We were greatly saddened to hear that Garry Holloway passed away in the afternoon of Tuesday 12th November in Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital, Nowra. Garry was aged 77.
With his vast Tracker experience going back to 1968 and through his service on 851 and 816 Squadrons and ASU workshops involvement, Garry was THE most knowledgeable and competent member of the HARS Navy Heritage Flight Tracker engineering team.
Garry joined the RAN in May 1964 and was initially categorised as a Clearance Diver. As the result of an underwater training accident, he then transferred to become a Naval Air Mechanic Airframe/Engines and retired as a CPOATA3 in 1984. Garry then worked in his father-in-law’s automotive tyre and mechanical workshops in Nowra, gaining membership of the Institute of Automotive and Mechanical Engineers. A later career change brought Garry back to HMAS ALBATROSS and a position with BAE SYSTEMS in charge of their Corrosion Control Wash Bay facility up until his retirement.
In the late 1980’s Garry also enlisted in the Navy Reserves where he held roles with 817 Squadron, the RAN Historic Flight and as a Divisional Chief for cadet midshipmen at the RAN College.
Known as CHIEFY to his grandchildren, his engineering prowess, humour and mateship will be sadly missed. At his own request, no funeral was held for Garry and his ashes will be scattered on the family’s holiday retreat between Nerriga and Braidwood. The family intend to hold a commemorative gathering in Nowra with his friends and work colleagues either in late February or early March 2025. Details will be passed when finalised.
Submitted by Terry Hetherington
0411126016
