Richard Norman (Dick) Shaw’s journey began on August 14, 1941, in Invercargill, South Island, New Zealand. His early years in Bluff, alongside his parents and cherished older sister Robyn, laid the foundation for a life characterised by resilience, passion, and remarkable adventures.
From his days as a Sea Scout, where his love for rugby union first blossomed, to being chosen as hooker for the combined primary school team, Dick’s dedication to the game and his natural camaraderie with teammates became evident early on. Despite facing challenges like dyslexia, his ‘glass half full’ attitude and knack for forging deep friendships endeared him to all who knew him.
Transitioning to Southland Boys High in Invercargill, Dick’s passion for rugby flourished further, leading him to prioritise sport over piano practice and academic pursuits. Joining the Southland High Old Boys Rugby Club marked the beginning of lifelong connections and enduring memories in the world of rugby.
Beyond sports, Dick’s life was a tapestry of adventures and memorable experiences. From organizing turnip sales to funding a new rugby clubhouse to charging for viewing the 1960 Olympics on a scratchy TV, his fundraising skills and zest for life were evident from an early age.
Dick’s thirst for exploration took him across continents, from living on a floating hostel ship in Deep Cove, Doubtful Sound, to embarking on a riotous six-week trip aboard the Southern Cross to Southampton, UK. His travels extended to driving buses for Protea Tours across Europe and India, experiencing the wonders of countries like Afghanistan and relishing the camaraderie of fellow travellers.
He met his beloved wife Georgie during a rugby match in Oslo and built a life cantered on family, friends, and helping others. Dick’s passion for rugby extended beyond games, fostering bonds and coaching successes that touched lives globally. Their shared adventures and deep connection led to a lifetime of cherished memories, culminating in a wedding at the Wayside Chapel in Sydney in early ’71.
Dick’s career in recruiting, fuelled by his genuine interest in people’s stories and his desire to help them achieve their dreams, was marked by success and the formation of lifelong friendships. His commitment to making a difference extended to fundraising for various causes – including The Baird Institute – and nurturing the potential of young people, believing strongly in their ability to shape a better future.
In his retirement years in Narrawallee, Dick found joy in singing with the Glorious Mud Singers, reconnecting with farming, and embracing the camaraderie of golfing communities. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched with warmth, generosity, and a zest for life that knew no bounds.
Dick had a deep passion for reading, particularly thrillers and detective stories, showcasing his excellent memory for facts and a knack for remembering names and faces. He possessed a remarkable gift for forming meaningful friendships. Despite facing numerous medical challenges throughout his life, Dick’s genuine interest in people endeared him to everyone he encountered, from cleaners and support staff to nurses and medical teams. Even as he prepared for what would become his final surgery, he was already envisioning his next fundraising effort for The Baird Institute.
Dick passed away after complications post-surgery in December 2023. As we bid farewell to Dick Shaw, we celebrate a life rich in experiences, friendships, and a deep love for embracing life’s adventures to the fullest. His memory will continue to inspire us all.
As Georgie, his wife, said “If I had to sum up Dick Shaw in just a few words I would say he was warm, generous, honest, loving, fun and at times a monumental pain in the butt”.
We will leave you with Dick’s words: “Love many, trust a few but always paddle your own canoe.”
