For Kym

Driving through the Alps with the mountains in front of us on our way into Northern Italy for a boy’s trip after a “hectic” Aegis Media conference in Munich, I thought that Kym finally looked more relaxed than I’d seen him in months. He wasn’t of course, I’m completely sure he was thinking about work and that was Kym. From the sports fields of Mannum, through qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, a move to a senior position in a hotel complex in the desert and on to the mad mad world of media and advertising, Kym chose a career path that was as varied as it was challenging. What underpinned this career was a principle to do what was right, no matter the personal cost. He was the protector of those who had no voice in a business world where self interest reigned supreme, and a catalyst to show that through excellence everyone’s lot would be improved. It’s just so fitting that his last role would be as the CEO for The Australian Red Cross, doing good for the largely voiceless. For me (and many others I’m sure), Kym was a friend, mentor, and a boss, who helped me achieve at a level I didn’t think was possible, relish the challenges and get up after the losses. This wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Mandy, who I know was Kym’s rock (his words) and his love for his children Rachel and Sam. I would say rest in peace mate, but rest was never one of the traits you mastered, you will however burn brightly for many of us that had the pleasure of knowing you. Thank You.

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