Council News
The Council of the League of Ancient Mariners meets regularly at the Combined Services Club, 5-7 Barrack Street, Sydney. New members are admitted at the meetings.
AGM March 25, 2021. Minutes of the previous AGM held on March 17, 2020 were confirmed and adopted. The financial report (Profit and Loss Statement) of the League for the year ending December 31, 2020 together with the Auditors Report signed off in January 2021, were tabled, studied and adopted. Verbal reports were delivered by President, Vice President and Secretary. The President explained reasons (Covid) for selecting the Kirribilli Club venue and details of the function this year which will be held on May 1. Membership Fee & Application Fee: These were discussed in regards to the League’s Constitution and the present joining arrangements where the League publication Sons of the Sea is no longer issued to new members. (Plans are in hand to place the publication on the League’s website). The Secretary proposed that there be only one fee imposed on New Members, described as “Annual Fee $20 (Thru to April 30)”, which will appear on the Nomination for Membership Form. Proposal adopted. The next AGM is planned to be held in March 2022.
Council meeting, March 25, 2021. Minutes of the previous Council Meeting held on January 21, 2021 adopted. Cmdr. Kit Rynd and Brent Carr were confirmed as new members. Advice received and noted with regret those who have Crossed the Bar, Mr. F. Matthews, Mr. A. Hoogvliet, Capt. P. Duncan LVO RAN Rtd, and Capt. P. Sturt. Total membership stands at 254. Preparations are under way to create a web copy of the League’s publication, Sons of the Sea, a history of the League compiled by the League’s Honorary Historian Capt Ted Liley (1927 - 2018) for the League’s Centenary in 2003. The help and assistance of Mrs Brenda Liley in this project is gratefully appreciated. Enquiries are also being made to locate a permanent home for the League’s records. The Maritime Museum has been noted as a place to be approached. Planning for the May 1 Luncheon at the Kirribilli Club progressed during discussion. The venue allowing better compliance with Covid restrictions than would be the case with a venue afloat. It was decided: there would not be a raffle this year and that a door prize be given instead; and with a record of attendees kept that no formal tickets be issued. The Financial Report for period January 1 to March 24, 2021 shows the League’s finances in a healthy situation. Noted that the 56th Merchant Navy Memorial Service (Annual Commemoration) will be held at 11:00 /11th April at The Rookwood Cemetery. Agreed the President present a wreath on behalf of the League at the service. The next Council meeting is planned to be held June 24, 2021.
January 21 2021
Annual Luncheon: A good general discussion was held and the following points agreed: To go ahead and arrange a luncheon to be held on the traditional date of 1st Saturday in May – 1st May 2021. To have a land based function near the harbour and on a main transport line. To proceed with a booking (confirm availability and facilities) at The Kirribilli Club, Milsons Point, which is presently available. To make arrangements based on an attendance of approximately 100.
Agreed the League make a donation of $1,000 to the Tas Bull Fund to go towards the purchase of the newly developed Wi-Fi Hub units that provide broadband for the crews of merchant ships while in Australian ports.
Communication with our membership base was discussed at some length, which included the cost and time delays associated with mail-outs versus using e-mail to all members. It was agreed that we should create a new up to date e-mail list for our membership. A request will be made with the annual luncheon invitation letter for all members to provide e-mail contact details with advice that further updates or changes to functions will only be advised via e-mail.
Recruiting of new members was discussed and various approaches were shared. Blank applications forms should be in all council members pockets during our annual luncheon and at other times where appropriate.
November 16, 2020
Council Meeting. New council members were welcomed; Martin Skipper, Robert McMahon, Liam Gavin and Phil Hickey.
The main item under discussion was the planning of the 2021 annual luncheon, noting that its scheduling is conditional on Covid restrictions current at the time. Traditionally the luncheon is held on the first Saturday in May (May 1, 2021). Given the restrictive practices of Covid, options were considered including the holding of the luncheon ashore as opposed to the customary cruise on Sydney Harbour. Enquiries and planning are continuing. Enquiries are also being made as to how the League might assist the Seafarers Welfare Association given the experiences and limitations placed upon seafarers during the pandemic.
