

What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.
Obituary
Andrew John McGallan, born on 2 December 1977, passed away peacefully on 20 December 2024 at the age of 47 following a 4 year courageous battle with Cancer. Andrew's departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, yet his legacy of kindness, courage, and resilience continues to inspire all.
Andrew was a devoted father to his beloved daughter, Madison, with whom he shared an unbreakable bond. He was an amazing father, always putting his Madison first and instilling in her the values of perseverance ,resilience, and a zest for life. He was a much loved son, an amazing brother and will leave a big gap in our lives. He will be much missed.
Known for his sharp intellect and self-discipline, Andrew excelled in everything he set his mind to. His competitive spirit was evident both in his professional life and his love for sports, where he thrived not just as a participant but as a mentor to many. His dedication and hard-working nature were admired and respected by colleagues and friends alike. He always looked for positives in adversity accepting challenges of life and dealing with them in a positive and constructive manner.
Andrew had an infectious sense of humour that brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. No matter the circumstance, he had an innate ability to uplift spirits and create an environment filled with warmth and positivity.
While Andrew may no longer be with us, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him. His exemplary life serves as a reminder that true strength and happiness lie in embracing life with a courageous heart, a selfless spirit, and a genuine smile.
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May you rest in peace with no more pain, knowing that you leave a wonderful legacy in your daughter and in all those who knew you.
My thoughts and love are with your family at this difficult time.
Nervous, excited and wondering how on earth I was going to survive being away from home, Mags was the first person I met. He was wearing a grey Atlanta 96 t-shirt and looking handsome with his flowing blonde hair, sporty physique and ear to ear smile.
I recall that we were both a little anxious and shy that first day. Maggie’s Dad, John, had to step in and enforce a firm handshake between us to break the ice. And so it was decided. We would be mates forever and we went off to the student union for our initiation as freshers.
Maggie was studying Sports Science and Physics. I was studying Quantity Surveying. He would tease me about my lectures learning how to count bricks and I would tease him about his purple tracksuit and lessons learning which way up to hold a tennis racquet. I remember one of the days, he had come top of the class in one of the football assessments (for dribbling round cones or something like that). Anyway, he spent the next few days claiming that because he was top of the class he was technically / most probably the best footballer in England given that Loughborough was the best sports university in the UK. For anyone who ever watched him trying to play footie, you would know that was a VERY VERY far-fetched claim. Let’s just say, he declined all requests to prove it.
Teasing aside, Maggie had secured his place on the sports science course due to his prowess in the pool. He was unable to compete for the university due to awful luck with injuries. However, The Universities loss was Cayley Hall’s gain and he turned on the style securing wins for Cayley in the inter hall swimming competitions on many occasions during his time at Loughborough. Maggie would tell us that “Swimming was the closest feeling to flying”. We ripped him for that statement at the time as ludicrous, but he sure did glide through the water! He was pure class.
Spending time looking back through old photos, reminiscing and reading memories from other important people in his life has been heartbreaking and joyous in equal measure.
Mostly though, Maggie, it has reminded me of all the good times we shared, the places we’ve been and what a great man you were and why all your Loughborough friends love you so much. It is no surprise to hear the lovely tributes from all the people you have met since those days at Loughborough. They recall you the same as I do. Calm, confident, respectful, loyal, humble, funny, smart, a true gent in every way and just a great mate to have. You personified the phrase we would use at Uni that it was nice to be important but it is more important to be nice. You didn’t seek or need to be centre of attention. You were confident in who you were and what you stood for. You had nothing to prove to anyone. You were a safe haven and a strong shoulder when anyone needed it. You were a Rolls Royce of a chap.
It is devastating to lose you Mags. We are all struggling to come to terms with it. Kirsty and I promise to think of you often and talk of you often with our kids and our friends. You will live on in the memories of the many who were lucky enough to have you as a part of their lives.
Thank you for being my friend Maggie and for being a friend to Kirsty, the Block 9 Boys and so many more. We have all been lucky to have had you in our lives and we will remember you forever for being the Best Friend, Son, Brother and Father anyone could wish for.
Rest now my friend.
With love and tears from your mate Doogie.



