We were saddened to learn of the passing of Old Collegian Alexander (Alex) Mellins (SPC 1954-62) on 6 October 2025.
Alex was a life member and loyal supporter of the green, white and blue. He was a keen supporter of Old Collegian events and passionate fan of SPC’s First XVIII Football teams through the years, following their highs and lows.
He attended footy games where he could, even amidst Ballarat’s cold winters, and followed SPC via our social media channels, always offering a positive message and congratulatory comment following our various sporting triumphs.
His sister Ingrid Campbell said Alex made lifelong friends from his time at SPC.
She said he loved the opportunity to catch up with fellow Old Boys and revisit the school on any occasion.
He often picked up fellow Old Collegians, most notably College Legend Fr Gerard Dowling OAM (SPC 1949-50), from his home in Melbourne to drive them both to Ballarat for SPC get-togethers.
He did this without any fuss or fanfare, and it comes as really no surprise to learn Alex was a taxi driver until his retirement.
His Funeral was held on 17 October at Fawkner Cemetery, in Melbourne, with Alex wearing his old school tie for his final farewell.
Alex started as a day student in juniors in 1954 and later became a boarder, completing his Matriculation in 1962. He was actively involved in school life, as a member of the McCarthy House football premiership team in the 1958 Park competition and winning the 100 yard race in his age division in the school’s Athletics sports in 1959.
Alex particularly enjoyed his time in cadets, working his way through the ranks to become a Warrant Officer. He received an award in his Leaving year for being the Best Non-Commissioned Officer for his platoon and was also awarded the Second Royal Victorian Regiment Award for the Most Efficient NCO in his final year in 1962.
Alex will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.