History of the League has become a topic of interest in two ways. (The history of the League can be found elsewhere in this website). First, is that one of the co-founders of the League of Ancient Mariners in 1903, Dr R Scot-Skirving apportioned a sum of 50 pounds in his estate left to his family following his death in 1956 and that it be distributed to the League by the beneficiaries of his estate upon their deaths. Formalities are now being attended to in order that the disbursement can be made. The second matter is that we have received personal seafaring and career information of one of the League’s early members, Capt Charles Alfred MacKinnon which makes for interesting reading. While the detailed records of individual members' period of membership of the League are unfortunately in the mists of time, the evidence suggests that Capt MacKinnon may have been one of those present when the League was formed in 1903. If not, it does appear he was very prominent in helping to establish the League in its very early stages. A news item on Capt MacKinnon will be included on the League’s website. A structured membership database capturing present and historic member data is a work in progress.
The financial report shows the League in a healthy situation. Outstanding member dues will be subject of friendly reminders. (Refer to Membership report below)..
Website. The site is growing is use and serving well to promote the League to members and the public.
It was agreed 10 League umbrellas be donated to Rotary Club of Sydney Cove for an auction to raise funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick.
Membership stands at 259 Members in total. However, many members are unfinancial as customarily, annual dues are paid at the same time as fees for the annual cruise & luncheon. As the cruise & luncheon was cancelled because of Covid, it’s felt many members have overlooked paying their annual dues. Steps are in place to issue friendly reminders.
March 17, 2020
Annual General Meeting
The AGM of the League was held on March 17, 2020. The audited accounts and financial report for the year ending December 31, 2019 showed the League in a healthy position and were adopted.
This year being the triennial year for the Election of Council, we are pleased to report that the results of the Election were as follows.
Continuing in their respective roles are –
President, Capt Murray Doyle
Vice President, Capt Michael Squires
Hon Secretary, Capt John Cardelli
Hon Treasurer, Mr John Southwell-Keely
Councillors: Mr John Harding, Capt Mike Bertram & Capt Allan Porter.
Capt Alan Tait, Immediate Past Vice-President (Ex Officio) retired from office at the Election as did Capt David Blazey RAN (Rtd). Both gentlemen were thanked for their dedicated commitment to the League throughout their terms of office.
Capt Tait was inducted into the Australian Maritime Hall of Fame in November 2018 in recognition of more than six decades of service to the Australian maritime industry.
Council Meeting
Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon
The League's Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon was scheduled to be held on May 2, 2020. The decision to cancel the event was made in the interests of protecting the health and safety of all those who may be at risk of COVID-19. Fees paid by those to attend will be refunded.
Trustees representing the estate of the co-founder of the League of Ancient Mariners of NSW, Dr Robert Scot-Skirving have contacted the League in regard to a bequest of £50.00 by Dr Scot-Skirving’s beneficiaries. Dr Scot-Skirving died in 1956. (Refer to the webpage, About Us).
Membership of the League stands at: Patron 1; Life Members 3; Full Members 164; Associate Members 94; Honorary Members 1; representing a total of 263.
November 11, 2019
In an endeavour to ensure the 2020 Annual Cruise & Luncheon for Members and their guests always meets high standards and wherever possible is improved, considerable discussion took place about the organising and the arrangements for the cruise that will take place on May 2, 2010. (Refer to the news item on the News & Events page). On-board arrangements and catering, allowing the guest speaker’s address to be heard and appreciated by all, entertainment and sea-shanties and all manner of issues that go to ensuring that a great day-out on Sydney Harbour is enjoyed by all, requires close attention to detail. The meeting devoted much time to addressing these matters and we are grateful for those who have undertaken much of the ‘leg-work’ involved in meeting management of the cruise fleet. Other matters noted - the Financial Report shows the League in a healthy situation.
June 13, 2019
We were pleased to admit five new members bringing total membership to 260. Noted that the Annual Cruise & Luncheon held on May 4 was well supported by members and that the day regarded as an outstanding success. Matters were addressed in connection with next year’s Cruise to ensure continuity of the success of the annual Cruises. The new Website is finding appeal with increasing visits to the site. It was agreed that a ‘Links’ page be added to the site along with the Membership form and a list of available League items for sale to Members. Financial reports show the League in a healthy state. It was agreed that a sum of $1,000 be donated to the Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund to help facilitate improvements to the Merchant Navy War Memorial.
March 28 2019
Annual General Meeting
The Profit & Loss Statements for the 2018 calendar year showed the League in a healthy financial position and were adopted. The Auditor’s report was signed in January 2019. There being no change to office bearers and no other business, the meeting closed. The Council Meeting followed.
