Families ask community to respect wishes around funeral services

A public memorial service for Ballina Marine Rescue volunteers Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch is expected to be held in Ballina later next month, following the final funeral service for the two men.

A statement released by Marine Rescue Ballina last night said the community memorial was likely to take place in late June, although arrangements were still being finalised.

The organisation said the memorial would provide an opportunity for the wider community to come together and pay tribute to the two volunteers, who died during the Ballina Bar tragedy earlier this month.

“As we continue to mourn the loss of BA30 crew members Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch, Marine Rescue Ballina would like to provide an update on plans for a Marine Rescue NSW Memorial,” the statement said.

“At this stage, we anticipate the memorial will take place in late June.”

Marine Rescue Ballina also confirmed Frank Petsch’s funeral would be a private family-focused service attended by invited guests only.

Details for Bill Ewen’s funeral are still being finalised.

The organisation said both families had asked for their wishes surrounding the services to be respected during what remained an incredibly difficult time.

“With the families’ wishes paramount, the community will have the opportunity to come together and pay their respects at a Memorial,” the statement said.

“Further details will be shared as soon as arrangements are finalised.”

The announcement comes as Ballina continues to mourn the loss of the two volunteers, who have been widely described as heroes for launching into dangerous conditions in an attempt to save lives.

Photo montage: Marine Rescue Ballina Facebook