This is my eulogy to the champ! In life, many guys have a lot of MATES. Out of those mates, there aren’t many that you could classify as truly close friends. Friends that you tell your deepest secrets to and you can rely on to be there when your feeling down or when you really need some help. I feel extremely lucky that I can say that Phil was a true close friend of mine. He was my best friend and I loved him very much. His smile could brighten up anyone’s day no matter what they were going through In many ways, Phil taught me some valuable lessons in life, like not taking yourself too seriously or not worrying about what other people think of you. Just be yourself and enjoy life. When I look back over the last 27 years, there are just so many positive memories of Phil that spring to mind. From the times in year 11 at school when we both loved the new George Michael song ‘Faith’ to a point where we used to sing or more to the point scream it out when walking home from school together. Only to have the other kids look at us like we were some kind of weirdos or something. They were probably right! To yr 12, where we had a school dress up day and Phil thought it would be funny if he went dressed as a priest and that I should dress up as a pregnant nun. Did I cop it that day! To our late teens when we went on holidays aboard the Fairstar the fun ship (there was another name for it back then but since there are kids here, I better not go there) For that same reason, I better not say too much about that trip. Suffice to say Phil had a great time! To his time with the heart foundation when his claim to fame was starring as happy heart on Sale of a Century and getting to walk onto the set with Nicky Buckley. That role suited him down to the ground as he was always happy and smiling. To about 5 years ago when Lismore’s floods arrived and to make it back to Phil’s pub we decided to park his car and walked a couple of kms in chest deep water holding our wallets and mobiles up in the air only to find ourselves locked out of the pub because Phil had left his keys back in the car. Whilst only those close to Phil would understand this, the thing that I admired most about him was his courage and determination. I reckon his motto must have been that it’s better to burn out than fade away as he never let his actions be influenced by his health. God help anyone who went into a 50/50 ball against Phil. He just refused to be beaten. If we had the health problems he had, most of us would use it as an excuse to fail. Not Phil, he lived his life and carried himself on the sporting fields as if he was 110% fit. It was only a few weeks ago that Phil told me how the happiest times of his life have been when he is around Jayden and Caitlin. I know Phil would want you both to show the same amount of dedication to your sporting endeavour’s as your dad did. He was enormously proud of both of you. I’m going to miss those phone calls before the all the big games, whether it be State Of Origin, Grand Finals, World Cups and especially when the Dragons play the Bulldogs. He was always reminding in a way that only Phil can, of how the Dragons have got us the last few times! At the moment, I just can’t say good bye to you Phil so I’ll leave it at I’ll see you later mate and when we reunite one day I’ll be glad to once again be your wing man anytime.

Judy and I were shattered to hear of Phil's passing. I knew Phil well for a number of years when I was manager of his Sutherland Shire rep soccer team and later the district team. Phil was the ideal team player who always gave 100% even when he was unwell. His smiling face and great sense of humour were a feature of those days. His passing is a great loss to his family and his many, many friends.

Phil was a very good friend and it was extremely sad to hear of his passing. I had the pleasure of growing up with Phil through High School & up until he left Sydney. I always remember him as always having a smile on his face and he always saw the positive in life. I played many games of soccer with Phil over the years and no matter what sport he played, he excelled at it all. He was just naturally gifted. He will be very much missed and and my condolances to Phil's family and children. Love, The Barr clan Andrew & Paulina Ashton, Jordan, Aidan & Daxton

I had the privilege of meeting Phil on a number of occasions through the David Hookes transplant cricket in Australia and England.Graham and I went to a restaurant in Sydney with Chris and Anita and Phil kept us entertained all evening, I do recall cricket being mentioned more than once during the evening.Phil was always so positive very friendly and who could forgett that lovely smile.God Bless.

I did not know Phil but on behalf of the South African Transplant Sports Association would like to add our sincere sympathy to his family and friends. We hope that you will receive peace and strength during this time and that you will be comforted in the knowledge that Phil made a difference in people's lives.

Phil was an inspiration to me when I played baseball with him at Bonnet Bay. Many a game was pitched by Phi and even though sometimes he did not feel the best he always gave 100%. I last saw Phil at Lismore when he invited me (and a few rowdy teams of Cronulla softball kids I was coaching) to come for a meal at his place. To Tony and family I can only say that while Phil has been with us for too short a time, that time was well spent. He had an impact on many people. Matt

Dearest Philip, We hadn't spoken for many years yet I remember you like it was yesterday. I remember your beautiful smile, calming personality, and loving heart. From Primary School to High School and beyond we were friends. You were my first love and I will miss you as I have always missed you. Your friend, Nicole xxx

For all of us who have had the privilege of knowing Phil, our lives were truly enriched by his joy, compassion and friendship. I don't think I ever heard Phil say a disparaging word against anyone - save for possibly an English batsman or two, but even that was only friendly banter. He was a wonderfully athletic sportsman who wore the green and gold of the Australian Transplant CC with pride and in turn we were honoured to compete along side Phil. His camaraderie extended beyond the field and he was always concerned about the welfare of his mates. Phil lived life to the full. You never were going to have a dull day with Phil around. If one ever needed cheering up, Phil was always at hand to oblige. He will be greatly missed but I have no doubt that Phil's wonderful smile and the memory of his generous and compassionate nature will remain with each of us. What a great bloke, who I have been both honoured and privileged to call "friend". Jeff Sewell

Though I did not know Phillip personally myself I felt as if I did because he was so often in our conversation. All I do know is that Phillip had a wonderful family who at his most precious time of need were there to support and love him. My thoughts are with all those close to Phillip and time will just bring back the beautiful memories. Gaye