Mark Paul

Biff, Gav, Larkin G

Big, bold, brash Biff. So positive. Never any fence sitting, always shooting straight, everything is always black or white (never any grey, except when ribbing the Grey Ghost/K Rudd/da Commodore).

Yet to meet anyone who can talk it up like you. Your stories are so vivid I could picture myself there, a few that stand out are; when you were a corporate guest at those two great USA cathedrals, namely Augusta and the Hugh Hefner mansion; your green jacket victory and introducing the red shark (Johnny G) to the great white shark!

I recently laughed at your strong views on the shortcomings of Rory McIlroy’s caddy when standing on the 10th tee with the lead on the Sunday afternoon at this year’s Masters and what he should have been saying to Rory!

You are always a delight to be with and your presence and drive will linger for many years. I have fond memories of our regular ‘shed’ dodgy vindaloo gatherings and, winding the clock back, your buck’s weekend in Newcastle and the golf photo finish with PJ to win the ball & chain trophy, much to your chagrin!

Your response to the short, chin music deliveries sent down to you and Gus has been Steve Waugh–esque (ala J Garner), inspiring, defiant and even provocative. My family’s and my thoughts and prayers are with you, Maz, Gus and the gang.

I read this quote recently and immediately thought of you and how you have lived, and continue to live your life:

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”

- Theodore Roosevelt

KICK Biff!

Mark ‘Roy’ Paul