Funeral for flyin. Wellington KBers

[FROSTY]

We meet in various places round town and head to a rendezvous (meet up) at the Caltex station on the Old Hutt Road (just past Placemakers) at 10:30am and we can ride out from there (thanks Hitcher)

All wear clear visors on lids.
In line abreast formation (2 side by side) we ride to the church -rideby then park up as MD suggested.
Black armbands worn on left forearm
At end of funeral we form an honour guard --side by side either side from entrance of church to the hearse. Heads bowed -helmets in front.
Follow behind the hearse and family as a hounour guard.
Stop at gates to cemetry.
Head off to meeting place suggested.

Please register your attendance in the link belowhttp://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2005-5-6&e=483&c=1

Do not post general comments here just register attendance only. this is to show Sams family and other interested parties who and how many are coming to the funeral, particulary those riding bikes in the Guard of Honor
General ramblings will be deleted (with love Quasi)
Also I have opened a bank account for anybody wishing to make a donation
If this is offensive to anybody feel free to call me 021544251
Annatia can be contacted on -0212687396
Anybody wanting to make a donation I have set up a bank account for it.
If you dont want anyone to know who its from dont put your details in -but PLEASE put that is for Flyin memorial
Bank account details are
BNZ Henderson---02 0152 0035747 066

[Skunk]

I will know at 9:55am on Friday!
Count this as a half *hand up* for being there.

[White trash]

*hand up* Thanks guys.

[jazbug5]

I will be there (unless my boss changes his mind). Can we put some timings into this, as far as is practical or possible? I'm being asked whether it's an all day thing and may need to compromise, although as the boss is a biker himself, I am hoping I'll be okay. Other people may be less lucky with theirs...?

*Edit: Just got hold of him. See you all there.

[MD]

I'm there on a bike.
Cammo- its meet at 10am at Caltex self serve Old Hutt rd near Placemakers, Kaiwharawhara

[BNZ]

I will be there. Meeting at WMC

[riffer]

I'm there...

[Quasievil]

Sorry people trying to get it as a simple registration page

Please click your attendance here.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2005-5-6&e=483&c=1

So the numbers can be easily identified for the family and other interested parties, also for safety issues.

Cheers

[Blakamin]

Cant say until tomorrow... would like to, but started a new job today so have to talk to the boss.... will register attendance when I know for sure.

[Marknz]

why the requirement to have clear visors? and rather than a cloth black armband, can I recommend (from experience) black duct tape around the upper arm?

[StoneChucker]

Yep, attendence registered.

[FROSTY]

why the requirement to have clear visors? and rather than a cloth black armband, can I recommend (from experience) black duct tape around the upper arm?
clear visors so our faces are visible---out of respect to the family

[Marknz]

clear visors so our faces are visible---out of respect to the family

fair enough

[jazbug5]

BTW, if this is of any use to people, I could go and try to source some fabric for black bands for us all so we have the same sort/people don't have to worry about it. Easy enough to knock up, as I think my flattie's sewing machine is working at the moment. If noot, a safety pin job or whatever I can get to work. Yes? No?

[StoneChucker]

My Jacket is black, so will be quite hard to see black bands. I might just go with black duct tape, or anything I find lying at home. (note, neatly wound duct tape!)

[Quasievil]

BTW, if this is of any use to people, I could go and try to source some fabric for black bands for us all so we have the same sort/people don't have to worry about it. Easy enough to knock up, as I think my flattie's sewing machine is working at the moment. If noot, a safety pin job or whatever I can get to work. Yes? No?

Hey Jaz knowing that most of us a blokes and will forget I reckon thats a good idea, maybe total up those that registered and get that many done ?
Bloody brilliant

[riffer]

Yes please Jaz. :niceone:

[Skunk]

Cheers Jaz! Great offer.

[BNZ]

BTW, if this is of any use to people, I could go and try to source some fabric for black bands for us all so we have the same sort/people don't have to worry about it. Easy enough to knock up, as I think my flattie's sewing machine is working at the moment. If noot, a safety pin job or whatever I can get to work. Yes? No?

