Kevin Parry facts for kids
Kevin John Parry (born 1933 – died November 26, 2010) was a well-known businessman from Western Australia. He is most remembered for supporting the Taskforce '87 team. This team tried to defend the America's Cup in Fremantle, Western Australia, in 1987. The effort cost more than $20 million and involved building and racing three special boats called Kookaburra I, Kookaburra II, and Kookaburra III.
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Who Was Kevin Parry?
Kevin Parry was a successful businessman who started small and built a large company. He also had a passion for sports, especially baseball, and helped develop the sport in his home state.
His Early Life and Sports
When he was younger, Kevin Parry was a talented baseball player in Australia. His love for the sport continued throughout his life. He later created the Perth Heat baseball team. He also helped fund and build the first special baseball stadium in Perth, called Parry Field in Belmont.
Building a Business Empire
Kevin Parry led a large company called Parry Corporation. This company grew from his father's small backyard furniture workshop. It became famous for its Parry's department stores in Perth. By 1986, Parry Corporation was one of the top 100 non-financial companies in Australia. Parry also supported the West Perth Scitech centre, which is a science discovery museum.
Supporting the America's Cup
One of Kevin Parry's biggest projects was supporting the defence of the America's Cup in 1987. This is a very famous international sailing race. His team, Taskforce '87, worked hard to keep the cup in Australia. They built and raced three special 12-metre class boats. Even though they didn't win, it was a huge effort that showed his dedication.
Later Years
After a big stock market crash in 1987, Parry Corporation faced financial challenges. Kevin Parry later led a smaller health company called Astop Biohealth with his son, Cameron. In 1988, he was honored with an award called Officer of the Order of Australia. Kevin Parry passed away on November 26, 2010, in a car accident near his home in Bullsbrook.
