VALE: IAN EASTWAY

Vale: Ian Eastway

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Ian ' Blackers ' Eastway.
Ian put up a great fight against MND over the past 18 months. He remained strong fighting the horrible disease at home with his wife Yvonne, caring for him to the very end.
Ian worked very hard for the community of Avondale Heights and was a great, loyal club member.  We have many fond memories of Ian and all that he achieved during that time.
Ian is the longest serving President of our proud Cricket Club, 11 years in total.  He was a hard-working president of the Club, commencing his involvement around the season of 1973/74. 
Ian completed 2 stints as President, he first started in 1981/82 season until the 1987/88 season.  And again from 1990/91 to 1993/94 when he took the reins from Trevor Hawkins.
Ian was a proud Captain of the B Turf Premiership teams in seasons 1979/80, 1980/81. Another then the followed in 1981/82 season when Peter 'Crackers' Baxter took over.  Ian was his right-hand man always ready to assist and guide the young fellas in the team.
Ian loved to field in first slip giving the batsman plenty of friendly advice, such as "you've got no idea how to bat mate." I'll leave out the expletives!  
He maintained an active presence with the juniors by coaching and assisting with his sons Craig, Dean and Rohan playing.   Ian played a huge part for all juniors; we all came through the club up to seniors with his guidance. He was a genuine leader, mentor and father figure to us all. Who could forget his classic speeches where we all had to sit down and stay still while he laid down the law. 
Ian was a very active committee member and supporter for the Football Club over many years,  while his 3 boys came through the ranks. He got a lot of joy seeing his boys and close family friends' kids playing with passion wearing the big white V. He especially felt huge joy when his youngest son Rohan was Premiership captain of the undefeated B Grade senior team in 2004. 
Ian also played a huge part in collaborating with both the football and cricket club sections to come together for amalgamation to form the Avondale Heights Sporting club in 1985. He was a foundation member which saw 120 members join. He also spent time in the late 80s and early 90s as President of the sporting club with his wife Yvonne working alongside him as Treasurer.  Ian helped the club take the next step, with the new Social club extension complete and officially open in 1990. The Sporting Club established a new club dress and behaviour code. For those of us on those committee's we enjoyed being around him showing great passion, leadership and respect for the club. 
Ian always had a great time with the music on late at night at the club having a dance and constantly yelling out ' OY '.

RIP Ian you will be sadly missed by all we thank you for everything you did for our great club.
Condolences to Yvonne , Craig , Dean , Rohan and families. We all send our love and support.

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