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TRUE friend of gentle giants and hills icon Christopher O’Hora, fondly known as ‘the camel man’ died on Tuesday, April 12.
Last Monday, family and friends gathered to celebrate the life of Mr O’Hora at the Norfolk Chapel in Karrakatta Cemetery.
Many will know Mr O’Hora for running Western Australia’s oldest camel farm for more than 30 years and his extensive knowledge which enriched his well-loved tours.
Eldest son Adam said his father’s life was filled to the brim and his genuine desire to support and serve others shone through everything he did.
“He would always be the first one to help and was always so generous with his time,” Adam said.
Before operating Calamunnda Camel Farm, Mr O’Hora served in Vietnam with the Royal Australian Navy.
In June 1979, at 26 years old he joined the WA Fire Brigades Board and graduated dux of the cohort.
Six months later he attended his first deployment, and the following year began working at Belmont Fire Station before taking up roles as station officer in Perth then Welshpool.
Mr O’Hora served 32 years and 3 months as a firefighter before retiring then went on to serve at the Kalamunda Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service right up until his passing.
Armadale Fire and Rescue station officer Paul Paaderkooper reflected on the first time he met Mr O’Hora and the lasting effect he had on those around him.
“He loved a real chat, it was a genuine connection and he really meant to understand who you were.
“I looked at him as an older brother and the world is a lesser place without him in it.”
Mr O’Hora is survived by his children Adam, Neil, Kirby and Stephen and grandchildren Laila, Santahlia, Shelby, Clanci, Addison, Ivelisse, Michael, Harlen, Emily and Keira.
By Morgan de Smidt
