Memorial scholarship honours a love of land and country

Leslie James Symonds was born in July 1920, the third son of James and Ruth Symonds. Brother to Bobby, Kath, Alex and Ron, Leslie grew up on the family farm, Ellerslie Park, near Willow Tree in NSW. From an early age he had a love of the land and animals.

After completing his Leaving Certificate at Hurlstone Agricultural High in 1939, Leslie enrolled to study veterinary science at Sydney University in 1940. After just two years of his course, he enlisted with the RAAF, in September 1942.

Leslie completed many missions as an aircrewman in the RAAF until his plane was shot down near Royan, France, on 5 January 1945.

Nephew Geoff Symonds said the family had always kept the memory of his uncle alive but wanted another way to commemorate Leslie’s life and service to his country – something that was a fitting tribute to his interests.

“Every year around ANZAC Day, I have thought of doing something in the way of remembrance.

“My father fondly remembered his brother and maintained a connection with the Sydney Uni vet association for many years because of Leslie.

“The Les Symonds Memorial Scholarship is offered to an individual from our local community (a resident of the Liverpool Plains Shire) to complete a course in veterinary or animal science at Charles Sturt. If we can help a young person fulfil the dreams of continuing along the lines of vet or animal science and possibly remain in our part of the country, we feel we have honoured the memory of Les, who had hoped to realise that same dream when he returned home at the end of the war.”

A memorial scholarship is a fitting way to honour the memory of a loved one. Charles Sturt University Advancement Office is on hand to assist you through this process. If you wish to learn more about establishing your own legacy, please email advancement@csu.edu.au or call Kirstie Grady on 02 6338 4834.

Leslie James Symonds