08 May, 2025.
In early April, I was honoured to attend the dedication of Channell Lane in Thirlmere, Wollondilly. As I looked around at the Channell family and their friends, I knew there was someone not present in person but there in spirit: John Channell. I was saddened to hear the news of John's passing. I offer my condolences to his loved ones. In June 2023, John came into my office with a simple request: to name the laneway behind his house "Channell Lane" to honour his family's generations-long connection with the Thirlmere area. I was interested to learn of his family history, including the military service of his father, Burt Channell, which was instrumental in having the naming of the lane approved. Burt spent four years as a prisoner of war. John told us Burt's time as a prisoner included at least two escapes. Despite his deteriorating health, John was always in good spirits when he visited the office. Sadly he missed out on the opening, but I know he would be chuffed to know his connection to the area will be part of the story of Thirlmere forever.