On October 23, 2016 we lost a very good friend, long-time colleague, and mentor — Dr. Bryan Found. His passing came as a great shock and it has taken some time to process this new reality.

Bryan was truly a great guy and I considered him to be a very good friend.  I was fortunate to attend many of his lectures and workshops over the years.  Bryan had a unique approach to forensic science.  In my opinion his insights and knowledge were unequalled.  In recent years I also had the honour and privilege of working with him on various projects.

Bryan was a forensic scientist and cognitive scientist in equal part giving him a singular, and very valuable, perspective on all things forensic.  Professionally he stood out — few people have done as much to advance forensic science.  He was not the most prolific author, though he was hardly the least having a credible 67 articles to his name.  In his position as Chief Scientist with the Victoria State Police Bryan worked very hard to improve forensic science. His influence extended far beyond the Victoria Police, or even the limits of the Australian continent. He was very generous of his time and travelled around the world giving talks and lectures… the travel he did was truly amazing and many people benefited from his personal effort and commitment.

In my estimation he was one of the most influential forensic scientists of our time; particularly, but not solely, for the discipline of forensic document examination.

A month prior to his passing Bryan was awarded Life Membership to the Australian & New Zealand Forensic Science Society.  That was a well-deserved honour.

Bryan will be greatly missed by all of us.  My condolences to his family and his many friends. The world is a lesser place for all of us.

Good-bye, my friend.

Tribute page at the Herald Sun:  http://tributes.heraldsun.com.au/notice/347272018