In the early hours of 2 nd September 2009, the Moruya community lost a great leader and selfless community volunteer. It was with great sadness that we learnt that Dave Pheeney had peacefully passed away at Moruya Hospital. Although Dave had suffered with ill health over a number of years, it certainly was not evident in the effort he gave towards his passions of Surf Life Saving and St. John’s Ambulance.
Dave joined the Moruya Surf Life Saving Club in 1956 and has participated as a competitor and administrator both at club and branch level ever since. He was awarded a Life Membership of Moruya SLSC, Far South Coast Branch and Surf Life Saving NSW in recognition of his selfless dedication. When Dave’s competition days were over, he turned his skills to teaching, education and administration. Many a rescue and successful resuscitation can be traced back to the valuable skills taught by this local hero.
One would think that the work he undertook in surf life saving, would not leave any time for other interests. Think again! Along the way he also dedicated himself to Moruya Basketball and St. John’s Ambulance, achieving Life Membership of both these organisations along with an armful of community awards. Recognition of his valuable contribution to the community was recently given at the Eurobodalla Business Awards where Dave was presented with the Eurobodalla Volunteer of the Year Award.
In a wonderful display of endearment, Surf Life Saving, St. John’s Ambulance and Moruya district gathered at Sacred Heart Church, Moruya to celebrate Dave’s life and bid farewell. The capacity crowd inside and out of the church, formed a guard of honour in a final gesture of respect to this remarkable man.
Moruya SLSC has been very blessed to have such a wonderful member and we extend our sincere condolences to Lesley and family.
Other members needing our support and prayers are Ruth Bolton and her mum, the Johnston family and the Greig family.
Best wishes to our boat crews competing this weekend in Sydney at the Georges River Rooster Run.
Patrols start on the long weekend in October and our Club Captain, Norm is busily organising the patrols for the coming season. If you are not available please give him a ring or an email through the web site.
Also at Narooma SLSC, this weekend on Sunday 20 th September, the Branch AGM will be held. The day will kick off at 11.30am with the Surfsports meeting to work out the carnival program for the forthcoming season. At 12.30pm there will be a light lunch followed at 1pm by the Lifesaving meeting then the AGM at 2.30pm.
