Don Ferguson is affectionately known as ‘Mr Perfection’, they say. Well, I can confirm that Don’s coffee making skills are right up there. He is the man who organises morning tea for some 20 – 30 people and makes sure that we have the highest hygiene standard. And he’s been doing this for some 5 years now, having been invited by Daryl Sanderson to join the group.
But of course, morning tea is only the job which, for 20 minutes or so, puts him to the forefront of everybody’s mind. As a former Army Vehicle Engineer, he feels right at home in the mechanical section of our Project Shed, dismantling bikes, refurbishing those which are suitable for that purpose.
“Being a volunteer gives me great satisfaction”, Don said. “We have a great group of blokes here and I look forward to being here every Saturday morning” [And yes, Don, the welfare of the group entirely depends on you being there mid-morning! ☺ Ed.]
Married to his wife Gaynor “for 50+ years” ( typical male, he doesn't know how long he has been married) they live in Biggara Waters. They have two adult daughters and 3 granddaughters.
Born in Rotorua, New Zealand some 78 years ago, Don joined the military at the age of 16. He worked his way up to become an A grade Auto Electrician. The highlight of his career? “We had a 2-year stint securing Singapore in 1969-71, being part of the Australian New Zealand Commonwealth Brigade when the British withdrew in 1971” he said. He retired in 1981, bought a Convenience Store, but after 9 years was back in the Army, working as a civilian officer, looking after the vehicle fleet.
Don not only looks fit, he is fit: he relaxes by by distance running in the Summer and cross country in the winter. [“Relaxes”?? Groan…!”] But it’s not all hard work: “I enjoy a good beer or a fine red” he said, “perhaps while watching a game of Rugby Union (All Blacks of course) and the Crusaders. Or I listen to Country & Western, or watch a Clint Eastwood movie. Might even squeeze in another cruise…”