R.I.P. Shirley Sullivan

Shirley passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on 30th September.  Loving wife of 60 years to John and wonderful mother to Jennifer, Christine and Elizabeth (for whom our club Pacer 'Liz Keep' is named).  Adored Grandmother of Laura, Hannah, Megan, Anita, Erin, Angus, Alice and Amelia.

WYC Members here share some of their memories of Shirley.

For 'Tony & I being new "kids on the block", SHIRLEY always made us welcome & was INTERESTED in what we were doing or where we had been.  She loved the Friday nights at WYC & was very keen on anything to do wth the club.  She encouraged everyone and was delighted with WoW.  More girls on water!  In fact Shirley came with us on Friday 29th Sept' to Will Palmer's and was interested in his work, especially the WoW trophies. 

G & 'T Bayley.

 We had only recently got to know Shirley very well.  She was such a welcoming and fun person.  Her presence at the Yacht Club brightened any function.  We enjoyed several visits to her house – her hospitality was wonderfully friendly.

Judy and Brendan Corcoran

Soon after Lawrence and I joined the WYC, it must have been in the 1980’s, I recall an excellent Australia Day celebration at the club at which Shirley and John turned up in magnificent colonial costumes and enacted a dramatic scene that I believe Shirley had scripted to entertain the assembled guests.  Then dancing resumed to the music provided by a bush band.  They cut dashing figures as always.  [this occassion is documented on page 57 of the Westerport Yacht Club History ] Shirley was forever stylish and elegant, and her mode of final Exit was performed in a manner that we may all wish to emulate, I reckon!

 Ginia Reddaway 

Some time ago John asked me if I would accompany Shirley to the BEST of BRITISH POPS CONCERT at the Melbourne Concert Hall.  I found myself with a sophisticated lady, completely at home in that Orchestral environment and who graciously accepted the red white and blue flowers I gave her to wear.

Bruce Simcox.

I remember a birthday party for Col Redman where Shirley appeared dressed as The Queen in full regalia to present Col with his OBE (Over Bloody Eighty) medal.

Merran Smith