I have the loveliest memory of sitting by the fire on dad’s school camp as a little kid listening to Chris playing the guitar and singing the one eye, one horned flying purple people eater. I was filled with awe, terror and excitement at the amazing creation in the song. That song has stuck with me for a lifetime. Such a great memory!
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There are a handful of people who have made a significant impact on my life and Chris is one of them. Always warm, kind, thoughtful and especially encouraging with my poetry; Chris had a beautiful way of fostering connection and imparting gentle inspiration. As Jamie’s other Dad, very much family to us. I have such wonderful memories of Chris performing at our various parties and our wedding, where he was also a fabulous and very entertaining emcee (A big ask - Thank you Chris! Still remember the stackhat attachment for the mother-in-law gag, which had us all In hysterics!). When the kids were little they especially loved his rendition of “One-eyed One-horned Flying Purple People Eater”. Such fun!! So grateful to have spent time with Chris, Beautiful Jude and the fam at Waratah last summer; not knowing it would be the last. Forever in our hearts, he’ll live on through his music and multitude of good deeds. We love you Chris! xxx
Chris, such a privilege to have had you in our lives, and to have had the great joy of sharing music and friendship with you. The world is a better place because of you.
I'm so glad I got to meet Chris. He would welcome everyone with a smile and a chat . Our chats about his beloved Dee's and how badly his golf game was I shall miss dearly. Rest in peace my friend
So grateful to have attended yesterday's Memorial. South Gippsland memory: (Sandy) One sunny day at Chris and Cate's Foster farm house sitting around table chatting, a snake decided to come in under the door.. We, of course, leapt onto table. Chris calmly grabbed a broom and gently ushered the snake out the door. 👏👏🥰
So grateful to have attended yesterday's Memorial. South Gippsland memory: (Sandy) One sunny day at Chris and Cate's Foster farm house sitting around table chatting, a snake decided to come in under the door.. We, of course, leapt onto table. Chris calmly grabbed a broom and gently ushered the snake out the door. 👏👏🥰
South Gippsland memory: One sunny day at Chris and Cate's Foster farm house sitting around table chatting, a snake decided to come in under the door.. We, of course, leapt onto table. Chris calmly grabbed a broom and gently ushered the snake out the door. 👏👏🥰
Lyn, I and Sigurd all feel truly grateful to have attended Chris’ memorial service yesterday. It revealed such a rich tapestry of the life of a very special person, and encompassed the full range of human experience from the the most spiritual to the earthiest, and also the humour which was so much a part of his being. So many wise words were spoken and so much love came alive in that beautiful space. I have many fond memories of Chris and stories to tell; I feel saddened by his passing, but also comforted by a sense of his continued presence and the calm space that exists around him in my memory. Much love Chris, Richard Howard
Smiles, songs and friendship. Thanks Chris. Fare well.
So sorry I couldn’t make the celebration of the beautiful life of Chris today, the perfect example of how every human being should be. To me he was a forever friend and outstanding cricket teammate including the 1977-78 Centenary Year Premiership with the Foster Cricket Club. The service today was exactly what Chris would have wanted, lighthearted yet so touching and simply perfect. Chris you will always be treasured in my memories Catch up again when the time comes mate.
Chris was my teacher at Steiner school, he was an amazing teacher and musician! Never forgotten
I met Chris and Cate within two weeks of first arriving in Australia in 1974. I knew immediately that Chris was a man in a million. His warmth, kindness, generosity of spirit and calm demeanour were qualities that never wavered in all the years I knew him. He saw the good and the potential in everyone and always put others first. Our family has so many wonderful memories of Chris, from looking after our goat when we went overseas, to sharing music and food and Steiner School adventures. And our connection with Tibetan Buddhism, forged together in 1974 when we drove the Tibetan Lamas to select land for Qld’s Chenrezig Institute. Love and condolences to all of Chris’s family.
Chris, May the healing spirits be with you. Our heartfelt condolences to the extended Aitken family. Moraes family
Vale Chris, a a truly genuine, kind, supportive and beautiful soul. It was a privilege to know you. You touched many lives with your grace. See you on the other side.
