Wonderful Gesture

Paul McNamara visited his father’s grave the morning after the OVA Annual Dinner – the Heritage Roll of Honour Medallion and Certificate are shown adorning his father’s headstone.

I was delighted to receive the following photo from Paul McNamara following the Dinner. Have also included Paul’s response in accepting the award on behalf of the McNamara family at the Dinner (Ed.)

 I feel very thankful to be able to accept this award for Gregory Cope McNamara on behalf of my Dad's whole family, in front of varying generations of Old Virgillians and I hope you all feel, in the spirit of Edmund Ignatius Rice and Old Boys passed, that as Participants of the Association you are all continuing a legacy of St Virgil’s College.

I would like to say thank you in particular to the committee for believing Dad worthy of this recognition, as a valued addition to the Heritage Honour Roll.

Dad had a sense of duty, loyalty and dedication to everything he held dear - his family,  his profession and, of course, his faith, with a very strong connection to the Catholic Church and Catholic education system.

Dad dealt with significant tragedy early in his family life, losing his first love, Catherine, and also the lost their child, Michael, shortly after his birth.

Dad was extremely generous with his time and gave.my siblings  (Lyn, Claire & Andrew) and myself, with the loving support of our mother, Estelle, every opportunity to succeed.  They supported us in our journey with a Catholic education and Dad was enormously proud of everything he saw us achieve.

Dad had an amazing work ethic. He was a great achiever and was well travelled.

But boy was Dad down to earth - unpretentious, modest, and showed respect for all no matter their station. I loved that about Dad as a role model.

On the weekend he would put on his stubbies, thongs and t-shirt and head to K&D warehouse with me underfoot, with his striking Tasmanian sun tanned legs, so he could come home with the required handy tools he needed to maintain our family home in Birngana Ave.

This respect for all that Dad gave, his great ability to avoid confrontation and show opposing interests how to empathise with others viewpoints so as to find common ground for mutual benefit, made him a great Chairman and community leader.  He led by Deeds not Words .....this inspires me everyday,  as I hope it does others into the future.