Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Mr Gary Ticehurst
Mr Gary Ticehurst
Obituary
Guest Book
Gary Ticehurst Obituary
"Gary really set up our helicopter team. He has really been the helicopter pilot here at the ABC for 30 years now," ABC Managing Director Mark Scott said.
"Everyone in the news room knows Gary, a larger than life figure, very very loveable. Loves his helicopters."
Mr Ticehurst had close to 40 years of helicopter operational experience, which included 30 years as chief pilot of Film Helicopters Australia, working with the Australian film and television industry.
"One of the things that everyone has been saying overnight about these three guys is that they were three of the nicest guys you could ever hope to meet," Mr Scott said.
"(They were) absolute gentlemen, a delight to work with ... and much much loved here at the ABC."
173 Entries
KARLENE SHIELD
May 17, 2012
I SO ADMIRED YOUR WORK AMAZING SKILLS
A BIG LOSS
KARLENE TICEHURST SHIELD
March 5, 2012
May the God of all comfort give you peace.
Liz Holloway
January 2, 2012
I had admired the aerial scenes in the film "The Hunter", and on reading Gary's name in the credits, I realised just why! He certainly had an unerring instinct for the best places to be for the shots required. He enabled filming of some of my favourite places in Tasmania - the buttongrass plains, the landscape from afar, the close-ups of mountain escarpments; it made me so homesick for places I can never bushwalk again because of my declining strength and stamina.
Thank you Gary, your memory will live on because you used your talents so fully,
Liz
September 17, 2011
dearest Gary
We just want to tell you how much you are missed and how tragic the circumstances were of your passing. We will always remember your happy smiling face ,funny comments and, your jovial personality. We will remember you always and you will be in our hearts forever.
With our love to you today and always,
Gayl & Neville.
How you can show support
Susse Linton
September 1, 2011
We will miss you Uncle G G. Thank you for being part of our lives and for your love and laughter. I will make sure little Rocket will remember his Uncle G G. All our love at thoughts to Matt Michelle and especially Aunty T T. We will look after your girl.
Susse and Rocket Linton.
London UK.
Georgina Hargett(nee Jewell)
September 1, 2011
Gary,
So sorry to hear of your tragic passing. I still remember the weekends when I flew with you out over the yacht races and you made me watch out for the masts as you flew so low to get the great shots! "Don't need to blow those b....y things over or give them any extra wind mate" came through the headset as we made some unbelievable manouvers! Also remember the days with HAA during the early 90's when we had so much fun at the Laverton Air Show Down Under, mud and all! You made us work but we enjoyed doing it with you.
My deepest sympathy to the Ticehurst family.
Georgina Hargett (nee Jewell)
Helena, Alabama USA
Alison Burchell
August 31, 2011
My name is Alison Burchell. I met Gary when I was 15 and he was 17. We met at Les Rutherford Dance Studios in Bankstown. Although I was very young and niaive I knew that Gary was a very special person,even then, and gorgeous to boot. We went out together for a short while, he was my first boyfriend to be honest. He was a sweet, kind-hearted delightful young man who had plans of being an engineer even then. I was devestated to hear of his death. I have bee following his adventures to some degree over the years and have always felt proud to have know him, and to have been close to him all those years ago. It was an innocent beautiful time that we spent together and I have always rememberd and cherished it. My love and heart felt condolences to his family and loved ones. What a fella and what a loss to the world. Goodbye you gorgeous man. Too sad.
'Whiteo' filming live broadcast feed. Sydney Hobart start 2007.
Jarrod Linton
August 31, 2011
Gary on location Sydney 2007
Jarrod Linton
August 31, 2011
Gary landing in intersection Sydney 2007
Jarrod Linton
August 31, 2011
Michelle Tuahine
August 30, 2011
I was a journalist in the ABC TV newsroom at Gore Hill in the early 90's. I was telling Gary how excited I was that my dad was about to fly down to Sydney so we could drive to Canberra together. Dad was meeting up with his NZ SAS Squadron to march on Anzac Day.
