Scott Burnett funeral: Sunshine Coast builder, father-of-two given touching farewell

A popular Sunshine Coast father-of-two who died aged 50 after a cancer diagnosis has been remembered as an adventurer who “loved his girls” in a heartfelt funeral service.

A popular surfer and cabinet-maker-turned-builder who loved his girls and his barbecues in the park has been remembered as a quiet family man who was “affectionate, ambitious and adventurous”.

Scottish-born Scott Burnett died on April 10, 2022.

The 50-year-old moved to the Sunshine Coast 17 years ago where he undertook his carpentry apprenticeship before becoming a builder and operating the Renovare Sunshine Coast North branch.

He passed away after he was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in February.

Family and friends gathered at Gregson and Weight Buderim on April 28 to farewell the passionate soccer player and businessman.

His wife Calli said her husband had loved to surf, hit the beach and waterfalls with his daughters Charli and Ivy and enjoyed barbecues in the park in his spare time.

Celebrant Emma Homewood spoke of the Hawaiian and European adventures he enjoyed and his love of soccer.

He started out playing at Glasgow Boys Club and played for Redlands and Capalaba after the family relocated to Australia in 1983.

Mourners heard of the close bond Mr Burnett shared with his maternal grandfather William Henderson and his childhood with his parents Helen and John and younger sisters Tracy Greenland and Nicola Burnett.

Mr Burnett’s adventurous spirit was remembered in the eulogy as mourners heard of his love of North Stradbroke Island surfing trips with friends.

He had a habit of making last-minute decisions to sleep in his car or caravan to get the best sets the next morning, forgetting to tell anyone he wouldn’t be coming home that night.

Mr Burnett had been a swim instructor at Cleveland pools and competed in triathlons around the Sunshine Coast and the Queensland.

He and Mrs Burnett were married in 2004.

Ms Homewood said when she asked Mrs Burnett what her husband had loved most in the world his response was simple – “his girls”.

Mourners heard how he taught his daughters to surf and travelled abroad with them.

Mrs Burnett, Charli and Ivy had also thanked everyone for their meals, care packages, groceries, gifts and other kind gestures since Mr Burnett’s passing.

“Thankyou Scott for being who you were,” his eulogy read.

“An affectionate, kind man with an adventurous soul who loved the simple things in life such as an early morning on a surf break and a quiet beer or three.

“A caring brother and son, a loving father and husband. I don’t think there’s anyone here today who does not feel enriched to have had you in their lives and having known you.”