User:Sintch/Example/test

Gilbert Hitch was an Australian government administrative officer and graphic artist who spent his last years designing stamps for Norfolk Island.

Early Life
Born in Bencubbin, Western Australia, Hitch served with the Royal Australian Navy on the HMAS Katoomba minesweeping Australian coasts.

After completing his naval service Hitch returned to his home in Bassendean Perth where he commenced teaching studies.

Naval memories of Darwin lead him to return in 1952 when he took up a position with the Department of External Territories.

In 1955 he married Moira Stokes who was descended from the Clare Kellys.

The failing health of his wife forced a family move to Canberra in 1964.

Norfolk Island
Hitch moved to Norfolk Island in 1970 as the Official Secretary to the Australian appointed Governor where he served two terms from 1970 - 1974 inc.

In 1974 he married Mavis Blutcher, who was descended from the Bounty Mutineers of Pitcairn Island, and remained employed with the local Government of Norfolk Island in an administrative capacity.

Over the years he made a significant contribution to Norfolk Island's Administration.

Hitch held a number of formal appointments in Norfolk Island.


 * Registrar of the Supreme Court
 * Deputy Registrar of Lands and of Companies
 * Deputy Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages
 * Deputy Coroner
 * Secretary of the Executive Council
 * Justice of the Peace

Subsequent to his Official Secretary role he was successively;
 * Revenue Manager
 * Administrative Officer
 * Philatelic Bureau Manager
 * Director of Postal Services

Whilst in the substantive post of Official Secretary, he was also the Deputy Administrator, and frequently performed the Administrator's duties whilst the Administrator was absent. Importantly, Gil Hitch, for a period in excess of a year headed the Public Service of the island, as the Acting Chief Administrative Officer.

As well as the demanding duties he made time for many community and cultural pursuits. He was immersed in organisations such as the Historical Society and the Conservation Society. He was Chairman of the Museum Trust and published two books, "Ghosts of Norfolk Island", and also "The Pacific War of 1941-1945 and Norfolk Island".

But his most lasting legacy will be the stamps he designed for Norfolk Island.