Ron was very good friend of our President Allan Pratt and Social Director
Savaugn Pratt. This story was written by Allan & Savaugn to let
all know the type of person Ron was and how his memory lives on here
at the Redlands Branch.
"A lot of you may never have had the privilege
of meeting Ron Power, so with a few quick words I am hoping to introduce
him to you.
Ron was a founding member of the Redlands Branch of
the Ulysses Club.
We met Ron through his wife Chris, who, when we searching
for a venue for our meetings, was manager of the Capalaba Bowls Club
and told us she had this big Kiwi at home who wanted someone to ride
with. Ron and Chris have raised six kids between them, each and every
one of them given unconditional love, support and respect.
Ron was a fantastic friend, one of those people you
felt privileged to know. He was a cabinetmaker by trade but a musician
and motorcyclist foremost. He was extremely kind, willing, (sometimes
to Chris's dismay), to give his last dollar (and bed) to help a mate.
He was ill with cancer for several years before it claimed his life,
but he put up one helluva fight, rarely complaining of pain and riding
his bike up until a fortnight before he passed away. (He always said
that if he could not ride, then that would the time to go.)
Ron was given the gift of moko by his tribal elders
and proudly wore his life on his face for all to see. Mind you, he had
a wicked sense of humour and got a kick when someone was shocked by
his tattoo.
Ron passed away on the 5th of August 2001. The celebration
of his life was the most amazing and wonderful thing I have ever seen.
The Maori community, his musician friends and motorcyclists from all
over Queensland attended his funeral and gave him a very fitting entourage
behind the Harley hearse.
Ron and Bob Mauchlin were the instigators behind the
original Ulysses Round Up and shortly before Ron passed away, Bob gained
his permission to name the Round Up after him, both during his illness
and after his death Ron and his family received wonderful nursing and
counselling support from the Palliative Care Association. The Redlands
Ulysses Branch feels that the Ron Power Ride in Aid of Palliative Care
is a fitting tribute to a great man and a great friend, still missed
by all who knew him.
I hope the above helps some of you understand why
we are so passionate about the Round Up. It's not just for a good cause,
but also keeps alive the memory of a good mate.
Palliative Care may be used by anyone of us at anytime.
Families and patients not only receive dedicated medical assistance
but also gain professional counsellors who care!!
Please assist us to assist them. Your help in donating
prizes and booze for the perpetual and main raffle are very much appreciated
and welcomed. NOTHING is too small.
Thank you.
Allan & Savaugn"
