Surf lifesaving stalwart Arthur Bunt dies, age 93

Arthur was a Life Member of the Moruya Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC), the Far South Coast Branch and Surf Life Saving NSW.

Arthur was 93 and until recently had been living at home with wife Myril, who has been his carer in recent years.

Arthur passed away peacefully at Batemans Bay Hospital early on Sunday morning after a sudden illness.

Arthur Bunt was born in 1920 and in 1936 he put his age up 12 months so he could join Tuncurry SLSC. 

At Tuncurry he came second in the NSW state titles. In 1939/40 he joined Blackhead SLSC.

He enlisted into the Army during World War II. In 1947 he became a member of Mollymook SLSC and obtained his instructors' certificate and was captain and treasurer of the R&R and march past teams.

In 1962 he joined Moruya Surf Life Saving Club and continued his high involvement including carnival patrols, duty boat and ran Nippers for a period of time.

He was the club’s gear steward, repairing craft, and travelled around NSW and Australia supporting Moruya at various carnivals, NSW titles and Australian titles.

Arthur was also heavily involved in the George Bass Surf Boat Marathon – the world’s longest and toughest race held biannually from Batemans Bay to Eden.

Arthur’s honours include the British Empire Medal, State Life Member, 50-year National Patrol Service Award, 50-year Long Service Award and 25-year Long Service Award.

Funeral arrangements have not been confirmed yet but we will advise when information is to hand.