Long-time Pearl Beach resident dies
Long-time Pearl Beach resident Mr Bill Abbott died on Tuesday morning, March 12, disembarking from a cruise.
Mr Abbott moved from north America to Pearl Beach with his mother Ms Dorothy Hart more than 50 years ago.
Dorothy became a member of the Pearl Beach Progress Association executive and acted as the Publicity Officer.
"They quickly embraced the natural heritage of the village that has inspired many artists, musicians, poets and writers," said current association publicity officer Ms Lynne Lillico.
They became involved in community activities "to raise much-needed funds toward the upkeep of the Pearl Beach Native Arboretum with a table of donated books outside the Pearl Beach shop".
"Once the Arboretum received a bequest they continued the concept by moving their book sale into the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall and the Easter Saturday Book Fair was launched.
"Dorothy and Bill were always available to assist with events and sell raffle tickets at the cafe.
"When Dorothy passed away, Bill continued managing the Easter Saturday Book Fair with proceeds toward the Memorial Hall upkeep and repairs until he decided to retire.
"Bill was a passionate cruise passenger and over the years sailed on most of the Cunard ships as well as many others.
"He continued coming to Pearl Beach every weekend keeping a fairly low profile.
"It is appropriate that Bill passed away disembarking from a recent cruise which he was so passionate about .
"In recent years the book fair has been managed by other book lovers and more recently Ms Alison Phillips has taken over the reigns.
"The book fair remains the largest single annual fundraising activity undertaken by the Pearl Beach Progress Association."
SOURCE:
Media release, 15 Mar 2024
Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association