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Bert's generous spirit and commitment to duty leave a legacy
@Source: goulburnpost.com.au
Goulburn's Sts Peter and Paul's Cathedral was filled to overflowing as family and friends paid tribute to the late Robert Geoffrey Leggett. Robert, whom his family affectionately knew as Bert, died peacefully at home on April 24, 2025 following a long illness. He was surrounded by his caring family. Born on November 8, 1962, Robert was the second son of Geoffrey (deceased) and Margaret Leggett and a brother to Elaine, Sandy and Timothy. He was also a great-nephew of Corporal William Leggett. The Goulburn man was thought to be the first Australian killed during World War One. William, who served in the British Army, was killed in the Belgian village of Geluwe, near Ypres on the Western Front on October 14, 1914. His instrumental role in defending the village against the German invasion is remembered with an annual ceremony and a street named after him. The soldier is also honoured with a statue in Belmore Park, and Leggett Park is named after him. In addition, Goulburn High School has a memorial. Robert attended Saint Patrick's Primary School, followed by Mulwaree High School. Bert was described as a social student and rarely had a day off school. He embraced a philosophy throughout his life, believing that strangers at school and in life were merely unmet friends. On leaving school, Bert embarked on a nursing career in that would span more than 43 years. He initially worked as a registered nurse at Kenmore Psychiatric Hospital, followed by a short period at Goulburn Community Health, then at the Chisholm Ross Centre in the acute admission centre. He also worked at Darwin Hospital for a short time. On leaving the Chisholm Ross Centre, Bert worked with Corrections Health at Goulburn jail for more than 17 years before retiring in 2022. Bert was a dedicated clinician, and a valued member of the services where he worked. He had many sporting interests outside work, and played hockey, soccer, rugby league, cricket and golf. He was also involved in various rugby league administrative roles, was a long-term member of the Kenmore Panthers football team, and a passionate supporter of St George Illawarra. His fervour for the Dragons was well known, and he rode their success and failures with a smile. Well, mostly with a smile. Horse racing was another of his passions. On Saturdays, he studied the form from early, and wouldn't distract himself by answering telephones or doorbells. Those who knew him, especially family members, knew better to even try, as the 'do not disturb' sign was posted for the day. At his May 8 funeral service, friends and former Kenmore and Corrections nurses formed a guard of honour as the cortege left the cathedral for a private cremation. It was a testament to the high regard in which he was held. At a well-attended wake at the Goulburn Soldiers Club, the overriding memory of Bert was as a man with an infectious smile, generous and thoughtful spirit, and a willingness to help wherever possible. He will be sorely missed by his family, including his many nieces and nephews.
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