Clive Disher

Doctor, soldier and champion rower, Clive Disher embodied courage on and off the water – leading Australia’s King’s Cup crew to victory in 1919 and leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations of Ormond rowers.

Sunday 13 March 2022 • 5 minute read

One of the College’s greatest rowers is the inspiration for an upcoming dinner to which all who have rowed at Ormond are invited. Clive Disher was a doctor and champion rower who served his country and his rowing community with diligence and bravery.At Ormond from 1912, Disher was a star rower for both Ormond and the University before serving as a medical officer in World War I where he was recommended for a Military Cross for his bravery.After the war ended, there were thousands of Allied soldiers in Britain waiting for a berth home. Partly to occupy them, England staged a series of sporting events for military teams and crews, including the Henley Peace Rowing Regatta. Disher was the stroke of the Australian crew.

Disher’s crew epitomised some of the challenges of post-war life. All were recent war veterans and some had to retire before the regatta on account of their mental or physical health. Clive Disher himself itched to return to his medical work. But the crew won the event and claimed the King’s Cup.Once the event was over the Australian rowing community wanted its crews to compete annually for the King’s Cup, rather than the object being consigned to a museum. Clive Disher signed a letter to King George V asking for the object’s release and Winston Churchill communicated the monarch’s assent.After returning from Britain in 1919, Clive Disher resumed his contributions to Ormond life as a rowing coach and selector and as an active member of its alumni association. He later served in World War II as the commanding officer of fellow Ormondian rower and medic ‘Weary’ Dunlop.Clive Disher is remembered by the Australian rowing community, which now awards both the King’s Cup, for which state crews compete, and the Clive Disher Cup, which is awarded to military rowers.

Explore our publications

Ormond’s publications capture the life of the College – its people, ideas and impact across generations. From stories of students shaping their world to updates from alumni making a difference far beyond Parkville, each edition reflects the spirit of curiosity and community that defines Ormond.