Vale - Ian Nay

This has taken some time to write, and I still can’t provide an adequate commentary on the life of Matthew Ian Nay who passed away on 26 January 2026. But here goes …

As I remember it, Ian joined AGC in Canberra. I first worked with him when he was appointed District Credit Manager, Wollongong when I was there sorting-out a Wholesale mess. He later went on to become District Manager, Rockdale, and then on to manager some lending products at HO level.

In-between all that, there is a story that must be told. When AGC won the account of Peter Warren Ford (probably the largest Ford dealer at the time) it was a condition that there be a dedicated Acceptance Officer to handle the dealership’s business. Ian got that job and was stationed at Parramatta Office. After about four days, there was not an application to be seen, and there was a thought that the deal would be a white elephant - leading the then District Manager (Roy Whittaker) to name Ian: Sabu the White Elephant Boy. Ian was stuck with the nickname “Sabu” from that day on.

Anyone who ever met Ian will always recall how well he told a story. He was a born entertainer, and properly fitted the definition of raconteur. The annoying thing about him was that he would tell a joke that would have people splitting their sides laughing but it was never quite so funny when you told it to others. I can still remember with a smile a joke he told me over 50 years ago.

Added to that, Ian was a very accomplished guitar player. During his Canberra days he had his own band, and on occasion he provided guitar accompaniment to some well-known performers including Shirley Bassey.

Poor health plagued Ian in his later days but he never lost his sense of humour.

More than a bit of fun went out of our lives when you left us Ian. You will be missed.

John Leplaw

PS: If you have a story about Ian, please share it in the comments section.