Wild Duck

Published 18:56 on 27 Jul 2023

On Wednesday 20th July at Brading Haven, we had the privilege of welcoming Dr William (Bill) Probert, and his brother Mark, to see Bill's Alan Buchanan design 'Wild Duck' yacht that he spent 37 yrs building in his garage, using the best materials, with an eye for detail.
It has been some time since Bill last saw the vessel, following a period of time out of the water and exposed to the elements at Newtown Creek. I was fortunate enough to spot it, and purchased it through a broker before restoring it to a seaworthy condition. This also put me in touch with Bill, and we have become good friends.
Bill, has been coping with the challenges of Parkinson's disease of late, and was delighted to venture out and be repatriated with his boat, and to see it in its former glory. It was both an emotional and happy occasion that recalled many fond memories for Bill. Of the construction, Bill said 'every inch of the boat had its own story'. It was also a trip down memory lane returning to Bembridge harbour, where he lived 5 years of his life on a house boat. Bill's father, who was inspirational to him, served with the Royal Air Force Marine Craft Unit, and as such, water was never far from Bill's childhood.
If you would like to know more about Bill's story and the construction of this beautiful 'Wild Duck' design, please go to the following YouTube links which I am sure you will find interesting:
1st viewing (Construction) https://youtu.be/o6ZF6WOiK48
2nd Viewing (Sailing) https://youtu.be/zkLbZu_i01Q
Acknowledgements - I would like to thank the following members of staff at BHYC and visitors, for making the occasion a success:
John Whitehead, Gordon Wight, Mark Probert, PCSO Jacqueline May, the club members who helped with their comments and other intervention on the day. They know who they are.
Thank you!

Rev G May (Club member).

Last updated 20:04 on 9 October 2024