Brigadier Brian McMahon

By Des Smith | Posted: Thursday March 13, 2025

The School recognises the passing of Brigadier Brian McMahon (RNZAMC, CBE, KStJ), OBHS Old Boy 1943-1947. Brian passed away in Dunedin on 13 March.

After leaving Otago Boys' High School Brian studied medicine at the University of Otago graduating MB ChB in 1955.  He subsequently had a very successful career in military service in South-East Asia, including the Vietnam War.  Later he became medical superintendent at Wakari Hospital and then Dunedin Hospital.  A full record of his life and achievements can be read on his wikipedia page.

Brian made a very significant contribution to Otago Boys' High in his later years, including being appointed a 'Life Governor' of the OBHS Old Boys Society, an honorary position but one is bestowed upon an Old Boy who is highly regarded and has given selflessly to the organisation. 

Brian was an incredibly generous donor to the School and obtained the highest level of membership for the OBHS Foundation, the James Macandrew Society.

Brian regularly attended events, celebrations and activities connected with the School.  He also penned his own recollections of his time at Otago Boys' High School and this appeared in our 31 July 2018 Newsletter.

"I first met Brian was when his two sons Sean and Marcus came into the hostel as boarders in 1978 when I was managing the hostel. Both boys fitted in well to the hostel environment which is no easy task when you consider their year groups had already been together for 3 years. From that time on Brian and I communicated on a reasonably regular basis. In the early 90's I was acting Rector for a term which coincided with Anzac Day. For OBHS this is one of the most significant days in the school's calendar as many Old Boys made the ultimate sacrifice at a very young age. Appreciating the importance of the senior assembly I asked Brian McMahon to address the boys. During my lifetime I have listened to many speakers but Brian's message to the boys that day was delivered in such a manner it had a long lasting impact on all of those who were present.

In the past few months I have visited Brian several times, really enjoying our time together. His recollection of his school days were incredible and he spoke fondly about his old masters telling me many wonderful stories. He absolutely loved his school and was so proud to be an Old Boy. 

For me Brian is someone I will always look up to with huge pride - he was a very special man."    

Des Smith MNZM