Wednesday, 9 February 2022

Geoff Matthews

Ms WARD (Eltham) (09:47): I cannot remember when I first met Geoff Matthews—he has always been there, part of the rhythm of our lives. He was at every ALP meeting, every event, every street stall, every election day. He was waving madly at us every morning and every afternoon while guiding children safely across Sherbourne Road. When my kids were smaller I would often make a detour past Geoff and his crossing to get his full body wave, the joy in his face at seeing us reflected in the delight of my children seeing Geoff’s excitement. That was the most amazing gift Geoff gave to our community. He gave us joy, love, excitement. He loved his community, and we could see it, hear it and feel it from miles away. He knew the names of every child, their family and every local trader.

Our committee showed their love for Geoff through supporting him when he was being bullied by a nearby new trader. The trader did not like Geoff yelling out greetings to people. He did not like the regular car horns tooting friendly greetings to Geoff, so he made Geoff’s life miserable. His complaints meant Geoff was moved to another crossing, and this united our community. Local residents rallied around on the news and in the newspaper. Letters were written and emails sent. I went with Geoff to Banyule council as his support person. I was furious. When I realised how awful this bully had been I was devastated. And Banyule recognised Geoff’s work. The celebration when he was back on his crossing was wonderful: balloons, streamers, signs. Thank you to John Doherty and the Teagle family from Purdys for all their support of Geoff at the crossing and most importantly their friendship to him. Thank you to Jenny and to Rhonda for all they did for Geoff.

Geoff’s legend lives on with the beautiful mosaic chair by Neami, a celebration of the inspiration Geoff was to our community. Geoff was loyal, supportive and friendly to all he knew. He loved his family and friends, he loved the children on his crossing, he loved the ALP and he passionately loved the Hawthorn Football Club. Our lives are so much the richer for being a part of Geoff’s life, and that is why we will miss him so much.

The SPEAKER: Farewell, Geoff.