I was 22, obnoxious, overconfident & ignorant as a cricketer. Then I met Chris. He was 37 and, for reasons I still can’t fathom, decided to help me. He turned me into an almost half decent bowler who still runs to the wicket & thinks the way Chris taught me, over 40 seasons later. Forever grateful to Chris’s heart, care and knowledge. Vale
Chris was the captain of the first XI when I came down and started playing with the South Yarra Cricket Club. He didn't need to give fiery "rev up" speeches, just a quiet resolve backed by a big heart and immense talent. Was always a joy to share the field with him, chat between overs at the crease and then share beers with him on the balcony at Como Park. Cheers Skipper
Farewell Chris. One of my early contacts with Buddhism and a substitute father for Jamie. In memory of countless ad hoc music evenings with Kate, the boys, and Holly.
Steiner School camps - Chris standing hip deep in the rapids of the Howqua River at Sheepyard Flat ready to catch kids on their li los as they shot down the river. We parents always knew he had a safe pair of hands. The ubiquitous purple people eater song or the slightly suspect itsy bitsy polka dot bikini song (he got away with it) around the campfire. The warmth in his eyes and the kindness in his voice. Many fond memories and gratitude for his long ago friendship.
Chris was the most beautiful soul and a huge inspiration to me personally. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, wisdom and joy for life will stay with us forever.
Kindest heart Warmest smile Walked your own path… Always🌷
What a gentleman and beautiful soul. Always had a smile. RIP.
When we think about Chris we think about music and songs, family gatherings, time spent at Waratah and him strumming his guitar at our wedding nearly 40yrs ago. Sending love to all his family and friends 💜
One in a billion
'79 GF Welshpool by a cuppla points over Foster, final minutes. From left: Jules Feldman (Kate's dad), our Nan&Pop, Phyllis with Holly. Seated: Kate Aitken (handling the pressure hahaha). Classic.
Chris left an immediate impression the day I first met him. He certainly wasn’t what I was expecting when Nick said his brother is coming over for dinner. Chris was always known from then on as “the good brother”. Many years, many conversations, we even worked together for a minute, and many changes later I have nothing but great memories. I have a wonderful house in Walkerville, and Zibby’s and Mia’s incredible Year 9 camps to thank you for, as those would never have happened had there not been this serendipitous chain of events starting from way back in 1984. Going to miss your lovely soft presence. #restinpeace
Farewell Chris, I refer way back to around 1980's when you taught my boys Ben & Tim at Koonwarra Primary. I & they will never forget your calm, warm & supportive styles of teaching which was your natural way towards little kids learning what school was all about. B & T have definitely benefited from the way you started them off. May God bless you Chris Peter Sayer
I was lucky enough to get to know Chris from several games of golf over the past fifteen or so years, fond memories of the games and clubhouse snacks etc with him and Wilbur. A true gentleman. My love and condolences to Wilbur, Andy and the whole family. Vale Chris
Chrissy, was tall athletic and naturally gifted in so many ways. I was fortunate enough to have played with Chris in the late 60’s and early 70’s. He was naturally gifted and a wonderful team man with an infectious smile always on his face. We moved in different directions And I hadn’t seen Chris for 50 years. I was so saddened to hear of Chris’s moving on. My vivid memories can hurtling back. Great condolences to his family and Willie a fanatical Demons’ man. Vale Chris Paul and Cate Callery
Chris was very loved and respected by me for his kindness and commitment to his family and friends. He is in the top 10 of favourite men I have ever had the privilege of spending time with. 🌹
