VALE RAYMOND JOHN MCDONAGH
8/12/1942 – 7/1/2018
It is with great sadness that SLSNSW advises the passing of Life Member Ray McDonagh after a battle with cancer.
Ray gained his Bronze Medallion in 1954 at Wanda SLSC before setting upon a long life of service and dedication to the movement and its development. After moving to the Mid North Coast Ray joined as a member of Cape Hawke SLSC and then South West Rocks SLSC.
Known and loved for his enthusiasm, understanding and passion for surf sports, Ray held various positions over his lifetime across clubs and branches in which he built his ‘one branch’ philosophy and effected essential change.
Ray was recognised for his ongoing contributions to Cape Hawke SLSC as the first inducted Life Member after 15 years of service that included all areas of sport, administration and management.
An inspiration spanning generations and disciplines, Ray was actively involved in the development of many surf boat programs within local schools on the Mid North Coast, Country athletes programs and he initiated the Mid North Coast, Lower North Coast and North Coast Tri Series Carnival.
His passion was not limited to one area; he was also integral to the IRB carnivals, ASRL North Coast Series as well as further abroad with baseball and golf in the region.
Ray’s natural leadership, competence and respect among competitors, officials, coaches and the community lead to his nomination and election to many management positions which drove intrinsic change across the board.
His contribution will live well beyond his passing and he will be dearly missed by all.
“Rest in Peace Ray. A true gentleman who lived for the red and yellow and all that it stands for.”
Tuesday 8 January 2019