Take up yachting as a profession or work on the land.

He chose the latter, but it did not stop him remaining committed to his passion of sailing.

Ballarat Yacht Club commodore Neville Bilney relayed the story in presenting Weatherly with a BYC life membership.

Bilney said Weatherly, who had been sailing since he was 11 years-old, had had a decorated competitive career with national and state titles in a variety of classes over 40 years, as well as being a major contributor to the life of the Ballarat Yacht Club.

He has sailed in classes including sabre, international cadet, cherub windsurfers, laser, sailability, access dinghy, jubilee and scorpion.

Bilney said Weatherly had been a great contributor to various club programs, including being involved in a school program, junior coach and tacker program instructor.

Weatherly was succinct in accepting the honour.

“I do it because I love it.”

The life membership was a highlight of the club’s season opening day at its Lake Wendouree clubhouse.