Gary's face lit up as we were talking and he insisted we meet him at the helipad so he could take us on a scenic chopper ride through the Blue Mountains as he ferried the chopper to Canberra for the same event.. Priceless! My Dad still talks about it. To top it off he took us out to dinner that night. Sums up the man, generous of spirit, humble and a friend for life.
Vale Gary my friend.
Jules Spokes (Visser)
August 30, 2011
We will miss you Gary. You were an inspiration and never too busy to shoot the breeze. Thank you. No matter where I ended up flying, I would always bump into you, and you made me smile, whether it was at Bankstown or in the middle of nowhere. I am richer for having known you. Sympathies and love to the family.
Ray and Lorraine Eaton
August 30, 2011
We first meet Gary and Teresa on our deck at home. He was married to my very dear friends neice. They spoke of some of the remote beaches they would fly accross and land to collect shells. He spoke of the advertures they had both experienced and pointed out our tallest trees on our property and continued to tell of the size of the waves which he had plucked so many to safety in the Sydney to Hobart race. That one meeting had made us feel as if we had always known him. He was such a genuine man that loved what he did. We will always be greatful we had the opportunity to meet him! Fly high and free! xx
Malcolm Pollard
August 30, 2011
Not long after joining ABC TV, I got to know Gary during late 1988. He was helping control the Helicopter movements in and out of RAAF Richmond as a ‘ground based’ Air Traffic Controller for the 88 Air Show. Just Gary doing his bit (with Terry Lee and others).
A few months later Gary and I bumped into each other in the canteen one morning and he asked me ‘bring your camera (stills) in tomorrow and come out to Bankstown and take some photos of the new (I think he meant my new toy) Helicopter. Well we did go out and I met “November Tango Victor.” for the first time as a clean white bird disassembled and being fitted out with the latest TV electronics.
Gary while going over the work very meticulously, never less was like a kid with a new love. He was like that in some ways, a boy in love with his latest toy and life.
I made 6-8 trips before “November Tango Victor.” was delivered to Gore Hill on a wet Good Friday 1989. Gary took the keys in an official hand over and within the hour the crew and Gary headed Nor/West to a flood ravaged NSW.
One of my other memories is of 3 helicopters on the old pad at Gore Hill during filming of Mission Impossible II. This included “November Tango Victor” fitted out with the IMAX style camera. I worked in Television Transmission about 20 or so feet from all of this, it was distracting to say the least but very memorable.
Farewell Gary you will be so missed by so many.
Chris Williams
August 30, 2011
Whenever I heard a helicopter overhead I immediately thought of Gary....... I still do.
Fiona McBain
August 30, 2011
When I was 18 years old Gary took me on my first chopper ride in the ABC helicoper. He immediately put me at ease telling me all about the squirrel helicopter and explaining some of the mysteries of piloting one. During my traineeship and professional time with ABC News/730 report, I always tried to get up in the chopper with Gary. There was so much to be learned from him. We all adored him.
He was a total professional and a true gentleman. I used to love listening to (and recording) him on the helicopter intercoms, he was the essence of calm authority.
We all had the deepest respect for Gary. A man of great integrity and a sweetheart.
RIP Gary.
Sussie Taylor
August 29, 2011
RIP Gary...
As a fellow Variety Basher I was shocked and saddened to hear the tragic news...I had the privilege to meet this amazing man who also thrilled us with his flying skills...My Thoughts and Prayers to Teresa and his Family...
"Fly High With The Angels"
Jimmy Dalton
August 29, 2011
Gary 'Chopper Bill'was a great Mate and Mentor. We had great respect for each other and always cherished the times we could work together as it always meant we were 'going bush', together, once again. Always with a footy on board, we'd have a kick wherever we could. In Cairns he celebrated the Collingwood 1990 flag with me (even though he was a Swan!) then we flew to Cape York to meet up with good Mate Les Hiddins and crew where we celebrated Gary's 40th. Wherever we went there were so many stories to tell and fish to catch, laughs to be had and cold beer to enjoy. A true gentleman Gary. Thanks for your Mateship Cob.
Jimmy Dalton.
August 29, 2011
Gary was a member of Army Aviation with my late husband, Len Machin.
Gary & all his fellows in Vietnam had a special bond that will stay with them forever.
