Benefit for Brett

BRETT Cashman was an icon of the Windang community. His work at Windang Bowls Club was recognised by patrons and other clubs alike.

His tragic passing at only 40 years of age last September left a gap in many lives.

In a devastating blow to his family and friends Brett was diagnosed with cancer in both his bowel and his liver, doctors told him the cancer could not be operated on.

Brett moved to the Illawarra to take up his position at the club six years ago and quickly made his presence felt in a most positive manner.

Bretts boss former Windang Bowls CEO John Cosgrove and Bretts mother Beverley Cashman are in agreement work formed a big part of this great mans life.

He worked tirelessly for the club aiming to make it as great as it could be.

John said poker machines and finance were Bretts forte.

He loved getting together with the treasurer and going over numbers, he said.

Brett was a keen Wests Tigers supporter, his coffin even sporting the Tigers logo and his funeral attended by members of his treasured football club.

With his love for football, his commitment to work and his drinking ability, John said their was not many evenings when the pair would not sit down after work for a couple of schooners, Brett was very much one of the boys.

He was also a great family man. Two of the greatest loves in his life were his niece Jessica and nephew Liam, who lived in Newcastle.

Originally from Newcastle most of Bretts family still live in the seaside town. Brett made the trip up the coast every second weekend to revel in his familys company.

So he did not miss out Bretts family and friends decided to bring Christmas forward last year. The occasion left those close to him with memories to last a lifetime.

Their Christmas celebration was held on a Sunday and Brett passed away the following Friday.

To honour Bretts memory Windang Bowls Club is hosting Forever Young, The Brett Cashman Memorial Fundraiser on Saturday February 24.

The event, which begins at 7 pm, is set to be a night of fun and laughter complete with entertainment, raffles, karaoke, trivia, silent auction and much more.

All proceeds from the night will go towards CanTeen, the Australian organisation for young people living with cancer. It is a move Brett would have been proud of, dedicating the last stages of his life to raising money for childrens cancer research and to assist those young people living with the illness.

Tickets will be available of the night and entry is by way of donation to CanTeen at the door.