29 June 1937 – 23 January 2025
It is with great sadness that we would like to acknowledge the passing of our friend and colleague, Will Merritt, who died suddenly, but peacefully, last Thursday morning, aged 87 years.
Will was born and raised in Western Australia and took up sailing when he moved to Townsville after joining the RAAF. He worked as an instrument fitter, later qualifying as an aeronautical engineer (RMIT). Later in life, Will completed an Arts degree, majoring in Psychology (just for fun of it).
Will joined RBYC in 1997 and subsequently made significant contributions to the running and wellbeing of our Club. He spent eleven years on General Committee and was Rear Commodore in 2003 and 2009. He joined the RBYC Cruising Group Committee in 2000 and took over the role of Committee Chair in July 2006. He continued in this role until 2012, earning the title of “Chairman Will” for this service. After stepping down as chair, he continued as an active Committee member until 2021, an outstanding period of contribution.
Will and his wife Pam in their yacht Chindrina, were participants in the First Annual Bass Strait Cruise in 2001 – cruising to Flinders Island via Wilson’s Promontory (Refuge Cove), and Deal Island. Will and Pam in Chindrina, and later Andalucia, were keen participants not only in the annual Bass Strait Cruises over many years, but also the End-of-Month Cruises, mid-year Frostbite Cruises, Birthday Cruises, etc.
In 2005 Will and Pam sailed the east coast of Australia as far north as the Whitsundays, following which, Will was awarded the RBYC/QCYC Cruising Yachtsman of the Year in 2006.
So much of the Cruising Group culture of camaraderie and good fun are the result of Will’s cheerful good humour and courageous enthusiasm for life (not to mention our Cruising Group Beach Bocce and Klopp competitions). In addition to cruising, Will was active in establishing the first Wednesday afternoon racing at RBYC (Midweek Muddlers) and participating in Saturday racing, with his partner Pam on their beloved Andalucia, sailing right up until a month ago.
Will is recognised on the honour boards for his many achievements and contributions to the club. He was a well-respected member at RBYC, a fine friend to many, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Rest in Peace Will, we have lost a great friend. Our sincere condolences to Pam and family – our thoughts and best wishes are with you all.
(thanks to Lyn Bingham for providing this background and history)