That would be fantastic! :niceone:

[Ms Piggy]

BTW, if this is of any use to people, I could go and try to source some fabric for black bands for us all so we have the same sort/people don't have to worry about it. Easy enough to knock up, as I think my flattie's sewing machine is working at the moment. If noot, a safety pin job or whatever I can get to work. Yes? No?
I have black duct tape. I'll bring it on Friday as a back up.

[Stew]

i will see you at Caltex

[crazylittleshit]

BTW, if this is of any use to people, I could go and try to source some fabric for black bands for us all so we have the same sort/people don't have to worry about it. Easy enough to knock up, as I think my flattie's sewing machine is working at the moment. If noot, a safety pin job or whatever I can get to work. Yes? No?

I could do with one.

[Hitcher]

I have black duct tape. I'll bring it on Friday as a back up.
Seeing it's Star Wars Day (May the fourth be with you), I'll tell my duct tape joke...

Why is duct tape like The Force?

Because it has a light side and a dark side and it holds the universe together.

[BNZ]

Seeing it's Star Wars Day (May the fourth be with you), I'll tell my duct tape joke...

Why is duct tape like The Force?

Because it has a light side and a dark side and it holds the universe together.

So so sad... If it wasnt for the creedence quote in your sig (:Punk:) I would be quite worried about you.

[Ms Piggy]

Seeing it's Star Wars Day (May the fourth be with you), I'll tell my duct tape joke...

Why is duct tape like The Force?

Because it has a light side and a dark side and it holds the universe together.
Grooooaaaaaan! :laugh:

[jazbug5]

OK, currently I count 28 people registered to come.
I am well on the way to making this number of bands, and will be finishing the job tonight. I'll probably make a couple extra just in case. Please bear in mind that this has been taken care of- but numbers have been taken from the registration page. If you're not on it and want a band like everyone elses, please let me know. Also, if anyone had exceptionally large biceps, then PM and let me know just how buff you are. Thanks.

[Ms Piggy]

OK, currently I count 28 people registered to come.
I am well on the way to making this number of bands, and will be finishing the job tonight. I'll probably make a couple extra just in case. Please bear in mind that this has been taken care of- but numbers have been taken from the registration page. If you're not on it and want a band like everyone elses, please let me know. Also, if anyone had exceptionally large biceps, then PM and let me know just how buff you are. Thanks.
Jaz! Send me a text in the morning to remind me to bring the duct tape (just in case), btw - you're a legend! :niceone:

[Will]

From someone who has ridden in a lot of funeral processions (Ulyssian) I would recommend staggered riding, not 2 abreast. Then when someone has a bit of a wobble, they are not going to knock into any one else.


Thinking of you all.

[BNZ]

OK, currently I count 28 people registered to come.
I am well on the way to making this number of bands, and will be finishing the job tonight. I'll probably make a couple extra just in case. Please bear in mind that this has been taken care of- but numbers have been taken from the registration page. If you're not on it and want a band like everyone elses, please let me know. Also, if anyone had exceptionally large biceps, then PM and let me know just how buff you are. Thanks.

Let me know if need a hand there neighbour

[Paul in NZ]

Just got home after the trip from Heck (a bit like Hell but not quite as bad)

I have found while I'm away that a valued client has assembled his full team and I am expected to give a 1 hour presentation (that does not currently exist btw) over the time of the funeral.

My nose is streaming, my eyes are watering and my head is pounding. In fact the parrot in the Monty Python scetch was quite well compared to me right now. At least I'm not being ill anymore (very embarrassing) which is pretty dangerous for us type one diabetics....

So even without this #$%^king work thing there is just no way I could do the funeral ride tomorrow.... I can talk in my sleep (you may have noticed) but riding is out of the question, even if I can negotiate a more favourable time (unlikely)

So I'll gobble some panadol and go to bed and fall asleep on top of my laptop again and wonder what the hell I'm doing this for. It sure ain't fir the ungrateful sob that AOK'd this knowing about both the funeral and the state of my health. It sure aint the money or the rich lifestyle....

