Tribute to Charles Lonergan


21st October 2015

TRIBUTE TO CHARLES LONERGAN

Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie) [5.36 p.m.]: I pay my respects to the memory of Charles Lonergan of Brightwaters, a Lake Macquarie legend who passed away aged 101 last Sunday. I first met Charlie in the early 1980s and was taken with his passion for and deep knowledge of the history of his local area and community. Lakes Mail editor David Stewart in this week's edition captured Charlie's accomplishments and character, describing him as a pioneer, community stalwart, gentlemen and war hero. He served as a commando in World War II and until his death was the epitome of a war veteran—tough, resilient and completely unselfish.

In addition to his military career, Charlie was a builder and worked on significant community infrastructure in Morisset, including the Masonic Hall, convent school and original post office. He also helped with renovations to Cooronbong and St John Vianney Catholic churches and worked on the Air Force base at Rathmines. Amongst other things, Charlie served as president of the South Lake Macquarie RSL Sub-Branch and for 14 years was president of Morisset Country Club. His funeral was held today. While a sad occasion, I know that the overwhelming sentiment would have been how lucky we were to have known him. Vale Charlie Lonergan.


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