Council Meeting
Discussion at the meeting addressing issues relating to the Members Annual Cruise & Luncheon on May 4; the new Website; a request from the ANARE Club (Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions) to support the commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the launching in Molde, Norway of a 400-ton vessel which played a significant role in Australia’s Antarctic exploration. Agreed the League donate $500 to the project. Also noted President, Capt Murray Doyle will lay a wreath on behalf of the League at the 55th Annual Commemoration at the Merchant Navy Memorial, Rookwood on Sunday April 14 2019. (Reports on these matters appear on the News & Events page). New Member approvals, welcome to Barrett Dion, Kelly Roberts, Jim Arthur Hinchcliffe.
October 31 2018
Detailed planning of the Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon on May 4, 2019 was the main issue at the meeting.
And we welcome new Members, John Goldsmith, Adam Roberts, Dion Dillon, Lionel Dooley and Donald Church.
28 June 2018
We were pleased to ratify four new members:
F: Full Membership A: Associate Membership.
Roll No. 416. Capt. G Harrington F.
Roll No. 415 Capt. D. Garrett F.
Roll No. 418 Mr. W. Spires A.
Roll No. 417 Capt. S. Matthews F.
28 March 2018
Annual General Meeting.
Capt M Squires became Vice President following the retirement of Capt R D Lorraine. Mr. John Mann was elected to the Council. The AGM was followed by the Council Meeting and the admission of new members:
Capt Drake Full Member
Capt G Permain Full Member
Mr D Wills Associate Member
Mrs E Sandeman-Gay Associate Member
Mrs. Sandeman-Gay is especially welcome, being the wife of the Late Capt Richard Sandeman-Gay, a Council Member who passed away a few days after our Harbour Cruise in May 2017.
29 November 2017
We are pleased to advise four new Members were ratified:
F- Full Membership A- Associate Membership
Role No. 409 Mr Ian McKnight A
Role No 408 Capt Todd McClennan F
Role No 410 Capt Dominic McCarron F
Role No 411 Capt Tony Cousins F
We are pleased to advise Capt. Mike Squires FNI has agreed to become a Council Member.
28 June 2017
The following New Members were welcomed:
F : Full Membership, A : Associate Membership.
Capt A James F
Mr P Kelly A
Mr S Cornwall A
Mr J Parkinson A
Mr L Parkinson A
Mr P Parkinson A
Mr C Clark A
Mr T Clark A
Mr R Eagle A
Capt L Nye F
Capt K Court F
AGM March 25, 2021. Minutes of the previous AGM held on March 17, 2020 were confirmed and adopted. The financial report (Profit and Loss Statement) of the League for the year ending December 31, 2020 together with the Auditors Report signed off in January 2021, were tabled, studied and adopted. Verbal reports were delivered by President, Vice President and Secretary. The President explained reasons (Covid) for selecting the Kirribilli Club venue and details of the function this year which will be held on May 1. Membership Fee & Application Fee: These were discussed in regards to the League’s Constitution and the present joining arrangements where the League publication Sons of the Sea is no longer issued to new members. (Plans are in hand to place the publication on the League’s website). The Secretary proposed that there be only one fee imposed on New Members, described as “Annual Fee $20 (Thru to April 30)”, which will appear on the Nomination for Membership Form. Proposal adopted. The next AGM is planned to be held in March 2022.
Council meeting, March 25, 2021. Minutes of the previous Council Meeting held on January 21, 2021 adopted. Cmdr. Kit Rynd and Brent Carr were confirmed as new members. Advice received and noted with regret those who have Crossed the Bar, Mr. F. Matthews, Mr. A. Hoogvliet, Capt. P. Duncan LVO RAN Rtd, and Capt. P. Sturt. Total membership stands at 254. Preparations are under way to create a web copy of the League’s publication, Sons of the Sea, a history of the League compiled by the League’s Honorary Historian Capt Ted Liley (1927 - 2018) for the League’s Centenary in 2003. The help and assistance of Mrs Brenda Liley in this project is gratefully appreciated. Enquiries are also being made to locate a permanent home for the League’s records. The Maritime Museum has been noted as a place to be approached. Planning for the May 1 Luncheon at the Kirribilli Club progressed during discussion. The venue allowing better compliance with Covid restrictions than would be the case with a venue afloat. It was decided: there would not be a raffle this year and that a door prize be given instead; and with a record of attendees kept that no formal tickets be issued. The Financial Report for period January 1 to March 24, 2021 shows the League’s finances in a healthy situation. Noted that the 56th Merchant Navy Memorial Service (Annual Commemoration) will be held at 11:00 /11th April at The Rookwood Cemetery. Agreed the President present a wreath on behalf of the League at the service. The next Council meeting is planned to be held June 24, 2021.
