Vale – His Honour John Nixon

John was born in 1935. Educated at Geelong Grammar School, he went on to Law School at the University of Melbourne, living at Trinity College. He was called to the Bar soon after being admitted to practise law in 1959 and read with the late Honourable Basil Murray CBE QC, and the late Honourable John Mornane.

He established a practice in common law, where he rose to prominence as one of the leading junior common law barristers of the time, earning himself a reputation as an efficient and hard worker.

Generous with his time for new members of the Bar, John mentored Douglas Tucker, William O’Day, Bruce McTaggart and David Martin.

John was appointed to the County Court in 1981 after practising as a barrister for 22 years. As a judge, he adjudicated in common and criminal matters. John is well remembered for being courteous, incisive and fair. Most of all, he understood the frailty of humankind and was able to appreciate that many had traversed a difficult road before appearing before him in court.   

He retired from the bench in 2010 after serving for 29 years. Throughout that time, he was also Chairman of the Racing Appeals Tribunal. Following his retirement, he became a Senior Sessional Member of VCAT to hear racing appeals.

John Nixon passed away early on Thursday morning, surrounded by family and in good spirits. The Bar offers our condolences to John’s friends and family, particularly his son James Nixon, who is a member of our Bar.