Tracey Roberts (Pearce, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today I rise to offer my sincere condolences on the passing of a community icon in my electorate of Pearce. Mr Edmund Dowling, affectionately known as 'Ted', was a true gentleman who lived a full and energetic life and who brought endless amounts of joy and happiness to those around him. Ted's passion for culture and the arts was contagious. He introduced theatre and blessing of the fleet events to his beloved home town of Two Rocks in Western Australia. Ted was a tremendous supporter of our youth and encouraged them to be involved in theatre and the arts. Role models like Ted with such enthusiasm and vision are so important in helping to shape their future.

Many members of our community and visitors to the area would have had the opportunity to experience one of Ted's productions and would be able to attest to the culture and joy that he spread. Ted was a local force behind PunkerellaPantomine, Fantasy & Folklore at Fifty Fathoms, Fantastic Toyshop, Peter Pan, Castles and Cobwebs, The Hobbits, the musical Oliver and many more. Ted's family and friends describe him as a chorister, soldier, playwright and a good mate. I can say with the utmost confidence that Ted will be missed right across our community and beyond, but his legacy and the work that he influenced will continue to inspire generations of the future. Thank you, Ted Dowling. May you rest in peace.