It is with extreme sadness that I advise our Life Member Graham Bingham passed away on 3 January 2020 after a short, but brave fight against pulmonary fibrosis. He was only 15 days short of his 80th birthday something he was striving to make.
‘Bingo’ as he was affectionately known to many, was a founding member of our Club. He served three x 3 year terms as President of the Club from 1981-1984, 1990-1993 and 1999-2002. He was also the Club’s Chief instructor from 1978 until 1982 and also held various other positions within the Club.
He was honoured with Life Membership of the Club in 1990.
Bingo was instrumental in organising the building of the balcony and during this time he suffered a badly smashed ankle when part of the old balcony gave way. Although in much pain, he still organised the completion of the balcony.
Graham was a mentor to many long serving members of our club and his knowledge and insight into all matters of surf lifesaving was second to none. He was awarded Life Membership of the Mid North Coast Branch in 2002 for his dedication and involvement in training and assessing various courses.
Bingo was a larger than life character who was a popular figure around the club and our bar is named in his honour.
Even though Graham and Roz moved to the Sunshine Coast a few years ago he was always in contact to find out how the Club was going. He never lost his passion for our Club.
Graham was a keen aviator and was also a member for many years of the Port Macquarie Flying Club.
Bingo was also well respected in the Port Macquarie building industry and worked for many years with Buckton Glass.
To Roz his wife, his son Mark, Karen his daughter and their extended family as well as his many dear friends outside of surf lifesaving, our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very sad time.
Further details re funeral arrangements and a memorial service will be notified later.
Mick Lang
President
Life Member