Former member of Red Betty Bobby Barnes farewelled in moving funeral
Hundreds have gathered to remember the life of beloved musician Bobby Barnes, who was fittingly farewelled in Maryborough with a guitar nearby, the stage lit and Pink Floyd playing between tributes.
Fraser Coast
Don't miss out on the headlines from Fraser Coast. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Born to be a rock star, Bobby Barnes has been remembered as someone who loved music, adored his kids and was a beloved brother, son and friend.
A funeral was held in Maryborough at Life Church on Gayndah Road on Friday, October for the former member of rock band Red Betty, with family and friends gathering to mourn Mr Barnes, 50, who was found dead on September 25 after being reported missing by his family.
On Friday, tears were shed, memories shared and music was played as hundreds gathered to farewell the beloved musician, who was known for his big voice and even bigger musical talent.
Hundreds more watched the ceremony via a live stream provided by Ross Funerals.
Fittingly, a guitar rested on the stage, the lighting was more like a gig than a funeral, and a picture with an Essendon Bombers scarf placed around it was beside Mr Barnes’ coffin as tributes were paid to his life.
In slide shows, memorable moments from his life were screened, set to the tunes of Pink Floyd, featuring Mr Barnes on stage, with his family, and in particular with his beloved children.
Overseeing the funeral was Chris Foley, who said Mr Barnes was born to be a rock star, starting with the words “Bobby was a legend”, adding that he did not say that lightly.
He told those gathered of Mr Barnes’ love of music, of times spent with his beloved mates, his love for the Essendon Bombers and his devotion to his loved ones.
“Bobby was loved by many and if love could have saved him, he would have lived for a thousands years,” Mr Foley said.
His sister Tracie Alexander, with whom he formed Red Betty alongside her husband Wayne, spoke through tears, speaking of her love for her big-hearted brother.
She spoke of how the community had thrown its support behind her family in the days following Mr Barnes’ death.
More than $13,000 was raised via a Go Fund Me page to help the family give Mr Barnes’ the send off he deserved.
“Because of all of you, this beautiful send off is possible,” Ms Alexander said.
The outpouring of love and respect for Mr Barnes had meant a lot to the family, she said.
“He was just a genuine good guy,” Ms Alexander said.
“Respected as a musician and a friend.”
‘Still lives at home’: Union attack ads target youngest candidate
A 22-year-old LNP candidate is copping a barrage of negativity over her age, but the man who at 21 became youngest person ever elected to the Queensland parliament has come out swinging in her defence.
Tradie threatens to kill hospital nurses, security guards
A tradesman has faced court over a terrifying attack at a hospital in which he threatened staff and then turned on the people who tried to intervene and restrain him.