I was very fortunate to be friends with Josh and Shem around the time I was unceremoniously asked to leave home at 16. Chris and Cate immediately took me in and regardless of the pressure it put on them always made me feel welcome and part of their family. I will never forget how instrumental the whole family were in helping me through a very rough patch. I have also been lucky enough to reconnect with chris in later life as Jude is my partners aunt . He was always warm and very interested in me as a person. He is the the most talented yet caring person I know and if I've managed to be even half that I'd be very pleased. RIP Chris All my love to all of those lucky to have Chris in there life
Our days at Lower Plenty Primary School (1956-1960). …Chris had joined me at the beginning of year 2. ...Among the primary school events, the one that stands out is when Chris’s father Peter Gore Aitken sadly died as the result of a car accident in 1959. I recall my shock, my awakening that people die. This was a first for me. In the weeks that followed Chris informed me that he shared his father’s middle name ‘Gore’ and from that time on Chris was always Gore to me. …Chris and I would retreat after school to his home where his mother Phyllis would leave instructions for us to look after young Nic and to check and change baby Andrea’s nappy. …Other memories are the numerous times that Chris excelled at sport, whether it be football, cricket, or athletics, Chris was always a winner, and usually ‘By a Mile’. I recall the times he represented the school at various athletic carnivals and came home a winner, usually with a collection of ribbons. At Eltham High School (1961-1966) we had a ball, football, cricket balls and athletics prevailed while the academic classes were relegated to If we have time and/or can be bothered. …Most mornings enroute to school we congregated on a corner of the Main Road near our homes in Lower Plenty. Often Stephen White would join us, and we would hitch a ride to Eltham. We became known as The Hitchhikers not a band from the 1960’s but three students that staff often observed breaking the school rule and hitching a ride. …One evening after school, on a very hot summer’s day in 1962 we decided to go skinny-dippy in the Yarra River a short distance upstream from the newly opened Fitzsimons Lane Bridge. As luck would have it, we were both caught in an unusually strong, fast-moving undercurrent and were lucky to make it to the riverbank downstream. Walking back to collect our cloths we both laughed at what the next day’s headlines could have read. Two naked young boy’s bodies found in the Yarra River …I have fond memories of cricket and football practice in the Aitken backyard after school when the loud & pesky young Nicholas would arrive home from Ivanhoe Grammar School and annoy us both. …Nic had a large poster of his idol the British singer Dusty Springfield above his bed. One evening, just to annoy him, I found a dark pen and drew a moustache on Dusty’s face. Not happy was our Nicholas. …Another evening after school Chris and I along with friends Robert Freeman and Brian Sundborn took it in turns driving Freeman’s Austin A30 around the recently laid gravel road that circumnavigated the new housing estate behind the Lower Plenty shopping center. Unfortunately, while rounding a bend, close to the busy Para Road intersection, Freeman managed to flip the car over onto the passenger side. The wheels were still spinning, and the dust was yet to settle, when, who should be driving past, Freeman’s father. Not a happy man. …By the mid 1960’s Chris and I, both junior members of the prestigious Heidelberg Golf Club would often w
ADIEU CHRISTOPHER (Chris) GORE AITKEN (1948-2026) It is Monday 3rd August 2026, and I receive a telephone call from Wilbur Wilde, aka Nicholas Aitken, the young brother of my life-long friend Chris Aitken. I hesitate for a moment and question why Willy is calling me so early as we are both night owls and he never calls me this early. Then it dawns on me! Chris and I have been missing each other’s phone calls over the last month. We both had resorted to leaving messages. I answer the phone … “CHRIS HAS LEFT US” says Wilbur … There is silence as we both gather our thoughts. After 70 years of friendship, my old friend will not be there to share any further friendly exchanges, teasing remarks, witty jokes, or light-hearted conversations. My memory bank moves into overdrive.
