Obituaries

Tony Barber: Boxing Champ
It is with a heavy heart and great regret that I inform all members past and present of the passing of Tony Barber: A champion boxer,
champion unionist and champion human being.
The final bell sounded for Tony late May 2004. As I took a pone call from Tony’s wife Dolores, I knew this time Tony could not beat the count. Although Tony had not enjoyed the best of health over recent times, it still came as a big shock, as it will for everyone else.
For all who knew Tony, black was black and white was white and there was nothing in between. I was privileged to call Tony my mate and for him to confide in me and me to him. We had many great times together over a few beers. I will always treasure the memories of the stories he had told me of his boxing career, of which he never bragged about, but had every right to. A humble man, a private man, a man you could always want in your corner.
Tony, I will miss you old mate but I will never forget you. Smooth sailing mate until we meet again. Keep punching! May the bell sound one last time.
Cheers Comrade, R.I.P

(Tony was Australia’s Middleweight Champion. He boxed 11 fights, winning 8 (4 KOs). His last fight was lost to Tony Montano at the Sydney Stadium in 1967. It was at the same stadium that Tony Barber took his first title Australian Light Middleweight in 1965. - editors)
Your mate,
Phil Porter
Langwarrin, Victoria
Book No: 9358

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Des Cox: Great Mate
Des was 67 years when he suffered a fatal heart attack suddenly at his home in Mandurah, WA on May 28, 2004.
The news of his passing not only was a terrible shock to his wife Olwynn, but also to his many friends and shipmates. Not only was Des extremely respected for his seamanship, but was also very popular as a fellow seafarer for his great sense of humour. He was always ready to share a good joke and now and then a beer on a hot day.
Many longer serving members of the SUA will no doubt remember Des owned a unique budgie named Shitpot. He took Shitpot travelling on many vessels for 14 years. This budgie would express his opinion in no uncertain terms to prince to pauper alike. Shitpot addressed all, from captain to deck boy, in a language that would make any decent sailor blush.
Deepest condolences to Olwynn, we have all lost an unforgettable character and a great mate.
Finish with engines. Safe harbour.
Dick Chambers
Union No. 4166

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Ian Sinclair: Out of the Blue
Ian passed away sailing off Noumea in July. He had many friends around the waterfront and within our industry. Ian was known for his willingness to help, his union involvement and social views.
Ian’s status in our community will be valued for many years to come. His ‘out of the blue’ appearances, seafaring tales and good company will be sadly missed.
Our thoughts are with him and his family.
Paul Scurry
Waterways Authority
Maurice Barber: Long Battle
Retired seafarer Maurice Barber passed away in Brisbane in July after a long battle with cancer. His home port was Sydney. Mark was a fisherman before joining the union. He retired due to ill health recently.
Jim Filewood
Retired seafarer and waterside worker
Sydney

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John Boyle: Belfast Lad
Through the pages of the Journal, I would like to inform members of the passing of John Boyle.
John was born in Belfast in 1942, from a seafaring family. He had five brothers at sea and he jumped ship here in the heyday of home boats in 1962 with his old mate Paddy McInerney.
John was one of the survivors of the collapse of the West Gate Bridge and after a lot of pain and rehabilitation went back to sea.
John has left a fine family of five behind, of which one, Sean, has carried on the tradition and is also at sea. Farewell comrade, home is the sailor home from the sea and a shepherd home from his flock.
Sean Breen
Union No. 58

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