Tributes flow for grazier
FRIENDS and family gathered on Friday for the funeral of beloved Tablelands grazier Joseph Rolfe, who passed away on March 10 at the age of 58.
A football, hat, and sunglasses adorned the coffin of Joseph William “Joe” Rolfe as members of his family and community created a beautiful portrait of him with their touching tributes.
Minister Michael Lindsay led the service at Mountain View Chapel in Atherton and remembered the Tolga resident as a friend and a “real salt of the earth”.
His son Gus Rolfe said when he thought of his father, “respectful, loving and decent” were the words that came to mind.
“He respected everyone, and was a man full of care and kindness,” Gus said.
The younger Rolfe fondly remembered watching Seinfeld re-runs with his father and listening to episodes of the Bludging on the Blindside podcast with him on their drives to Cairns.
“Karma Waters was his favourite spot. Sipping on his rum he would say this is my favourite time of day as the sun set,” he said.
“He loved the Wallabies and was at many local Taipans games in Cairns, cheering them on.”
Mr Rolfe’s siblings remembered him as an “active, cheeky, fun-loving, outdoorsy child” who insisted his red hair was orange.
Originally from Finley in New South Wales, Mr Rolfe was first diagnosed with renal disease at 15 and underwent renal haemodialysis at 21.
“Despite a lifetime of health challenges, his fighting spirit and glass half full attitude shone,” Mr Rolfe’s sister said.
“He shone academically at school and university. We never heard him complain.
“Laughter, sense of humour and a healthy dose of wickedness defined brand Joe.”
His sister fondly recalled how his witty commentary entertained them all even during his final days.
Bernie English, a work colleague from the beef industry, praised Mr Rolfe’s leadership skills, knowledge of industry needs, and his success at increasing funding opportunities.
“What will this do for the beef producer on the ground was at the heart of his decision making,” Mr English said.
“He was a true public servant who lived in the service of others.”
Secretary of the Northern Beef Research Committee, Mr Rolfe was one of the best known beef advisers in all of Queensland, he said.
One of his many achievements included the National
Australian Beef Research Council (NABRC) Communicator/Extension Medal in 2019.