Leslie Calcraft

Sadly, Les passed away on Tuesday, December 11 after a short illness. Those of us who knew him will remember a larger than life character who was a fine bridge player.

Les was a member of WABA and then WABC when it was formed in 1975. He represented the state in the early 1970’s as a junior (then under 30s) and later in the WA Open Team in 1975 with team mates Leiv Bornecrantz, Charlie Frugte, Mike Hopper, Jeff Lathbury and Hans Rosendorff. Les continued representing WA in the 1979, 2002, 2006 Open Team and the WA Senior’s Team in 2008. Les also claimed titles in the BAWA Men’s Teams, Men’s Pairs, Swiss Teams and Open Teams.

Les was a strong supporter of Youth Bridge, both as a promoter and generous sponsor.

Born in the UK, Les was a promising soccer player. He was posted to Germany during his stint in national service.

After a couple of years in Singapore Les migrated to Australia, commencing his working life here as an insurance salesmen. Later he purchased “Australia’s Mining Monthly”, then a struggling magazine. Les transformed the “Monthly” into a first class publication that became compulsory reading for anyone connected to the mining industry. He was a very successful publisher and investor.

Les was also a philanthropist, playing a leading role in the formation and early management of Western Australia’s “Food Bank”, providing much needed food for thousands of struggling people.

 In his private life Les bought a beach house at Golden Bay, shared with Malcolm and Ailsa Smith and Haydn and Annie Lowe. Many happy years were spent fishing, crabbing, drinking, swimming and playing bridge.

Les was father to four children to whom he was devoted. Paul, Rob, Kerry and Jonathon were with Les when he passed away. He leaves a loving family and many friends who will miss him deeply.

Farewell, my friend

Haydn Lowe

 Published in December 2018 Edition of Trumps Plus