HAD he been alive today Greg Dickson, former owner/editor of the Dandenong Journal, would be relieved that the newspaper to which he devoted so much of his life, continues as a strong voice for the community.
He would also be thrilled that the Journal will be a highlight of the Dandenong Historical Society’s 50th anniversary celebrations this Saturday.
Greg was a foundation member of the society, joining the committee in 1964. He was assistant secretary from 1965-72, publicity officer in 1973-74 and research officer from 1984-92. From the society’s viewpoint, he is perhaps best remembered for his contribution as editor of its magazine Gipps-Land Gate for 22 years until his death in 1993. He was honoured with a life membership of the society in 1984.
I remember typing Greg’s historical society notes on my trusty old Remington typewriter in the happy days at the Journal office — a weatherboard building — at 1 Scott Street, Dandenong.
I recall the long queues of people late on Wednesday afternoons waiting to buy the 72-page Journal for the princely sum of two pence (2 cents).
Born in Foster, South Gippsland, Greg was the second child of Wilfred and Flora Dickson, who bought the Ouyen and North West Express newspaper in 1918. Wilfred became ill a few years later so Greg and his mother took over running of the newspaper.
Greg left school to help his mother and at 13 reported on club sporting results. By 14 he was also acting assistant secretary of Ouyen Racing Club.
Greg married Daphne (Zig) Zerbst at Ouyen in 1939 and they were happily married for 54 years. Prior to their marriage, Greg’s mother sold the Ouyen paper and Greg decided to buy the Dandenong Journal.
With the help of his wife, and brother Des, Greg turned the Journal into a provincial paper with one Victoria’s largest circulations.
In 1962 he sold the paper to Cumberland Newspapers but was a contributor up until the week of his death.
I was proud when the lane beside 1 Scott Street was named Dickson Lane.
From their first house in King Street, Greg and his wife Zig moved to a new home in Pultney Street.
Greg cared for Zig with devotion when she was unwell in the latter part of her life. Sadly he pre-deceased her.
As a journalist and publisher Greg was greatly respected. He did not believe in sensationalism.
His reporting was concerned with people and he took a genuine interest in their daily lives, their ups and downs and all aspects of community life. As well as being editor of Gipps-Land Gate, Greg was instrumental in arranging to have Reminiscences of Early Dandenong reprinted, and the publication of the Grand Old Lady of Dandenong, a history of the Dandenong Town hall.
Do you have a milestone, memory or question for Marg? Email easteditorial@mmpgroup.com.au or post submissions to A Moment with Marg, c/o The Dandenong Journal, PO Box 318, Dandenong 3175.
