Vale Ian Browne OAM (1931–2023)

AusCycling is mourning the passing of Ian Browne, a star of Australian track cycling in the 1950s and 60s.

Browne was born in Melbourne and began his cycling journey with Hawthorn Amateur Cycling Club.

In 1956, he partnered with Tony Marchant to win the gold medal in tandem cycling at the Melbourne Olympic Games in front of a home crowd.

Two years later, racing as an individual, Browne won the 10-mile scratch race at the British Empire and Commonwealth Games in Cardiff.

Browne went on to represent Australia at two more Olympic Games and at the 1962 Commonwealth Games, where he won bronze in the sprint.

His outstanding career included 10 national senior amateur track titles, bookended by Australian championships in 1953 and 1968.

After retirement, Browne continued to make a significant contribution to his sport. He served as vice president of the Victorian Cycling Federation and received life membership of the Victorian Amateur Cyclists Union in 1984.

In 1994, Browne was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of his service to cycling.

He was known and loved as a generous and humble person, and was an esteemed member of Australia's cycling community.

Browne passed away on Saturday night at the age of 92. AusCycling extends its condolences to his wife, Rhonda, and the family and friends of Ian Browne.