Those who spoke shared stories of Terry’s love for the land, his commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and his great affection for Belted Galloway cattle. Others recalled family adventures, including long-service leave journeys through the outback with Mary and their five children packed into the car.
Terry was also fondly remembered for his love of a bargain. His ability to find a deal, negotiate well and persuade others often benefited the many causes and community groups he supported. Whether through the Y Service Club, Torquay Landcare, Bunnings barbecues, YMCA events or Carols by Candlelight, Terry was never shy about putting his own hand up — or encouraging others to do the same.
Terry’s YMCA journey began in Broken Hill in 1948, when he joined the YMCA Boys’ Club program as a 10-year-old. Few could have imagined that this would mark the beginning of a 78-year connection with the Y and a lifelong commitment to giving back.
After gaining his trade in the mines at Broken Hill, Terry returned to the YMCA and was offered the opportunity to attend the YMCA Leadership College at Homebush. He received a scholarship with Sydney YMCA and, following his studies, worked in the physical activity department for 10 years.
In 1973, following the passing of Jack Terrill, Executive Director of YMCA Geelong, Terry applied for the regional leadership role after hearing of the strong programs Jack had established in Geelong. Terry was appointed Executive Director of YMCA Geelong in 1973 and served with dedication until his retirement in 2000.
Terry’s contribution to YMCA Geelong was significant and enduring. His legacy includes the purchase of Newtown Stadium and its transformation from a warehouse into a gymnastics and basketball stadium, achieved with the support of the many volunteers he inspired and rallied around him.
He also revitalised the Camp Wyuna camping program in 1974 after many years of inactivity, securing government funding to support the development of hut accommodation and a kitchen area.
Terry was the driving force behind YMCA Geelong’s gymnastics program, which flourished under his leadership. A recognised state coach in New South Wales, he quickly set about acquiring equipment and establishing a levels program that helped shape gymnastics participation across the region.
His willingness to try new ideas led to many other YMCA initiatives, from administering an AFL Little League football program to establishing set-up and pack-up gymnastics programs across Geelong. Programs such as Adventurer and Explorer outdoor adventure activities helped pave the way for the camping and outdoor education model now delivered at Camp Wyuna.
For Terry, retirement simply meant more time on the farm and more time to volunteer. He continued to actively support YMCA programs through the Y Service Club of Geelong alongside many like-minded former Y people.
Terry served on the YMCA Geelong Board from 2004 to 2013. He was also recognised with Life Membership, inducted into the YMCA Geelong Hall of Fame, and acknowledged as a Program Pioneer of Y Australia for his contribution to the development of the Aussie Slammers basketball pathway program. He also served as President of the Y Service Club of Geelong.
Terry was focused, spirited and determined. When there was a task to be done, he made sure it happened. He was never afraid to ask a business for support or donations and was widely known as a master of making a deal.
While Terry’s passing will be felt most deeply by Mary, his children and their families, the impact of his life, friendship and service will continue to be felt across YMCA Geelong and the wider Geelong community for many years to come.
YMCA Geelong extends its heartfelt condolences to Terry’s family and honours with gratitude the extraordinary contribution he made to our organisation and community.
