Tina Kontozis brought love, joy and colour to the community of Bundeena and Maianbar.
She touched the lives of thousands of children, and became a friend to their parents, during 10 years working in the Goanna Patch Long Day Care Centre.
And, so, a celebration of Ms Kontozis’ life that took place on Saturday couldn’t have been more fitting.
For a short period, the grief over her death in an alleged act of domestic violence was put to the side.
In its place was a colourful, noisy, fun-filled enjoyment of life, with colour runs and masses of bubbles from 150 bubble pipes in the mouths of children, supported by two machines.
As the kids gleefully covered each other with coloured powder, a rainbow haze formed above the ground, enveloping the group of more than 200.
The celebration took place during a prolonged interval between games staged by the Bundeena Maianbar Football Club.
A minute’ silence was followed by a “a few words” from Sharon Hodges, president of the football club and secretary manager of the Bundeena Bowling Club.
”The event was to celebrate Tina’s life and to focus on the children Tina had taught,” Ms Hodges said.
“Tina was a fun loving person, who had a smile for everyone.
“There was a broad spectrum of players present, from under sixes to seniors, and I told them to make some noise and some colour to celebrate Tina’s life.”
Danielle Anderson, who was director of the child care centre when Ms Kontozis started and became a close friend, helped organise the event.
All morning, a few of the mums sparkled the kids, putting glitter on their faces and hair, spraying bright colours and tying colour ribbons in their hair,” she said.
“The nicest part was that a lot of Tina’s extended family were involved.
“The event validates Tina’s memory and the beautiful way she made every person that came into contact with her feel loved.
“Not only was Tina a treasured teacher for more than 10 years at our early childhood service, but she continued to invest in those relationships long after the children had moved on to primary and high schools.
”Tina was so much fun – lots of life life, music,dancing and adventures.
“She was protective and and took in anyone who needed a hand. Her home was a safe place for others to go.”
Amanda Aravena said, when she moved to Bundeena 10 years ago, Ms Kontozis was the first person she met, and they developed a close friendship.
”I have never met anyone so immediately warm and accepting,” she said.