My sincere condolences to Gary's family & close friends
Sharyn Machin, Sydney, New South Wales
Marilyn Wright
August 29, 2011
Gary, a truly amazing and beautiful person. Will be sadly missed. Our deepest sympathy to Teresa.
Marilyn, Lyn and all the staff at Romantic Notions Gift Shop, Lane Cove
Graham and Lucy Hellier
August 29, 2011
Last April, shortly before heading back to Europe we finally managed to coordinate Gary and Teresa’s diaries for a dinner party at their house. As always this was a wonderful night and when it was finally time to depart Gary walked briskly ahead of us to shine a torch back up the steep driveway to guide us to the waiting taxi. I smiled to myself as this was so Gary, we are more than 15 years younger than Gary yet his sole concern was that we made it safely down the sharp incline. I am so glad that we embraced Gary as close friends knowing we would not see each other for some time. We are shattered to come to terms with the fact that we will instead never be together again. Gary you are remembered with immense pride and your humbleness and humour is an inspiration to us all. Our love goes out to you both. Graham and Lucy
Rob Royall
August 28, 2011
My sympathy to all of Gary's family., may Gods love comfort you in the days to come. It has been a long time "between drinks". Ex 2nd Narwee scouts & RAAF.
Angus Campbell-Jones
August 26, 2011
Lucky to have known you if only for a while, & will miss "Bashing" with you. Truly one in a million!
John Lander (ABC TV 1974-1998)
August 26, 2011
My sincere sympathy to Gary’s family. I have felt the deepest sorrow since hearing of his death last week.
So many tributes confirm he was among the most popular and highly respected members of the ABC family and will be missed tremendously.
I probably flew with Gary about half a dozen times but these flights remain amongst the most memorable and enjoyable experiences in my career.
We worked together with Muppet creator Jim Henson on a program featuring the Sydney puppeteer Richard Bradshaw. The brief was an establishing wide shot of the bridge and Opera House, dropping the chopper down as our cameraman tightened the continuous shot to find a recognisable Richard walking through The Rocks. It was an ambitious challenge but after a couple of takes, we had our perfect shot. Another Ticehurst triumph.
Additionally, we spoke via the control room talkback system on occasions such as the bicentennial Sydney Harbour events, new year fireworks and a Papal tour.
Prior to directing, I was a television cameraman and loved flying with Gary because he knew instinctively what directors and cameramen wanted in a shot. His skill manoevring the Squirrel chopper was only matched by his genuine warmth, humour and immense strength of character.
Gary loved his work and I remember him saying he had the best job in the world - I know flying around the harbour with him was so exhilarating for me. Life didn’t get much better.
His contribution to the industry will be remembered through the hundreds of hours of important footage he and the crews have shot, much of which will feature in archival material to be seen by future generations.
Gary, Paul Lockyer and John Bean obviously loved working together and died in the pursuit of another great story - much earlier that we all would have wanted but probably doing what they enjoyed so much.
I feel so privileged to have known Gary and my thoughts are with his family.
August 26, 2011
A close friend of my father and a Vietnam Veteran hero.
Garry & Joanne Williams
August 26, 2011
Always a pleasure to talk to Gary on a Variety Bash. Your support to the charity will always be remembered as will your humour. The Bashers will always have special memories. A great loss ...RIP Silver Fox
August 25, 2011
We met Gary & Teresa at Bullo Ranch, what a great surprise for us. We so enjoyed getting to know them & exchanging experiences.
Our blessings & condolences.
Jo & John Flittie, Scottsdale, Arizona
Gary and pilot Terry Lee, with cameraman laurie K. Gilbert on the set of Mission Impossible 2
Laurie Gilbert
August 24, 2011
Gary and cameraman Laurie Gilbert heading off to shoot a Singapore bank commercial in Australia.
Laurie Gilbert
August 24, 2011
Don Crutchley
August 24, 2011
Walking to school each day in the mid 60's, with Gary and other mates, from Narwee Boys High ,he talked about his passion for flying. Not many of us new where we would end up in a career at that time , 45 years ago, but he did .
It was no surprise to see he had joined the Army to fly choppers. I look back now and reflect on the passion he had all those years ago.
