In memory of Kevin Byrne AM
1945 - 2004
On September 11th 2004, the disability sector lost an advocate, a pioneer of change and a champion of disability rights. Physical Disability Australia also lost an executive member, one of our founders, a great and wonderful man and a friend to many.
Those of us who were fortunate enough to know Kevin Byrne were aware of his pioneering work in the disability field, his fondness for good food and a glass of wine, the love of his family, the warmth and compassion for his peers and colleagues, the twinkle in his eye, the jokes he would tell and his love for Patricia, the love of his life.
Many of us at Physical Disability Australia still miss Kevin and his smiling face at our board meetings, and the cheerfulness and dedication he brought to our organisation from the founding days through to Physical Disability Australia's 9th year in 2004.
Kevin had a passion for justice and for his work within the disability sector. In government and non government roles he was always working to ensure people with disabilities were an integral part of any planning.
Kevin loved Physical Disability Australia (or PDCA as it was known then) with a passion, and stood by its beliefs and commitment to people with physical disability. He was an active member from the foundation of the organisation to the end of his life.
In honour of Kevin Byrne, Physical Disability Australia is in the process of setting up "The Kevin Byrne Memorial Trust" to assist and support young people with disabilities to become leaders in their field and to take on the work that Kevin and others like him commenced.
The Memorial Trust will consist of a Board of Trustees, including Patricia Byrne, Kevin's beloved wife and companion, and members of Physical Disability Australia's Board, along with others considered by the trustees as appropriate to the work of the Trust.
Applications for assistance will not be taken until such time as guidelines are established and there are sufficient funds within the Trust.
Watch this website for more information in the near future.