Ken O'Dowd (Flynn, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today I rise to speak on the passing of Gordon Ralphs. The loss of Gordon has left Central Queensland's sporting community reeling. Gordon—or 'Sooty', as he was affectionately known—just turned 72. He died last week in a traffic accident. He leaves behind his wife, Daphne; sons, daughters and grandchildren.

Gordon's involvement in sport started when he started playing hockey in Rockhampton; he played with the Wanderers for 20 years—the last 10 years travelling from Biloela. While in Biloela, he became President of the Callide Dawson Cricket, Association whilst being a middle-order batsman for the Jambin club.

He moved to Moura 36 years ago and was Moura's main man in cricket, helping both seniors and juniors. Sooty helped the association move out to Biloela's Magavalis sports complex and he would drive across from Moura to assist maintaining the fields. He was a life member of Callide Valley Cricket Association, Central Queensland Cricket Association, North Queensland Cricket Association and Queensland Country Cricket Association. He was an active figure in the Moura community, serving as President of the Coal and Country Festival and the Recreation Reserve Committee. Rest in peace, Gordon.