Darrel 'Doc' Baldock Memorial Fund

BACKGROUND:

One of Tasmania's sporting legends and favourite sons passed away on February 2nd, 2011. Mr Darrel Baldock's State Funeral was held at the Latrobe Football Ground and was attended by an estimated crowd of 3,500 people. It was a most respectful event and fitting tribute to a wonderful person who was very successful in a number of different arenas; politician, footballer and racing identity.

Many people discussed a range of options to help remember and acknowledge "The Doc's" life and in consultation with his wife Margaret, it was felt that a Darrel Baldock Memorial Committee was the most productive way in coordinating any such recognition. A small but energetic committee was formed with representatives of Darrel's Friendship group, Latrobe Football Club, Latrobe Sport and Recreation Committee, Latrobe Council and the local regional newspaper, The Advocate. It was decided by the committee, and communicated via the Advocate, that people could forward ideas as to suitable ways to acknowledge and remember Darrel Baldock. There were many good ideas however the one that seemed to be favoured was a permanent recognition of "The Doc" to be located at the Latrobe Sport and Recreation Ground. Thus the Committee has decided that not only will there be a section devoted to Doc in the Latrobe Football Club's History Room but also a monument and memorial wall on the main street adjacent to the oval. The ground where "Doc the Legend" was playing Captain, Coach and led the Latrobe Demons to four (4) consecutive Grand Finals.

Darrel Baldock was not only an icon throughout the Australian Rules Football fraternity but also as a very popular and successful Tasmanian Politician and a highly regarded member of the Horse Racing industry (trainer and breeder).

The Committee and wider community are anticipating this memorial to be truly fitting of this great Tasmanian and unique Australian.

HOW TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE PROJECT:

Donations can be forwarded to Latrobe Council:

• By mail to PO Box 63, Latrobe Tas 7307
• In person at Council offices, 170 Gilbert Street, Latrobe
• By phone - Latrobe Council - 6421 4650
• Direct Deposit (phone Council on 6421 4650 to arrange)

Companies wishing to contribute or partner in the project can contact Committee Chairman Peter Freshney - 0417 287 006. All sponsors will receive a Certificate of Appreciation, a receipt and a photo of the wall when it is complete and also an invitation to its official opening.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Peter Freshney - Darrel Baldock Memorial Committee Chairman - 0417 287 006
Mayor Mike Gaffney - 0409 015 253

Darrel Baldock Memorial Fund Media Release (163 kb)
Darrel Baldock Concept Press Release (155 kb)
Darrel Baldock Memorial Plan (1174 kb)
Darrel Baldock Memorial Site Plan (1501 kb)
Darrel Baldock Memorial Concept Photos (4238 kb)