RIP Frank Hilliard, Eastern Press

Frank Hilliard, founder of Eastern Press and one of Melbourne's best known and respected print identities, has passed away, leaving family, friends, colleagues, customers and the wider industry in shock.

Cormac Deffely, managing director of Eastern Press writes: “It is with great sadness that we advise Francis Gerard (Frank) Hilliard passed away peacefully yesterday evening Monday after a short illness. It was unexpected and all too sudden.

“Frank was a well-known and very well liked figure in the print industry. Together he and Irene purchased Eastern Press in 1983, and over the last 36 years under his direction it has become a well-known and successful print company, with a name for quality and service.

“It was a family-run business by Frank and Irene, where staff have always been treated like family. Frank would keep a close eye on the wellbeing of his employees and he was available at any time without fail to listen to a problem or help with a personal situation. The high esteem in which Frank was held by his staff is reflected in the 321 years of combined service between the current staff at Eastern Press.

“Frank was one of a kind. He was known for being fair both in his business and personal dealings with honesty being one of his strongest traits. Many will have shared a laugh with Frank over the years as he always saw the funny side of life.

“He will be missed by all those who ever had the pleasure to meet him. He will be sorely missed by the family he leaves behind and the family here at Eastern Press.

“A light has gone out for us all – we will celebrate his life and wonderful legacy of conduct and example of leading from the front in business, finance and life. Rest in peace Frank.”

Under the current coronavirus restrictions the funeral will be limited to close family only.