From his old school mates at Narwee Boys High , you will be sadly missed.
Condolences to your family, and friends, for their great loss.
Peter Patroni
August 24, 2011
julie raftery
August 24, 2011
Gary was a wonderful kind and generous man,he will always be in my heart.He now has Angel wings to fly free,I will miss Gary.My condolences to Family and friends ,he had so many who Loved , and Respected his generous warm heart. Julie Raftery
Mark, Kim, Lauren, & Evan Wendell
August 24, 2011
Such sad and tragic news. We had the great pleasure of meeting Gary and his lovely wife Teresa just this last year and through their generosity got the chance to see Sydney from the air. Gary seemed to pull out all the stops for a truly unforgettable experience, from the timing of a beautiful sunset to following along as his buddy took off in a seaplane. His aerial choreography brought out the amateur cinematographer in our 13 year old son and inspired him to put together a short video with his point and shoot camera (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzTuyoBl0Tg). Our sincere condolences to Teresa and family.
Timothy Bates
August 24, 2011
A View From The Backseat
So many fond memories come to mind as I think of my adventures with Paul and Gary. Maybe this is why I find myself writing this with tears in my eyes but a smile on my face. It adds to the pain to realize that it’s sometimes only with events of such shocking loss that one is reminded how much our closest colleagues and mates really mean to us.
I had never met John Bean but certainly wish I had and in some hard-to-explain-way I feel close to him. Maybe this is because like so many colleagues, I clocked up dozens of hours sitting in the back seat of the ill fated ABC helicopter “November Tango Victor.”
I worked with Gary on many assignments over a four-year period but didn’t really get to know him well until we worked together on the 2003 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. It’s a coveted annual assignment and I felt tremendously honoured and excited. It remains one of the single most spectacular and exhilarating experiences of my career. One could easily see why Gary loved his job so much. As we made our way down to Hobart filming the boats, Gary’s repertoire of camera angles and moves astounded me. I learnt so much from him. He had the eyes of an eagle and the hands of a surgeon - holding it steady - spotting a boat well before anyone else and having the shots all figured out before the camera was powered-up and the door was slid-open. He read the wind, the light, the sea and without luffing a sail - made magic. It was like aerial ballet. As the camera-operator, I only had to keep the horizon straight and finesse the shot a little. In the air, Gary was Director of Photography, I was his assistant and that was fine by me. It took me a while to get to know Gary but I feel privileged that I did – he was a likeable and courageous man - a real “character.”
I had the pleasure of being Paul’s cameraman for the Athens Olympics. I remember having trouble keeping up despite Paul being 12 years my senior and sporting a bad knee. He loved and knew sport intimately. Often he worked to tight deadlines and made it look easy. He was a reporter of the highest class - a class with few members. Paul had a great effect on me - I recall realizing my work performance rising in his presence. I shot and edited more efficiently and even got to the satellite feed point early. Paul was always thinking about the story. He could re-write the script in his head and when needed consistently got by with only a few hours sleep over many nights. He seemed always calm, had a great sense of humour and never had a bad word to say about anyone. Paul Lockyer was a true man of character.
I worked with Paul and Gary together a number of times shooting stories on the Darling River and elsewhere in rural NSW. These are some of the fondest memories during my career spanning nearly 30 years working for the ABC. Gary and Paul were friends as well as colleagues. I remember sitting in the backseat heading west, listening to them chat about stuff like the footy and how proud they were of their kids.
One late afternoon we landed at Tilpa, a small town on the banks of the Darling River. While I settled into my room next to the pub, Paul and Gary set up three camp chairs on the edge of the river to enjoy the last of the day as the sun set. I remember watching them and thinking how funny that they were so careful to make sure they had a clear view despite the river being bone-dry. Paul sat down beside Gary like they were still in the “machine” and called me over. I joined them and we sat and stared at the cracked riverbed. Nothing of much importance was said. Sadly it’s just now that I think I should have taken such an opportunity to let them know that I thought they were two of the very best and that I was chuffed to be working with them.
The next morning when the sun was just right, we flew several kilometers up the river to film the head of the advancing flood waters trickling down from the north. We followed pelicans as they flew low over the rising river. Fish and birdlife were in abundance. The whole place had come alive – which was exactly how we felt.