ADIEU CHRISTOPHER (Chris) GORE AITKEN (1948-2026) 1967 and on Following our secondary education we both moved on to studies in the Melbourne CBD, Chris to Taylors Business College and me to the Photography School at RMIT. During the first year Chris’s mother Phyllis was horrified to learn that we often skipped classes and honed our billiard playing skills at the various Pool Rooms that existed near Chris’s college. … guess who the fall guy was? Chris would always blame me. …On another occasion I recall taking Chris out in my dad’s car one evening. Off to play pool at Yarrbat Avenue in Balwyn we told Phyllis. Instead, we headed to Coburg where I had arranged for us to rendezvous with an old girlfriend of Chris’s, one that Phyllis didn’t like him mixing with. …A highlight of the winter months were Tuesday and Thursday nights when I would accompany Chris to football training at the MCG. At the time Chris was playing at full-forward for the Melbourne Football Club 1st eighteen. As an avid Collingwood Football Club supporter, a football highlight came for me during that year. I was heading towards the football on the forward flank of the great Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the movement of the oval shaped leather ball was always unpredictable, however on this occasion the bounce favored me, and it rose into my hands. I quickly side stepped the on-coming Melbourne wingman Brian Dixon and let fly with a spiraling torpedo. The torpedo could at times be a tricky selection, but again luck was with me, and the ball hit my foot with precision and the correct trajectory to send it on its way. Relatively low and long, the ball flew like a missile straight through the center of the goal posts. I dropped to my knees with a great sense of achievement and waited for the crowd to bring the MCG to life. No such luck, the only response was the chilling words of the legendary Melbourne coach Norm Smith as he shouted, who is that kid? Where did he come from? Who let him into training? It was a regular Tuesday night training session for the Melbourne Football Club, and the football staff had suggested that I should gear up and join in. Norm Smith disliked long hair and would often quip ‘Get a haircut son’. (Brian Dixon and I often caught up at various social functions over the decades and would reminisce about those early days and his fond memories of Aitken as the television commentators would refer to him. Following years of education, Chris and I both moved on to the school-of-hard knocks, the real world as we both pursued our careers. Art and sport meant that we regularly kept in touch over the pursuing decades. During the early 1970 Chris and his wife Cate would drop in to see me at the Chapel Street South Yarra studio, the old Baptist church (Now Bridie O’Reilly’s). …During the same period Chris often assisted his brother in-law, selling fresh flowers from a flower cart on the corner of Rockley and Toorak roads in South Yarra, at the time I resided in
I played with Chris in the 1970 GF for Melb reserves, we go on our journey but I always related 2 Chris plus being quiet country boys that also loved their cricket, it was Chris who cleared the ball from deep into the Richmond forward line right on the siren for us 2 win that reserves flag. I would every so often read his name for what he done with his sport after finishing at Melb, I would think 2 myself I reckon he knows what I’ve been up 2 as well in the Goulburn Valley, Maybe we both should have concentrated on our cricket. I caught up with Chris at one of the reunions I ran for Melb over the past 6-7 years, Unfortunately we never had the quality time I would have enjoyed with him. Every one loved Chris, he was so bloody quiet & unassuming, I’m certainly going 2 mis him but I’ll never forget the person he was I would have loved spend more time with him. RIP Chris One of the very BEST. Des Campbell.
I know your light will continue to shine on with warmth somewhere Chris My memories of you have always kindled a smile, now a smile and a tear Heart felt condolences to Chris' family and friends RIP
Chris was one of a kind. I feel blessed to have worked with him. He was genuine, kind, caring and funny. The students always came first and he was adored by them. He will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered. Jo Stirrat
Chris onstage at Darwin Festival 2005 with students from his TEGS project (Mark Grunden on the far right)
Chris and Kate in Darwin, I think 2005. Chris was there with Freddie working with kids from remote locations, teaching them to write their own music (TEGS).
A wonderful, honest, caring and generous friend, who we'll dearly miss. Chris always made a big effort to touch base, whenever his was in the Northern Rivers. Jim Sinclair and Carlo DeAngelis.
Thanks Chris for your friendship over the decades and your enthusiastic support for the Strzelecki National Park. Missing you mate.
