94 year old Ron Walesby launched his memoirs in the form of a 365 page book Like Snow on the Desert in front of 75 guests at the Hastings District Aero Club at Port Macquarie Airport on Friday evening.
The book title is taken from a poem by Omar Khayyam about the fleeting moments of life.
Warwick Walesby, Ron’s son, flanked by his sisters Lorryl and Janice, spoke on his Father’s life, from boyhood in Gladesville Sydney, flying Avro Ansons in coastal defence in the Second World War, a long flying career in aviation, landing the first East West passenger plane at Port Macquarie airport for its opening in 1955, and rising to Flight Operations Manager of East West Airlines.
In 1968 Ron joined Focker, the Dutch Airline and rose to be the Southern Pacific Region Manager of Focker.
Warwick spoke warmly of his father, and stated that he believed his father’s greatest quality was his integrity. Warwick also drew attention to Ron’s community career with several groups within the airline industry and Ron’s 56 years in Rotary which has seen some great local projects such as the Rotary Lodge and the restoration of Flagstaff Hill in Port Macquarie to name just a few of Ron’s Rotary projects.
Warwick also spoke on his parents’ great faith in God and devotion to the Anglican Church.
The book was launched by friend of 25 years, Kerry Medway, who spoke of Ron’s example and encouragement over the years.
The Rev John West from St Thomas Anglican Church prayed for God’s blessing on Ron’s book.
Ron in speaking at the launch, thanked all for coming, his family, the Aero Club, Ray Cooper and all who assisted with the production of the book, his daughters Lorryl and Janice and friend Debbie for hosting the occasion, but above all he thanked his wife of 68 years, Lois.
