Donald Trescowthick
Sir Donald Henry Trescowthick, AC, KBE was an Australian businessman.
Biography
Trescowthick was born on 4 December 1930. His wife, Norma, predeceased him in March 2024. He died on 13 August 2024, at the age of 93.Business activities
Trescowthick was involved in several Australian business enterprises.Swann Insurance
With Norman Swann, Trescowthick founded Swann Insurance, which grew to be a major general insurer. Prior to being sold to CGU Insurance, Swann Insurance was Australia's largest privately owned general insurer.Charles Davis
Trescowthick acquired Charles Davis, a major Tasmanian company which had been established in 1847. Charles Davis grew under Trescowthick's leadership to become at one time Australia's fourth largest retailer, and third largest department store operator. The company was renamed Harris Scarfe in 1995.Private business activities
In addition to his involvement in Charles Davis Limited, Trescowthick was involved in several private ventures, including ownership of the Place Arcade in Toorak Village shopping centre in Melbourne Australia.Community, sporting and charitable activities
Trescowthick was involved in community, sporting and charitable activities during his business career.In particular:
- He supported the Geelong Football Club, and at one time was their No. 1 ticketholder.
- He chaired Australian Olympic fundraising appeals.
- He supported the establishment of the Melbourne–Hobart yacht race.
- His support led to the establishment of the Sir Donald and Lady Trescowthick Centre for aged care in Prahran Victoria.
- He supported fundraising for construction of the tower for St Francis Xavier's Cathedral in Adelaide South Australia..