Chris worked in the Top End Group School (TEGS) for well over 10 years. TEGS was a group of 15 small remote schools in the Top End of the NT. He (and Mark Grunden) became pivotal figures in our annual Adelaide River Festival when teams from all schools either flew, caught ferries, or drove in 4x4 trucks to come in for sport, music, performances and the famous billy cart derby. Chris worked in each school creating music with the all the classes. He focussed on encouraging authentic students’ voices. He was very gifted in doing this. In 2005 he began a song cycle beginning at Peppimemarti School. Their song was then (via Chris) given to the next school and so on. It culminated in a performance at the Darwin Festival, ‘Moving With the Song’. He also worked with Alison Lester, the children’s author, to produce beautiful books and songs. On a personal level, Chris and I became good friends during this time. He was a great listener and we both supported each other during some major life events. He loved his family deeply and was so proud of his children. His was a life well lived and he leaves an amazing legacy in Victoria, the NT and in many places in the world. Pass gently dear friend. Leonie
What a talented guy. So sad to read this. He brought out the best in our learners. May he rest in peace. (TEGS)
I met Chris when we both stayed at your house in Darwin Leonie. Such a charismatic, lovely man. Sending love. Xx
Chris was also very much involved with the children living in immigration detention back in 2011 - 2013. Together with the students, some truly meaningful songs were written. He always championed the students and I am very sure that many of them will still be treasuring the songbooks that came from this collaboration.
Truly a wonderful musician and teacher who got the best out of learners and staff! I can still hum the tunes we developed with Chris's. Those were the days… (TEGS)
That is sad news. I have wonderful memories of how kind and creative Chris was. He taught my class at Milikapiti during my first cancer treatment and his presence at Adelaide River was always a joy. I’m sure he will be missed and remembered fondly by many. (TEGS)
Chris was one of the most inspirational of people I have ever met. Inspiring and humble, strong and soft, timeless and present, kind.
Sometimes throughout our lives, we encounter special people that have a profound impact on the way we view the world. Chris was an amazing, caring, multi talented friend who had a unique ability to bring out the best in everyone. I treasure fond memories of countless sunny summer Sundays on Waratah Beach with Cate and the kids, surf and beach cricket. Winter footy in Welshpool, where he coached our beloved bulldogs to a premiership in 1979. Saturday night gatherings with a guitar or two, and some creative lyrical modifications always entertained. A treasured family friend who gave so much to so many across many age groups. Sadly, I will be unable to attend the celebration of Chris's life, however I will be there from afar. Love and condolences to all.
Chris, his family and mine, had some wonderful times together. On the sporting field, Chris and I played in two cricket premierships, and we also played against each other. It was so much better to be a team mate than an opponent! I have such respect and love for this man, and his family. Wonderful memories which will remain for as long as I remain. I’m sorry that I’m unable to attend the memorial. R.I.P Chris. My love to your family and friends.
Chris was a wonderful person and teacher. He had such a gentle energy, and he helped me through the hardest year of my life. Thank you Chris.
I had the great pleasure of knowing Chris when I worked at the Organic Union. It was a wonderful time and I’m grateful to a Chris for the opportunity to work with and along side him in such a warm and happy place. Rest in Peace Chris xo
A Big Heart A Big Life Much Loved Xx
If you ever wanted a big brother, Nick and Andrea, Chris would be very hard to top. Chris showed us all the inspiring qualities of a truly great human being and big brother; a good listener, patient, kind and inclusive, with the strength to stand up for others and lead by example when it mattered. Vale Chris. You’ll be greatly missed. ❤️
I miss you, uncle. I'll treasure the memories and friendship forever. I'm grateful for the time we had and I'll never forget how quickly we clicked when we first met. You were always so generous with your time and wisdom, endless positivity, honesty and encouragement to all and me. I'll always remember how you took the time to always tell me that I was doing a good job and we never had a bad time together whether it be school, camp, golf or meals. I'll take with me your optimism and humour into everything I do. I miss our chats, your stories and how proud you were of your family. This is a shot of you at the Old Course at the Nash, your happy place. You always said I should be a member there, and if I ever do I'll remember that it was you who brought me there. Hope we'll get another round again 🙏
To Nicholas , Andrea , Jude & families. Our hearts reach out to you at this sad but reflective time I am so glad that I spoke to him in recent weeks after some 40+ years He was great man , with unforgettable passion & presence. He leaves behind those who are all the better for knowing him Rest in peace my friend All our love ❤️ Rob & Jan Hick
Chris was the best father-in-law to our son. They shared music and golf. We have enjoyed many special moments with Chris, his apartment, golf, attended our grandchildren's sports, and family get-togethers. So glad Chris had a chance to visit us in Napa. Chris has a place in our hearts forever, and we are sending much love to the family. Tom & Bente
Chris we've known each other since we were kids at Lower Plenty State. I don't think you will ever be replaced. Play football and cricket when ever you want. But rest in peace.