But a part of it is because a lot of people I respect in our business and subbies have sent me stuff I need at the last minute because I asked them too and are counting on me to help them keep on feeding their families. Christ I know their wives and kids... How do you balance that against something as important as this funeral?

Answer - You can't but the fact is, I just gotta do this... It's gotta be done.

So ----- After taking the high moral ground I am revealed as the companies man and a cop out. You all (and Sams family) have my full appology for not attending. I feel embarassed about explaining myself and doing it but there you are. Those of you that truely know me will realise I'm not pleased about the situation I find myself in but thats life...

Paul N

Feels like a ..... prat...

[BNZ]

Just got home after the trip from Heck (a bit like Hell but not quite as bad)

I have found while I'm away that a valued client has assembled his full team and I am expected to give a 1 hour presentation (that does not currently exist btw) over the time of the funeral.

My nose is streaming, my eyes are watering and my head is pounding. In fact the parrot in the Monty Python scetch was quite well compared to me right now. At least I'm not being ill anymore (very embarrassing) which is pretty dangerous for us type one diabetics....

So even without this #$%^king work thing there is just no way I could do the funeral ride tomorrow.... I can talk in my sleep (you may have noticed) but riding is out of the question, even if I can negotiate a more favourable time (unlikely)

So I'll gobble some panadol and go to bed and fall asleep on top of my laptop again and wonder what the hell I'm doing this for. It sure ain't fir the ungrateful sob that AOK'd this knowing about both the funeral and the state of my health. It sure aint the money or the rich lifestyle....

But a part of it is because a lot of people I respect in our business and subbies have sent me stuff I need at the last minute because I asked them too and are counting on me to help them keep on feeding their families. Christ I know their wives and kids... How do you balance that against something as important as this funeral?

Answer - You can't but the fact is, I just gotta do this... It's gotta be done.

So ----- After taking the high moral ground I am revealed as the companies man and a cop out. You all (and Sams family) have my full appology for not attending. I feel embarassed about explaining myself and doing it but there you are. Those of you that truely know me will realise I'm not pleased about the situation I find myself in but thats life...

Paul N

Feels like a ..... prat...

Mate dont stress it at all. Unfortunately these things happen, and are a part of working life. Im sure that Sam's family will understand this, and I know all of us from KB attending will.

I know youre thoughts will be with Sams family and friends. Hope you feel better soon!

[sels1]

Mate dont stress it at all. Unfortunately these things happen, and are a part of working life. Im sure that Sam's family will understand this, and I know all of us from KB attending will.

I know youre thoughts will be with Sams family and friends. Hope you feel better soon!

Like he said, Paul -Shit happens. We will represent you - we know you would be there if you could. Look after your own health - if you're better there is the always the Sunday Memorial ride.

[FROSTY]

Just got home after the trip from Heck (a bit like Hell but not quite as bad)

I have found while I'm away that a valued client has assembled his full team and I am expected to give a 1 hour presentation (that does not currently exist btw) over the time of the funeral.

My nose is streaming, my eyes are watering and my head is pounding. In fact the parrot in the Monty Python scetch was quite well compared to me right now. At least I'm not being ill anymore (very embarrassing) which is pretty dangerous for us type one diabetics....

So even without this #$%^king work thing there is just no way I could do the funeral ride tomorrow.... I can talk in my sleep (you may have noticed) but riding is out of the question, even if I can negotiate a more favourable time (unlikely)

So I'll gobble some panadol and go to bed and fall asleep on top of my laptop again and wonder what the hell I'm doing this for. It sure ain't fir the ungrateful sob that AOK'd this knowing about both the funeral and the state of my health. It sure aint the money or the rich lifestyle....

But a part of it is because a lot of people I respect in our business and subbies have sent me stuff I need at the last minute because I asked them too and are counting on me to help them keep on feeding their families. Christ I know their wives and kids... How do you balance that against something as important as this funeral?

Answer - You can't but the fact is, I just gotta do this... It's gotta be done.

