Vale Rex Cambrey
Eternal rest grant unto Rex, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace.
Rex Cambrey, retired Bursar for the former Melbourne Province, and valued friend to the Brothers, passed away on Sunday, 14 June. The following is a reflection from Br Julian Casey, former Provincial of the Melbourne Province.
Rex Cambrey's journey with the Melbourne Province began in 1990, marking the start of a notable career dedicated to financial management and support for the Brothers. After serving as the Business Manager at Notre Dame College, Shepparton, for seven successful years, he transitioned into a pivotal role as Bursar, taking over from a Brother who had been in the role for 23 years.
His ability to win the trust and respect of the Brothers was evident through his approachable nature. He engaged with them personally, listening to their needs and experiencing their community life, which fostered strong relationships and collaboration. He never stayed in a motel - always the community. Rex recognised the Province's financial dependence on property assets and advocated for diversifying investments, leading to a balanced portfolio focused on growth without diminishing the most valuable asset in Australia, near Bunbury WA.
He championed better financial arrangements for the Province, securing advantageous deals with various service providers, negotiating tax exemptions, and streamlining credit and debit card usage within the communities, together with a host of little savings here and there. His efforts in financial management were validated by a successful formal audit, showcasing his ability to enhance financial accountability.
Rex's commitment extended beyond financials; he addressed personal issues for the Brothers, organised necessary legal and financial arrangements, and provided guidance on various matters, ensuring that their interests were prioritised. He was a listening ear, and was non-judgemental about some obvious failures of the Brothers. He knew the Brothers and related with each in an individual way. Hence, he was ideal for bringing Brothers with opposing ideas together, reaching a reasoned solution and creating a satisfactory plan in harmony with all. He played an active role in school funding, oversight and risk management for schools, and maintenance projects, demonstrating his multi-faceted support for the Brothers and their communities and ministries. He checked school bank statements carefully and, in at least two cases, identified fraud or misappropriation on the part of finance people.
His leadership was characterised by a drive for modernisation, introducing technology within the Province and facilitating professional development through workshops and conferences. Even as he engaged in larger projects, he remained attentive to small community needs and had the good of the Brothers at heart. He loved the Brothers as a group and as individuals, and the Brothers loved Rex.
Outside of work, Rex was well supported and valued by his wife Jan and his family of Michelle, Rachel and Angela. He kept his fitness and his outdoor activities (including catching a 15.6kg Murray Cod), all reflecting a well-rounded character. His guidance profoundly impacted those around him, instilling lessons of respect, patience, and perseverance. After becoming affiliated with the Province in 1997, he maintained strong ties even after his retirement in 2013, leaving a lasting legacy.
Br Julian Casey FMS
Star of the Sea Province
Marist Association