Three years later after I’d moved abroad, I found a message on my mobile phone. It was Paul and Gary. They were back out west filming more stories and just wanted to remind me what I was missing. I’m so thankful that they were happy for me to ride the back seat on a few of their adventures but how sad it is now when I discover the need to really thank them, I can’t call them back.
To our three lost – we’ll miss you dearly - Rest In Peace.
Timothy Bates
Former Staff Cameraman ABC-TV
Deb Stewart
August 24, 2011
From Gore Hill to the Eco Challenge, Gary showed us what it was to love the work you do and do the work you love. Gary's family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.
Glenys Holmes (nee Ticehurst )
August 24, 2011
Still coming to terms with this tragedy and the loss of my big brother. I hope you are up there Gary amoungst all those stars, the moon and that great big sky of yours looking down on us with that big cheeky grin!!! See you in my dreams and will always always look for you in the sky flying by. With much love and sadness from your little sister.....
Peter Jervis
August 24, 2011
My sincerest condolences to Gary's family and friends. Our paths have crossed for over thirty years. You will be missed by everyone in the Sydney aviation community.
Peter Jervis, Sydney ATC.
ann robertson
August 23, 2011
Our family first met Gary in Dec.1973/January 1974 when the army was sent to help put out a huge bushfire in SW NSW - parts of my Uncle's property (Clare, 100 miles north of Balranald) had been burnt We were there to help - for me it was cooking for a mob! Lots of neighbours were around and it was activity plus lots of people and lots of fun - the danger part of the fire had subsided although still a presence. Well, the army returned to their "army duties" and then Gary and his friend Mick had leave. Guess what they did? Came out to Clare to help repair the destroyed fences! And they stayed for several weeks "Good blokes" my Uncle Angus said. Well, Gary was a people person and, over the years, he went out of his way to keep in contact - he dropped into my place for breakfast a couple of days after Black Saturday "just to see how you are going" Typical Gary, he was indeed a very good bloke and will be missed by very many people. Our family feel sad and send sincere sympathy to Gary's loved ones.
Viv DONOVAN
August 23, 2011
It was a long time ago when you met and married my friend Anne. When I first met you I was impressed with your intelligence and your kind nature. You were a wonderful husband and great father who was respected by all. I know you will be looking down on your twin grandchildren when they are born and hopefully the goodness you had, will live in them, as a fine legacy to be proud of. May the family, friends and loved ones find comfort in knowing Gary died doing what he loved doing best in the country he loved most.
Peace be with you our dear Gary.
Simon Ritchie
August 23, 2011
Vale Gary Ticehurst. Pleasure has always been mine every time I have needed aerials. Gary always knew the best route and the best position for the camera, crews were always confident when flying with Gary. Master of the Skies...will be very sadly missed
Martin Hodge
August 23, 2011
We watched you come and go so often through the windows of our offices at Gorehill and always wished we could be going with you ..
The joy I felt when you took the time (your valuable time) to sit my (then) 5 year old son in your seat and showed him how your beloved chopper worked, was unbelievable. Your passion was infectious .. he flew his bed as YOU and your chopper for years .. (radio calls and all ..)
A chopper pilot is not the one most people think of as a Media Giant but your generosity, dedication, professionalism and expertise puts you up there with the best in the industry.
Like everyone who worked with you, flew beside you, or just watched you disappear into the distance, we send our deepest sympathies to your family.
Your loss is shared by us all.
Tim Joyce
August 22, 2011
Gary was a mentor to me when I started flying helicopters - even filmed my first sling job - sodden sheep in a net from floodwaters and put it on the news. Later working together on different jobs Gary was always the consummate professional dedicated to getting the story first. 'Captain Scoop' was the first person I tried to call after being hi-jacked. Keep on flying Gary!
Julie Sims
August 22, 2011
When I think of Gary, what comes to mind is his smile and good humor. I have so many fantastic memories of Gary, I know that anyone who has had the pleasure of knowing him will miss him terribly. Vale Gary Ticehurst.....
garry todd
August 22, 2011
my thoughts go out to the ticehurst family, mattt i am thinking of you right now, be strong for your mum and family...
