We sadly share news of the passing of a fellow sailor, Ray Craigie. Ray died peacefully on 31 December 2025, aged 89.
Ray emigrated from England in 1964 to work as a Qantas pilot. In his ‘retirement’ he flew Kerry Packer’s private plane and later trained pilots on the Qantas Simulator, giving up his professional career at the age of 72.
Sailing was a favourite pastime between his demanding job and raising a family. Starting out with a trailer-sailor, Ray moved on to a share in Negative Gearing at Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron then raced at CYC on a Cavalier 28, Marabou, before he commissioned his pride and joy, On Y Va, built in Caloundra in 1996 by Queensland boat builder Bob (Robbo) Robertson.
Ray was active at GFS for many years. He was also a regular in the RANSA winter series. Among his regular crewmates was Bill McLaughlin (whose daughter Leigh McLaughlin is GFS Vice Commodore). A Hunters Hill local, Ray was a regular visitor to rigger Joe Walsh’s workshop at Woolwich Marina for a cuppa and a chat.
On Y Va, a Robertson 950, is today a member of the GFS fleet can still be seen racing most Wednesdays in Gold Division. She is now owned and skippered by Bruce Hilliard. In a neat coincidence, one of the crew members, Bill McIntosh, lives two doors down from Ray and Jenny’s home in Hunters Hill.
Our sincere condolences to Ray’s wife Jenny, their children and grandchildren, friends and family. Ray’s life was celebrated at a service held on 19 January.
Rest in peace, Ray.