Whilst our bond was not as strong as others, I knew you as a clever, funny and kind hearted man. One of my fondest memories was of a boat (more of a raft!) in the Philippines. My soon to be wife Sarah was having a wobble and yet, despite not knowing her, you were the first to react, calming her with that humble confidence you had. You were such a kind guy and will be missed forever.
What a role model you were to your beautiful daughter Maddie. I hope she can get over the pain of losing you in time, but she will always be proud to have had you as a father, as I am to have had you as a friend.
Rest well Maggie, see you soon xx

As a proud Englishman and rugby fan, I recall you taking your England shirt to the home of Australian rugby in Brissy and winning over many locals. There must have been a couple of hundred Australia fans wearing green and gold at least. And you. In white. Smiling about that now as I remember how cheeky that was... You won them over, and we had a great time.
Go well Andrew, thinking of you today.
With love, Nick and Krissi


You truly were a very special man. We were work colleagues, and what a privilege it was to work with you and know you. You were always respectful, kind, and intelligent. I admired and liked you; you were just a wonderful young man and a devoted and brilliant dad to Maddie. Any parent would be proud to call you son. My heart goes out to your family and loved ones, gone far too soon. Rest easy Andrew.
Later on, watching him develop as such a talented swimmer. He was so much better that his fellow competitors, but always humble and never boastful.
He was a boy that any parent would be proud of.
I have such lovely and fond memories of our teen years and early 20’s. From meeting you at John Port, training together at City of Derby (when you defected from Etwall!), and numerous nights out, including the memorable New Years Eve ball 1999 in to 2000!
Knowing how you bravely battled your illness and how positive you were throughout is a testament to the amazing man you were. Maddie was truly lucky to have such a great dad. Your positive influence will stay with her forever.
It’s been heart breaking knowing you were battling cancer but it’s more heart wrenching knowing you are now gone. Rest easy now Maggie, and sending all my love to Maddie, Jamie and your mum and dad. Lots of love Sarah xxxx





xx
I was so sad to hear the news of you leaving us. You put up an amazing fight and I truly believed you were kicking cancers butt, like all the other goals you achieved in your life.
Thank you for welcoming me so kindly into the O’Brien fold back in 2015. I’ll never forget hearing that English accent and that moment of realisation that our study in Loughborough University overlapped, although our paths never crossed at that time.
At O’Brien we had many whiteboard sessions, many spreadsheet conversations, and thank you, for the many action points! But we surely smashed some targets and had lots of laughs and fun along the way.
I remember getting the Supercars drivers to surprise you and sing happy birthday, and then of course buying you your first drink at the stroke of midnight when you turned 40, whisky yuck!
You were extremely dedicated to your role at O’Brien and took on projects, issues and challenges with a passion to succeed. Nothing was too hard or difficult, there was always a way. You were smart, strong and very supportive of your immediate and wider team.
The world has definitely lost someone special, and you’ll be truly missed. Thanks for keeping in touch as our paths went in different directions, and it was great to be able to catch up and see you in the Goldie about a year ago. Thanks also for the many memories.
Sleep well, Nicola x

We had adventures in Turkey, Amsterdam, Hong Kong and Australia where you settled. You were a great friend with a special good-hearted warmth and authenticity. You'll be dearly missed.

Hey mate, it's your neighbour.
I guess in the end we got to know each other pretty well over the last 7 years.
Perhaps I made these videos just for you Andrew, but they may help those who are grieving realize just how you managed to stay cool through it all.
Living your best life, even in tough times: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjWJu-vYd-0
Take a Lambo Ride with Andrew:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sggoHxq_3qM
You know what's the coolest thing about this difficult time? I feel like you were able to run out the clock on your own terms. Nothing was left unsaid, and you made the best of the situation no matter what.
And what I can see now is just how rich your life was in terms of past experiences and how you are held in such high regard by people who knew you. You did things that mattered, you did cool stuff, you competed, you took big steps, you helped people, and you were an awesome Dad, and that I found most inspirational about you.
Your last text message to me was full of positivity and celebration of life, welcoming my new baby daughter to the world. We will always be here for your family.
And you should be smiling now knowing that people from all across the world are sharing laughs (and tears of course), getting to know the stories of your life well lived.
Anyone who passes through the Gold Coast and wants to rehash good times with Andrew, feel free to get in touch.
Be well everyone.
Scott, Ella, Alina, and Ariella






