A volunteer firefighter who tragically passed away after being struck by a Tasmania Police vehicle has been remembered as a “loveable larrikin”.
Flinders Island man David Bailey, 61, was hit by the police car on Lady Barron Road on the island off the north-east coast of Tasmania around 9pm on August 17.
His family and friends gathered at the Lady Barron Hall on Monday to pay their respects.
“David’s life was complete. He was a loving son, a doting father, a brother, an uncle and a caring, loving husband who spent his entire life ensuring that his family were protected and provided for,” his first cousin Karen Fulham said.
“The love Dave had for [his family] was immeasurable and he was so very proud of what his children had accomplished and he enjoyed telling everybody who he met.”
“He introduced his family and friends to the world of beaches, barbecues, boating, camping and motorbikes.”
“He was a member of the Tasmanian Volunteer Fire Service, raised funds for RFDS and was always the first to put his hand up to help others.”
A keen motorcyclist, Bailey was also the local mechanic and inherited the family business DD & GI Bailey from his father after completing his apprenticeship.
“Many of us were very guilty of saying ‘Call Dave, he’ll fix it’,” Fulham said.
“He lived every single second of his life to the fullest. A contented family man that crammed two lifetimes into his 61 years.”
Bailey is survived by his mother Gwen, wife Marguerite and their children Tara and David Jnr.
“David will always be the only love of my life. My rock, my soul mate, my partner and most importantly the father of my two beautiful children,” his wife said.
“There was never a dull moment with him. He was always on the go, helping out and looking after everyone.”
“He was the best mate anyone could wish for. David, it’s time to rest now. We’ll take it from here. Keep looking down on us and dancing in the sky.”
