Martine and Ron Halliday were partners in life and music.
In last month’s Peninsula Pets, we showcased a well-loved trio from Frankston South: Ron and Martine Halliday and their delightful cat, Bunty. Sadly, in early September, Ron suffered a catastrophic stroke and died in hospital a few days later.
One half of Voicebox Singing Studios alongside his wife Martine, Ron was a maestro in the world of music. At the tender age of 15, he embarked on his singing journey, fuelled by dreams of becoming the next Paul McCartney. Immersing himself in the vibrant rock and pop scene, he strummed his guitar and showcased his keyboard skills in various bands. His artistic pursuits extended to the world of theatre, where he nabbed dream roles with several prestigious Melbourne theatre companies, and had his play D’Art: A Future Tense performed at La Mama.
Ron Halliday left a lasting legacy through his lifelong love for music.
With a Bachelor of Education from Rusden College under his belt, Ron ventured into the world of teaching in secondary schools, sharing his passion for music with eager minds. But that was just the prelude to his most epic performance yet: teaming up with the sensational Martine to create the electrifying musical duo Makin’ Whoopee! Together they brought the house down with their enchanting melodies and unforgettable performances.
More than just a talented and dedicated singing teacher, Ron was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a dear friend to many. He was a shining example of intelligence, compassion and thoughtfulness, with a wicked sense of humour. As his favourite band, The Beatles, once sang: “And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” His ability to bring out the best in people, both in their singing and their nature, was a gift to all who knew him.
Ron’s death serves as a poignant reminder that stroke is a pervasive and formidable adversary, claiming more lives than breast cancer among women and prostate cancer among men. Shockingly, it’s not just an affliction of adulthood either — about 600 Australian children experience stroke each year. There’s one stroke every 19 minutes in Australia; it’s a statistic that underscores the urgency of the issue.
The Stroke Foundation has made it its mission to work tirelessly towards a world free from the disability and suffering it causes. The foundation is a beacon of hope for those affected by stroke, providing support, raising awareness, and funding critical research to improve prevention, treatment and recovery.
The foundation’s Stride4Stroke walking challenge, taking place next month, offers a meaningful way to make a difference. It’s a chance for individuals, families, friends and colleagues to come together, stride side by side, and collectively raise money for the Stroke Foundation. They will be strides of progress, hope and determination in the fight against stroke.
In honour of Ron and the countless other Australians affected by stroke, we can lace up our shoes and stride forward together. To learn more, donate or get involved, visit strokefoundation.org.au
The tight-knit trio of Martine, Darcy and Ron Halliday loved sharing music, movies and carefree moments together.
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