In my experience work husbands are better than real life husbands and you were the best! We always had so much fun (even working in financial services) with daily diary blocks "A&M planning" aka gossiping, planning life and venting frustrations. You were kind, smart, funny and able to solve any problem thrown your way but you were also humble and happy to defer to others. A class act professionally.
I have so many favourite memories as we became firm friends mostly around you mocking my accent (you are ruining the Queen's English Hansford), running triathlon's together (you holding the team up, me letting it down) and drinking after every win at work (Thursday and Friday nights - we were very successful after all).
By far my favourite memory is when you came to our boring married life suburban bbq with hot backpackers and made all of the husbands jealous. Followed closely by the Melbourne Cup we partied until about 4am and realised that you may as well fly to London direct from the bar (sorry).
We were single parents at the same time and always happy to listen to the other person talk about their wonderful, glorious children as long as each other needed (but it makes sense because Maddie and Luca are the best!)
I know you feel like you never found your thing fully in a professional sense, but your thing was actually as the best, most positive, supportive and loving father I have ever seen.
I love you, miss you already and am forever grateful we got so many years supporting each other. M
(Emma, Dave, Luca & Arlo)
you will live on in the hearts and minds of family, friends and work colleagues for years to come.
My love to your family
From the first year we met, back in 1996 in Cayley hall, you have always been one of the nicest, kindest and most loyal friends anyone could have asked for. Recently looking back through all the pictures at University, holidays together and our wedding day reminded us of so many happy memories and we were very lucky to call you a dear friend, You were taken way too soon, but I know you left your mark on everyone you met.
Pete & Liz Joyner
Your positivity over the 4 years that you battled cancer has been an inspiration. The video that you shared when you rang the bell as you completed your cancer treatment made me cry with happiness. And even when you got the bad news that it was back you remained immensely positive – I never understood how you did it.
I feel so lucky to have been your friend for 25 years. The special friendships that you develop when you only have 4 hours of lectures per week is unique to those university years. Since then we have shared so much as we both became Aussies together and then fathers. Annoyingly you still looked like you could be on an Olympic swimming team.
The whole family loved our regular trips to Queensland so we could spend time with you & Madison. It’s so cruel that you’ve been separated.
We are all going to miss you so much
Love you big guy
Jon & Charmaine

We’ve been best mates since we were 10, and always will be. I can’t say more than that really.
Whatever you are doing now, just remember there is always someone harder.
Love you man.
Blandy








Taken far too soon, but we have many fond memories of you which will stay with us forever. Your growing up with James at John Port School, and Etwall Eagles. Best man at his wedding. Lasagnes! Meeting us in Circular Quay when our ship docked in Sydney, and the enjoyable day you gave us at your home in Manly.
You have been a brilliant Dad to Maddie, and have been so brave over the last four years.
May you rest in peace, and our thoughts are with Maddie and your family.
David,Madge,Matt and Jackie

This news sits heavy in my heart. You were a massive part of my teens and 20s - so many memories of swimming galas, nights out, london / Nottingham visits. Trying to work out if / how much we liked each other... for me it was a 10+ year crush, for sure!
I'm remembering one of the last times we saw each other - 2008 in Sydney and Brisbane when I was over learning to sail.
You were a gorgeous, kind, smart, gentle soul and clearly an incredible dad.
Sending all my love to your family.
Rest well x


