Eight Bells: Hugh Treharne

Hugh Treharne OAM, Hall of Fame Inductee and Australian sailing legend, died peacefully surrounded by his loving family on June 24, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. Treharne passed away after a long illness at 84 years of age.

Treharne will be best recognized for his role as tactician aboard Australia II during its historic 1983 America’s Cup victory, where he played an instrumental role in one of the most iconic moments in Australian sporting history. That triumph not only ended the New York Yacht Club’s 132-year winning streak, but also elevated sailing to the national stage and inspired a generation of Australians.

Back at home, Treharne brought an extraordinary depth of knowledge, calm leadership, and tactical brilliance to every campaign he touched. His work across Olympic classes, offshore racing, and elite coaching further solidified his standing as one of Australia’s most respected yachting minds.

Alongside the America’s Cup victory, Treharne had an international 18-foot skiff title, World One Ton and Half Ton titles, and a win in the Fastnet Race. He was a member of winning Admiral’s, Southern Cross, and Kenwood Cup teams, and sailing master in countless ocean-racing successes.

“Hugh was a lifelong sailor, coach, and mentor whose passion for the sport never waned,” offered Australian Sailing President Shevaun Bruland. “He generously gave his time and expertise to countless sailors—from grassroots participants to world-class athletes—always with humility and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Treharne was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2000 for his services to sailing, and in 2017 was an inaugural inductee into the Australian Sailing Hall of Fame for his role with the Team of Australia II.

“Hugh was a committed father of strength, kindness, and unconditional love and an inspirational role model to generations of sailors around the nation,” said Hugh’s wife, Jeanine Treharne. “His passing will be deeply felt by his family and many friends around the world.”