Jacques Lacasse
James Lawrence Kemsley OAM (15 November 1948 – 3 December 2007) was a distinguished Australian cartoonist, actor, playwright, television presenter, and advocate for the arts. He gained national and international recognition for continuing the legacy of the beloved comic strip Ginger Meggs, originally created by Jimmy Bancks. Kemsley’s revitalisation of the strip from 1984 to 2007 brought it into modern relevance, ensuring its publication across multiple continents and sustaining its cultural impact for future generations.
Infobox: James Kemsley
| Name | James Lawrence Kemsley OAM |
|---|---|
| Born | 15 November 1948, Paddington, New South Wales |
| Died | 3 December 2007, Bowral, New South Wales |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Occupation | Cartoonist, Actor, TV Host, Playwright |
| Years Active | 1968–2007 |
| Notable Works | Ginger Meggs (1984–2007) |
| Spouse | Not publicly documented |
| Children | Not publicly documented |
| Awards | Stanley Awards (1990, 2001, 2004), OAM |
| Affiliations | Australian Cartoonists’ Association (President) |
Early Life and Education
James Kemsley was born in Paddington, a vibrant suburb of Sydney, New South Wales, and spent formative years with his family in New Guinea, where his father served as the master of patrol boats. His early years were marked by movement and diverse experiences, attending a series of Roman Catholic and Christian Brothers schools, including Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College (1958–1960), Chevalier College (1961–1962), and Christian Brothers College, Rose Bay (1962–1963). He later resided in Traralgon, Victoria, with his father, further shaping his adaptable and creative nature.
Kemsley’s passion for performance and storytelling was evident early on. He pursued formal training in drama and playwriting, studying at the Independent School of Dramatic Art in North Sydney from 1968 to 1971. His artistic development continued at the NIDA Playwright Forum in 1973 and culminated in a RADA Professional Workshop in London in 1979. These experiences laid the groundwork for a multifaceted career in performance, writing, and visual storytelling.
Television and Theatre Career: From Skeeter to the Stage
In the late 1960s and 1970s, Kemsley became a beloved figure in Australian television. He gained popularity as “Skeeter the Paperboy“, a lively, cap-wearing persona featured on Channel Nine’s Super Flying Fun Show. He soon became host of Skeeter’s Cartoon Corner and later Skeeter’s Music Hall, delighting young audiences in Sydney with competitions, character skits, and popular US cartoons like Wacky Races, Scooby-Doo, and The Archies.
His charming taglines—such as “golly gosh”—and enthusiastic rapport with viewers became iconic. When he departed in 1973 to explore opportunities in the UK, he left a lasting legacy in children’s television. His hosting role was succeeded by Greg Bepper, and later by The Channel Niners and Cartoon Corner, the latter led by Daryl Somers in both Sydney and Melbourne.
In parallel, Kemsley expanded into acting, appearing in mini-series such as The Cousin From Fiji and Seven Little Australians. His range extended to live programming, including the 1973 variety show Junior Cabaret. A talented writer, he authored imaginative children’s plays such as The Land Of Coloured Dreams, Once Upon A Time… And All That, and The Magical Adventures of Puck, which contributed to his reputation as a versatile and compassionate storyteller.
A Cartoonist’s Triumph: Ginger Meggs and Artistic Legacy
Kemsley transitioned into cartooning in 1984 when he was entrusted with the legacy of Ginger Meggs, Australia’s most enduring comic strip. As the third official artist after creator Jimmy Bancks, he inherited a significant cultural responsibility. Over the next two decades, he reinvigorated the strip’s style, writing, and international appeal, growing its reach to over 120 newspapers in more than 30 countries.
His modernised approach to storytelling preserved the spirit of the mischievous red-haired boy while introducing contemporary humour and themes that resonated with modern readers. Kemsley’s careful stewardship of the character upheld the comic’s tradition while allowing it to evolve and expand its audience.
Beyond Ginger Meggs, Kemsley’s editorial cartoons and comic work were regularly featured in publications such as The Traralgon Journal, Adelaide’s Sunday Mail, The Sun-Herald, The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Daily Telegraph. His commentary, whether through comic humour or gentle satire, reflected a keen awareness of societal shifts and human nature.
Kemsley was also deeply involved in the artistic community. He served two terms as President of the Australian Cartoonists’ Association, where he was admired for advocating for the rights of cartoonists, mentoring newcomers, and promoting public engagement with cartoon art. His peers honoured him with several awards: he received the Stanley Award for Comic Strip Artist in 1990 and 2004, and was named Cartoonist of the Year in 2001. He was also appointed Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his services to the arts.
Bibliography and Notable Publications
Kemsley authored and illustrated numerous books, showcasing his wit, artistry, and broad appeal:
- The Pocket Frogin’ (Commercial Publications, 1981, London)
- Ginger Meggs at Large (Angus and Robertson, 1985)
- A Look Inside Ginger Meggs (Budget Books, 1988)
- What’s My Name Mean? (Angus and Robertson, 1987)
- The Infamous Adventures of Ginger Meggs (Angus and Robertson, 1987)
- Kemsley’s T’rific Trivia (Budget Books, 1988)
- Wake Up, Ginger Meggs (Angus and Robertson, 1989)
- The Cartoon Book (Scholastic, 1990)
- The Cartoon Book 2 (Scholastic, 1994)
- Images of Bradman (with Peter Allen, 1994)
- Some Days You’re a Legend – Some Days You Ain’t (Allen and Kemsley, 1995)
- When You’re Into Graffiti – The Writing’s On The Wall (Allen and Kemsley, 1998)
These works reflect the breadth of his interests—from sports and history to youth culture and everyday life—often framed in a humorous, thoughtful, and accessible style.
Final Years and Enduring Impact
Even after being diagnosed with motor neuron disease, Kemsley remained devoted to his craft. With characteristic resilience and dedication, he continued to draw and write Ginger Meggs until his final days. He passed away peacefully at his home in Bowral, New South Wales, on 3 December 2007, aged 59.
James Kemsley’s contribution to Australian arts and culture transcended the boundaries of any single medium. He was a gifted communicator whose work inspired laughter, reflection, and nostalgia. Through television, theatre, and the beloved pages of Ginger Meggs, he brought joy to millions, securing his legacy as one of Australia’s most versatile and cherished creative talents.
