Flamboyant, Colourful, Bold and Creative
Keith Lloyd’s life was a testament to the principle that we are the sum of our actions and the impact we leave on others. Lloyd, who passed away at 85 on Sunday, November 26, 2023, epitomized the essence of a life well-lived, embracing both triumph and turmoil with unwavering resolve.
In the early hours of that Sunday morning, Lloyd succumbed to a gall-bladder infection, leaving behind a legacy that stretched from shipyards to the opulent heights of the Gold Coast property market, and a significant role in Alan Bond’s America’s Cup victory.
For over six decades, Keith Lloyd was known for his colorful personality and adventurous spirit. He enjoyed a life full of remarkable achievements and memorable experiences. His career was marked by bold ventures and audacious deals. In 2019, he sold a lavish Main Beach Ocean Isles apartment for nearly $7.5 million, initially offering his superyacht as part of the deal. In the 1970s, he sold his shipbuilding business to Christopher Skase, a testament to his keen business acumen. His superyacht, Southern Cross II, was pivotal in Alan Bond’s 1983 America’s Cup win, a symbol of his larger-than-life ambitions.
Keith’s investment in Palazzo Versace, with its opulent decor featuring 18-carat gold Medusas, a centuries-old chandelier, and a $25,000 plasma TV, reflected his belief in living fully and embracing luxury.
Yet, despite his success, Lloyd was no stranger to controversy. His time as the owner of Shafston House, an international student college in Brisbane, was marred by allegations, from which he emerged unscathed but not unmarked. This chapter of his life served as a reminder of the challenges he navigated with resilience and integrity.
Keith Lloyd’s legacy was also one of generosity. He quietly donated to charities, embodying a deep sense of philanthropy. His life was a balance of personal enjoyment and giving back to the community, a true reflection of living in accordance with nature. He was known for his anonymous donations to local charities on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane, always seeking to help those in need.
Regina King, recalling Lloyd’s enduring positivity and love for his family, highlighted the importance of relationships. Lloyd’s pride in his family, especially his grandson Mikey, was a cornerstone of his happiness and fulfillment.
As we reflect on Keith Lloyd’s life in our “The Villager” newsletter, we see a man who lived with purpose and passion, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew him and the broader Gold Coast community. His story is a powerful reminder of the values of courage, resilience, and the pursuit of a virtuous life.
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