Newtown’s Gavin Heard remembered after Thirteenth Beach surfing death
The parents of a Newtown dad who died at a popular surf spot in Barwon Heads have revealed their heartbreak that it was the sport he loved so much that took his life.
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A Geelong father of three has been remembered as an amazing mentor and for his love of the ocean after he died at a popular surf spot on the Bellarine Peninsula.
Gavin Heard, from Newtown, was surfing at Thirteenth Beach near Barwon Heads on April 10.
It’s believed the 52-year-old’s leg rope got caught under a rock as he paddled to shore.
Five people tried to save Mr Heard, including professional local surfer Ellie Harrison, and attempted to perform CPR but he died at the scene.
His parents, Ian and Yvonne Heard, who live in Newport Beach in Sydney, said they would cherish the memories of their son forever.
“We … thank God for him and for the 52 years we were permitted to enjoy him and to create precious memories,” they said.
“(He was) a son who loved and cared for us and his three wonderful children; Erin, Taylor and Bailey.”
Mr Heard went to Narrabeen High School before studying science and agriculture at the University of Sydney.
He worked in the agricultural industry for BASF Australia for more than 25 years.
“He delighted in his work in agriculture … and in his children and, of course, in his love
of a good wave,” his parents said.
“As such a strong swimmer and surfboard rider, it is difficult to believe that it was the surf that claimed his life.
“We express our thanks to those who brought him out and to paramedics who tried so valiantly to resuscitate him.”
One of Mr Heard’s colleagues wrote he was a beloved member of their team.
“It has been truly heartwarming to hear about the profound impact he had on so many lives,” they said.
“He was a passionate leader, an amazing mentor, and a great person to be around.
“He will be sorely missed.”
Mr Heard’s life was celebrated at a memorial in Torquay on April 22.
His parents are planning a second memorial in Narrabeen in Sydney in the coming days.
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Originally published as Newtown’s Gavin Heard remembered after Thirteenth Beach surfing death
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