We were lucky to get to know you, Chris. We'll miss your sparkling eyes and your calm, gentle presence. Go well into that good night.
Chris told me his first game for Melbourne coincided with another legend's VFL debut - Kevin Bartlett :)
It was always a pleasure having a round of golf with the fairways Not much worried Chris but one of his favourite sayings was Oh well shit happens. Great attitude!!!!!
Dear Chris, I will be forever grateful for the privilege of having you as my father-in-law for the past 26 years, and as the best Poppo to our boys, Jarrah and Rumi. ❤️ I feel so incredibly blessed to be part of this beautiful family and to have known such a gentle, funny, generous and kind-hearted man. Thank you for all the love, laughter and beautiful memories you gave us. Your love lives on through all of us, and you will be forever loved, forever missed and forever in our hearts. Love Mel xox
“EACH OF US CAN LOOK BACK UPON SOMEONE WHO MADE A GREAT DIFFERENCE IN OUR LIVES, SOMEONE WHOSE WISDOM OR SIMPLE ACTS OF CARING MADE AN IMPRESSION UPON US. IN ALL LIKELIHOOD, IT WAS SOMEONE WHO SOUGHT NO RECOGNITION FOR THEIR DEED, OTHER THAN THE JOY OF KNOWING THAT, BY THEIR HAND, ANOTHER’S LIFE HAD BEEN MADE BETTER.” So fortunate to have known such an amazing and multi-talented human being who touched so many lives in so many ways. Forever in our hearts ❤️🩷❤️ Rest in peace dear friend.
We were on a school camp at Squeaky Beach, my daughter and a friend were on lilo's and had floated way out to sea. Chris and another parent swam out and got them, it was a long swim - I consider he saved my daughter's life - as well as being an all round lovely guy!
Chris- such a good and decent human. He spoke at my birthday just weeks ago. After a beautiful speech he asked that I join him to sing a song we first sang 50 years ago. Vale Mr Acorn- my “ Waratah Friend”
It's by no coincidence that Chris is listed as # 1 on the list of so many Fairway Club members list. Just a Champion bloke who will be fondly remembered.
Always a GIVER never a Taker !!!
I'll miss our deep & meaningful conversations usually in the carpark of a golf course away from the Fairway Golf boys noise in the clubhouse. Chris laughing at me trying to erect the bloody golf buggy and me astounded at Chris sorting out his golf attire for the day out of his portable wardrobe in the boot of his car. A fella of no pretence and as genuine as they come, my sort of bloke. Paddy
Chris I love your warm-hearted generosity, light-hearted charisma and eternal positivity. Your care and love for the children is inspiring. I love the way you say: "I reckon we could do that, I reckon it'd be great, the kids would love that". The children love you because of those wonderful qualities you have. I'm eternally grateful to you for saying that you thought I'd be a brilliant class teacher on day. If I get there one day, I'll be forever grateful for those words. Your brilliance is divine. Thank you for leading the way with so much light and love. I'm grateful we shared time together at Mutawintji, talking about sport, vision, nature, guitar playing and school life. Love and peace always to you and your wonderful family and friends. Barney
I remember Chris with fond memories. Being my P.E. teacher and singing countless group songs. The Bike camp to the Prom was a standout memory of good times. Also that lethal footy stab you could pinpoint so accurately. Only a few weeks ago I saw Chris walking down Brysons Rd in Warranwood once more. Over 30 years since I saw you last I recken. I wish I had of stopped.
Gentle smiles from above. That’s how I think of Chris. Always beaming, mischievously. Grateful for the memories of many many nights of partying, singing and dancing at Miekle road house. You will be missed, and loved forever.
I was only about 6 or 7, sent to stay with Chris and family at foster for a few nights. Everyone was in the kitchen, cooking dinner and I I was tasked with grating the cheese. Once I was done, Chris pulled me aside and said "you know ,you really are AMAZING" it was so genuine, no-one had ever told me I was amazing before. For a kid with very little self confidence it was exactly what I needed to hear. Happened so long ago but I remember it like it was yesterday.
