Community & Business
9 November, 2023
‘The heart of Queensland’ signs off
Minister ‘Papa’ Eddie Dean said goodbye to Oakey in an emotional lunch organised by Oakey Community Church.
Tributes were shared by those who had been touched by Eddie’s ministry across the Downs since 2014 including local artist Katie Byrne.
Eddie’s wife Mama Metz Dean was unable to make it due to the passing of her father, but Eddie told guests she’d told him to stay and say goodbye.
“Oakey - the heart of Queensland forever,” he said.
“I’ll be praying from (Sydney) for everyone here.
“I’ve met so many wonderful people.
“Doing the sports, working with the church leaders and council workers - David Totenhofer.”
“(I’ve been encouraged by) how the hearts of people have changed”
“We started off with a lot of brick walls and obstacles to overcome.”
“(I’m proud that) some of my ideas have taken off, like Oakey Eat Street and the Pacific Island Games.”
“There’s a lot of talk about criminals, but (I’ve found) if you come out into the community, it gives you a whole different perspective.”
