Honorary Life Member Arthur Durham

Extract from the presentation at the AGM:

I have asked Arthur to make the trip from Wyong tonight because as a club of strong loyalties it is not only our duty to honour Arthur for his many years of wonderful service but because he has been a good friend to all of us, for many here tonight, for over twenty years.

First introduced to orienteering in around 1976/7 by Frank Assenza, Arthur initially joined Bennelong Occasional Orienteers as it was known back then, due to Frank’s affiliation with this club.

However in the late eighties / early nineties Arthur joined Uringa and has been a valued and active club member ever since.

If event volunteers were needed, Arthur always made himself available. He was asked consistently to help out with Enter on the Day, registration and taking money because we knew the money would be accurate and his friendly manner would always inspire newcomers.

He also held the office of Treasurer for nearly a decade, retiring in 2010 - he truly did a sterling job.

Many people who are here tonight, whose children are now adults, will remember fondly the kindness Arthur showed towards their children, and the many times he watched over them while the parents were out running.

He has also been known to shadow many of the children on their courses throughout the year even on their first night events!

Arthur himself competed regularly, even in Europe in the 70s, 80s and 90s, until he experienced ill health.

Over the last few years, his health has unfortunately limited his participation in the club activities, and last year he made the decision to move to the Central Coast to be closer to family and friends. Arthur may have moved but will be in our thoughts despite the distance. And hopefully you will manage to come down to Sydney and join us for the Curry nights or Christmas parties.

It is with the greatest pleasure that we bestow on Arthur Life Membership of Uring and also ask him to accept this gift as a reminder of us.

Arthur, on behalf of all the Uringa orienteers, a big heartfelt thank you for your contribution to Uringa over all these years. Congratulations!