FAMILY and friends gathered on Broughton Island to farewell legendary islander Bob Dyer, who passed away recently.
No one did more for the betterment of recreational fishing, the environment, and Broughton Island, than Bob.
It was 1969 when Bob, a Life Member of Maitland Off-Shore Fishing Club, was first lured to Broughton Island by the fishing opportunities.
In 1973, Bob was accompanied by wife Fran and later boys Kevin and Robert.
Motoring the 8 nautical miles to Broughton required a reliable boat that could handle the, at times, difficult sea conditions.
“Gibber” was such a craft, and ferried the family for many decades.
During the 1980s, the permanency of the shacks on the island came into question and it was during this time that Bob and others fought to retain the shacks and the base radio, which was so essential for the safety of all those wishing to visit or stay on the island.
As a result of the insecure period of occupancy, the Broughton Island Conservation Society Inc. (BICSI) was formed with Bob as the President and spokesperson.
With his years of valuable experience and a logical and committed manner, Bob was a vital contributor as an advisor to NPWS and later to the early development of the Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park.
Bob’s efforts and tireless contribution will continue to be appreciated by those who enjoy the fishing and boating around Broughton Island.
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
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