Raymond Leslie Yates, also known as “Mr Monbulk“, peacefully passed away at his home on Thursday, 18 November, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
A memorial service to celebrate his life and legacy was held on Monday, 1 December at 2pm at the Tatra Receptions in Mount Dandenong, Anyone who couldn’t make it in person, could take advantage of a livestream service available at Selwyn Allen Funerals.
Mr Yates was a beloved dedicated educator, leader, and community member whose influence is felt across all corners of the town.
His 38-year tenure at Monbulk Primary School began as a teacher and he spent 28 years of it as the school’s principal.
Monbulk Primary School Principal Estelle Alder said during Mr Yates’ tenure as principal, he transformed the school from a struggling institution into a lively and thriving educational centre.
“Ray wasn’t just a principal, he was a part of every student’s life,” she said.
“He always remembered their names, even years after they had left the school, he did this because he simply cared about everyone and had a genuine interest in every individual.“
Beyond his work in education, Yates was a pillar of the Monbulk community, where his passion for the arts led to the creation of the ’Raymond Yates Arts Centre’ at Monbulk Primary, which still continues to provide children with valuable opportunities in music and the arts.
The former chairwoman of the Dandenong Ranges Music Council, Beverley McAlister OAM, said Mr Yates was always ready to learn and lead with calmness and politeness and he always used evidence-based research to make decisions.
“He was a man of integrity, clarity, and strength,” she said.
“Ray’s commitment to community and arts education was truly exceptional, he supported both staff and students with unwavering dedication, and his legacy continues to inspire those who were fortunate enough to work alongside him.”
Mr Yates’ influence extended far beyond the school grounds, He served as a Shire Councillor for 21 years, including a term as Mayor of the Shire of Lillydale.
His work in local government was matched by his dedication to various community organisations, including the Monbulk RSL, Rotary Club, and the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum.
Mr Yates was instrumental in founding the Japara Community House, in Kilsyth and was a key figure in establishing a community bank in Monbulk, which continues to serve the area to this day.
The team at Bendigo Bank Monbulk and District closed their office on Monday afternoon to attend Mr Yates’s memorial service to pay their respects.
In a heartfelt speech delivered in Parliament and posted on his Facebook page, Casey federal MP Aaron Violi spoke fondly of Mr Yates, praising his profound impact on the Monbulk community and his dedication to service.
“Ray was truly immersed in community life. He wasn’t just a member of our town; he was an architect of community life as we know it,“ Mr Violi said.
“He gave so much to our community, and my condolences go out to his wife, Catherine, their family, friends, and all those who were privileged to know him.“
“His legacy will live on in every organisation that he touched and the strength that he left them, in the connections that he helped forge, and the countless lives that he improved.“
Mr Yates’ love for his community was matched only by his deep love for his family. He was the cherished husband of Cathie, and a loving father to Richard and Samuel. He was also an adored stepfather and Poppa to Clare, Marcus, and their families.
He was the son of William and Avis (both deceased) and the much-loved brother of Barry and Loris.
His family remembers him as a kind and generous man who always put others before himself.
Mr Yates’ passing has been deeply felt by the Monbulk community, which has come together to honour his legacy.
In tribute, students at Monbulk Primary School have created drawings that will be displayed at his memorial service, and the school’s iconic Bell Tower was rung 38 times on Monday, 1 December, once for each year Mr Yates served as school principal.
“Ray was a rare man, with a rare commitment to children, education, and his community,” Monbulk Historical Society’s projects and events coordinator, Jill A’Vard said.
“He always got the job done and did it straight away, he was a true champion of Monbulk.”
Mr Yates’ contributions to education, local government, and community life are far-reaching, and his impact will continue to be felt in Monbulk for many years to come.
To many who knew him, he wasn’t just a leader; he was a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration.
His legacy is woven into the very fabric of Monbulk, from the school he helped build into a point of pride, to the community organisations he helped shape, Mr Yates leaves behind a community stronger and more connected than it was before.
Always remembered. Always cherished.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Pankind, a charity supporting those affected by pancreatic cancer.
