Farewell Pat

The first time we met Pat Allsop was on a four-wheel-drive camping trip to Emu Creek in Northern New South Wales. It was the first time we’d been away with the Allsop mob and it was an introduction we’ll never forget.
It’s fair to say more than a few drinks were had on our first night, sitting around the campfire and Pat was joining the fray. In those days, the Joker and I slept in a swag out in the open and we’d chosen a nice bit of grassy creek bed to set up the swag, not too far from the tents and caravans our new friends were staying in.
At some point during the night, when we were already pushing out Z’s Pat and her friend popped out for a quick pee. It was a campsite where you took a squat among the bushes and apparently this pair thought right where we were sleeping was a great spot. In their slightly sozzled state they didn’t notice the swag until they were about to drop their dacks near our snoozing heads. Fortunately disaster was averted at the last minute and we slept through it.
The tale of how Pat nearly peed on our heads has become something of a campfire legend in certain circles and has been told and retold. I’m sure it’s grown somewhat over the last 19 years but it always creates a laugh – especially after a few drinks.
It sums up Pat in so many ways. She was a down-to-earth character who didn’t mind a drink and loved a laugh. She embraced life and all it’s challenges, loved camping and the outdoors and was always there for everyone.
It is with a heavy heart we write this tribute – our third this year.

Pat’s year-long battle with a mystery illness finally got the better of her last week.
I hope she’s somewhere up there having a drink and a chinwag, crochet on her knee and looking down on the family and friends who loved her so much. We know you’ll have the campfire burning for those who need to be guided by your light.

Much love to Cobber, Robbie, Leesh, Amber and all the family and friends who loved her so much. Wish we could be there with you today.

Farewell Pat. Thanks for the memories, the laughs and the many good times.