The Bayside Blog
What's Happening at Bayside
By
Caroline Bernard
In Memory of Dave Mason: A Trailblazer, Mentor, and Ocean Lover
It is with heavy hearts that we remember and pay tribute to our dear friend and head coach, Dave Mason, who tragically lost his life during the 2023 AOCRA National Outrigger competition.
Dave’s sudden passing due to a heart attack has left a void in our club and the outrigger community. This article aims to honor Dave’s legacy, highlighting his unwavering dedication to our club as a founding member, his influential role as prior president of the SQ Zone, and his profound love for the ocean.
Dave Mason was one of the visionary founders of our Bayside Outrigger Canoe Club. From the club’s inception, Dave’s commitment and passion were evident. He dedicated countless hours to building the club, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all paddlers. Dave’s leadership played a pivotal role in shaping our club’s culture, emphasising teamwork, discipline, and a deep respect for the water.
Beyond his contributions to our club, Dave served as the president of the SQ Zone for an impressive three years from 2018 - 2021. In this role, he advocated for the sport of outrigger canoeing, tirelessly working to promote its growth and development throughout the region. Dave’s dedication to the sport went beyond our club’s borders, and his leadership helped strengthen the outrigger community across Queensland.
Dave Mason was one of the visionary founders of our Bayside Outrigger Canoe Club. From the club’s inception, Dave’s commitment and passion were evident. He dedicated countless hours to building the club, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all paddlers. Dave’s leadership played a pivotal role in shaping our club’s culture, emphasising teamwork, discipline, and a deep respect for the water.
Beyond his contributions to our club, Dave served as the president of the SQ Zone for an impressive three years from 2018 - 2021. In this role, he advocated for the sport of outrigger canoeing, tirelessly working to promote its growth and development throughout the region. Dave’s dedication to the sport went beyond our club’s borders, and his leadership helped strengthen the outrigger community across Queensland.
A Love for the Ocean
Dave’s connection to the ocean was profound and unwavering. He found solace and inspiration in the water, and his love for the ocean was infectious. As an experienced paddler, he would often share stories of his adventures on the open seas, reminding us of the importance of respecting and preserving our natural environment. Dave’s enthusiasm for the ocean was contagious, igniting a passion for the sport and a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature in all who knew him.
Massive thanks to his Crew That Gave Him a Fighting Chance
A massive thank you to Dave’s fellow crew members who demonstrated unwavering support and bravery in the face of tragedy. Their swift action and dedication gave Dave a fighting chance at survival, showcasing the strong bond and camaraderie that exists within our club. Their efforts are a testament to the spirit of unity and teamwork that Dave himself instilled in each of us.
A Call to Care for Our Health
In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, it serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritising our health. Dave’s sudden passing was a stark reminder that even the strongest among us can be susceptible to unforeseen health challenges. As a tight-knit community, we must encourage one another to prioritise regular health check-ups, particularly those related to heart health. Let us honor Dave’s memory by taking care of ourselves and supporting one another in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.
A massive thank you to Dave’s fellow crew members who demonstrated unwavering support and bravery in the face of tragedy. Their swift action and dedication gave Dave a fighting chance at survival, showcasing the strong bond and camaraderie that exists within our club. Their efforts are a testament to the spirit of unity and teamwork that Dave himself instilled in each of us.
A Call to Care for Our Health
In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, it serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritising our health. Dave’s sudden passing was a stark reminder that even the strongest among us can be susceptible to unforeseen health challenges. As a tight-knit community, we must encourage one another to prioritise regular health check-ups, particularly those related to heart health. Let us honor Dave’s memory by taking care of ourselves and supporting one another in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.
ABOUT
Bayside Outrigger Canoe Club (Bayside OCC) is a great sporting club based in the Redland Bay, paddling the beautiful waters of Raby Bay, Cleveland. Our aim is to create a family orientated club, focused on fun, fitness, pride and respect.
