Vale David Smeeton

It is with great sadness that we note the death of past Board member David Smeeton.

David attended the AGM of Palliative Care WA in 2015 and joined the then Executive Committee. His wife had recently received palliative care and while the experience was reasonably positive, David saw the critical importance of timely access to quality palliative care and believed he could play a role in improving services and support at end-of-life.

David led a full and varied life. He loved nothing more than to be messing about in boats, helping the frail elderly or playing croquet.  After retiring from the BBC where he was Education, Home Affairs and Foreign Correspondent in SE Asia and West Germany, he emigrated with his late wife Diana to the Peel region in 2000 to be closer to his daughter, Rachel and grandchildren, Joanna and Matthew.

David used his rich BBC voice and journalistic abilities to advantage in Mandurah and Murray. He gave varied presentations to local groups and schools on anything from literature to history, adventure to legends, Shakespeare to Ronald Dahl and the history of the Mandurah region. After he joined our Board he also spoke to groups on the importance of Advance Care Planning.

David was a highly skilled but very humble man who’s huge contribution to Palliative Care WA  was honoured at our recent AGM.  We will remember his unwavering advocacy for the community, his enthusiastic demeanour, personable approach and passion for the delivery of quality palliative care for all.

We pay our respects to his partner Sheila, his family and friends.