Chris and his mates built the best tree hut in the back yard which Nick and l burnt down by mistake shouldn’t have had fireworks love you mate
“ like your new hair cut ~ colour Melis , look great ! “ Chris said to me at school year 10. I felt seen and cherished . God bless Chris with all my heart ♥️
Chris, a sweetheart and a gent
I came to know Chris through Jude and it was clear from the beginning that they shared a great love and a deep regard for each other. Through Jude, I was able to share a part of Chris’s journey. What stays with me is the depth of his feeling for people, for the world around him and especially for the natural world. Chris cared deeply for the planet and had passionate views about our responsibility to care for it and one another. He noticed things, questioned them and wasn’t afraid to speak honestly about what mattered to him. He cared deeply about the world he was a part of and hoped for something better. I’ll remember Chris for his passion, his integrity and his warmth. I’m grateful for the time we shared. I hope his spirit lives on in those who knew him, in the people he loved and in the natural world he cared so deeply about.
A really exceptional human being who I sadly lost touch with when I moved away from Melbourne. The tributes I have read bring wonderful memories flooding back. We played footy together and he was exceptional. Only his ankles prevented him from soaring to greater heights than he was capable anyway. Footy, Cricket, Golf ~ you name it. He just excelled. Thanks Chris for the beautiful fun we had for such a brief period of our lives and thank you for allowing me to introduce to gorgeous cuz Cate with you raised your beautiful family ~ always remembered. Love you mate. Derek.
After meeting Chris at a conference in London, he came to California to teach in a summer program at Tara Redwood School. So many songs, books and a play was created with so much joy. It left many lessons and unforgettable memories in our hearts. My sincere sentiments to the whole family.🌟
Missing you so much poppo your the best grandpa I could ever ask for
We love you Chris, you will be with us forever.
At Briley’s recent epic 21st I was standing with Chris and Cate when Chris said to Cate, “yu know Cate, if we didn’t have sex, none of this would have happened”… LOL and so true and LOL… Last words from Chris I got I reckon. Cycle of life… ❤️ This family did some heavy lifting to turn me into who I am today, Chris at the helm steering the way. Love to you all🙏
Chris always made everyone feel cared for and a part of the gang. Such a wonderful person to know. Lots of love to family
Love you Poppo ❤️❤️
Chris always had an open door , open arms and lead by example with love and music Chris helped teach all of us lads how to be a gentleman and a man. Im sure all our riff raff crew back in the day would say the same and how the visits and stays at the Aitken’s Meikle Rd property changed all our life’s for the better, thanks Chris and his wonderful family. All our positive thoughts and love the Cicero mob
He has been my high school class guardian, colleague and friend. Such a beautiful soul. So glad he had Jude's beautiful presence in recent years. I have a lot of love for them both. Lots of love to his family xx
Very fond memories of Chris going back to his time with Cate at Foster in the 1970’s. He was always a cheerful and friendly humanitarian and will be sadly missed. Condolences to all the family from Garth & Gena
Always a delight to be in the presence of Chris and Jude. Endless summers spent At Queenscliff, sharing pastries, dinners, long conversations and walks with the dogs. Oh and of course playing games! We are all the better off for sharing a friendship with you Chris. Rest in peace. Our thoughts are with Jude and your families xx
Shared early memories and warm connections in our first decades in south Gippsland sadly gone too young sending love condolence's to his family from ours
Great memories of Chris and Cate at Foster. Enjoyed times on and off the sporting field and will be remembered as a great human.
I met Chris when we both worked at Fitzroy Valley DHS. Through his dedication, our students discovered the joy, confidence, and connection that music brings. Thank you Chris, for the music and for dressing up during Book Week (photo) Condolences to his friends and family.
Here is Chris launching the Yakanarra Song Book at the Sydney Opera House. He turned so many stories into songs and they’ll be singing them in remote parts of Australia for a long time. Such a beautiful, kind, funny and generous friend.
