Camping ⛺️Eckert style

Andrew was the most empathic and compassionate man, with an unparalleled ability to connect with people.

Our friendship with the Eckert’s started through the kids and solidified as families during our first camping trip together in early 2000’s, which was over Easter at Neds Corner on the Murray. We arrived late on the Thursday night to find our campsite was reserved and as always Andrew Provided a helping hand with set up. Andrew had EVERYTHING a camper (and guests) could possibly need or want making the trip one of our most comfortable and best (us Oags pack the bear minimum, and crap food - according to the kids!). This year the river was very low and the kids learnt to ski and knee board. We adults had lots of fun towing the kids into the reeds and mud on the edge of the river. The trip ended as all camping trips do....pouring with rain. Getting out with all of our wet equipment through the mud flats almost didn’t happen, but luck on our side, and lots of tow ropes saw the convoy finally make it to The Loxton bakery for a well earned pie and vanilla slice...covered in mud! Rachel got an extra dose of mud through the window of the Eckert’s car which was connected to the Oag camper which was connected to the Oag vehicle! Ironically the next time we went, the river was bulging...

Andrews ability to care for and connect with all sorts of people is a rare gift and one I aspire to learn from. Will miss you, your conversation, your humour, your presence, organising things and most of all your caring spirit. Deb xo