To the younger or more recent members of Victoria’s Filipino diaspora, the name Ronald Maurice Bunker (20 February 1942 – 5 October 2024) may not be familiar. But for community members active in Melbourne in the 1980s and 1990s, he was a well-known and generous benefactor.
Perhaps inspired by the love and devotion of his wife, Evelyn, or driven by an inner generosity aligned with the Australian “fair go” spirit, Ron gave steadfastly to support Filipino and other emerging ethnic communities.
He contributed substantially to the annual Philippine Fiesta and to many community groups – Philippine Fiesta of Victoria, Filipino Association of Victoria (FAVI), Filipino Community Council of Victoria, Pampangueno Club, and even the Knox Community Chess Enthusiasts (KCCE), among others. His support helped sustain events, gatherings, and the bonds that kept communities connected.
Securing a home for the Fiesta
In Laverton lies a 4.9-hectare site now under the care of the Philippine Fiesta of Victoria, Inc., where cultural celebrations continue to unfold. The property was secured through the leadership of pioneering community figures, including Maina Walkley, Fr Bert de la Peña, Eddie Atacador, Datz Getzler, Nonong Torres, Fred de Guzman, Nestor Pineda, and Vic Icasiano, together with the collective efforts of the wider community.
Ron stood proudly alongside these pioneers, giving generously year after year to help meet repayments and to ensure the annual Fiesta continued to thrive. His contributions became part of the shared achievement that allowed the Filipino community to establish a lasting hub for cultural celebration and connection.
Early life and family
Ron was the eldest child of Maurice and Jean Bunker and spent much of his childhood in Woomera, South Australia. At just 13, he left school and began work in a stable as an apprentice jockey. He won a few races but walked away, saying he disliked the gambling culture surrounding the sport. Even then, he showed conviction to act by his own values.
In 1959, at age 17, he entered the road transport industry. Over time, he became a pioneer in using road trains across Western Australia; he built flexible and adaptable fleets to meet evolving client needs. Beyond commercial smarts, he was an advocate for driver safety and public welfare—donating his time and influence to improve standards in the transport sector.
Ron later built a family with his beloved wife Evelyn, and together they raised three daughters: Sherri, Samantha, and Naomi. His deep love for his family was well known to those around him, and his devotion to them was as constant as his dedication to community service.
How the family remembers him
To his family and close circle, Ron was more than a public figure or business leader. In a tribute shared last year, Karen Bunker reflected:
“What can I say about Ronnie that most people don’t know. His love for his family and friends, his reputation in the business world is well known. But my brothers and I got to know him from the beginning as a son, a brother, a cousin, a jockey, a larrikin, a husband, father, bus driver, etc, etc.”
— Karen Bunker, Oct. 14, 2024
Legacy and remembrance
As the Filipino community marks the first anniversary of his passing on 5 October 2025, Ron is remembered not merely for what he achieved but for how he lived – with integrity, kindness, and generosity. His legacy lives on in the communities that still gather, celebrate, and support each other.
To the Filipino community of Victoria, we say: thank you, Ron. Your generosity, your love, and your spirit will never be forgotten.