I am so sad to hear of your passing. You had a such a positive influence on the first half of my life and, as I can read, many others in theirs.
I still think back to our formative years of time together at John Port School and nights out in Derby; then meeting up in Loughborough, Nottingham, Sheffield and Dublin for nights out and Sunday morning runs afterwards, often feeling sore!
You were always an amazing blend of funny, supportive, caring , driven and talented; a great friend as I’m know you were to many others.
My thoughts are with your Family and all the many people who are now feeling your loss. Rest in Peace.
Matt


Carol and Rod
A key member of Block 9, you had a unique ability to provide a voice of sense and balance to the chaos that ensued. You were a constant source of calm and kindness throughout the time I knew you.
Though life took us on different paths and you moved to Australia, we lost touch for a while, but I’ll never forget catching up with you in Sydney for the 2013 Lions. It was a moment to look back on those Cayley Hall days with a smile and remember the good times we all spent together.
Although I never had the chance to meet your daughter, Madison, it is clear that you were a devoted and loving dad, passing on your warmth, strength, and kindness.
Life can be cruel and you were sadly taken away by the scourge of our times. Maggie, you may be gone but will never be forgotten. Thinking of Madison, your family and many friends at this difficult time.
David Falconer (Rooster)
In loving memory of Andrew McGallan, whose presence and contributions will never be forgotten. As a cherished member of our work family, you brought not only your skills and expertise but also your warmth, kindness, and infectious smile to every day. The moments we shared, the laughter, and the memories captured in the attached video are a testament to the lasting impact you made on all of us. Though you are no longer with us, your spirit lives on in the work we do and in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing you. You will always be missed, but never forgotten. Rest in peace!
Having known you since you were 8 or 9 years old in Etwall Eagles swimming club. My girls were similar ages and we went all over the country following you all in swimming galas. We were down at Crystal Palace when you and Joanna qualified for the National championships. What an achievement. I think round about 1993/4.
We have very happy memories of our sailing trip in Croatia 2004 (photos). Captain McGallan at the wheel!!
You had such a zest for life and that has passed on to your daughter. She is a credit to you.
Rest in peace now Andrew, no more pain. My heart goes out to all your family.
Kathy & Hugh.



I don’t even know where to begin. You have left a huge hole in our household, and we will miss you terribly.
Thank you for all the fun memories and laughs over the 35 years that we have known each other. From the lessons in school, to going out in Derby, to being our best man and more recently our holiday to Center Parcs last year - you have always been fun, positive and an all round great person to be friends with.
The bond that you shared with Maddie was so special and it was clear to see that devoted, fun and loving bond that you had together. Your relationship was so special and you were an amazing Dad - a role which suited you down to the ground.
Rest well my friend and we will make sure that we take Maddie on some adventures with the Bland family just as promised.
Lots of love Caroline x



It has been an absolute privilege to have been close to you and our deepest sympathy to your wonderful and supportive family.
Love Pat and Paul
When I got the message about your passing I just couldn't believe it............and I still can't to be honest. You were the first person I met when we started in Loughborough and can still remember clearly our first class together as a bunch of nervous freshers tentatively introducing themselves to each other up in one of the Physics labs. The friendships and bonds we formed on our course is something that I cherish to this day........and you were central to all of it. I remember so well all the Physics lectures sitting beside each other and not having a breeze what was going on! And studying up in the Library with all the gang trying to figure out how on earth we were going to pass an exam on Quantum Mechanics............but you know what.......we got there in the end.
The nights in Crystals, Hey Ewe and FND were just full of joy and laughter and I'll head to my local on Friday to have Purple Nasty in your honour, although I'll have to explain to the barman what exactly it is first ! I remember when you came to Dublin for my 21st, we had such craic over the weekend and all my friends instantly became your friends, given your easy going nature and zest for life.
On our journey through life we all meet thousands of people but only a few stand out as being extra special ...... you were one of those people for me Maggie. You were such a chilled guy and a beacon of positivity, even just hanging out with you or walking to/from lectures was something that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Life is not fair ............. you were taken from the world far too early. You were such an amazing person Maggie and your friendship is something that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Goodbye my Friend,
Paul

