Tributes paid as Boat Show founder passes away

Tuesday 19 April 2022

Tributes have been paid to the “generous”, “knowledgeable” and “supportive” founder of Jersey’s annual Boat Show, after she passed away suddenly at the weekend.

Ports of Jersey officials confirmed the passing of “dear friend and former colleague” Myra Shacklady this afternoon “with great sadness”.

Having previously worked across the marine industry, including as Commercial Director at Milford Haven Port Authority, Ms Shacklady was appointed Director of Business Development at Jersey Harbours in 2007, going on to become Commercial Director of the entire Ports of Jersey Group.

"Myra was much respected among the business world, both locally and further afield, especially within the maritime community," a Ports spokesperson explained.

"During her 12 years working with the company she achieved many successes, but without doubt her lasting legacy will be the annual Barclays Jersey Boat Show, which she founded in 2007 and which continues to this day."

The exhibition was originally staged with a handful of exhibitors and a small entertainment programme, but now involves more than 100 participants and boasts extensive entertainment and activities both in and out of the water.

"Little did we realise when the idea for putting together such an event was first suggested that all these years later it would continue to have grown in the way that it has," Ms Shacklady previously recalled.

Despite retiring from Ports of Jersey in September 2019, Ports said Ms Shacklady "continued to play an active role in supporting the Boat Show and, as recently as a few days ago, was actively involved in the planning for the 2022 show, which will take place in June."

She also played an instrumental role in route development, with Ports crediting her as she retired for creating and maintaining "excellent relationships" with airlines that underpinned much of the connectivity enjoyed by islanders.

The Ports of Jersey team went on to remember Ms Shacklady as "one of the most kindest and generous of people, so knowledgeable and supportive, acting as a confidante and mentor when needed."

"It was a privilege to have her in our lives. She will be greatly missed by so many people across the Island, none more so than her friends and colleagues at Ports of Jersey. We send our thoughts and prayers at this very sad time to her extended family and friends in Jersey and the UK," they said.