Tributes For Paul ‘Griffo’ Griffin
A minute’s silence was held at Hills Shire Council on Tuesday night (November 5th) in memory of well-known local businessman Paul “Griffo” Griffin who died on Melbourne Cup Day after an alleged assault.
A minute’s silence was held at The 55-year-old was struck at the Ettamogah Hotel at Kellyville Ridge at around 8pm. He was taken to Westmead Hospital where he was put on life support. He died on Friday 8th November. Police have charged a 43-year-old man with assault occasioning death.
Hills Mayor Michelle Byrne said: “Paul was a renowned local businessman and community champion whose generosity and determination to help others knew no bounds.
“Paul grew up in The Hills, attended Muirfield High School in North Rocks and lived in Norwest. He was a proud local business owner, founding Griffin Air Conditioning in 1999, which was based in Seven Hills and operated throughout The Hills Shire and wider Sydney.
“Many members of The Hills community knew Paul through his love of sport, especially rugby league. Paul played rugby league in the 1980s and 90s as part of Hills Bulls and North Sydney Reserve Grade, but his love for the game went far beyond being on the field.
“Paul was heavily involved with Hills Bulls where he was a board member from 2013 – 2021, a major sponsor for close to 30 years and a coach since the 1990s. Paul’s devotion to the club was recognised with life membership in 2013. His most recent role with the club was Senior Football Coordinator, a position he held for 12 years.
“His commitment to rugby league also saw him share his generosity and volunteering across many other sporting teams and organisations within The Hills and across the wider Sydney region, NSW and Australia.“
The Hills Bulls said in a Facebook post that Paul was larger than life and a dedicated family man.
“Paul’s love for his wife Robyn, children Kayla, Jayden and Dana, grandchildren, parents, siblings and extended family was evident in everything he did,” the club said. “He was a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to many. His generosity and community spirit touched everyone around him.
“While we mourn the loss of this extraordinary man, we also celebrate the incredible legacy Paul leaves behind. Paul’s passion for the game of rugby league, and unwavering dedication to the Hills Bulls will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him”.
According to Mark Jenkins, the chairperson of the Parramatta Junior Rugby League, Paul’s influence extended far beyond the sidelines.
“Paul’s passion for the sport, his unwavering dedication to the development of young players, and his selfless commitment to grassroots rugby league have left a lasting legacy that will be felt for many years to come,” Jenkins said.
Paul was a big supporter of the Jersey Day initiative which encourages people to register for organ donation. His organs have been donated to give others the gift of life.
A service is being planned for Crestwood Oval, the home of the Hills Bulls.