So ----- After taking the high moral ground I am revealed as the companies man and a cop out. You all (and Sams family) have my full appology for not attending. I feel embarassed about explaining myself and doing it but there you are. Those of you that truely know me will realise I'm not pleased about the situation I find myself in but thats life...

Paul N

Feels like a ..... prat...

Bloody wimp --gwan admit it --it was the high life of auckland that did it Ya just cant hack the pace --yakatori was just too much for ya
Mate get well --Ill see ya next time your up my way

[Marknz]

It has dawned a crisp clear day in Wgtn... you all take take out there and I might just see you all the service.

[matthewt]

Well done to all those that came. A great turn out for the KB crew in Wellington.

Seeing all the bikes heading up SH1 was a sight to behold. :niceone:

[Sparky Bills]

SOOOO glad i was a part of it.
Im sure Sam appreciated it too.

[BNZ]

Was a proud moment to be a member of KB, thats for sure. Was great to see so many people making an effort, and the smiles on the faces of Sams family and friends when they saw what a great community he is a member of.

I hope people will look on today as a Celebration of Sams life, and from everthing I heard to day I understand he lived an incredible life.

Hope to see as many of you as possible this afternoon for a celebration drink.

[Ms Piggy]

I was overwhelmed by the warm and inclusive way Sam's family & church treated us, as well as the amount of Bikers that turned out to pay their respects.

I was at the back when we rode into Tawa and I felt really awe struck as I watched the line of bikes & heard the rumble. It felt really special to be able to honour Sam and support his family in the way we did.

[Ms Piggy]

Cheers luv for making the armbands & supplying the pins. :niceone:

[Dafe]

Certainly a beautiful day for Sam's Farewell!!! It was nice to aquaint myself witha few more KB Riders too. An awesome turnout Wellington KBer's, give yourselves a pat on the back. Can't believe I didn't see one wheelie or stoppie the whole day! Have a good evening everybody, enjoy a few and dont forget to support the Canes tonight! :msn-wink:

[bugjuice]

I'm glad everything sounds like it went well. I had a few minutes to myself around 11 this morning.
stoopid work. I'd like to think I was there in thought/spirit at least..

[GROOMER]

Unfortunately I couldnt attend the funeral, but it looked awesome having all those bikes riding past work through tawa. I got it on video as everyone rode past.

[BNZ]

Unfortunately I couldnt attend the funeral, but it looked awesome having all those bikes riding past work through tawa. I got it on video as everyone rode past.

You work on the mitsubishi yard?

[John]

I really am disapointed I couldnt come, But I had a few moments of silence for our friend, glad to hear it went so well!

[White trash]

One for welcoming us so warmly but especially for allowing to play such a huge role in Sams funeral.

KBers travelled from as far as Hamilton and Taranaki to take part in this special rememberance and every single one of us was made to feel very welcome.

The procession from Tawa to the Cemetary was indeed a sight to behold, a huge number of bikes and a wicked sound.

Thankyou again for such an opportunity to say goodbye to a mate.

And Flyin, we miss you already.

[GROOMER]

You work on the mitsubishi yard?

Yip. Mexteds

[Paul in NZ]

One for welcoming us so warmly but especially for allowing to play such a huge role in Sams funeral.

KBers travelled from as far as Hamilton and Taranaki to take part in this special rememberance and every single one of us was made to feel very welcome.

The procession from Tawa to the Cemetary was indeed a sight to behold, a huge number of bikes and a wicked sound.

Thankyou again for such an opportunity to say goodbye to a mate.

And Flyin, we miss you already.

Good onyas... Well done

Paul N

Now I feel a double prat...

[MD]

Unfortunately I couldnt attend the funeral, but it looked awesome having all those bikes riding past work through tawa. I got it on video as everyone rode past.
I saw you filming and thought 'I hope that's Groomer' - bring the camera Tuesday night if it's not a hassle.
To all you awesome fellow KBers, well done, we can indeed pat ourselves on the back. It was clear from the moment we arrived that we were welcome. I was especially touched by the family & friends gathering along the footpath waving and clapping as we went past the Church to line up behind the hearse.
Looked great all those bikes winding their way in procession.Have a good weekend all. I'm off to Waikanae for a weekend at the beach with the Missus and Kids
MD

[Hitcher]

What a deeply moving and humbling day. Sam's service was amazing. It demonstrated the high regard that he and his family are held in by many many people from all walks of life. For one so young Sam had deeply touched and influenced the lives of many folk. His loss was clearly deeply felt by his folks and his brothers and sister.