Still cannot believe this news is true, this news has knocked me sideways.
Great memories meeting you at Loughborough and having a purple nasty or two. You made revising in the library so so enjoyable as we went through our studies. Really have great memories on our PE and physics crew of which you were a massive part of it. Last time I saw you was at the Nottingham marathon a few years later. Even on the finish line still up for a laugh.
RIP

I can’t put into words how I’m feeling. I write this with tears falling down my face and a massive hole in my heart.
We first met in 1996 at Loughborough. Our crew of PE, Sports Studies and Physics were a small but a great bunch and you were a key part of that. I just loved spending time with you. You were kind, funny, sporty and just a bloody joy to be around. We had some superb, memorable nights out, I will never forget them.
I loved the fact that we both lived in Nottingham for a while and we were able to socialise and enjoy more fun times. Our annual trips away with Martin and Paddy for the rugby were brilliant and I always looked forward to them so much. Yet more happy memories made.
My trip to Athens with you in 2004, for the Olympics, was just so enjoyable. Some lovely memories and experiences.
I was delighted for you (and equally gutted) when you left for Australia. Pleased that you were starting an exciting new life but disappointed that you wouldn’t be around the corner to see you.
Sleep well, mate. I will miss you so much.
Churchie x


From the very start of my career, you were to guide me with patience, wisdom, and kindness. You were more than just a colleague - you were a mentor, a role model, and a true gentleman. Your unwavering support, gentle guidance, and the lessons you shared will stay with me for the rest of my life.
Though you may no longer be with us, the impact you've had on my professional life, and the lives of so many others, will never fade. You will be deeply missed and thank you for being the wonderful person you were. Rest in peace!
Fahad

I feel very fortunate to have known you since we first met at Loughborough University. Although it was only towards the end of our time there that we studied on the same course, I have such great memories of those days. After university, we shared a house for a while, which I’ll always remember fondly—especially your prized La-Z-Boy chair and the kitchen filled with multiple large tubs of pretzels!
You’ve been an inspiration to everyone as you’ve battled so hard over these last four years.
Even though we haven’t seen each other in years since you moved south, I’ve always enjoyed the banter over messenger about the rugby and keeping in touch.
My condolences to your family. My thoughts and prayers are with them.
Rest in peace, Magster—you will be deeply missed.
Sam
Andrew was a rarity, being both both intelligent and emotionally smart, but more than that he was full of optimism and warmth, generosity and kindness.
He encouraged my self belief at a difficult time and was a light in the dark. I have always thought of him so fondly and while it’s a few years since we last spoke, I have been moved and deeply saddened to hear of his passing. I have many great memories of him which I will always cherish.
Love to all of your family and those that you cared for. Hannah x
I started at Loughborough in 1997, the year after you. When my ‘97 cohort moved into Cayley Hall, you’d moved out of halls and into a house in town, so we freshers didn’t know you for the first few weeks of term. But the mythical name ‘Maggie’ kept cropping up, you had gained a kind of legendary status without us yet meeting you. But by the end of the first term everyone knew you Maggie. Not because you were loud or cocky, but because you were gentle, and funny and kind.. and of course a complete adonis of a man. Everyone in Cayley either swooned over you or wished they were you!
As the first weeks and terms passed, I had the honour of spending more and more time with you, including living together in halls - and then some time together in Sydney in the early 2000s. You were a truly lovely man; warm, intelligent, fun-loving; you had the heart of a lion, and you were always there for your pals. You will never be forgotten.
My love and thoughts are with Maggie’s family at this very tough time. Maggie was a wonderful guy and he will be hugely missed by all his friends from Cayley Hall, Loughborough.
For a short but significant time in my life, you were like a big brother to me. Making me laugh, gossiping, offering support and generally just being there for anything that was going on in life at that time.
You provided an escape to Aus when I needed it most, where we had a New Year's to remember and explored your new home town. We always had fun together and I loved how easy it was to be around you.
I think about that trip often, and it always brings a smile to my face.
Whilst it's been a longtime since we last spoke, know how much I valued the friendship we did have. You were one of a kind, a true gent and someone I won't ever forget. Thank you for your friendship.
Love and strength to all of your family.
Love always, Daniela





