Paddle-out, tributes for Ballina father, engineer Greg Saenger
A much-loved northern NSW father and prominent engineer who was found dead has been honoured by friends and family with a paddle-out at the weekend. Read the tributes.
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A ‘beautiful’ Ballina father and prominent engineer who was found dead has been honoured by friends and family with a paddle-out at the weekend.
Greg Saenger, 45, was found washed up on South Ballina Beach on Friday, August 16 – five days after he was reported missing to police.
Mr Saenger was one of NSW’s top geotechnical engineers and oversaw major infrastructure projects in the north of the state and southeast Queensland for more than a decade.
He leaves behind two children.
Mr Saenger’s family and friends gathered at Boulders Beach, Ballina at 9am on Sunday for a commemorative paddle-out, in what was described as a “celebration of the life of a truly beautiful bloke”.
“You’re up there with the surf gods now mate. RIP legend,” friend Justin Villiers said of the keen surfer.
Stacey Mete said Mr Saenger was “our ride or die”.
Bronwen Silvester said Mr Saenger was “loved by so many people” and that she knew he was “watching us from the sky”.
Fliss Worth said: “Your legacy of truly seeing others and valuing them for who they are will live on through the lives of those who dearly loved, knew and valued you. We honour you Greg.
“My dear beautiful friend. You were so brave navigating your way through the dark night of the soul. Your heart so pure, your spirit so bright. Your mind so creative and gifted,” Ms Worth added.
Friend Brett Jones reflected on “surf missions in the blue Nissan pulsar” with Mr Saenger. “Your fun ways your high energy and this trip we shared together in better times,” he wrote.
“In my mind, memory and heart hope you’re getting barrels I’m sure you are charger. RIP legend, brother forever. Love you.”
Craig Parry said he was “devastated” and will miss Mr Saenger’s “smile and laugh”.
Mr Saenger’s death is not being treated as suspicious.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
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