January 21 2021
Annual Luncheon: A good general discussion was held and the following points agreed: To go ahead and arrange a luncheon to be held on the traditional date of 1st Saturday in May – 1st May 2021. To have a land based function near the harbour and on a main transport line. To proceed with a booking (confirm availability and facilities) at The Kirribilli Club, Milsons Point, which is presently available. To make arrangements based on an attendance of approximately 100.
Agreed the League make a donation of $1,000 to the Tas Bull Fund to go towards the purchase of the newly developed Wi-Fi Hub units that provide broadband for the crews of merchant ships while in Australian ports.
Communication with our membership base was discussed at some length, which included the cost and time delays associated with mail-outs versus using e-mail to all members. It was agreed that we should create a new up to date e-mail list for our membership. A request will be made with the annual luncheon invitation letter for all members to provide e-mail contact details with advice that further updates or changes to functions will only be advised via e-mail.
Recruiting of new members was discussed and various approaches were shared. Blank applications forms should be in all council members pockets during our annual luncheon and at other times where appropriate.
November 16, 2020
Council Meeting. New council members were welcomed; Martin Skipper, Robert McMahon, Liam Gavin and Phil Hickey.
The main item under discussion was the planning of the 2021 annual luncheon, noting that its scheduling is conditional on Covid restrictions current at the time. Traditionally the luncheon is held on the first Saturday in May (May 1, 2021). Given the restrictive practices of Covid, options were considered including the holding of the luncheon ashore as opposed to the customary cruise on Sydney Harbour. Enquiries and planning are continuing. Enquiries are also being made as to how the League might assist the Seafarers Welfare Association given the experiences and limitations placed upon seafarers during the pandemic.
History of the League has become a topic of interest in two ways. (The history of the League can be found elsewhere in this website). First, is that one of the co-founders of the League of Ancient Mariners in 1903, Dr R Scot-Skirving apportioned a sum of 50 pounds in his estate left to his family following his death in 1956 and that it be distributed to the League by the beneficiaries of his estate upon their deaths. Formalities are now being attended to in order that the disbursement can be made. The second matter is that we have received personal seafaring and career information of one of the League’s early members, Capt Charles Alfred MacKinnon which makes for interesting reading. While the detailed records of individual members' period of membership of the League are unfortunately in the mists of time, the evidence suggests that Capt MacKinnon may have been one of those present when the League was formed in 1903. If not, it does appear he was very prominent in helping to establish the League in its very early stages. A news item on Capt MacKinnon will be included on the League’s website. A structured membership database capturing present and historic member data is a work in progress.
The financial report shows the League in a healthy situation. Outstanding member dues will be subject of friendly reminders. (Refer to Membership report below)..
Website. The site is growing is use and serving well to promote the League to members and the public.
It was agreed 10 League umbrellas be donated to Rotary Club of Sydney Cove for an auction to raise funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick.
Membership stands at 259 Members in total. However, many members are unfinancial as customarily, annual dues are paid at the same time as fees for the annual cruise & luncheon. As the cruise & luncheon was cancelled because of Covid, it’s felt many members have overlooked paying their annual dues. Steps are in place to issue friendly reminders.
March 17, 2020
Annual General Meeting
The AGM of the League was held on March 17, 2020. The audited accounts and financial report for the year ending December 31, 2019 showed the League in a healthy position and were adopted.
This year being the triennial year for the Election of Council, we are pleased to report that the results of the Election were as follows.
Continuing in their respective roles are –
President, Capt Murray Doyle
Vice President, Capt Michael Squires
Hon Secretary, Capt John Cardelli
Hon Treasurer, Mr John Southwell-Keely
Councillors: Mr John Harding, Capt Mike Bertram & Capt Allan Porter.
