09/07/2026
VALE Ben Chesser (class of 1987)
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ben Chesser, who died suddenly of a medical episode at his home on the Gold Coast on 5 June 2026. He was 56.
Ben's sister Lucy was kind enough to provide the following words regarding her beloved brother:
Ben was the beloved brother of Lucy (1985) and Sam (1989), son of Margaret and father, Murray (who have both outlived him). He was a valued friend and colleague of many others. His life was marked by determination, bravery and a fierce commitment to justice.
Ben’s path was not a conventional one.
He began his education at Eltham College but left school early to undertake an Australian Retail Traineeship with Coles. Nevertheless, he retained friends from those school days throughout his entire life.
While Ben found the traditional academic pathway challenging as a young man, deep-down he had a fierce desire to learn. Ben completed his HSC at night school over two years while working full time, and went on to qualify as a fitness instructor, a security guard, and later achieved a Certificate III in Theatre Performance and Practices.
A lifelong learner, Ben continued to pursue education throughout his life. He completed a Bachelor of Social Work at Griffith University in 2020, where he received academic excellence awards, and a Bachelor of Laws, (Griffith) the qualifications required to be formally admitted to the Supreme Court of Queensland as a lawyer in 2024 — an achievement he was deeply proud of. He went on to practise as a criminal lawyer in New Zealand before health issues brought him back to Australia. In the last week if his life he was busy in discussions with a potential PhD supervisor and excited about the prospect of doing meaningful research in an area of the law.
Ben was a deeply sensitive and intelligent man — widely read, incredibly witty, kind to children, and an excellent chess player. He loved animals passionately and none more so than his beloved Bronte, an Italian greyhound who predeceased him by a few years.
He was also creative and engaging, performing stand-up comedy across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Byron Bay, including earning the number one spot at Raw Comedy, Byron Bay, in 2005. Throughout his life, he undertook diverse pursuits, including theatre studies, fitness instruction, and community-focused work, reflecting his curiosity and versatility.
Recently, Ben found meaningful purpose with Volunteering Gold Coast. Initially joining as a volunteer driver, he soon became a valued member of the Client Intake Team. Drawing on his lived experience as both a lawyer and a social worker, he supported vulnerable members of the community with empathy and insight. He was a passionate advocate for fairness, dignity, and the rights of others, and his contribution left a lasting impact on those around him.
Ben’s life was not always easy, but he never stopped striving to grow, to learn, and to help others. His resilience, humour, and fierce sense of justice will be remembered by all who knew him.
He leaves behind family and friends who are deeply saddened by his passing, yet very proud of the life he lived and all that he overcame.
A memorial service is currently being arranged. Those wishing to attend or receive details are invited to contact Lucy at [email protected]
