In loving memory
In loving memory of James, December 2023 marked the solemn occasion of the 10th Anniversary since his passing.
A decade later, James remains deeply missed, and the influence he had on our lives continues to resonate powerfully. To commemorate his enduring legacy, we are proud to celebrate the impact of the James Rapley Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship honors his memory by supporting future generations of rural students at The University of Melbourne.
We invite you to join us in celebrating James' life and legacy by contributing to the James Rapley Memorial Scholarship. Your donation will make a significant difference in shaping the futures of promising students while honoring the enduring legacy of a remarkable individual.
Memories
Read about James's life which was embodiment of warmth, kindness, and endless inspiration.
Join us in reminiscing about the beautiful moments, the laughter, and the profound impact he had on each of us. This space is dedicated to celebrating his life through shared memories, anecdotes, and stories that reflect the joy he brought to all.
Feel free to share your cherished memories of James, creating a collective tribute that beautifully illustrates the essence of his enduring spirit.
Scholarship Fund
The James Rapley Memorial Scholarship Fund is a testament to the indelible mark James left on our lives.
This fund stands as a beacon, honoring his memory and perpetuating his legacy by providing invaluable support to future generations of rural students at The University of Melbourne.
Here, you can delve into the scholarship's rich 10-year history, discover inspiring stories from its recipients, and explore ways to contribute and make a lasting difference through donations.
News Articles
Explore the impactful life of James through a collection of news articles that reflect his accomplishments and the profound mark he left on the world.
Discover insightful coverage highlighting his career milestones, achievements, and the positive influence he wielded.
Additionally, gain an understanding of the broader narrative surrounding his tragic passing, commemorating not only his life's achievements but also the lasting impact he made on all who knew him.
Gallery
A visual journey through the moments that defined his life, capturing cherished memories shared with loved ones, including travels, moments with his girlfriend, friends, and family.
This collection of photographs encapsulates James's vibrant life, from his joyful childhood to the cherished experiences and relationships that shaped him.
Join us in celebrating his spirit through this gallery, a testament to the love, laughter, and profound connections that illuminated his path."
Our Story
James was someone very special in the lives of many people.
JAMES' TRAGIC END
He was tragically taken from us in Los Angeles on Sunday, 22 December 2013 when he was riding a bicycle, in a well defined cycle lane, and was struck by a 19 year old intoxicated (drugs) driver at approximately 9.00 AM, and killed.
He had flown from his home in Chicago a day before his flight from Los Angeles to Melbourne to make sure nothing could delay his return to see family and friends for Christmas.
With time on his hands he went for a bicycle ride on one of the established cycle paths in Los Angeles when he was struck. Bicycle riding, as well as many other physical activities were one of his many passions
PARENTING JAMES
As a parent we all strive to provide a nurturing environment for our children. One which will helps them to find what they want to do in their adult life, and then to foster and encourage them to do the best they can to achieve that. We all, also, try to keep our children as safe as possible without stifling them.
In James case he needed little encouragement as he was very focused and very hard-working, at both his school work and sport. The hard part was actually trying to keep up with him.
As our children moved into young adulthood our role as parents diminish, as they make their own way in the world, but we will always be there to help with any advice, guidance and assistance they seek.
JAMES' LEGACY
The impact is indescribable and, really, beyond the comprehension of anyone who hasn't been through it.
Your first thought is to reach out and protect your child, but of course you can't. He's gone.
Over the course of a couple of days though, my wife and I thought that what we could try to do was to ensure his memory continued and, given that he had such a tremendous social conscience and was frequently donating of, not only his money, but his time, towards, a number of charitable undertakings.
We thought that the establishment of a perpetual Scholarship to help rural students, who would be studying either an Engineering or Science Degree, to meet part of their living costs at Whitley College would be the most appropriate first step.