I was moved by many things today. The eulogies brought a lump to my throat, as did the waiata from the Te Puni Kokiri folks (Sam's dad Paul works there). The priest's sermon was also moving -- picking up on Sam's KB handle "Flyin" as the key theme of his address.

I was impressed with how welcome we were all made, particularly by the priests but also by Sam's family.

The ride out to Whenua Tapu was something I will always remember, riding towards the end of a procession of 50-odd bikes. I was impressed by the dignity and respect everybody showed for this occassion and for the wishes and feelings of Sam's family.

Thanks to everybody who organised things for today. You're a great bunch of folk and I'm proud to know you.

Go with your God, Sam. You have touched many of us, some of whom only knew you briefly. Your maturity was beyond your years. You will be missed.

[justsomeguy]

My apologies too for not being able to come......

Enjoy your time off Flyin......

[RiderInBlack]

Thanks to all the KB'ers that made the funeral on behalf of those of us that were unable to make it. You have done all of us proud. Kia Kaha, Kia Mana KBers:cool: :2thumbsup Today you have proved yourselves with honour:cool:

[Hitcher]

For those who are interested, this is the sonnet that the priest read in his sermon for Sam today. Apt. Very apt.

High Flight
John Gillespie Magee, Jr

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth,
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds, -- and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of -- Wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there
I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air...
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark or even eagle flew --
And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.

[SPman]

What RIB said.

[phantom]

Thanks to all the KB'ers that made the funeral on behalf of those of us that were unable to make it. You have done all of us proud. Kia Kaha, Kia Mana KBers:cool: :2thumbsup Today you have proved yourselves with honour:cool:

Couldn't have said it better

Peace

[Sensei]

Well it was excellent meeting all the KB people toady even tho the reason was not the best . A big thanks to SlipStream for putting me up for the night & for WhiteTrash for the cuppa this morroning :niceone:

Here are a few pics from today for those that could not make it . I'm glad I made the effort to ride down last night as the weather was Mint & so was the roads . Thanks to every one that helped make a Sad day as Good as it was

[matthewt]

Unfortunately I couldnt attend the funeral, but it looked awesome having all those bikes riding past work through tawa. I got it on video as everyone rode past.

I saw you there and wondered if you were a KB'er.

If you need some help getting the video online let me know.

[riffer]

Yeah, what they all said. An incredibly moving service, and that has to be the most welcome I have been made to feel as a biker for a long long time.

Like Hitcher, I found the eulogies particularly moving. And like MD, I too was amazed at the line of family and friends applauding us as we took off with the hearse.

The amount of respect shown by all today was inspiring. I had a conversation with Flyin's dad while Frosty and Bad Lieutenant were pulling my bike to pieces outside Whenua Tapu (another story, I'll let Frosty completely take the piss out of me for that one in another thread :msn-wink: ) and he talked to me about how inspired he was by our turnout and how Flyin' would have been so stoked to see us all there. We shared a joke about how he would have been gutted the hearse was driving so slow...

Anyway, I was proud of you guys today. Made me feel really part of something.

[Zed]

For those who are interested, this is the sonnet that the priest read in his sermon for Sam today. Apt. Very apt.

High Flight
John Gillespie Magee, Jr

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth,
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds, -- and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of -- Wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there
I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air...
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark or even eagle flew --
And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.Amen and amen.

I'm so glad everything went well today. An honourable goodbye. :wavey:

[justsomeguy]

Amen and amen.

I'm so glad everything went well today. An honourable goodbye. :wavey:

By such honourable people. I feel more respect towards KB'ers everyday.:niceone:

[MadDuck]

I have to say I stayed right off the threads because I wasnt sure how Sams family would react and I also noted the uncertainties of fellow KBers. I too was worried it may become a parade so as to speak. RIP Sam we wont forget you.

