Vale Ray Moon
(11/04/1946 to 28/09/2021) Ray Moon was born on 11/04/1946 and has been around Mullaloo since joining the club on 10/12/1986, with his sons Jarred (still a member), Trenton and Ryan.
Ray was part of a small group driving change within the club during the early 1990s, which culminated in a complete management restructure and development of a new Constitution. Ray was also a significant influence in the decision taken by the club to have parents join as members with their children – a decision which was initially scoffed at by other clubs, but which has now become the norm. Mullaloo continues to reap the benefits of this engagement – with many parents gaining patrolling and officiating awards as well as being involved in all aspects of club operations.
Ray quickly became active within the club and held many roles and positions including:
- Junior Officer: 1988 to 1991
- Director of membership: 1991-1992
- Secretary/Administrator: 1992-1994
- Vice President: 1998-1999
- Director of Coaching and Competition: 1998-2000
- SLSWA Director of Competition
While never a patrolling lifesaver at Mullaloo – Ray was actively involved on the beach and gained a range of relevant awards including:
- Basic Resuscitation: 1/2/1994
- Surf Official Level 1: 20/05/1992
- Surf Official Level 2: 1/8/1999
- 15 Years Officiating: 7/5/2015
- 30 Years Long Service in surf lifesaving: 19/6/2020.
Ray was also at the forefront of the club’s annual Australia Day weekend trips to the country carnivals, visiting clubs in Esperance, Albany, Denmark, Bunbury and Geraldton. Ray and his merry band of helpers organised travel, accommodation, meals and entertainment for these trips, including maximising the participation of Mullaloo members of all ages, including family groups, in the full range of Country Carnival events.
Ray officiated for many years at club, state and interstate surf competitions including the Australian Championships. He specialised in the Beach arena, rising to the role of Chief Judge and Beach Referee.
Ray was recognised by the club in the awarding of the greatest accolade – Life Membership – which was conferred on 6/5/1999.
In later years Ray moved south of the river – but still kept in touch with members from his era within the club.
Ray had been battling a long illness until he passed away on the night of Tuesday 28/09/2021, and is finally at peace.
Written by: Anne-Marie Widermanski
Touring team time – a little bungie on the way!