Instead of my usual column today, I wanted to give a few thoughts and reflections on our local Councillor Dick Quax, who passed away early on Monday morning.
I have had the privilege of knowing Dick for a number of years, and have worked alongside him in my role as the local MP since September’s election.
Dick was first and foremost a loving husband to his wife Roxanne, and dedicated father to his three children, Tania, Jacob, and Theo. He was a legendary Kiwi sportsman and a formidable advocate for Howick and for Auckland during his many years of public service.
Dick Quax set a high standard of service wherever he focused his attention. On the track, he will be fondly remembered for winning silver in the 5000m at the 1976 Montreal Games, silver in the 1500m at the 1970 British Commonwealth Games, and for setting the world record in 1977 for the 5000m, which remained a New Zealand record for 31 years.
Around the council table he also set a high standard of community service. He was a relentless advocate for the ratepayers of his ward and around Auckland, advocating for the council to focus on core services and be prudent with the spending of every ratepayer’s dollar. His presence and wisdom at this level of government will be near-impossible to replace.
Dick was a kind man with a compassionate heart. He wanted the best for everyone and always offered wise counsel and honest advice to those around him. He was a fighter all the way to the end, fighting for what he believed was right even through his long battle with cancer. He will be sorely missed by so many.
Rebecca and I would like to offer our deepest condolences to Dick’s wife Roxanne and to his three children, Tania, Jacob, and Theo. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
- Simeon Brown, MP for Pakuranga
