Fireworks will light up the Ipswich sky tonight in honour of much-loved local business owner Steve McMeniman who recently lost his battle with cancer.
Mr McMeniman of Two Butchers in Springfield was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer just prior to the coronavirus pandemic.
The local community rallied around Mr McMeniman and his Two Butchers colleagues after news of his health battle was made public.
The fireworks will commence at 6.15pm at Robelle Domain in Springfield. See Two Butchers Facebook post for more information.
Springfield City Group’s Naren Sinnathamby, who is putting on the fireworks in support of Mr McMeniman, said the whole community had lost a ‘very dear friend’.
“He was like a brother, he was like a mentor, he was a best mate – you couldn’t help but love the guy,” he said in a video on social media.
“He made an impact on this community that I have not seen in 20 years, and he did it in two years with his [business] partner Kenny and the whole Two Butchers team.”
Mr Sinnathamby said Mr McMeniman lit up the Springfield community.
“Steve, you lit up the greater Springfield community like I’ve never seen anyone do that before,” he said in a video on social media.
“In your honour, out of love and respect for you, we’re lighting up the skies, and we’re sending you that love and that happiness.”
Mr Sinnathamby encouraged those watching the fireworks to keep everyone’s health and safety in mind and maintain social distancing.
“If you’re around the Robelle Domain area, if you could stay in your car, adhering to social distancing laws, you could even stay in your home,” he said.
The Two Butchers team said Mr McMeniman was a best mate to everyone.
“His laugh, smile and big bear hugs were all what made him a beautiful person. He had a heart of gold,” they said on social media.
“Lighting up the sky for Steve is the most beautiful way that everyone can join for Steve’s celebration of life.”
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> > > Ipswich community comes together after losing one of its own
