GDFL media stalwart mourned by community

28 May GDFL media stalwart mourned by community

GDFL president Neville Whitley OAM has joined many local football media members in paying tribute to the late Fred Beard this afternoon.

Beard, who has been the GDFL commentary team’s studio operator for over a decade, peacefully passed away on Saturday surrounded by his loving partner Cheyrl, his daughter Liz and two of his grandsons.

He was aged 75 (12/12/1942 to 26/05/2018).

“It is very sad to hear that Fred has passed, he was a great stalwart to the GDFL and back up on Saturdays for the radio broadcast,” Whitley said.

“We (the GDFL) pass on our condolences to Cheyrl and family.”

Beard was a prominent figure around the studios of 94.7fm the Pulse as the host of the country music breakfast program.

This came after a long contribution with 86.7fm Kix Country FM prior to his crossover to the iconic Market Street station.

It was at the Pulse where he forged a strong friendship with Bob Appleton OAM.

“It didn’t matter when it was or how frequent it was, Fred was always a big supporter of the footy,” Appleton explained.

“In Round 4 this year I called him and said; do you realise that we have three games of footy this week? There was no reservation, that’s just the way he was.”

Appleton, 96, revealed that he’s shared many highlights since joining the Pulse in 1994 however this weekend the production manager admitted it won’t be the same without his comrade.

“As a volunteer he would cover all responsibilities at the station exceptionally well,” Appleton added.

“Fred was also a loyal servant to country music ever since he was old enough to chew on a piece of straw.”

A Celebration Service for the Life of Mr Fred Beard will be held at Barrabool Hills Centre, 4-32 Province Boulevard, Highton on TUESDAY (5th June) at 10.30am.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Fred may be made to Heart Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the Chapel.

Tributes:

Neville Whitley OAM (GDFL President)

It is very sad to hear that Fred has passed, he was a great stalwart to the GDFL and back up on Saturdays for the radio broadcast. We (the GDFL) pass on our condolences to Cheyrl and family.

Jason Doherty (GDFL Media)

Sad news about a wonderful person who was a great supporter of our league.

These will be big shoes to fill in future.

We will ensure we recognise Fred’s contribution on our Saturday broadcast this week.

Dick Philpott (GDFL Media)

This has been very sad news.

My deepest sympathy to his beloved Cheyrl and families; a real nice bloke.

Grubby Cations (GDFL Media)

A very very very sad day. One of the greatest blokes I’ve ever met. RIP Mate. Sincere condolences to Cheyrl.

Alex Tigani (GDFL Media)

Freddy, thank you for being such a supportive mentor in the local media.

It was a joy catching up with you and Cheyrl each Whitley medal night. RIP Fred.

Noel Fanning (GDFL Media)

You wouldn’t meet a nicer gentleman (along with his wife Cheyrl) in country football.

Leo Renkin (94.7fm The Pulse – Station Manager)

It is with a heavy heart I am sad to confirm that GDFL Pulse stalwart Fred Beard passed away peacefully on Saturday.

I spoke with Freddy on Friday while he was at the doctors and in true Freddy style he told me he would be back on air soon.

Freddy will be sadly missed by all and will no doubt be listening in between his country and western music to the GDFL broadcast somewhere up in the sky.

Our condolences go out to Cheyrl, the two boys and all of Freddy’s family and friends.

RIP Fred…

Terry Shelley (The North Geelong Country Music Members)

It is with our Deepest Sympathy to Cheyrl Murray and their families to hear the sad loss of their loved one Fred Beard and also Extended family of The North Geelong Country Music Club. We have lost the greatest singer of all times such a great man that will never be forgotten. You will be greatly missed by all.
RIP Fred
12/12/1942 🌟 26/05/2018