Newcastle Mourns the Loss of Paul Scott After Peaceful VAD Passing
Surfest stalwart and former University of Newcastle academic Paul Scott has died peacefully through voluntary assisted dying, following a courageous battle with terminal brain cancer. He was 64 years old.
A Peaceful Farewell Surrounded by Love
His daughters Emma-Jane Scott and Grace Scott, along with partner Victoria and close friend Ken, were by his side during his final moments. "He was peaceful, relaxed and surrounded by love. He had his dignity," Emma-Jane shared. Grace reflected on the overwhelming community support, noting "we've had a huge outpouring of support from the community."
Grace described her father as "a lovely person" whose kindness and generosity were widely recognised, though she quipped about his reluctance when it came to splitting bills. "He sometimes came off as a bit of a grump," she added, highlighting how deeply he valued his students during his teaching career.
A Life Well Lived and Cherished
Mr Scott was known for his love of swimming at the ocean baths, fine food, Scotch whisky, and spending quality time with friends. He cherished the Segenhoe Apartments where he lived and the vibrant Newcastle East community.
His health journey began with headaches during the Glenn McGrath Pink Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground in January last year, leading to a diagnosis of a glioblastoma brain tumour. Despite surgery to reduce the tumour, there was no cure for the stage four cancer.
In a September interview with the Newcastle Herald, Mr Scott expressed that he wasn't afraid of voluntary assisted dying, stating "I'm more afraid of being in shocking pain."
The Final Choice and Last Days
After a hospital visit for an infection last week, it became clear the tumour was progressing and affecting his mobility. Grace expressed relief that her father could choose VAD, concerned he might otherwise become incapacitated and unable to make the decision legally.
Medical practitioners confirmed his consent multiple times, to which he firmly replied "yep, I want that." In his final days, he enjoyed cherished moments—sharing aged Glenmorangie Scotch, indulging in oysters and fresh fruit, and satisfying a childhood craving for black jelly beans.
Legacy as a Voice for Newcastle
Mr Scott was renowned for his brilliant opinion pieces in the Newcastle Herald, holding city leaders accountable with wit and humour. Newcastle Herald editor Lisa Allan praised his contributions, saying "our pages are quieter without his voice, but our community will forever be stronger for having heard it."
His 25-year academic career at the University of Newcastle and 19 years as a volunteer communications adviser with Surfest left a lasting impact. Surfest remembered him as "a powerful force" and mentor to countless young journalists.
Tributes from Community Leaders
Newcastle lord mayor Ross Kerridge, recently returned after his own cancer treatment, described Mr Scott as a "larger-than-life Novocastrian" and appreciated his support during medical challenges. Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp hailed him as a "Newcastle legend" and staunch advocate for the community.
Deputy lord mayor Declan Clausen noted how Mr Scott's honest discussions about dignity, love, and end-of-life choices helped many think more openly about these important matters.
Paul Scott's funeral will be held at Pettigrew Family Funerals in Mayfield West on Thursday, where the community will gather to honour his remarkable life and contributions.
