24 November 2005

Tragic loss of "great mates"

Statement made by the families of Peter Beatty and Greg Nash

Peter and Greg's paths crossed several times in the early years due to both work and sport. 17 years ago a bond was formed when Greg started loading for Peter. They worked together ever since.

These two great mates tragically lost doing the job they both loved, will be missed and remembered by all.

Both Peter and Greg's family which to express their gratitude for the overwhelming response from all the community and volunteers involved in the search and rescue and wish to thank everybody for all their well wishes.

Both families request that their privacy be respected while they come to terms with their huge loss.

We request that all further queries be directed to Philip Renner at Network PR.

Gregory Patrick Nash, 56 Lived and based in Pukekohe. Born in Te Kopuru, raised in Tangiteroria.

Greg worked in various farming related jobs including fencing and shearing until his love of flying took over. Greg had a big involvement in the Dargaville Aeroclub where he obtained his private pilot license. His flying career was temporarily halted due to a battle with cancer, which he won, and a few years later regained his private license.

A father of three, Greg is survived by his Mother, life partner, a brother, two sisters, one child and a vast extended family including adult children, grandchildren to whom he was known as "Poppa". Two sons had died tragically in separate incidences over the last few years. Greg accepted everyone as family but to all he was more than that he was a great friend.

Peter William Beatty, 49 Lived and based in Pukekohe. Born and raised in Tangiteroria.

Peter was a respected and experienced pilot of 30 years.

Based for many years in Dargaville his love of flying also took him to Sudan and Malaysia with work. Throughout his extensive career he had flown various aircraft currently operating a Turbine Jet Engine for Super Air.

Peter is survived by three children: a son and two daughters. He also leaves behind two sisters a brother, and an extended family.

ENDS

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