Perth’s GLBTI community has been saddened by the loss of local beloved personality and social scene writer and Holly Wood, who passed away early on the morning of October 13 after a long battle with cancer.
The 69-year-old, who had just celebrated his birthday on October 7, was well known and respected for his work with Perth charities and his contribution to the media. He was named City of Perth Citizen of the Year in 1999, and awarded the Centenary Medal.
He was a champion for the less fortunate and a friend to all. Always willing to support a worthwhile cause, he volunteered and committed his time to many organisations and charities over the years.
Perth City Mission, the Make a Wish Foundation, Variety, Telethon and Appealathon all benefited from his generosity. Rocky Bay in Cottesloe made him a life member of the organisation and he was instrumental in starting the Perth Toy Bank in conjunction with Rotary.
Holly Wood’s friend of over 20 years, Ray Currill described him as someone with a huge heart who had difficulties saying no.
‘I have never known him to say no to a charity and money was never important to him’ Currill told OUTinPerth.
While often moving among Perth’s elite, Holly Wood never hid the fact he was gay and many members of the community fondly remember him as the founder of GAGS (Gay Activities Group Services), who raised money for various projects, organised the Gay Olympics and legendary themed parties.
Holly Wood was one of the founding members of the WA AIDS Council and has continued to support the organisation over the last 24 years. Last year WAAC honoured his contribution with a Life Membership.
‘Holly will be greatly missed by all of us here at the AIDS Council,’ said WAAC Executive Director Trish Langdon.
‘Not only was Holly a vibrant, colourful member of the community, he was a very gentle and humble man. His loss will be felt by those of us who knew and loved him. Our deepest sympathy goes to his many friends, colleagues and family.’
There will be a public memorial service for Holly Wood will be held in Queens Park Gardens in the coming weeks.
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