In July 2000, Ross Lillistone left a twenty-five year career in Air Traffic Control to follow his passion for traditional small craft. Brought up in a household full of classic text books relating to boat building and design, and having helped his father build a number of significant boats, Ross has maintained a passionate interest in the design, construction, rigging and use of classic boats - small and not-so-small.

His qualifications include Certificate III in Marine Craft Construction and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, allowing Ross to follow his passion and also establish his business in the world of small boat construction.

The business has retained a strong following from among the swelling ranks of amateur boat-builders, many of whom are thirsty for information and hands-on experience. Since July 2000, Ross has built nearly fifty-five boats ranging in size from seven feet to twenty-four feet. An increasing number of the designs have been his own. During the first five years in business, Ross was assisted by a number of people, but special mention must go to Doug Laver, a retired Army Engineering Officer. Doug worked in the business purely for the love of building and designing, and without his help, Bayside Wooden Boats would not have survived.

Thanks also go to Allan Danvers, Rob Cruz, and Paul Hernes, for their devoted labour and moral support.

These days, Ross operates his business in a secluded location at Esk, 100km west of Brisbane, the State capital of Queensland, Australia. Ross works with Rhonda , his wife, and they look forward to many years indulging their passion for fine boats.