11am and I went for a long long walk and thought about our community and bikes and what a passion we have for them in general and what friends we have made.

[Stevo]

Touching words and moving pix of you representatives for the KB community. Would like to have paid my respects the motorbike mad young man.
Nice pix Sensei :2thumbsup

Stevo

[sels1]

A very moving Service. Thanks to Sams family for allowing us to be part of it.
Friends/family I was talking to at the function after were amazed and delighted at the effort KBers put in, particularly those that came from out of town. We did Sam proud. I think we did ourselves proud too - well done folks.


PS.Thanks Jazbug for the armbands - what a trooper!

[FROSTY]

Today was a day I will never forget.That so many of you guys were prepared to take the time to remember and celebrate a fellow KBers life is stunning.
I was lucky enough to talk to sams mum and brother and they were both blown away by the respect and careing we showed.
Guys and gals I have never been so proud as today to call myself a KBer
And thandks for the fantastic hospitality you showed a poor dorklander.
attached is a Pm sent to me by the policeman who investigated sams accident

HI TONY
I HAVE BEEN READING SOME OF THE POSTS AND IT APPEARS THERE IS A VERY STRONG COMMUNITY SPIRIT WITHIN THE KIWI BIKER FAMILY.

IT IS ALWAYS A TRAGEDY WHEN AN FATAL ACCIDENT OCCURES PERHAPS EVEN MORE SO WHEN THE ONE KILLED IS SO YOUNG.

I HOPE THE MESSAGE GETS THROUGH TO THE YOUNG RIDERS AND I NEVER HAVE TO ATTEND ANOTHER ACCIDENT SUCH AS THE ONE ON SUNDAY KIND REGARDS

DAVE GALLAGHER
CONSTABLE
ROAD POLICING BRANCH

[StoneChucker]

As the others have said, that was a day I shall never forget. I was amazed at the number of KB'ers who turned up at the Caltex. It completely cemented my admiration and love for everyone on this site. I've never met and been part of such a unified and caring group of individuals. I'm new(ish) to NZ, and until today thought that I didn't really have any friends. I now know this is not the case, as I consider each and everyone one of you my friends.

I was at the funeral, but couldn't sit through the whole service as it all became a bit much for me. Waited outside with a few people until the service ended and we headed over for refreshments accross the road (held by the family). I thank Sam's family and friends from the bottom of my heart, for the acceptance and support they showed to us. I had to leave for work after that (found out later I could have had the rest of the day off if I called in!!) so I didn't make the cemetery.

Sam, I only met you a couple of times, but it's clear the impact you had on everyone who crossed your path. RIP

As much as today has touched my heart, I never want to experience it again. Please think of this evertime you get on your bike :ride:

[Quasievil]

Sams funeral was an awesome expression of unity and caring amongst the Kiwibikers, I was really proud to ride with you all yesterday.
I know I travelled a long way to attend, but to witness the bond amongst the Kiwibikers in a sad time like this really made it an event never to forget. I have to admit as we rode together I got a lump in my throat on two occasions , one while riding on the motorway and the other when the family and friends clapped as we lined up behind the motorcade. to all of those that attended well done, I think we demonstrated our sadness and respect for Sam very well and the family were certainly touched by that
Yesterday I learnt a new respect and love for what we all call Kiwibiker but please, Lets not ever do this again.

I have thought a great deal about my own riding behaviour as a result of this tragic circumstance and thought how I can do better on the road to improve my safety, I would like to invite you all to do the same.

Have a safe weekend people

[Uncle B]

The turnout of support for Sam humbled me......
I felt a great pride being a member of KB as we lined up to pay our heart felt respects.

StoneChucker has summed up the awesome community we have.....we are not just a "motorcycle club" but group of people who I am proud to call my friends also.....yesterdays solidarity showed the respect we should all show for each other.

:niceone: To all those who came from a far.....hope your trip home is a safe one.

[Marknz]

Yep, well I decided the good weather was a sign and decided to go against my previous thoughts and fronted up. Was good to catch up with everyone despite the circumstances.

