Warwick Taaffe ('64)

Warwick Taaffe | Trinity Grammar School 1951-1964 

Warwick passed away on 12 May, 2024.  He entered Trinity Prep in 1951 and was one of a group of boys of that era whose entire school life was spent at Trinity. At the Prep School, Warwick was well liked by both staff and peers. From an early age he excelled at sport, captaining both Cricket and Rugby teams. In these teams, fellow players remember him leading by example. A member of one of these teams described Warwick as ‘self-effacing, unassuming and respected by all’. 

Warwick’s prowess at sport continued throughout his time at the Senior School. In his senior years he captained the First X1 for two years and finished his Rugby career as the Five-eighth for the First XV. In his final year he represented Associated Schools in both Cricket and Rugby. His Rugby career flourished after leaving school and, until injury forced an early retirement as a player, he was Five-eighth for Drummoyne’s First Grade side. In 1968, in this position, he was selected to play for the representative Sydney team that played against a touring Japanese side. Following his retirement as a player, Warwick served as the Club’s First Grade coach for many years. 

Warwick’s leadership potential was encouraged and developed in the Senior School. He was a Cadet NCO, 1961-62 and a CUO, 1963-64. His final leadership roles were as a Monitor in 1963 and a Prefect in 1964. Throughout his time at Summer Hill he was both popular and respected by his fellow students. As he lived within easy walking distance of the campus he spent a lot of time on campus both after school and at the weekends. In his senior years, boarders really came to appreciate his companionship and willingness to be involved in School House activities. Some affectionately called him ‘our day boy boarder’. He was particularly welcome when he came bearing goodies lovingly prepared by his mother. It was a continued feature of Warwick’s life – he had very loving and supportive parents.  

On leaving school, Warwick joined Qantas where his leadership and personal skills led to senior training positions. At one stage Warwick was tasked with training office and airport staff in the many Qantas destinations throughout the world. At Qantas, Warwick met his wife, Sue, and he is survived by her, his sons Philip and Richard, and grandchildren Wil, Archer, Charlotte, Heidi and Josh. 

Richard Leemen (Leembruggen) 1964