Sydney’s eastern suburbs are mourning the loss of Erik de Haart, a Coogee local and Bali bombings survivor. Mr de Haart died of a suspected heart attack at the age of 67.
He was a life member of the Coogee Dolphins Rugby League Club and was heralded for his bravery in rescuing victims from the 2002 terrorist attack that claimed 202 lives, including six of his teammates.
A Night That Changed Lives: The 2002 Bali Bombings
In October 2002, Mr de Haart was in Bali with 11 Coogee Dolphins Rugby League Club members. Two bombs detonated in Kuta’s tourist district. The explosions, which targeted Paddy’s Bar and the Sari Club, resulted in 202 deaths, including 88 Australians. Among those killed were six of his teammates.
After the blasts, Mr de Haart ran towards the destruction. Despite the danger, he repeatedly entered the devastated Sari Club. Mr de Haart helped to carry the wounded to safety. He sustained burns and injuries but remained focused on rescuing others. The chaotic scene, particularly the victims he was unable to reach, weighed on him for the rest of his life.
Commitment to Community and Resilience
Following the tragedy, Mr de Haart returned to Coogee and continued his work professionally and within the community. He was a life member and sponsor of the Coogee Dolphins for many years. Mr de Haart’s dedication extended beyond sport. He also contributed to Indigenous programs and charitable causes.
A highly regarded accountant, Mr de Haart was a partner at CTBS Partners, where he was known for his professionalism and generosity. Beyond his career, he embraced physical challenges, including completing a 250-kilometre endurance race across Chile’s Atacama Desert to raise funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital.
Mr de Haart attended memorial services at Dolphins Point in Coogee, honouring those who lost their lives in the bombings. During these events, he reunited with fellow survivors, including medical professionals who assisted in the aftermath.
A Lasting Legacy
The Coogee Dolphins confirmed Mr de Haart’s passing. They paid tribute to his contributions to the club and his heroism in Bali. Friends and community members have described him as always willing to help others, both in times of crisis and in everyday life.
His funeral will be held at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in Randwick on 26 February 2025, where family, friends, and the Coogee community will gather to honour his memory.
Published 25-Feb-2025
