A Life of Service, Seamanship, and Integrity
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club acknowledges with deep respect the passing of Graham Norman Nock AM, OBE— former Commodore, Life Member, dedicated yachtsman, and much-loved member of the Alfreds community.Graham served as Commodore from 1963 to 1966, a time of significant growth and evolution for the Club. He oversaw the completion of A-Marina and the Green Point Hardstand (then known as the 5.5m Hardstand) and played an instrumental role in the publication of the Club’s Centenary History Book – a lasting tribute to the RPAYC’s rich legacy.
His steady hand on the helm helped modernise operations, guide membership expansion, and uphold the traditions that continue to define RPAYC today. In 1973, in recognition of his outstanding service, Graham was awarded Life Membership— one of the Club’s highest honours.
Graham’s generosity and ongoing support of sailing at RPAYC is reflected through his donation of two enduring trophies: The Alyth Trophy, awarded to the winning PHS boat in the Bluewater Pointscore Series, and The Commodore’s Cup, presented to the winning PHS boat in each division of the Commodore’s Cup Series.
A Passion for Sailing
Graham’s lifelong love of sailing was inherited from his father, Sir Norman Nock (acknowledged as introducing the Dragon class yachts to Australia in the 1950s), and passed down to the generations that followed. A true sailor in every sense, Graham raced extensively along the east coast and throughout Sydney Harbour.
For more than 35 years, Graham was most closely associated with the classic timber yacht CARESS, a Wally Ward design built in 1961. Purchased by Graham in 1982, CARESS became a regular and successful competitor in the SASC Classic Division, often seen surfing home ahead of the fleet.
He sailed most often with his son Rick—a formidable team whose skill and teamwork earned them admiration and many trophies. Even well into his 90s, Graham remained connected to the boat, and in 2023, was honoured with one last sail aboard the beautifully restored CARESS—a poignant tribute to a lifetime spent on the water.
A Broader Contribution
Graham’s influence extended far beyond the Alfreds. He was a director and chairman of the family retail firm Nock & Kirby and served on the boards of major Australian companies such as AMP, Carrier, and Rheem. He also held office as an Alderman for the City of Sydney, with a strong commitment to civic responsibility and charitable work.
For these and other contributions, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1975 and made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 1988. He was a lifelong supporter of The Smith Family, the Art Gallery of NSW, the Australia Day Council, and the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, where he served as a Life Governor.
A Lasting Legacy
Graham passed away peacefully at home on 12 May 2025, aged 96. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Pamela, with whom he shared 65 wonderful years, and is survived by their four children—Michael, Rick, and two daughters— and their many grandchildren.
He will be remembered at RPAYC not only for his achievements but for his quiet wisdom, gracious nature, and steadfast loyalty to the Club. His legacy lives on through those he mentored, the friends he made, and the enduring mark he left on our waters and our hearts.
Fair winds, Graham. You have crossed the bar with dignity. Your presence will always be felt at the Alfreds.
Commodore Robert McClelland
Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club Newport, NSW