John Flower receives Yachting Australia's Lifetime Achievement Award

by Yachting Australia WA on 22 Oct 2009 There can be few more deserving than John Flower, a highly respected gentle man who was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2009 Australian Yachting Awards held last Friday night in Victoria.

Schooled at Scotch College in Claremont, John graduated from University with a B.Sc. (Arch) B. Arch UNSW: First Class Honours and is a Fellow of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects. Principal of his own company, John's much acclaimed architectural career has seen him included in Australia's 'Who's Who of Business' and one only has to 'Google' John to witness the many pages of references. John's depth of experience and active involvement with the RAIA, the many papers he has had published, his long-standing academic roles and his well known works have all contributed to his prominent and reputable profile.

Married with three adult children, John joined the Royal Perth Yacht Club in 1969 and sailed an Endeavour before building his S&S30 Command in 1972. An experienced sailor, John participated regularly in both river and offshore events. In 1981 John built his S80 which he also named Command and was active in fostering the growth of the S80 fleet.

A Commodore of Royal Perth Yacht Club from 1993 to 1995, John continues the close association he has long enjoyed with the Club where he is held in high regard. He recently sold his Foundation, R2D2 though that has not subdued his enthusiasm in the sailing arena.

John has made a significant contribution to the promotion of yachting in not only Western Australia but at an international level for over 30 years. He has had a major interest in match racing and represented Australia as a delegate and member of their executive from 1988 to 1997.

He has supported Yachting WA with involvement on numerous committees despite never succumbing to pressure to nominate for the YWA Board of Management. He has loyally represented Yachting WA on the Yachting Australia Board only stepping down from the position earlier this year.

John was honoured with a Yachting WA Life Membership in 1998. His sailing career both on and off the water spans nearly half a century and he continues to work closely with Yachting WA for the wider benefit of all.