The End of an Era - farewell to a family that carved the community that Dampier is today.

On the 27th December 2019 Chris Lally and his partner Katie McCabe drove out of Dampier, this departure brought with it the End of an Era for the Dampier community. After more than 30 years and three generations the last of the Lallys have finally flown the coop.

From the moment they sailed into Dampier Harbour, as a ‘refuel stop’ in 1988 John and Lyn, along with their two children Chris and Megan, found it hard to leave. As in all things they do, they committed 100% to life here and as a result helped shape the strong, vibrant and exciting community Dampier is today.

The “Camp School “ was their home for many years and they reached tens of thousands of children, from all over the state, sharing with them their love and respect for the ocean. The Lally’s passion for the sea rolled over into the HHBSC, so it became what it still is today - the heart of the sailing community in the Pilbara.

As Ward Councillor for many years John went into bat with the Shire, and later the City of Karratha, with the betterment of Dampier as his only agenda. It is hard not to mention a local club, group or association that John has touched over his career as a volunteer. From Sea Cadets through to the KDCCI, and so much more, John has influenced and achieved amazing things for our community.

The apple didn’t fall far from the tree, with both Chris and Megan along with their families committing to many local clubs at leaderships levels. The Dampier Netball Club and the Dampier Jnr. Sharks had a Lally sitting on their committee or volunteering in some capacity for many years. During the two generations of Lallys attending Dampier Primary School firstly Lyn, then Megan and Katie, were the driving forces behind the P+C Association.

As the ‘Grandies’ grew, ballet and soccer became their focus. Establishing, supporting and bringing ballet to the Pilbara became a family affair. Megan and Katie were the driving force behind Terre Rouge Ballet, Nana Lally was the accomplished pianist for all RAD exams, John and Chris were stage hands and general dogs bodies, whilst Kara, Alex and Jessie all grew into beautiful successful dancers. Chris had a 12 year volunteering career with the Dampier Red Soccer Club and KDJSA, continuing on after Cameron’s ‘retirement’ from the game. All his efforts have ensured junior soccer is thriving within the City of Karratha.

Dampier has been fortunate to have had three generations of Lallys grow, live and love here and we are a better place for that. With two Dampier Citizen of the Year Awards and one Citizen nomination, a DCA Lifetime Achievement Award, a City of Karratha Citizen of the Year Award and An Order of Australia Medal to boot will we ever see a family like this again.

Thank you John, Lyn, Chris, Katie, Megan, Cameron, Kara, Alex and Jessie. Dampier will miss and has missed with all.