Patricia Zuccon
August 22, 2011
Gary you were a dear friend to me and you will be greatly missed.
I was fortunate enough to share a magical flight with Gary and was able to see some of this beautiful country from his perspective, he had such a special way of making you feel at ease. I will forever treasure those moments.
Rest in peace my friend. My condolences to your family.
August 22, 2011
August 22, 2011
August 22, 2011
Daniel Marzolla
August 22, 2011
Gary will be missed by so many of his colleagues. A true gentleman and highly respected TV professional.
I worked with him as a freelance TV cameraman on news, current affairs and features for more than 20 years and he always knew how to create the aerial "money shot". He made it easy. He was the "in the air director" and would always find and create perfect shots. We covered many stories including the Cronulla riots, bushfires, droughts, flood, aviation, rail and bus incidents, and more. Plus his main passion, numerous yacht races up and down the NSW coast.
I will remember him as a great flyer with a cheeky sense of humour. He is gone but will never be forgotten. All the TV and film cameramen that have ever worked with him will truly miss him.
paul buchanan
August 22, 2011
great pilot help many over the years will be miss by many too R.I.P
Daniel with Gary in background doing pre-flight checks.
Daniel Marzolla
August 22, 2011
Gary will be missed by so many of his colleagues. A true gentleman and highly respected TV professional.
I worked with him as a freelance TV cameraman on news, current affairs and features for more than 20 years and he always knew how to create the aerial "money shot". He made it easy. He was the "in the air director" and would always find and create perfect shots. We covered many stories including the Cronulla riots, bushfires, droughts, flood, aviation, rail and bus incidents, and more. Plus his main passion, numerous yacht races up and down the NSW coast.
I will remember him as a great flyer with a cheeky sense of humour. He is gone but will never be forgotten. All the TV and film cameramen that have ever worked with him will truly miss him.
Paul Kirk
August 22, 2011
Spending time flying with Gary was amongst my most enjoyable times in the air. A skilled confident pilot who enjoyed every aspect of his flying. I will sadly miss those many hours fly in NTV be costal 500 or the many hours hovering over some sort of road race or sporting event. Gary... RIP my good friend and thank you for wonderful memories.
max
August 22, 2011
thousands want to do it,houndreds are capable of doing it but only a handful can be trusted to doing it.
You were one of those few not only a loss to flying but the comunnity at large.
i will miss your presence on boxing day.
My condolences to your family.
Ashley Scott
August 22, 2011
We had the privilege of flying with Gary on a few occasions. A Man of exceptional skill and experience. Consistently, making our images look better, guiding the camera through the air, framing great shots, offering exquisite angles and creating sequences that made us all look good. Being in such great demand, it was never always possible to fly together, but what I learned, I am thankful, and always felt safe knowing Gary Ticehurst was at the controls.
August 22, 2011
gary and friends airlie beach gary landed in friends backyard
dave cleghorn
August 21, 2011
Rose Wilkinson
August 21, 2011
RIP Gazza, I will miss your cheeky grin.
Ian Campbell
August 21, 2011
Gary was the only reliability in all my years of Hobart sailing, - no matter what the weather, twice a day he'd be wop wop wopping from the horizon to upload our ABC film footage of the day. I still have an original front page picture of him in the ABC chopper delivering a fresh camera to us half way across Bass Strait.
There's no way this tragic crash was the result of pilot error, Gary was the best & I'm very sad to have lost him & his colleagues this way.
Ian Campbell, (Fang) crew of Helsal 11,
Gib an Inch, Bewinched, Helsal 111 & Helsal 1V.
Ashley McLeod
August 21, 2011
You will always fly high in my mind Gary, you are a legend which we will never forget and I friend I will dearly miss.
Vee Speers
August 21, 2011
I worked with Gary at the ABC between in the mid to late 80's and have a particularly fond memory of photographing the Sydney to Hobart yacht race from the chopper. His relaxed nature and great sense of humour during the shoot made it one of my best experiences ever at the ABC.
Bless your soul Gary.
Peter Patroni
August 21, 2011
Dear Mate,
We will miss having a cuppa with you and Teresa every year when you flew into visit us on Flinders Island. New Year's Eve will never be the same. Love from Bev & Peter Patroni and families.
