Vale Don Cashmere

Donald Richard Cashmere
19 March 1937 – 12 June 2026

The Club acknowledges with great sadness the passing of Don Cashmere on Friday, 12 June 2026.

Born in Goulburn NSW, Don developed his love of sport early, playing hockey and cricket with his brother Doug on gravel streets using improvised sticks and bats. His passion for hockey would remain a constant throughout his life, shaping a 50-year involvement in the game.

Don undertook a Mechanical Engineering apprenticeship in Sydney at the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation and delivered apprenticeship training for Email Ltd. A transfer to Orange NSW as Master of Apprentices is where he met his wife Nancy, marrying in 1962.

In 1966, Don and Nancy moved to Melbourne with Don’s work and established their long-term family home of 49 years in Forest Hill. Don progressed into Personnel Mgt and delivering training programs for dealers nationally. Following his time with Email, pre-retirement, he was a partner in Safety Air, servicing breathing apparatus in hospitals and industrial settings.

Don joined Camberwell Hockey Club (CHC) in 1967, soon after relocating. Prior he played in Sydney for Canterbury-Bankstown and representing NSW Colts (U21) team and winning a national championship. Notably he competed against VIC Capt. Alan Carnell in 1957. It was through this connection and other player networks at Nationals he settled at CHC.

From the time of joining CHC, Don was actively involved as a player, leading teams through grades, whilst contributing to committee and club admin roles. These included fundraising/social, selection, finance and carnivals coordination.

Don’s direct contribution to the game of hockey was immense. As a coach, he dedicated 15 years to CHC U16 and other junior teams whilst serving 9 years as coach to the Victorian U16/17 boys (1976–1982), achieving multiple club premierships and Australian Championship titles. He played a key role in developing generations of players at CHC and across the state; many progressing to State League, senior state teams, and some to international level. His hockey influence extended not only to his sons and CHC, but hundreds of young players across Victoria.

Don and Nancy’s three sons David, Scott and Martin have each been deeply involved with CHC since 6 years of age, quickly developing a love for the game and club. Click here to read about David’s experiences at the club. Each have played for over 50 years themselves across junior, senior and master’s teams. Although not quite the longevity of Don playing into his 60’s for CHC and VIC veteran teams. The proud family tradition of hockey has extended to the next generation, with grandchildren Joon and Will also representing the Club.

Don remained a passionate and loyal supporter of CHC throughout his life. A familiar and unmistakable presence on the sidelines, his voice could often be heard from the south-west corner of Matlock as he enthusiastically supported his sons, teammates, and generations of players. He took great pride in seeing juniors progress through to senior ranks developing as players and people and in the ongoing success of the Club.

Beyond hockey, Don maintained an active lifestyle through his other love of golf until a shoulder injury curtailed his playing. He was also a valued member of his local Probus branch for 12 years, serving on the committee and as President for a period.

Thoughts are with Nancy, David, Scott and Martin, and their families at this sad time.

A Celebration of Don’s Life will be held in July.

Club members welcome, details to follow.