For a group of old boys, it was a sad occasion when recently we gathered on Noosa’s Main Beach to perform what is now becoming the traditional farewell to respected club mates with the spreading of the ashes to the sea.
On this occasion, the club mate was Bob Kneals, one who gave his all in performance of his duties. Among his many contributions, one in particular was his part in the formation (with several others) of what was to become the Noosa Nippers. In those days Bob along with club mate Ron Birrell, settled on the name Sea Colts.
Another outstanding contribution was his part in our struggle with Noosa Council to have professional lifeguards appointed on Noosa Main Beach.
In the meantime, to cover the fact that during weekdays, the beach was unprotected, he took it upon himself to borrow from the surf club, a pair of swim fins and a newly invented piece of equipment, the rescue tube.
These he kept on top of an office cupboard in the caravan park across the road where he worked. People in trouble – and a bell hanging if front of the surf club would be rung: Bob would grab the gear and go, hoping to get there in time.
The club members in those days came from Brisbane so, Bob’s family member, were becoming concerned about his safety, as he was always acting alone.
As club captain, this was bought to my attention and on inquiring, we found these rescues were becoming frequent. We immediately stopped them as we considered he was doing an unpaid dangerous job. Council officials were told in no uncertain terms to get with it.
On another occasion when a reel line and belt apparatus was found left out, he took the belt and swam out to a patient, dragging some 500 yards of rope, a full reel, plus another 100 yards. That weekend he never said a word regarding the incident but we were informed by some concerned locals. His reply was, “The bloke was in trouble so I went.”
During his weekend duties as chief instructor, he was tough but fair.
Several who wouldn’t measure up during basic training, were told in no uncertain terms, “We can’t depend on you, so son, go play cricket”.
Many people are alive today because of his unflinching attitude during the week.
This, and his loyalty to his club and his clubmates was second to none.
Bob’s proud daughter Naomi, who along with family members and support group, helped organised and attend the ceremony said, “Dad was a very proud clubbie. He came to Noosa following a short time in Coolangatta and Mermaid clubs. During that time he competed as a boatie. He really came to love Noosa, met a young lady, got married and for a while settled down.“
His work with the nippers, started when times were tough, training manuals were yet to be drawn up. When asked how he intended to train the nippers he answered, “They will train same as the seniors, but without the tough swim and board standard.”
His approach worked and from then on things only got better.
With Bob’s continued voice for the appointment of paid lifeguards, his work in the nipper movement, his strict attitude to discipline and teamwork, in both the club and basic training, made him without a doubt, a man for both our club and our community.
If Bob Kneals was your mate, you would always know your back was covered, indeed, one of the rare breed. So, on behalf of us and a grateful community, Vaya Con Dios old mate, Vaya Con Dios.