Kevin Golledge
August 21, 2011
We were saddened to here of Gary's death even though we have not crossed paths for many years. Our deepest condolences to gary and all his family
VH-FHF Wales Rescue Helicopter
Angus Fergusson
August 21, 2011
VH-PHY NSW PolAir 1 circa 1980's
Angus Fergussson
August 21, 2011
VH-PHY PolAir 1 circa 1980's. Lifiting off from Darling Harbour/Ultimo helipad.
Angus Fergusson
August 21, 2011
I never met Gary, but knew of him. He was a legend in the industry. Much has been said of his amazing ABC career spanning more than 2 decades flying ABC and media helicopters, but Gary was also instrumental in establishing the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (Wales Rescue as it was known then) and the NSW Police Airwing of the early 80's. He was a true industy leader in every sense. It is a tragic loss, under tragic circumstances.
You will be sadly missed Gary.
pete ryan
August 21, 2011
Having met Gary a few times he was an inspiration to the industry
David Knight
August 21, 2011
Dear Garry a poem i think is very fitting for you.....
Death is nothing at all
I have only slipped away into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other
That we are still
Call me by my old familiar name
Speak to me in the easy way you always used
Put no difference into your tone
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed
At the little jokes we always enjoyed together
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was Let it be spoken without effort
Without the ghost of a shadow in it
Life means all that it ever meant
It is the same as it ever was
There is absolute unbroken continuity
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind
Because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you for an interval
Somewhere very near
Just around the corner
All is well.!
Nothing is past; nothing is lost
One brief moment and all will be as it was before
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!
Canon Henry Scott-Holland, 1847-1918, Canon of St Paul's Cathedral
Robert Ryan
August 21, 2011
I went to Gary's daughters christening many years ago with my then wife Julie. Sad to see Gary go like this.
Brad Shield
August 21, 2011
Wonderful friendly down to Earth bloke and great pilot.
You will be missed Gary.
Adam Taylor
August 21, 2011
I first went up in a chopper with Gary just a kid from the country hanging around and u would remember and say g day every time u come back great guy great pilot thanks gary
David Knight
August 21, 2011
Gary words fail me, you were such an awesome bloke and friend, rest in peace and you will never be forgotton
August 20, 2011
I feel very privileged to have known and flown with Gary, his knowledge & capability was admired greatly by me & many colleagues within the film industry.My sincere condolences to Teresa and family."Keep Flying Mate"
Dave Suttor-Orana Film Transport
August 20, 2011
I feel very privileged to have known and flown with Gary, his knowledge & capability was admired greatly by me & many colleagues within the film industry.My sincere condolences to Teresa and family."Keep Flying Mate"
August 20, 2011
Rhonda Ticehurst-Winson
August 20, 2011
Gary, you didn't really know me but so proud to have watched your achievements over the years via ABC. Australia will miss you. To your family we send our sincere sympathy.
Trevor Kane
August 20, 2011
From a fellow Variety Basher, I will miss your giggles as you take off after locking the gate with stainless steel cable ties or dusting us off when we broke down! You donated your machine and time for the charity when we all knew you were busy, but always time for a laugh. RIP Gary a real Australian character....
Ian & Patricia Wisken
August 20, 2011
A very sad day for anyone who knew Gary. A person respected and liked by everyone. Our deepest sympathy to Teresa, your family, friends and work colleagues.
Frank Flick
August 20, 2011
Dear Gary,
Thank you for so many unforgettable moments in the sky.
There is a beautiful old German song that seems like it is made for you: 'Pilot, greet me the sun, greet me the stars and greet me the moon, your life that is the desire to reach the space afar that no one owns...
I will miss you my friend!
Frank Flick
August 20, 2011
Dear Gary,
Thank you for so many unforgettable moments in the sky.
There is a beautiful old German song that seems like it is made for you: 'Pilot, greet me the sun, greet me the stars and greet me the moon, your life that is the desire to reach the space afar that no one owns...'
I will miss you my friend!
