‘McQ’ loved his family, tinkering with machines
George proud of campus security work
‘‘ I WILL MISS HIS WELCOME, HIS HANDSHAKE, A QUIET SCOTCH ON THE BACK DECK.
JOHN SAVAGE, OF GEORGE
MCHUGH
WITHCOTT’S George Bernard McHugh loved his family, ice cream and tinkering with machines in a life celebrated by all who knew him.
The former police officer and beloved family man, affectionately known as “McQ”, was laid to rest after passing away last month.
He was 63.
Born on October 3, 1954 to parents Ben and Violent, Mr McHugh grew up and was schooled in the Brisbane suburb of Calamvale.
He joined the Queensland Police Service in 1970 as a 15year-old cadet, starting a career that would span more than 20 years.
Mr McHugh’s brother-inlaw John Savage said he served as a constable in Brisbane, Dalby, Goombungee, Townsville, Moura and finally as a sergeant in Toowoomba.
“During this journey with the police force, George meet my sister Elizabeth Savage whilst at the academy,” he said.
“Liz originally went on a double date with some other cadet, (but) while this cadet went on holidays, George seized the opportunity and swooped.
“Romance started and they were married on November 23, 1974.”
After leaving the police service in 1993, Mr McHugh became a security parking officer with the University of Southern Queensland, where he remained until 2011.
Mr Savage said his brotherin-law was proud of his work at USQ.
“George took the campus safety personally and in his own humble ways was very proud of having one of the safest campuses in Australia,” he said.
“(When) George finished up at university and received his 20-year award, as he walked across the stage he was given a standing ovation.
“That made George so proud to be a respected part of USQ family and history.”
Mr Savage said his friendship and support had been precious.
“For 43 years George greeted me with a ‘g’day mate’, a great smile and a good handshake,” he said.
“I will miss his welcome, his handshake, a quiet scotch on the back deck.”