By Damian’s partner, Celeste Wilde
Damian Fredrick Garbenis born 3rd October 1968, very sadly passed away on 19th October 2024.
Born in Melbourne, Damian’s early childhood was spent in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. From there, his family moved to England and he became a weekly boarder in Holman.
Damian was about to embark on his A-Levels when his family returned to homeland Australia, meaning he had to leave behind his beloved, principal home of Epsom College; an Institution that left a considerable footprint on him, and throughout his life was a place and time he held much gratitude and fondness for. He took great interest in his studies and the treasured friendships he formed there.
He remarked about the vastly differing educational system that met him upon landing in Perth aged 17, but nonetheless his studies and interest, particularly in Art – as well as his great creativity and natural talent for it – led him to pursue a successful career as a Graphic Designer & Art Director. His profession took him again to South East Asia, where he held senior positions in global Advertising agencies in Shanghai & Beijing, and later as partner in a boutique design agency, as well other internationally renowned creative studios in Brisbane & formerly Sydney, where he lived for many years and we met.
Damian was highly regarded by his colleagues, and much loved by many, many friends. His courageous and hard fought battle with cancer, regrettably diagnosed in late 2022, was a challenge he took in his stride like anything else. Our mutual love of nature and the coast was the inspiration for our final move to hinterland North Coast NSW early last year. He enjoyed the verdant beauty of the area up to the end.
Damian is well remembered for his kind, charismatic and generous personality, and is deeply missed by all, with his loss most profoundly felt by his family and myself, Damian’s long term partner and greatest admirer.
