RFS leader and mentor David Cook honoured at funeral service

FAMILY and friends of Superintendent David Cook were joined by about 100 members of the Rural Fire Service at his funeral at Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Monday.

Mr Cook, 67, passed away on July 19 after a short battle with illness.

He was a highly respected leader of the NSW Rural Fire Service Far North Coast team and taught hundreds of students during his earlier years as a science teacher at Ballina High School.

His dedication over three decades earned him multiple honours, including the National Medal and Long Service Medal.

NSW RFS Chaplain Wayne Kelly ran the service, while RFS commissioner Trent Curtin attended.

Mr Cook, affectionally known as ‘Cookie’ had only recently commenced long service leave with a plan to retire in September.

There was a musical tribute at the service with photos of his life played over a soundtrack which featured Bob Dylan’s You Ain’t Going Nowhere, Neil Young’s Heart of Gold, and John J. Francis’ Simple Ben.

Family members, friends and RFS representatives spoke about his generosity and spirit for life.

 

A guard of honour was formed at the conclusion of the service as Richard Clapton’s Goodbye Tiger played.

“Cookie has always led with fairness, treating every member with respect — whether it was a newcomer or a long-time member stopping by for a chat,” an RFS spokesperson said.

“His dedication to the district has been unwavering, often prioritising the needs of others above his own.

“Cookie will be sorely missed by many across the RFS and partner agencies as a compassionate leader and mentor, who would give you the shirt off his back.”

Mr Cook had a 33-year career with the RFS, having originally transitioned from his role as a high school teacher in 2001.

Throughout his tenure, he was a highly respected leader, serving as Incident Controller for numerous bushfires across NSW, South Australia and Victoria.

He started as a volunteer with the Lennox Head Bush Fire Brigade in 1992 and later took on the role of honorary deputy fire control officer before beginning his paid career with the service.