Vale Dorothea (Doff) MacAlpine

By James Brooks

It’s with a very heavy heart that I share the sad news of invaluable club family member Doff’s death on Saturday — the morning of our Exclusive Tiles Newport Carnival.

Doff passed away peacefully on Saturday morning with her devoted husband Scotty and adoring son Hughie by her side.

Doff displayed absolutely incredible courage and defiance with her battle against aggressive pancreatic cancer. Over the last couple of years, it was a normal day for Doff to head straight from chemotherapy to the gym or sometimes a 5 or 10K walk. It’s nearly impossible to understand the courage and strength required over the extended period of Dorothea’s battle — and her ability to always put the family and others wellbeing first. The ability to face the challenge head on and stay committed and optimistic was way beyond inspirational.

It was one of the absolute greatest moments for our program when Scott and Doff were on the beach at Scarborough earlier this year to watch Hughie win the U19s board final. The pride on Doff’s and Scotty’s beaming smile will live with many of us for the rest of our lives.

Doff was a beautiful wife and an incredibly devoted mother and a fiercely loyal friend who was loved by so many people. At such a moment, it’s very difficult to understand how somebody who gave so much and was loved by so many can leave the earth way before her time. We send all our strength and love to Scotty and Hughie. Your Newport SLS family will do everything we can to provide our support and love as you try to come to terms with the loss of beautiful Dorothea.

Scott and Hugh have asked me to pass on their thanks for all the messages of love and support. They have also asked me to advise that funeral will be held this Friday, 9th of November at 10.15 at North Chapel, Northern Suburbs Crematorium.

We will also be having a paddle out for Dorothea next week, most likely Wednesday 14th at 4.30pm and our crew racing at Coolum will wear armbands in her honour.

Finally, God bless beautiful Doff and all our love and strength to Scott and Hughie.