The School of Demography is saddened by the passing of Dr Gordon Carmichael, at the age of 76, following a long illness. Gordon and his wife Gloria crossed the “ditch” from New Zealand so he could pursue his interests in the demography of nuptiality and fertility. He joined what was then called the Demography Department under the tutelage of Professors Jack Caldwell and W.D Borrie. Gordon completed his PhD in 1982 on ‘Aspects of ex-nuptiality in New Zealand: toward a social demography of marriage and the family since the second world war’.

As a staff member in the School of Demography and NCEPH, Gordon made outstanding contributions to family demography through the Australian Family Project. His Monographic book With This Ring: First Marriage Patterns: Trends and Prospects in Australia made a major contribution to our understanding of sexuality and partnering.

Gordon cultivated a remarkable curriculum vitae, as an author, collaborator, editor, and active mentor. His demography textbook ‘Fundamentals of Demographic Analysis’ was built up during his years of teaching demographic methods to generations of students who now work around the world in research and government. Gordon was a dedicated and compassionate supervisor to more than 25 PhD students, assisting them on their first publications. Gordon was much respected by his past students, who frequently invited his collaboration on their future research projects.

He will be remembered for his commitment to students, his impactful research, and his willingness to provide advice and support for all who crossed his path. He will also be missed by the ACT Soccer community for his tireless work as an administrator, referee, coach, and volunteer. Gordon founded the Woden Valley Soccer Club (WVSC) and served as president of the club from 1998-2001. Gordon was also a life member of Capital Football and the WVSC. For these efforts he was nominated for the 2010 Australian of the Year – ACT Local Hero award.

A Memorial will be held on Tuesday 27 August at 3.30pm in the Olympus Room at the Hellenic Club, Matilda Street, Woden. It will be a service of thanksgiving to celebrate his life.