Tribute to William "billy" Wright

Hansard ID: HANSARD-1323879322-167832

Hansard session: Fifty-Eighth Parliament, First Session (58-1)

Tribute to William "billy" Wright

Mr MARK COURE (Oatley) (18:22:54):

I was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Oatley resident William "Billy" Wright. Billy was a Vietnam War veteran and proud local. His service to our nation and community will long be remembered. Billy served during the Vietnam War as a helicopter mechanic with the Australian Army Aviation Corps, maintaining aircraft that supported medical evacuations. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long and respected career with Qantas. Billy also made an extraordinary contribution to the St George community. As president of the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch and an RSL life member, he worked to support veterans and their families, hosted countless Anzac and Remembrance Day services and preserved our military history through his writing and community projects. In recognition of his service, the hall of the Oatley RSL Sub‑Branch was named in his honour last year. Earlier this year, he was also featured in the sub-branch's Anzac mural, a permanent tribute to three local servicemen who answered the call to serve. Billy was certainly admired and respected by all who knew him. I extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends and fellow veterans. Vale, Billy Wright.