A life lived in full colour
Eileen Bond, fondly known as “Red”, passed away on 2 July 2025 in Perth, aged 87, from heart complications following a stroke. Her funeral was held today at Fremantle’s St Patrick’s Basilica, drawing hundreds who came to pay tribute to a beloved figure known for living life with gusto. The service was awash in red roses and pink orchids, a fitting celebration of her fiery spirit.
Born Eileen Teresa Hughes into an Irish-Catholic family in Fremantle, she met Alan Bond at just 16. They married soon after, raising four children together: John, Craig, Susanne, and Jody. Despite their later divorce in 1992, the pair remained close until Alan’s death in 2015.
Power behind a historic victory
Eileen played a pivotal role in the iconic 1983 America’s Cup, when Australia II ended a 132-year winning streak by defeating the New York Yacht Club. While Alan provided the funding and technical drive, Eileen garnered public support and lifted morale, effortlessly winning over the American crowd. Her presence continued during the 1987 defence in Fremantle, where she was once more a visible emblem of national pride.
“I certainly haven’t the latter.”
Eileen was known for her “work hard, play hard” approach. She once summarised her philosophy with characteristic flair:
“You have to have either self control or moderation and I certainly haven’t the latter. I’ll eat and eat then suddenly stop and have next to nothing for eight days in a row.” YouTubeNews.com.au
That quote captured her exuberance and refusal to live life by halves. Her family echoed this sentiment at her funeral, describing her as someone who relished both her volunteer work and hosting legendary social events.
Faith, family, and fun
At today’s service, her son John said:
“Eileen’s life seems to me best summed up by words beginning with the letter F… faith, family, friends and fun.”
He remembered her as a woman who lived at full throttle — attending football games, buying designer outfits at short notice, and being a vibrant presence until the end.
Fremantle’s Ex-Premier Richard Court and South Fremantle Football Club great Stephen Michael were among the mourners, reflecting the breadth of her influence.
Farewell to a Cup queen
Eileen’s legacy reaches far beyond social circles. She helped reshape Australia’s America’s Cup campaigns — not as a trophy collector but as a charismatic supporter who gave sailing its human heartbeat. Australia II’s 1983 win was not just a sporting triumph but also a national cultural moment, and Eileen was central to weaving that narrative.
As her family and the sailing world bid farewell, they remembered a woman whose laughter was as bold as her lipstick, whose life was anything but moderate. Eileen “Red” Bond leaves behind a richer, more colourful Australia.
