I recognise two long-term residents of Bermagui, Allan and Wendy Douch, for their dedicated contributions to the community.

Allan is a true son of the waters and forests of this beautiful part of the world, with family in the south-east since the 1850s.

Raised at Boggy Creek, beside Cuttagee Lake, Allan worked in forestry from the age of 18 for more than five decades, and his intimate knowledge of the local terrain proved an invaluable resource when fires threatened during Black Summer.

In retirement, Allan became the President of the Bermagui Historical Society, writing historical booklets and timelines, relocating the Museum to its current space and drawing on his experience as a “tuna poler” to stage the extraordinary 2022 exhibition of the history of boating and fishing in Bermagui.

In all of this, Allan has been supported by Wendy who, with just 40 years in the community, is a relative newcomer.

Wendy served as secretary of the Historical Society and was instrumental in creating the netball courts behind Dickinson Oval. As they relocate to Yeppoon in Queensland, I wish them well, and join their many local friends in thanking both for their service, wisdom and fellowship.