Stuart Dye OAM (pictured third from left) with Albury Border Rescue Squad members (left to right) Paul Marshal, David Gibbs, and Peter Adams and Corowa Rescue Squad members Jim Walliss and Peter Wright OAM.
Howlong rescue worker Stuart Dye OAM is being remembered as an outstanding community member following his death on Sunday, October 16.
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Mr Dye had been battling cancer for around three years, recently spending quite some time at the Albury Wodonga Cancer Centre.
Close friend and rescue associate Peter Wright OAM said Mr Dye was a “great friend” and “an outstanding member of the community”. The pair had over 80 years of combined diving experience, often working together in tough and trying circumstances.
“Stu was a great bloke. We shared some tough times together through the VRA (Volunteer Rescue Association) and went on many difficult dives together,” Mr Wright said.
“He played an enormous role in the community through his work with the VRA, the Howlong Rural Fire Service and just doing great volunteer work for the Howlong community.
“It was good to be able to help Stu out over the last few months. I know if the tables were turned, he would do the same for me.
“He was fortunate to be surrounded by his family in Howlong when he passed.
“He will be sadly missed by everyone and leaves a very large void. God bless him.”
Corowa Rescue Squad also paid tribute: “This week we lost a friend, colleague and all-round great guy. His knowledge of the river was impeccable, and he was always willing to help out. Stuart Dye OAM you will be dearly missed. May you rest in peace. Condolences to the family.”
Mr Dye was recently presented with his Order of Australia Medal by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of NSW, during a private function at the Albury Wodonga Cancer Centre on Sunday October 9.
Her Excellency made a special trip to Albury as Mr Dye was not well enough to make the official ceremony at Government House in Sydney earlier in the month.
Those attending the ceremony at the Wellness Centre included Mr Dye’s family, fellow NSW Volunteer Rescue Association members, Rural Fire Service volunteers and friends.
Named in the Queen’s Birthday 2022 Honour List in June, Mr Dye had been recognised for 45 years of service to the Albury and Border Rescue Squad and 40 years as a Howlong Fire Brigade volunteer, as well as for his involvement with the Howlong Football Club and Albury Wodonga Pipes and Drums.
Mr Dye had previously told the Free Press he was “humbled and blown away” by the recognition.
Her Excellency praised the work of volunteers in the community, like Stuart who gave their time, skill, and effort to help those in need.
Mr Dye’s sister, Jacqui Baker, said it was an “absolutely extraordinary occasion” for Stuart, who has dedicated a lifetime to community work.
“His oncologists were concerned that he mightn’t have been well enough, even on the weekend, but he’s a fighter and was determined to make it,” she said.
“He was so grateful to the doctors and staff at the cancer centre who made it their mission to ensure Stuart was well enough to receive the award and all were excited for the recognition he received.”
Mr Dye is survived by his three children Kristy, Andrew and Brendan, and three grandchildren Jeremiah, Anabelle and Charlotte. His funeral will be held this Friday, October 28 at the Howlong Golf Resort at 2pm.
Special presentation: Stuart Dye OAM pictured on Sunday October 9, with Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of NSW and his children Brendan, Kristy and Andrew.
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