Recently Marina Dobson, long time Library Assistant with Coffs Harbour City Council Libraries, and USU delegate unexpectedly passed away in hospital.
Marina’s warmth and dedication towards USU members and her passion for being a delegate as well as her love for the library and the wider Coffs Harbour community touched the lives of everyone she met. Her bright smile, raucous laugh and passionate spirit made the library a welcoming place for all, and her tireless pursuit for rights of the members will be hard to replace. She was the first to dress in sequins and a wig for library events, and the first to put her hand up to help the other delegates with issues and delegates meetings. Many knew and loved her.
Marina was not only a beloved delegate and work colleague to all, but also a devoted wife to Graham, and mother to her daughter, Kaylee, whom she spoke of with immense pride. One of Marina’s greatest joys was supporting Kaylee’s educational journey, encouraging her to pursue her dreams with unwavering love and guidance.
One of Marina’s recent goals was to undertake delegates training and become a better USU delegate as she was always looking out for her fellow colleagues and was never shy of speaking her mind. Marina completed the delegate training in Port Macquarie and became a delegate for the City of Coffs Harbour before her passing.
Recognising the importance of celebrating Marina’s life, the library closed to hold a Memorial Service on the morning of Wednesday 24 July. All City of Coffs Harbour staff were invited to attend the service in remembrance of our friend and delegate.
Marina Dobson will forever remain in our hearts as a beacon of kindness, fierceness, and generosity. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the positive impact she made on all of us.