Some friendships transcend distance and time, you know them when you make them, and you don’t make many. You were one of those, and you’ll never be forgotten.
My sincerest condolences to your family and all your friends.
I am still struggling with the fact that you are no longer with us. I remember meeting you for the first time during your induction at O'Brien. I was immediately impressed with your intellect, your thirst for knowledge of the business, your wit, your ability to identify opportunities so quickly, but also your gentle nature.
Working with you and watching you grow into your role and the difference you were making is a very fond memory I have of you. Your ability to articulate your plans, to bring your team on a journey with you was a clear demonstration of your leadership.
At O'Brien we fought a good fight together, we had plenty of laughs along the way, and of course a few ales, some excellent single malt, and suffered through the odd hangover during team meetings.
I can still remember the day you informed me that you had been diagnosed with cancer. In typical Macca fashion it was your resolute positivity that shown through. Through this whole ordeal you never once gave up, you always remained positive. Your determination, your fighting spirit, your love of life inspired so many people. You were an inspiration to us all.
I often said, "you should have been awarded the Father of the Year. I said to you so many times that you were without doubt the absolute "best dad" I had ever known. Your love of Madison was evident every day. You devoted your life to her. You have given her inspiration, direction, balance, every opportunity to be herself, and of course like yourself a commitment to fitness and healthy living. I know Madie will carry this forward for the rest of her life. The word "hero" is used rather loosely these days, but you will be Madison's hero forever. I have no doubt when she has her own children, she will follow your parenting, and will ensure her children know how amazing her Dad was, and what an awesome Granddad you would have been for them. What a role model you were.
When you became ill 4 years ago and could no longer travel and work full time I remember sending you a message one Sunday evening just to let you know I was thinking of you. Little did I know that started a journey for us both. Almost every Sunday night for 4 years I would message you. We would talk about our previous week, your treatment plan, Madie and what the week ahead held for each of us. In the past year or so it became our chance to share our tragic golf stories, especially the putts that just missed. Sunday nights will never be the same for me.
Macca, I will miss you a great deal. Fly high champ, shine bright in death as you did in life. When I get up there, I will see you on the first tee for the first of many a round of pretty bad golf, followed by an excellent single malt. Love you mate.
Holmsey
It’s only been a little over two weeks and the pain of your loss still cuts deep.
Whilst you were over there, and I was back here, no amount of distance or time ever threatened the indelible bond we all shared; Loughborough.
The memories might be harder to come by now, pictures help, but when I close my eyes I shall always see your blonde mop and infectious smile standing at your bedroom door in Block 9.
Swimmers!
Rest in peace Mags, you beautiful man.
I’m so sorry to hear of your illness and passing. It’s been a while since we caught up but the fun times we had at E.ON and then in Aus when we first all arrived are all such brilliant memories.
Be it beach days, nights out, the races, gigs, bbqs, guitar hero marathons, and hot sunny Christmases - we had such fun times and we loved hanging out with you.
I can’t believe you have gone so young and I hope you are at peace wherever you are. And we wish much love and hugs to your family and daughter as they navigate this very tough time
Bex & Chris xx









You were my first friend when I arrived at University in Loughborough and were the first friend to welcome me to my new home in Australia. You seem to have always been there at the cross-roads in my life, one step ahead - so I am confidient that I will see you again when I get to the next place and you can show me around there too. Until then buddy, I'll miss you.
I hope wherever you are now, there is a gym where the weights are a little lighter than the ones you had to lift while you were here - I'll be there to spot you again one day.
Rest In Peace - Big Love X
ac (Longshanks)
X

Celebration Of Life Occasion
Parkview Chapel Allambe Memorial Gardens, 129, Nerang Broadbeach Road, Nerang Qld, 4211 at 2pm on Friday 17th January,
Followed by Emerald Lakes Golf Club (3 Alabaster Dr, Carrara QLD 4211)
Dress - Smart/casual with blue theme/accents
Flowers - Family only - For those who wish to, there will be an opportunity to make a donation to Australian Cancer Research Foundation