Vale Professor Kenneth Hunt

Emeritus Professor Kenneth Hunt, the inaugural dean of the Faculty of Engineering, passed away recently after an illness.

Professor Hunt (pictured) led the Faculty of Engineering with distinction through its formative years from 1960, overseeing the establishment and expansion of the Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering departments.

He was also instrumental in establishing the Department of Materials Engineering in 1970.

After retiring as dean in 1975, he remained at Monash as professor of mechanism for a further decade, becoming a visiting professor at Melbourne University in 1985.

Professor Hunt has been described as one of the last of a rare group of people who could be dubbed a polymath, with a wide range of interests that he pursued with strong intellectual vigour.

His knowledge of classical music and musicians was encyclopedic, and he was a gifted clarinet player.

Vice-chancellor Professor Peter Darvall said Professor Hunt was known for his charm, wit and love of music, as well as for his outstanding leadership of the Faculty of Engineering.

"He is remembered with great affection by many of us," said Professor Darvall. "Quite apart from his intellect, he was one of life's true gentlemen."

So here's to Hunt, that great tall bloke
With ginger hair and wreathed in smoke.
The Baron with his manner grand
With head cocked right and chin in hand.
So here's from me, and all, Amen
In loud plum voice. God bless you, Ken!

­ From 'The Baron' by Peter Darvall, written for Kenneth Hunt on his retirement from Monash in 1985.