August 20, 2011
I attended your Daughters christening with my then Wife Julie. Sad to see you go like this Gary
Fiona Ellis
August 20, 2011
Gary - Thank you for the joy and pleasure that you gave to so many sick, disabled and disadvantaged children through your great committment to Variety, The Children's Charity NSW. I worked with you for 3 years and saw that shiny black helicopter swooping low over Sydney Harbour bring smiles to over 100 disabled children enjoying the Variety Splash every year. I had the great joy of flying with you, and your skill,humour and passion for your craft were second to none. My heartfelt sympathy to your family. I am sure that all at Variety will always remember you and carry you in our hearts forever.
Dominique Cappelaere
August 20, 2011
I am proud to have known Gary, a true professional and an expert in his field.
Sinceres condoleances for the family from the ex chief Pilot of Eurocopter Singapore
Lauren Skinner
August 20, 2011
Gonna miss those bear hugs and the way a smile would come on my face when i knew it was you comming into land.
Lauren skinner
James Lung
August 20, 2011
Gary,we will miss your big smile and it was a pleasure to meet you and to know that you were a genuine friend that loved life to the max, we will miss you dearly..you are an guardian angel.R.I.P my friend..ABC cafe...
August 20, 2011
Gary Ticehurst a gentle giant of the skies will be sadley Missed by all who new him. Dudley Hood
Lester Lung
August 20, 2011
Garry, it was a pleasure to meet you and to have consider you as my friend, you will be missed greatly and i will always treasure your friendship in my heart forever.goodbye dear friend..
M Fisher
August 20, 2011
Our deepest sympathy to Family & Friends.
Thank you to a wonderful, generous & humble man. May you forever fly with Angels.
August 20, 2011
Thank you Gary for sharing your passion of flight, sharing the legend of Smithy (Sir Chares Kingsford Smith)Bert Hinkler and so many lost aviators who graced the skies.
Gregory and Alisa Read
August 20, 2011
Gary, you were always a consummate professional and a bloody great bloke! We will miss you.
dave cleghorn
August 20, 2011
gary thank you for your modesty kindness and good humour in airlie beach
Christopher Mapp
August 20, 2011
Gary has left this world to fly forever amongst us all. His spirit and tails will live on as legends to us all. He sadly leaves a fantastic family behind, his son, daughter and wonderful wife Teresa, will carry his love and joy for life beautifully into the future. He was a legend that humbly worried about others and gave constantly to the broader community. We will all miss him. RIP buddy.
North Head, before Gary scares people enjoying their view! Exhilaration!
Paula McGrath
August 20, 2011
" O Captain. My Captain"
Paula McGrath
August 20, 2011
"O Captain! My Captain!'
Gary you will be in our hearts forever...I am sure many people at North Head won't forget you either as you scared them just appearing in your chopper from below waving at them enjoying the view! Lol! Amazing pilot, amazing friend, amazing husband. We know exactly what you loved so dearly about Teresa ...Gary we will look after her for you...and keep her crazy sense of humour alive. Thank you Gary for being our friend. It was a honour to love you. Now you can fly forever....
All our love Paula, Tony and Harvey the Wonder Dogx
August 20, 2011
Thank you Gary for all the great memories for over 15 years. All of us at Spacecam have a heavy heart thinking about the loss of a great film pilot. Our thoughts are with your families. G'day Mate.
Peter Marshall
August 20, 2011
See you Gary, a fine man.
Nick Wayland
August 20, 2011
We shall sadly all miss you. You were a legend amongst us and someone we all adored. Theresa our prayers and thoughts are with you at this devostating time.
george wood
August 20, 2011
Gary was a long time friend of Tyler Camera Systems and we will miss him more than words can express. Our thoughts will be with his family at this tragic time.
Peter Taylor
August 20, 2011
I can only echo the thoughts of others...was most privileged to meet Gary through Variety....what a great bloke...so many great memories....there are many sad "Bashers" today.
Sarah Funnelle Production Manager
August 20, 2011
My thoughts are with Gary's family and indeed all the other families involved in this tragedy. It was a pleasure to have worked with Gary.
Showing 1 - 100 of 173 results
Make a Donation
in Gary Ticehurst's name
How to support Gary's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Gary Ticehurst's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more