The Manly community is in mourning following the passing of long-time resident and renowned philanthropist, Kay Van Norton Poche AO, who died on June 14 after a prolonged illness.
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Tributes have poured in from all corners of the community, particularly from organisations that benefited from her and her husband’s extraordinary generosity.
Kay Van Norton Poche, alongside her husband Greg Poche, donated over $150 million to various causes after selling Greg’s logistics business, Star Track Express, for $750 million in 2003. Her contributions to healthcare, Indigenous health initiatives, and community support have left an indelible mark in Australia.
The NORTH Foundation, which received significant support from Kay, expressed its deep sorrow in a heartfelt tribute: “It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Kay Van Norton Poche AO, a beloved friend and supporter of the NORTH Foundation. Kay’s legacy of generosity and compassion has left an indelible mark on our community and her unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare will inspire for generations to come.”
Similarly, the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice (AYAH), which she ardently supported, shared its condolences: “It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Kay Van Norton Poche AO, a cherished friend and supporter of the Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice. Kay’s generosity and compassion have profoundly impacted our community, and her dedication to healthcare will continue to inspire future generations.”
Kay’s philanthropy was especially notable in Manly, where she made a landmark donation of $6 million in 2018 to support the AYAH. This hospice, the first of its kind in Australia, offers vital care and respite to young people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as support for their families and carers.
Born in upstate New York, Kay Van Norton Poche made Manly her home for many years, becoming a passionate supporter of local causes and the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles. Her dedication to the community extended to supporting the club’s Indigenous round jersey and numerous other initiatives.
Her contributions to health facilities across the nation are vast, with the Poches funding over $50 million to establish Poche Centres for Indigenous Health at universities around the country. This work earned her the title of Officer of the Order of Australia in 2019, in recognition of her distinguished service to Indigenous health and medical research initiatives, largely through the Poche Indigenous Health Network.
Kay was also a fervent supporter of the Melanoma Institute Australia, contributing several million dollars to their cause. Her commitment to advancing healthcare and supporting vital health services has left a lasting legacy that will benefit Australians for generations.
The NSW Parliament, represented by Member for Manly James Griffin, also paid tribute to Kay’s profound impact: “Her support of the Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice will never be forgotten. The hospice is also known as Kay Van Norton Place. We are very grateful for her work. I will never forget the moment that she sought me out to make a donation to the hospice.”
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Kay Van Norton Poche’s passing is a significant loss for Manly and beyond. Her philanthropic spirit, compassion, and dedication to making the world a better place will continue to inspire and guide those who knew her and the many whose lives she touched.
Published 20-June-2024
