The surfing community is deeply saddened by the passing of beloved Long Reef local, Mercury Psillakis, on Saturday, September 6.
Surfing NSW CEO Lucas Townsend said:
“Mercury was a much-loved figure in our surfing family. A passionate surfer, a friend to so many, supporter of the next generation, and someone who embodied the spirit of community in and out of the water.
On behalf of Surfing NSW, I extend our deepest condolences to the Psillakis family, Long Reef Boardriders, and the wider Northern Beaches surfing community. We are working closely with clubs to ensure support is available for volunteers and members during this difficult time.”
As his longtime friend and Surfing NSW Northern Beaches Regional Director, Matt Grainger, shared:
“I loved nothing more than surfing with Merc and Mike, hooting encouragement, laughing, hugging, and pushing each other… But more than that, he was pure heart, generous, kind, and inspiring. You’ll always be with us in the water and in our hearts.”
Surfing NSW will continue to work with the Department of Primary Industries as a member of Community Incident Response programs, helping to ensure both the safety and the support of our community in these challenging times.
The entire surfing community in NSW shares its thoughts and condolences with the Psillakis family, Long Reef Boardriders, Dee Why Surfing Fraternity, and the wider Northern Beaches surfing tribe at this time.