It is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of our long-time member, Geoff Field, last month (October 2025). The Hastings Fly Fishers extend our heartfelt sympathy to his wife and family during this difficult time.
Geoff was a devoted member who thoroughly enjoyed participating in club outings and activities.
The Journey to West Kunderang
One memorable trip was to West Kunderang in the upper Macleay River Valley. Geoff, who had some difficulty walking on the river stones, was convinced by Ron to take the front seat of Ron’s three-man fibreglass canoe. The pair spent a fun-filled afternoon catching Australian Bass and Herring, sharing laughter and camaraderie along the way. As Geoff later recalled, it had been twenty years since he last paddled a canoe!
The journey itself became a humorous adventure, with Geoff accidentally thinking they were headed to Kundabung, driving his old green Land Rover through Kempsey, Willawarren, Bellbrook, and the Styx River before finally reaching the campsite at West Kunderang. Though the trip was slow both ways, it was filled with joy, stories, and friendship.
Centre: Don, Ron, Julian and Geoff having a refreshing stop at Bellbrook Pub.
Right: Ron and Geoff leaving a trail of dust for Don to follow.
A Special Spey Reel and a Generous Heart
Geoff also had the honour of winning a very special handcrafted Spey reel, lovingly made by Life Member Tony Bendeich. The reel was presented in a Tasmanian Blackwood and Huon Pine box carved by Don Dixon and protected with a red velvet bag sewn by Margaret Dixon. The reel was originally intended to be raffled to raise funds for Bass fingerlings for our local streams. When Tony presented the reel to Geoff, he humbly expressed his desire to share the prize with those who had been kind to him since joining the club. Geoff’s generosity, humility, and quiet kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Farewell to a True Gentleman
Geoff was a true gentleman, always ready to lend a helping hand, and his presence brought warmth, laughter, and camaraderie to the Hastings Fly Fishers. He will be fondly remembered for his gentle spirit, good humour, and love of fishing.
Rest in peace, Geoff – gone fishing, but never forgotten.
— Ron & Dawn Hopkins
Centre: close-up of the Tasmanian Blackwood and Huon Pine presentation box;
Right: the Spey reel itself
