Celebrating James Valentine (1979)
Ballarat Grammar remembers with great pride and sadness the life of Old Grammarian James Valentine (1979), whose remarkable career as a musician, broadcaster, writer and performer touched audiences across Australia for more than four decades.
James attended Ballarat Grammar from 1974 until his graduation in 1979. His passion for music was evident from an early age. Like many children of his generation, his musical journey began with the recorder in Primary School. It wasn't long before James realised he had found something uniquely his own – a talent that allowed him to forge his own path and would ultimately shape his life's work.
James was the third son of Peter and Nina Valentine (née Reakes). Nina was a much-loved member of the Ballarat Grammar teaching administration staff and also worked part-time at Ballarat's ABC radio station, after commencing her working life in the 1940’s with 3BA. We are delighted that Nina remains connected to the School community and continues to attend our annual FOSSIL (Former Staff) gatherings.
Although neither of his parents were musicians, they enthusiastically encouraged James' love of music, supporting his studies in classical flute and saxophone. After leaving Ballarat Grammar, he continued his musical education, studying classical saxophone and jazz at Melbourne State College.
As Australian music flourished in the early 1980s, James quickly became one of the country's most sought-after session musicians. A defining moment came in 1982 when he appeared on ABC Television's Countdown, performing with Joe Camilleri. The performance launched an extraordinary musical career, leading to collaborations with many of Australia's best-known artists, including Wendy Matthews, Richard Clapton, Kate Ceberano, Diesel, Iva Davies, Pseudo Echo, Jo Jo Zep & the Falcons, Models and Absent Friends.
James' talents extended well beyond music. He became one of Australia's most respected broadcasters, enjoying a distinguished 30-year career with the ABC. His warmth, wit, intelligence and genuine curiosity made him a familiar and trusted voice to listeners, particularly during his years hosting Afternoons and Breakfast on ABC Radio Sydney.
A gifted writer, James also authored the popular JumpMan science fiction trilogy for young readers and contributed to numerous Australian newspapers and magazines. Throughout his life, he continued performing as a jazz musician, sharing his love of music with audiences wherever he went, including playing with his son Roy, until his illness prevented him.
James was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the weeks before his death. The posthumous honour was officially gazetted in the King's Birthday Honours list, recognising his immense contributions to media, music, and children's literature.
James Valentine's legacy is one of passion, creativity and lifelong curiosity. From his days as a music-loving student at Ballarat Grammar to becoming one of Australia's most admired broadcasters and performers, he inspired countless people through his talent, humour and warmth. No more was this evident than when 2000 people gathered at the Sydney Town Hall for his Memorial Celebration held at the end of May.
The Ballarat Grammar community extends its sincere condolences to James' family, especially his mother Nina. He will be remembered with great affection and pride as one of our distinguished Old Grammarians.
Acknowledgement of Country
Ballarat and Queen’s Anglican Grammar School acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we learn, live and work, the Wadawurrung People, and recognises their continuing connection to the land and waterways. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Commitment to Child Safety
Ballarat Grammar maintains a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of child abuse and actively implements measures to identify and manage any risks of harm to students within our school environment. The care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people are central and fundamental responsibilities of the School. We are firmly committed to fostering a child-safe culture that provides an environment where students are safe and feel safe, where their participation is valued, their views respected, and their voices heard in decisions that affect their lives. Ballarat Grammar values diversity and strictly prohibits any racist or discriminatory practices. All members of our school community share the responsibility to care for children and young people by promptly raising any concerns regarding their safety, promoting their wellbeing, and protecting them from all forms of harm or abuse.
