his devotion to his students.

Speaking at the memorial service last week, long-time friend and colleague Emeritus Professor John Legge said Dr Feith was a great teacher, attracting followers and living almost a missionary life.

"Indifferent to material rewards and status, he gave in his own life an inspiring example of selfless and modest living," Professor Legge said.

"Many have spoken of his saintly qualities and of his ability to convey to others the feeling that they too could share his values and unselfishness.

"He maintained contact with friends across the world - in Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Europe and America - entering their lives and conveying a sense that they were his particular concern."

Dr Feith was struck by a train and killed last week as he made his way through the Glen Iris railway crossing near his home. He is survived by his wife, Betty, his three children, David, Annie and Robbie, and his grandchildren.