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A TRIBUTE TO THE FOUNDING FATHER OF POWERLIFTING
AUSTRALIA William 'Bill' Keir - Died February 2001 Bill Keir originated powerlifting in Australia in 1971 by forming an Australian committee in conjunction with the IPF. Recognized not only for his powerlifting attributes but mainly for his outstanding administrative ability and undeniable dedication to the sport. Bill passed away quietly in his private abode in East Malvern at the age of 66. Many may not have realized that Bill represented Australia at world championship level and has held world records as a master in both the squat and the deadlift. He still currently holds records in age group Australian masters to this day. A classic lift that Bill always talked about was the one that got away. For anyone who knew him for any length of time it was his 260kg deadlift at an amazing bodyweight of 67.5kg he pulled to his knees at the world championships in 1980. Even though he missed the lift he was so proud of his attempt he still proudly displayed the photo at the Balaclava gym for years. Bill was meticulous with his paperwork and unbelievably reliable with his secretarial work for the association. Bill who became personal friends with Ernie Frantz the president of the WPC was always in demand for his expertise in this department, not only helping CAPO but he was still actively involved on the Australian weightlifting committee and Vic fit coaching administration. For those who were unaware Bill suffered severely from emphysema and had done since the 70’s never to complain of his illness he continued on regardless. Once in a while giving his apologies for being to ill to attend a meeting this would be a rare occasion but Bill would still carry out his duties allocated to him from home and even more. His support to me was overwhelming without his help I would have been lost and not able to develop CAPO to it’s current level. I am forever grateful for not only his support over the last seven years but for his friendship of 20 years. He is a part of the history of Australian Powerlifting and will remain so for eternity. Some of Bill’s achievements were: International Powerlifting Referee IPF International Powerlifting Referee WPC International Weightlifting Referee. President of IPF Australia. Coaching co-ordinating Grade 3 Vic fit accredited. Author “The Power Lifting training manual” 1980. To all of Bill’s family we send our deepest sympathy for their loss. He will be dearly missed by all in our family of powerlifting as well.
Barry Murray
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