I was around 14 years old at the time, and I suspect Harold was disenchanted with the situation and outcome. Harold had other issues then with problems at work and personal life. His life ended in tragic circumstances. We were all devastated. Dad, brother Geoffrey and myself launched Whirl Wind and scattered Harold’s ashes in Moreton Bay. Harold’s Olympic dream died with him. In 1980, Dad kept his memory alive by donating a trophy to RQYS in honour of his son and our brother—the Harold Victor Dean Trophy. It was to be awarded to the Most Improved Junior Skipper in each year. The latest recipient was Matthew Clarke in 2023-2024. This trophy has also been awarded to the 125 Class RQYS Squadron Champion and to the Most Consistent Junior Skipper. Harold was my brother, and I miss him every day. n ~ Rob Dean (now aged 78 years, former owner of catamaran ‘Cut Snake’), signing off. Harold Victor Dean (1941–1961). Pic: Supplied Harold Victor Dean’s sailing achievements ‘Sea Flash’ 1955-56-57 Cleveland Yacht Club Champion 1956 Richmond River Champion • All Boats Class 1957 3rd Queensland Champion • Sprog Class 1957-58 Queensland Champion • Sprog Class 1959-60 RQYC Club Champion ‘Whirl Wind’ 1959-60 Sir Henry Abel-Smith Cup 1960 Head of the Bay Champion 1960 Queensland Champion • Flying Dutchman Class 1960 Queensland Olympic Representative • Flying Dutchman Class 1960-61 Albert Cup Winner The Harold Victor Dean Memorial Trophy may be viewed in one of the glass display cabinets in the Squadron Members Lounge on the ground floor of the Cavill Building, adjacent to the Bistro. Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook Mainsheet 2026 57 Tribute: Harold Victor Dean
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