JAMES VALENTINE AM
It is with profound sadness that we remember James, who passed away in April 2026 after a two-year battle with cancer. Ballarat Grammar was pivotal in developing his love for music, namely flute and saxophone, which formed the basis of his early career with bands such as Jo Jo Zep, The Models and Absent Friends. Whilst successful in this world James always reached for more and found pathways into television, writing and especially radio, where he hosted the afternoon slot with ABC Sydney for 25 years. Many of you will have read and seen moving tributes from his wide circle of friends and listeners when his death was announced and his life celebrated in a special memorial at Sydney Town Hill in May.
James returned to his true musical roots in later life playing with jazz ensembles and with his son Roy’s band when opportunities arose.
James is survived by his loving wife, Joanne and children, Ruby and Roy. He leaves a huge gap in the lives of his brothers Mark and Drew and his mother Nina. Perhaps one consolation for all is that there is a digital legacy of much of his work which will forever bring a smile with his remembrance.
Written and submitted by Mark Valentine and Family
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.
