Final send-off planned for Ocean Grove's free spirit Steve and Gaia
A community memorial will celebrate beloved homeless man Steve and his kelpie Gaia, whose deaths have united the Bellarine Peninsula in grief.
A community farewell has been set for Bellarine Peninsula “vagabond” and his inseparable kelpie, whose deaths have left residents grieving the loss of two familiar and much-loved figures.
Steve and Gaia’s memorial will be held on December 13 at the Ocean Grove Community Park – a venue chosen for its long connection to the pair, who often rested on the park’s stage during their years living rough between Belmont and Ocean Grove.
Organisers are encouraging a large turnout, describing the event as a chance to give “a big send-off for this duo”.
Mourners have also been asked to bring their dogs, a tribute Steve “would have loved”.
All funeral expenses have been covered by generous locals, and donations in Steve’s honour can be made to Cherished Pets or Feed Me Bellarine, both on the day and online.
Steve, 69, died “warm, safe and pain free” in Geelong hospital on November 30 with his niece Grace by his side.
Gaia, his 16-year-old kelpie and constant companion, was put to sleep shortly afterwards due to severe arthritis.
Friend of almost two decades Shelley Carroll described him as “a true character right to the end.”
“Everyone is really in shock,” Ms Carroll said.
“Steve and Gaia were part of the Bellarine Peninsula’s soul, in particular Ocean Grove,”
“He made us laugh, very rarely accepted help and lived life exactly the way they wanted.
“We will miss them wandering the streets this summer and always.”
Steve was a “homeless, free spirit” by choice and had a profound impact on those he encountered.
The pair, often seen wandering the Peninsula or surfing together in summer, was widely regarded as part of the region’s fabric.
Tributes have poured in from across the Bellarine.
Feed Me Bellarine founder Lana Purcell described him as an “icon”, while floral tributes have continued at Belmont Kmart where Steve and Gaia would sometimes set up.
Steve and Gaia’s memorial will be held at 3pm on December 13 at the Ocean Grove Community Park.
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Originally published as Final send-off planned for Ocean Grove's free spirit Steve and Gaia
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