Kreepy Krauly founder Terry Jackson passes away

Sadly, Terry Jackson passed away in July. He was 85.

He was the founder of Kreepy Krauly Australia and previously operated Sherwood Pools. He was a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal (AM) in recognition of his significant service, not only to the swimming pool industry but also through his extensive contributions to the broader community.

Terry was a respected industry leader, a pioneer of innovation, and he played a key role in shaping the swimming pool industry in Australia. He led multiple dealer networks, hosted countless conferences, and built enduring professional and personal relationships across the sector.

He and his late wife Val had seven grandchildren from their three offspring, Victoria, Andrew and Sarah. Andrew and Sarah have run the family business for many years.

Arriving from Britain when he was 15, Terry studied engineering at Perth Technical College, and his interest in tinkering with technology led him to help develop the globally known Kreepy Krauly pool cleaner.

In 1976, his Sherwood Overseas Co business was selling swimming pools when he collaborated with the designer of an existing pool cleaner to create the first commercial version of the automated swimming pool vacuum cleaner.

Starting with the Australian rights for Kreepy Krauly, he established a manufacturing and R&D operation in Osborne Park, where products are still designed and produced today.

Former WA parliamentarian and businessman Ian Laurance said in Business News that Terry was an innovator who invested in startups before they were popular, and finally found success with Kreepy Krauly, which he marketed all over the world.

Among his other engineering accomplishments, he developed a prototype electric vehicle more than 40 years ago.

He was a political fundraiser for the Liberal Party, was a patron of the St George’s Cathedral restoration fund, and donated money to the arts in Western Australia, including the WA Opera, WA Symphony Orchestra and the WA Ballet.

He was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 2004 for service to the community as a benefactor to a range of church and social welfare groups, and to the development of international business opportunities. He was also a member of the charitable organisation The Western Australian Commandery of the Military and Hospitaller Order of St Lazarus.

He retreated from public life many years ago due to illness.

SPLASH! offers sincere condolences to family, friends and colleagues.