We’re raising funds for a memorial bench in memory of Austin Tanney - a brilliant scientist, a loyal friend, and, above all, a loving husband to Steph and devoted dad to Zane and Alexa.

The bench will be placed in one of Austin’s favourite spots: the park beside the beach in Whitehead. It’s a peaceful, beautiful place where he loved to spend time with his family and where Steph, Zane, and Alexa can return to sit, reflect, and feel close to him.

This will be a lasting tribute to a much-missed man, and a space for family and friends to remember the warmth, humour, and heart Austin brought to their lives.

We’d also like to share one of Austin’s own poems a reminder of how deeply he understood the value of life’s quiet, determined moments:

Small Victories

by Austin Tanney

I went just that little bit further

Pushed along the path

The wind intent on foiling my intention

Reaching the steps I slump

Partly proud

But mostly aware of the absurdity

It's somewhat pathetic

In some ways

To celebrate as a victory

That which was daily life mere months ago

But there comes a point

Where victories

No matter how small

Should be celebrated

Any additional funds raised will go towards a small gathering to mark the bench being put in place, and to the charities chosen by Austin’s family.

Thank you for helping us create something special in his memory.