Chris was such a kind, warm and loving man who is so well loved by so many people - he left a deep impression on many hearts and will be sorely missed.
I had the privilege to work alongside Chris at the Devon North Campus. He was so caring and nurturing to our most vulnerable kids. I will never forget looking through the class window and seeing two of our most challenging students happily playing guitar with Chris’s guidance, he truly had a gift to soften the hardest of hearts. It’s not often in life we come across one of earths angels and I truly feel blessed to have known him x
Great memories of sharing the opening bowling with Chris at Boondillah Cricket Club. A great fast bowler, batsman and fielder.
So much love, memories and times shared with Chris, family, friends and community both growing up in South Gippsland to The Organic Union and then on through my adult life. He was 'my other dad' and I am forever in Gratitude to Chris and family for being in my life, with his gentle understanding, kindness, humour and loving support informing my journey along side him with family, friends, community and very importantly, Music! My love and condolences to Jude and the all the Aitken Family. Kelsaya (Chelsea)
Chris, Cate,John were friends in 70s onwards having bohemian fun lives! I was touched talking with him at stkilda memo launch, playing with family his very own & heartfelt songs of his life reflections & rich connections ! His warm, funny , kindness with humility, talents & love of stories always there. I can hear his voice from heaven RIP 🎷🙏🩵
A great fella, kind, gentle, so talented and great with everyone
Yaama sending our love to you all. Unfortunately we cant be there. But are always close in spirit . A beautiful soul that impacted my life in the brief time we met! His presence was gentle soft and his love for empowering others reminds us app and o step in
Here’s 3 that come to mind: 1: Staying in Meikle Rd Waratah on the school hols and Chris rescuing me from a massive huntsman over my bed creatively using a playdoh tub 🕷️ 2: Him coming over to our Hampton lounge room and my Dad recording him on a 4 track. I still remember the song Mitta Mitta but being about 8 years old, was thrilled by the tune ‘Chiko Rolls’ 🤭 3: As recently as a couple of months ago, bumping into Chris at Kindred where Josh was opening support at a friend of mine’s Album launch. So lovely to catch up with him, meet Jude and the doggie…& occasionally having to cut our convo short to see his proud face peering over watching Josh play. 😊
I really only met Chris one time. I was living in Melbourne with my husband (I’m American) & we went to Chris’s gig because we are also musicians. I remember talking to Chris for ages & I remember him being one of the kindest people I ever met while living in Australia. I’m so glad I got to spend that time with him. My heart goes out to his family. ♡
I didn’t get to know Chris for very long, but I’ll always remember how easy he was to be around. Watching the footy with him and hearing his commentary was always a laugh. He was such a genuinely kind and caring guy, and it was so clear how much he loved his family. I’m so grateful I got to know him.
Chris was like another father to me, he was one of the kindest people who was always there for everyone. He never got angry or said a bad word about anyone, he was so kind and had the best sense of humour. I have so many wonderful memories of working with him, he used to to get a yoghurt for the trip home in the car and instead of using a spoon he would say no I don’t need one, I will just use my finger, hilarious.
I shared many a warm and inspiring chat with Chris at Tennant Creek, the Fly Factory and Waratah Bay. But my most memorable were around our table or on the studio veranda when he was staying with us. Usually a few dogs at our feet and always beautiful chats. Such a precious man with a big heart and a beautiful soul
I was first a mate from Waratah Bay and grew up being a big fan of Chris and his family and Nick. I later joined the Variety Bash family and any time our adventures went anywhere near Fitzroy Crossing I got to catch up with Chris. He was always one of the nicest people I’d ever had the fortune to meet and whilst the meetings were few and far between, it always felt like just yesterday when they happened.
The most amazing, caring, beautiful grandpa I could ever ask for
The most amazing, caring, beautiful grandpa I could ever ask for
Me (middle front), my cousin Tom (middle back), aunty Andy (left) and uncle Chris (right)
An amazing cousin, kind, humble, loving and funny. We will miss his beautiful smile.
With our Mabel as a pup ♥️💫
With Dad, at 'The Nash'... Love you ❤️