The death of John Kerr as a result of a brutal assault last Sunday morning while going for a walk on Hastings Street boardwalk has shocked the Noosa community.
John Campbell Kerr, 87, was a father and grandfather to nine grandchildren who had moved to Noosa some years ago and had been a regular visitor to the area throughout his life.
He was an avid golf player who had lots of friends and associates.
He was an educated man who for many years worked in the agricultural industry as a consultant to farmers.
Tewantin Noosa Golf Club general manager Allan Harris paid tribute to John Kerr, a 28-year member of the club, an active member who played twice a week, Wednesdays and Saturdays, and had been a men’s veteran C-grade champion.
“He was well liked and respected,“ Allan said.
“He was a good guy, and we’re all in shock like everyone else. Our thoughts are with John’s family and friends.“
Mayor Clare Stewart reiterated Allan’s comments on Monday when she spoke to the media.
“We have a life lost. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. This is a tragic occurrence,“ she said.
“The victim was a well-loved, known member of the community.
“With the news of yesterday’s tragic death in Noosa, like many in our community I am heartbroken and devastated.
“On behalf of councillors and our community, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends at this difficult time.
“It’s a shock. I think a number of community members are still in shock.
“If this happened anywhere it would be a shock
“A murder in Australia is always a shock. The facts and circumstances surrounding this make it even more so.“
Cr Stewart said going forward the tragedy was something that could have happened anywhere, but unfortunately it happened in one of Noosa’s most popular places.
“My own parents are down at the beach every morning walking. We are all acutely aware it could have been anyone in the community,“ she said.
“Sunday morning, everyone is down there – families, young people. Hastings Street is known for its walks, beaches. That’s what people do – residents, tourists alike.
“We have to put our minds right now to the family and the victim.“
Asked if it would change people’s perspective of Noosa, Cr Stewart assured people Noosa was a safe place.
“We have a strong police presence. This is a one-off,“ she said.
“We haven’t turned our minds to how this will impact tourism. The most important thing now is the welfare of the family.
“The community has rallied and will rally and will continue to rally.
“We are here as a council to assist and provide our community with support.
“There is no doubt this senseless loss of one of our residents will have a profound impact on many in our community.“
Cr Stewart said council would provide whatever assistance was necessary to police as they continued their investigations.