Ride on and enjoy everyday that you get.

[Stevo]

Today was a day I will never forget.That so many of you guys were prepared to take the time to remember and celebrate a fellow KBers life is stunning.
I was lucky enough to talk to sams mum and brother and they were both blown away by the respect and careing we showed.
Guys and gals I have never been so proud as today to call myself a KBer
And thandks for the fantastic hospitality you showed a poor dorklander.
attached is a Pm sent to me by the policeman who investigated sams accident

HI TONY
I HAVE BEEN READING SOME OF THE POSTS AND IT APPEARS THERE IS A VERY STRONG COMMUNITY SPIRIT WITHIN THE KIWI BIKER FAMILY.

IT IS ALWAYS A TRAGEDY WHEN AN FATAL ACCIDENT OCCURES PERHAPS EVEN MORE SO WHEN THE ONE KILLED IS SO YOUNG.

I HOPE THE MESSAGE GETS THROUGH TO THE YOUNG RIDERS AND I NEVER HAVE TO ATTEND ANOTHER ACCIDENT SUCH AS THE ONE ON SUNDAY KIND REGARDS

DAVE GALLAGHER
CONSTABLE
ROAD POLICING BRANCH
I assume from the way he has worded this that the motorcyclist appears to be the one at fault? And presumably "the message" is speed.

[FROSTY]

Lets leave that one alone at this point in time stevo. Specificly in this case the car driver was 100% blameless.
My take from his comment --and the fairly long phone conversation we had.
was be careful nothing more just BE CAREFUL .

[Ms Piggy]

Good onyas... Well done

Paul N

Now I feel a double prat...
Hey Paul,
Please don't beat yourself up over not being able to attend. I'd say the "prat" is whoever it was at your place of work organised for you to do a last minute presentation! I know I'm not fully aware of all the details but it seems to me there are some pretty dense & prat like types at your place of work if they can't remember that: a) You were really crook b) In Akld all week c) Had a funeral that day that you wished to attend.

We all know you wanted to be there, so please don't feel bad. :hug:

[StoneChucker]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul in NZ
Good onyas... Well done
Paul N
Now I feel a double prat...

Paul, you were there. Every KB'er was there, in mind and spirit. Some of us were there in person, but thats only because we were able to juggle things to make it. I had to leave before the cemetery convoy :( I guarantee that noone thinks you're a prat. But, I can understand how you feel, I was really upset I missed the last convoy, especially since my manager said I could've had the rest of the day off........... AFTER I got back to work...

Hope you're feeling better, and if you are might catch you on Sunday.
Dave.

[BNZ]

Today was a day I will never forget.That so many of you guys were prepared to take the time to remember and celebrate a fellow KBers life is stunning.
I was lucky enough to talk to sams mum and brother and they were both blown away by the respect and careing we showed.
Guys and gals I have never been so proud as today to call myself a KBer
And thandks for the fantastic hospitality you showed a poor dorklander.


Glad to hear you got home safe mate. It meant a lot to me, and im sure other wellington KBer's to see the likes of yourself, Quasi, Sensei and all of those who travelled a great distance for our community.

Oh yeah, good luck for sunday!

[jimbo600]

I assume from the way he has worded this that the motorcyclist appears to be the one at fault? And presumably "the message" is speed.

Stevo, I have spoken to Dave Gallagher and rest assured his comments are sincere.

What a humbling day Sam's funeral was. It's not often that I am without words, however Friday was a day for reflection, sadness, celebration, compassion, and ultimately silence.

Again thanks to all of Sam's family for leting us pay our respects in our own unique way.

Thanks Frosty for your organisational input and thanks for all who travelled from afar to attend.

Finally thanks Sam for your all too brief company.

[Ghost Lemur]

Glad to hear everything went so well.

:niceone:

[flyin's m8]

Thank you guys, all of you - what an admirable, impressive, community - Sam put on an amazing day for us all.

The honour that the people from Kiwibiker - Girls and Boys alike (you too Andy) - showed for Sam is something that will remain with Friends and Family, and all those from this forum, for as long as the memory of a harsh lesson lasts... for most, that is, forever.

