The Mackay community is mourning the passing of Dr. Lyall Ford, a beloved historian, author, and educator whose contributions to preserving the region’s history have left an enduring legacy. Lyall passed away on January 12, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving behind a wealth of knowledge and a passion for storytelling that resonated far beyond Mackay’s borders.
Born on May 13, 1944, at Lister Hospital in Mackay, Lyall grew up in Walkerston before moving to Mackay. He excelled academically, attending Mackay West State School and later Mackay State High School, where he was named Dux in 1961. After graduating, he studied Civil Engineering at the University College of Townsville (now James Cook University).
It was during his university years that Lyall became part of an escapade that would define an iconic piece of Queensland’s history. On the early morning of March 17, 1962, Lyall and six friends – all former Mackay State High School students – painted “The Saint” on Castle Hill in Townsville. The figure, based on Simon Templar, the literary character created by Leslie Charteris, was a prank conceived during Commemoration Week, a time for university students to play light-hearted tricks across town.
Lyall often reflected on the simplicity and spontaneity of the plan to paint "The Saint," recalling that it wasn’t meant to last or to create such a legacy. "It was just a student prank," he said, laughing in hindsight during interviews.
Lyall later chronicled the story in his book A History of The Townsville Saint, revealing for the first time who had painted the figure. What began as a way to reclaim the space left vacant after the Air Force painted over the previous year's question mark turned into something far more enduring. Lyall fondly remembered the camaraderie of that night, from securing ropes and paint to Barry Snarski hanging off Castle Hill to complete the now-iconic figure, describing it as “a moment of youthful creativity that none of us could have imagined would resonate for six decades.”
Over the years, “The Saint” has become a symbol of Townsville, adopted by local clubs and businesses despite enduring controversies and debates over its presence.
Beyond this famous story, Lyall's dedication to preserving history was evident in his extensive written works. His books, including Below These Mountains, Poorhouse to Paradise, Roads in the Wilderness, and Against the Odds, captured the stories of Queensland’s past with meticulous research and heartfelt narration. Lyall’s versatility as an author extended beyond history, as demonstrated by his publication 101 Ways to Improve Your Health in 2007.
Many of his works earned accolades, including Queensland Family History Society awards. Lyall also ran his own publishing company, Taipan Press, which became a platform for sharing local history.
In 2024, Lyall completed a two-year project for the Mackay West State School Centenary Book, working alongside Danielle Jesser and Steven Pritchard. The book celebrated 100 years of the school’s history and featured community stories and archival records. Lyall also attended the centenary celebrations, reconnecting with a place that had shaped his formative years.
Lyall’s storytelling was not confined to books. His deep knowledge of the region’s history made him a valued member of the Mackay Historical Society, where he contributed insights and articles for over a decade. His vast personal archive of photographs and documents enriched the society’s efforts to preserve Mackay’s heritage.
In a 2023 interview with Mackay Life, Lyall reflected on his career, sharing anecdotes about his adventures and achievements, including the enduring legacy of “The Saint.” The article captured the essence of his passion for storytelling and his commitment to ensuring the stories of Mackay and its people would be remembered.
Lyall’s passing is a profound loss for the community, but his work ensures that the history he so diligently preserved will continue to inspire future generations. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable contributions but also for the way he brought history to life, one story at a time.
Lyall Ford proudly holding his book A History of The Townsville Saint, a detailed account of the iconic Castle Hill painting and the untold stories behind it. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie, Mackay Life
The seven ‘mischief-makers’ behind Townsville’s iconic Saint: Graeme Bowen, Lyall Ford, Rodney Froyland, David Greve, Peter Higgins, Barrie Snarski, and Robert Sothman, whose daring student prank became a lasting symbol of local history. Photo supplied
Lyall Ford, with his last book that he researched and wrote 'Against The Odds'. Photo credit: Mackay Life newspaper