Guitarist’s family organises ‘note’-worthy gift in wife’s memory

In 1986, Vic Bilbrough met Kathy Adamson at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs in Melbourne. The outgoing supervisor was smitten with the quietly spoken research officer, and the feeling was mutual.

“Vic often joked that Kathy stuck by him, even after meeting the Bilbrough clan,” recalled David, his younger brother.

Kathy and Vic married in 1991, bought a house in Forest Hill, planted a large garden and enjoyed going to concerts. However, while working in Germany and later in Melbourne, Kathy experienced vision problems and became unsteady on her feet. Two years into the marriage, her health declined. Kathy learned she had multiple sclerosis.

After Kathy’s diagnosis, Kathy and Vic spent several months travelling around Europe and the UK. They visited Germany, where Kathy had many friends.

Kathy passed away in 1998 and Vic passed away in 2020. At Vic’s memorial service, people remembered Vic and Kathy for their many accomplishments.

“Vic often reminisced about that trip. It was one of the highlights of their life together,” said David.

“Kathy was an all-rounder, excelling at violin, piano and singing, softball and netball. She won many awards at Glen Waverley Secondary College,” recalled sister Lynne Adamson.

Kathy studied arts and German at Monash University and spent a year perfecting her German in Cologne. She became a teacher and taught German in private schools in Melbourne and Hamburg. Later, she briefly worked as a public servant before resuming her teaching career.

Lynne remembers Vic as “clever, witty and talented.”

“I marvelled at his general knowledge and how good he was at cryptic crosswords. He was also wonderful at woodwork. One time, he made the most beautiful wooden guitar,” she said.

Brother David remembers Vic as sporty and musical. “He could sing and play guitar. At 12, he won a local talent competition. He also formed a band with his best friend Steve and brother Stan,” he said.

Unfortunately Vic didn’t leave a will, but David, his executor, had an inkling of his last wishes.

“Vic mentioned a few times he and Kathy wanted to leave a generous gift to MS Plus as a thank you for the support staff had given them. The family liked the idea of supporting the MS cause,” said David.

“By leaving this gift in their names, we hope others will be supported with their MS challenges when they need help,” added David.

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