I must say, I had unbelievably strong pangs of emotion (trying to be strong myself) all the way to Caltex, having travelled the very same steches of road with Sam most every day for the past four months - however, my heart sat in my throat for minutes as we arrived at the petrol station and I felt the energy of all those who had taken the time, and felt the need, to express their emotion and respect to a very close friend of mine, and someone whom I loved and respected deeply myself.

Many of you had the opportunity yesterday to get to know Sam in a way that would never have been possible, had it not been for this tragedy, and I am glad that this has been the case. All to often people get to know a single facet of a persons life, someone whom they consider a mate, friend, pal, buddy, and this is enough, for we are not a people to be overly intimate, and live in each others pockets.

Here, we have experienced a unique situation where people who experience a bond through a single similar interest, also experience the grief and happiness of hundreds who know a single friend of theirs. There was a lot in the church, and the memory of the feeling I believe is stronger than any words. I love the fact that many of you were able to take time off work and out of your own lives to experience Sam's world, albeit under the most unfortunate circumstances, he will appreciate that his message is still spreading and that the reason is real.


The turnout of Bikes was fantastic and the behaviour impeccable, I am most impressed and felt, myself, honoured to be amongst such a powerful force.

I could feel all of you during the service, you presence and awareness, and cannot find words to express the feeling when we walked, following Sam's coffin, to the hearse and I met you again, you're an amazing group of people, I honestly cannot find words to describe the strength that filled that small space... there is silence, comfortable, strong, with reason..... I will keep trying to find a word or three for that moment. For now - Thank you

I have heard that the procession was an extraordinary sight, Sam and I know the owner of the dairy (his sons were present at the ceremonies) who was standing on the footpath in Paremata/Mana- "Awesome". Unfortunately for Ben and I, we were off doing what Sam would have been doing when the Hearse started to leave and we missed the cheering, however, I was not surprised to read of it....

We raced back to the church... and caught the bikes up at the rear, rode at the back for a little while and I must admit that the sight and sound was impressive from that perspective, however (against instructions - we are both very sorry) I asked Ben to pass all of you so that I could be at the head, and so I could see the hearse - I waved to you as we passed ... and waved ... ... and waved and waved..... I felt like I was waving for a kilometre.... This was when I realised what a diverse range of people had come, and how many were riding, in formation..... slowly, respectfully, most regally, For Sam.

From the front of the convoy I could hear and feel the vibration - maybe it was the SP1 - but I doubt it... it was a guttural, resonant vibration that electrifyed my entire being, I thank all of you for the opportunity to ride along side you and for being present with me, in my times of realisation also.

Ben asked me to thank you for letting him lead... we had special relationships with Sam and it was a great honour to, not only ride alongside your community, but also be able to be a part of an enormous visual, audible, and truly moving tribute to our friend.

Kiwibikers, you DEFINATELY did YOURSELVES proud, and you have impressed Sam, although, he would say he knew you were like that anyway. I can't speak his words, but he did speak highly of you all, often. It was an amazing tribute to a fantastic guy, and I'll say it again THANK YOU.... All of you, including those who were there in Spirit, we felt you, like Sam. Thank you.

[Riff Raff]

I haven't been able to get to a computer for a while so my post has been delayed.

I was fortunate in that my broken scaphoid meant I am off work and I was able to attend Sam's funeral. I only met him once on the friday night before his accident, but his voice of reason on this site (esp in that deleted threaded) has been inspirational to me. All the wonderful things that were said about him at his funeral confirmed my impressions that he was a very special young man, and I feel so honoured that I was able to join my fellow KBers in this celebration of his life. When we formed an honour guard outside the church I wasn't able to hold back and the tears flowed, not only for Sam, but for all those I've tried to save who died before their time.

We are all very fortunate to have had Sam come into our lives, however briefly. He has touched so many. RIP.

I am so proud to be a KBer and to know so many wonderful people. Thanks to WT who borrowed a horrible bike from because it was suitable for taking a broken pillion.