Notable South Australians/Captain George Bain Johnston
Desirous as ever of seeing the river traffic carried through the river mouth, he again sailed for Scotland in 1877 for the purpose of superintending in person the construction of a suitable vessel. "The Queen of the South" (on arrival of which Captain Johnston was presented by his fellow-townsmen with a handsome silver epergne) did good service in the trade during the seasons of 1878 and 1879, and many will long remember the pleasant voyages made in her with her brave, skilful, and kind-hearted commander. He built the "Cadell," one of the finest of the river fleet, fitting her up with engines brought out in the "Queen of the South"; and later on constructed at Goolwa the "Monarch," said to have the largest carrying capacity of any barge on the rivers. The business during the last few years has been carried on in partnership with Mr. Kirkpatrick, of Wilcannia, under the style of Geo. Johnston & Co. By his death the river trade lost one of its most successful navigators, and South Australia a loyal, intelligent, and enterprising colonist. Captain Johnston's courage and skill are well known. He saved no less than fourteen persons from drowning, and was a recipient of the Royal Humane Society's medal. He married Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. James Barclay, of Cockenzie, who, with four sons and three daughters, is left to mourn an irreparable loss. A brave, kind spirit has gone from among men, but those who enjoyed his intimate friendship will cherish his memory till life's latest hour. When the fell disease that terminated his earthly career began to show its effects, though persuaded to rest from toil, he struggled manfully against the rising tide, till labour became a weariness, and he sought a change in Victoria, Tasmania, and New Zealand. At the latter place, in Queenstown, Otago, he died, on May 29, 1882, aged 52 years. His remains were brought to Goolwa for interment, where he, who was an attached and liberal supporter of the Wesleyan Church, found his last resting place on the spot he loved so well.