On the 15 May 2010, Ian Davis passed away suddenly from a heart attack while competing at the Noosa Swimming Carnival. Ian Davis was a member of Masters Swimming for more than 15 years, firstly as a member of the Sydney Wett Ones and then, more recently, as a member of Brisbane Aqualicious.

Ian made many significant contributions to Masters swimming locally, in NSW and Qld, and also nationally.  He held numerous positions of office whilst a member of Wett Ones as well as serving on the NSW Board of Aussi Masters including a stint as it’s president. Ian also served on the Masters Swimming Australia’s Governance Committee from 2003 – 2007 and as a member of the National Board of Management in 2008/9. As a result of his efforts, he recently received a meritorious service award for over 5 years service with Masters Swimming Australia.

Ian embodied the true spirit of Masters Swimming. He believed swimming was about participation, keeping fit, having fun and most importantly, nurturing great friendships, though that is not to say that Ian was uncompetitive. Ian was always assisting behind the scenes and ready to give sage advice to any who asked. His tact and diplomacy in dealings with people were second to none. These skills, along with his wry sense of humour and quick wit, smoothed the rough waters on a club through to national level. Ian saw the positive; most people would be hard pressed to recall a bad word that Ian had said about anyone.

Ian’s passing has devastated clubs in two states and the many fellow swimming carnival participants and committee members. His sudden passing has left an unimaginable hole that looks impossible to fill. Our thoughts are with Ian’s partner Jerry and Ian's family during this difficult time.

by Megan McLachlan