Tributes flow for community stalwarts

Augusta Margaret River is mourning the loss of three prominent and influential locals this week, with tributes flowing from all corners of the community for Anne Shepherdson, Ross Giles and Wayne Hickey.

Dear friends, coworkers and local residents flooded social media after the shock news of the death of business owner and champion of the arts, Anne Shepherdson.

“Words cannot describe the heartbreak and sadness that has descended on all who have worked alongside Anne,” began a tribute from Margaret River Mitre 10, which Mrs Shepherdson owned alongside husband Lloyd.

“The sudden loss of our wonderful matriarch, mentor and friend has impacted everyone.

“Anne loved her family of Shepherdson Transport, Inkpen, Lloyds of Margaret River and Margaret River Mitre 10 workmates with a passion. Always friendly and interested in each and every staff member, Anne was one in a million.”

Lloyds of Margaret River staff said words could not express their sadness at the loss of their “darling Annie”.

“You connected with each one of us in your own special way,” they wrote.

“You leave us with such sorrow but also with the knowledge that we must love without measure, live without measure and we must constantly strive without measure, just as you lived your life.

“You were so much more than just our boss, you were an incredible friend and mentor and an icon of community service.”

That community service was no more on display than through Mrs Shepherdson’s dedication to the region’s arts industry.

The past president and longtime board member of Arts Margaret River was awarded Rotary’s Paul Harris Fellowship in 2012 for service to the community through the arts.

Speaking for Arts Margaret River, Christopher Young said Mrs Shepherdson was “truly remarkable”.

“Over many decades she has been the heart and soul of Arts Margaret River, providing our community with fun, entertainment and a profound connection to arts and culture.

“Her energy, passion, generosity and desire to help others never wavered and was instrumental in shaping culture in the Margaret River community.

“She was a bedrock of life in this area.”

Arts Margaret River is hosting a book of remembrance for Anne Shepherdson at the Margaret River HEART. The community is invited to record their thoughts and stories for the family to keep and treasure.

The Margaret River Community Centre said Mrs Shepherdson had been a foundation member of the group since its inception in 1986.

“She was part of the campaign to preserve the old hospital for our community and worked over the following 35 years to keep the centre for the people of Margaret River and surrounds.

“Anne continued to share her wise guidance with humour and grace making sure that everyone is made welcome, her capacity for genuine and lasting community connection and her generosity of time and spirit have made it a privilege to know her and work alongside her.

“Her legacy of helping others, her encouragement, her kind and generous nature, will long be reflected in her community.

“The committee and staff at the centre have lost a true friend and mentor.”

Community Centre committee and staff also expressed their sadness at the news of the passing of longtime caretaker, Ross Giles.

“Ross and [wife] Beth have been a big part of the Community Centre over the years.

“Ross’s handiwork is part of the very fabric of the buildings and structures.

“His care for the complex and for what goes on here were evidenced during his many years as caretaker.

“His loss to the wider community as a local businessman, friend and human will be felt deeply.”

Generations of locals added to a growing list of tributes for Margaret River and Cowaramup teacher, Wayne Hickey, who passed away last week.

Gary Wightman led the honours for Mr Hickey, with hundreds of locals joining to offer their thoughts to his wife Nola and the family.

“To all the parents that had the comfort of knowing their child was being taught by a standout human being.

“To all the people who competed or played alongside him in the many sports he was involved in.

“And to anyone who came into contact with him in any way in their lives at all, will be feeling truly sad today.”

Speaking on behalf of Margaret River Primary School, Deputy Principal Lorraine Macaulay said the dedicated educator was more than just a teacher.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of Mr Hickey, whose passion for teaching and genuine care for his students made a lasting impact on our school community for 29 years,” she said.

“His ability to make each student feel valued and his dedication to their success went far beyond the classroom.

“Mr Hickey’s infectious enthusiasm for learning and his knack for making learning accessible will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of being under his guidance.

“He was more than a teacher; he was a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

Fellow MRPS teacher Helen Collis said working with Mr Hickey was “an absolute pleasure and delight”.

“His sense of humour was truly infectious,” she said.

The Margaret River Hawks Cricket Club also recognised Mr Hickey for his passion and commitment to local sport.

“The Margaret River Hawks Cricket Club would like to send Nola and family our deepest condolences on the passing of Wayne ‘Ted’ Hickey.

“Wayne is forever an A grade premiership player with the Hawks – in 1984/85, 1985/86 (as Vice Captain), and 1986/87 (also as Vice Captain).

“148 A grade games, 2743 runs with a high score of 76, and 89 catches and 27 wickets. Rest in Peace Ted.”