Herring Island has lost a friend

Simon in 2016

Herring Island has lost a friend – Simon Fitzpatrick who operated the punt service to Herring Island has passed away.

These words from his colleagues at Parks Victoria:

“Simon worked with us at Burnley as the Punt operator for close to 10 years, the earliest season I have him working is back in 2012. He was a constant at Burnley for a long time, nothing was ever an issue, he took a lot of pride in his work and he really cared for Herring Island its friends group members and the Arts festival.

Welcome to Herring Island

Simon also did some time with Shaun and the team at Williamstown as a Penguin Ranger, making sure that the Little Penguins were safe and that the people who flocked to see them had a wonderful experience.

Duck companion

I will remember Simon as always being there to help when anybody needed it, making friends with a duck that used to ride around on the Punt with him, talking to everyone and really listening to their stories. He was a calming presence and I know a lot of people will miss him when they take the Punt to Herring Island.”

the punt service from Como Landing to Herring Island

Deepest sympathy to Simon’s family and friends in this time of loss.