Local sporting identity Danny Bourke passed away on August 10, leaving behind his wife Kathy (Hicks) children, Diane, Ian, Janine & Christine (dec), 11 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Danny was born in Benalla on March 26, 1936. He was always very involved with numerous clubs and committees throughout the district including the Burramine Sports Committee, CFA, and the committees of Yarrawonga and Tungamah Catholic Churches.
Danny was famously a two-time tug-a-war champion representing Burramine which featured on Ron Casey’s Channel 9 Wide World of Sports.
He started playing football at the age of 13 for Burramine and played 111 games for Yarrawonga including the 1959 premiership.
A further 180 games followed for Tungamah, returning as captain/coach where he remained on the committee and selectors during the 1970s and 80s.
He was an honorary member of the Victorian athletic league and also a member of Australian Athletics for 48 years.
Danny was also gun shearer, often shearing over 200 sheep a day. He worked on the Yarrawonga Shire Council having huge input into the current rowing shed in Yarrawonga.
Danny’s most loved work was with his beloved headers and his contract harvesting business.
Danny and wife Kathy were married 65 years on August 3. He will be sadly missed by many family members and friends. Many knew him as a true gentleman.