Saturday’s official opening of the 2017 Moree Show was dedicated to life member Bernie Keitlinghaus.
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Bernie sadly passed away on April 11, aged 83, and after decades of service to the Moree show, the society decided to honour the humble man.
President Brendan Munn said it was his first show where Bernie was not wandering around with his famous big grin, giving input and doing all he could to help.
“Bernie was a life member, a patron of the show, a past president and a few years ago tried getting the stables re-vamped to no success.
“This year we finally got that re-vamp and decided to dedicate one stable block to Bernie in his honour,” he said.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall opened the ceremony on Saturday and spoke beautifully of Bernie.
“The love and compassion he had for this community manifested through the time and hours Bernie put into committee meetings and show days,” he said.
Mr Marshall said if Bernie was looking down on the new stables he would be proud.
“He might be a little embarrassed about the name because he was such a humble man but Bernie, mate, wherever you are, we want to say thank you.
“You’d have to go a long way to find a man more caring and loving,” he said.
With Bernie’s family in attendance, Mr Munn also announced Bernie as the 2017 Committee Person of the Year.
His daughter and grand daughters kindly accepted the honour.
“The last couple of years Bernie has taken care of the grand parade and the little bits and pieces of the show.
“He has always been there to give advice and input when needed,” Mr Munn said.
After the ceremony, Bernie’s son and granddaughters led the grand parade in his well-known Audi.
Bernhard, better known as Bernie, was the beloved husband of Eileen and a loving father and father-in-law of Angela and Tony, and Kate and David.
He was a proud grandfather of Bronte, Caleb, Bridie, Dimity and Sophie.
The humble man was heavily involved in the Moree community throughout the years, including the Moree Show Society and the Moree Lions Club.
Mr Marshall first met Bernie through Lions.
“His passion was giving something back to the community, in any way he could.
“Once he had an idea it would be done and done well,” Mr Marshall said.
The Moree Show Society will erect a brass plaque at the stables engraved with ‘Bernie Keitlinghaus Stable Block’ to remember a local volunteer for decades to come.
