On Monday July 1, Kiama community members united in urgent solidarity when a patron at Penny Whistlers stopped breathing.

Voytek Lewandowski, a regular diner at the cafe, was having lunch when he began choking. A tourist applied the Heimlich manoeuvre whilst customers rang emergency services, and Penny Whistler barista and local surf instructor, Kane Presland courageously stepped in to apply CPR.

Fellow diners helped Kane keep rhythm on his compressions until an ambulance arrived. Bhanu Rathore, owner of Penny Whistler provided support to those impacted by the traumatic event. 

Tragically, Voytek could not be revived. 

Voytek Lewandowski grew up in Poland under communist rule and emigrated to Australia on a whim, and immediately set about learning English and establishing his own business. He trained in Film and Television Production in his home country, but was unable to break into the industry in Australia. 

He moved into the food technology industry and opened his own factory producing roasted capsicum long before it became popular, and was a passionate proponent of yoga and Vipassana meditation. In 2011, he suffered a traumatic brain injury from a car accident.

In 2015, Voytek moved to Kiama and wished he had made the move earlier, having a deep appreciation for the Australian birdlife, animals and the ocean. The south end of Kendalls Beach, the Continental Pool, the sauna at the Leisure Centre, and Penny Whistler were places he frequented and felt at home.

His sparkling eyes and open smile were easily recognisable, and inviting to those who knew him or strangers that he would meet along his journey. 

Voytek passed unexpectedly at a place he loved and frequented regularly. 

July 4th was his 63rd birthday, and his loved ones celebrated enthusiastically and passionately at Penny Whistler to remember him and honour his life.

Voytek’s partner Madeleine wishes to hear from anyone who was present or provided help to express her gratitude and support. You can reach out to The Bugle to get in contact with her.