Capt Alan Tait, Immediate Past Vice-President (Ex Officio) retired from office at the Election as did Capt David Blazey RAN (Rtd). Both gentlemen were thanked for their dedicated commitment to the League throughout their terms of office.
Capt Tait was inducted into the Australian Maritime Hall of Fame in November 2018 in recognition of more than six decades of service to the Australian maritime industry.
Council Meeting
Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon
The League's Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon was scheduled to be held on May 2, 2020. The decision to cancel the event was made in the interests of protecting the health and safety of all those who may be at risk of COVID-19. Fees paid by those to attend will be refunded.
Trustees representing the estate of the co-founder of the League of Ancient Mariners of NSW, Dr Robert Scot-Skirving have contacted the League in regard to a bequest of £50.00 by Dr Scot-Skirving’s beneficiaries. Dr Scot-Skirving died in 1956. (Refer to the webpage, About Us).
Membership of the League stands at: Patron 1; Life Members 3; Full Members 164; Associate Members 94; Honorary Members 1; representing a total of 263.
November 11, 2019
In an endeavour to ensure the 2020 Annual Cruise & Luncheon for Members and their guests always meets high standards and wherever possible is improved, considerable discussion took place about the organising and the arrangements for the cruise that will take place on May 2, 2010. (Refer to the news item on the News & Events page). On-board arrangements and catering, allowing the guest speaker’s address to be heard and appreciated by all, entertainment and sea-shanties and all manner of issues that go to ensuring that a great day-out on Sydney Harbour is enjoyed by all, requires close attention to detail. The meeting devoted much time to addressing these matters and we are grateful for those who have undertaken much of the ‘leg-work’ involved in meeting management of the cruise fleet. Other matters noted - the Financial Report shows the League in a healthy situation.
June 13, 2019
We were pleased to admit five new members bringing total membership to 260. Noted that the Annual Cruise & Luncheon held on May 4 was well supported by members and that the day regarded as an outstanding success. Matters were addressed in connection with next year’s Cruise to ensure continuity of the success of the annual Cruises. The new Website is finding appeal with increasing visits to the site. It was agreed that a ‘Links’ page be added to the site along with the Membership form and a list of available League items for sale to Members. Financial reports show the League in a healthy state. It was agreed that a sum of $1,000 be donated to the Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund to help facilitate improvements to the Merchant Navy War Memorial.
March 28 2019
Annual General Meeting
The Profit & Loss Statements for the 2018 calendar year showed the League in a healthy financial position and were adopted. The Auditor’s report was signed in January 2019. There being no change to office bearers and no other business, the meeting closed. The Council Meeting followed.
Council Meeting
Discussion at the meeting addressing issues relating to the Members Annual Cruise & Luncheon on May 4; the new Website; a request from the ANARE Club (Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions) to support the commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the launching in Molde, Norway of a 400-ton vessel which played a significant role in Australia’s Antarctic exploration. Agreed the League donate $500 to the project. Also noted President, Capt Murray Doyle will lay a wreath on behalf of the League at the 55th Annual Commemoration at the Merchant Navy Memorial, Rookwood on Sunday April 14 2019. (Reports on these matters appear on the News & Events page). New Member approvals, welcome to Barrett Dion, Kelly Roberts, Jim Arthur Hinchcliffe.
October 31 2018
Detailed planning of the Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon on May 4, 2019 was the main issue at the meeting.
And we welcome new Members, John Goldsmith, Adam Roberts, Dion Dillon, Lionel Dooley and Donald Church.
28 June 2018
We were pleased to ratify four new members:
F: Full Membership A: Associate Membership.
Roll No. 416. Capt. G Harrington F.
Roll No. 415 Capt. D. Garrett F.
Roll No. 418 Mr. W. Spires A.
Roll No. 417 Capt. S. Matthews F.
28 March 2018
Annual General Meeting.
Capt M Squires became Vice President following the retirement of Capt R D Lorraine. Mr. John Mann was elected to the Council. The AGM was followed by the Council Meeting and the admission of new members:
Capt Drake Full Member
Capt G Permain Full Member
Mr D Wills Associate Member
Mrs E Sandeman-Gay Associate Member
Mrs. Sandeman-Gay is especially welcome, being the wife of the Late Capt Richard Sandeman-Gay, a Council Member who passed away a few days after our Harbour Cruise in May 2017.
29 November 2017
We are pleased to advise four new Members were ratified:
F- Full Membership A- Associate Membership
Role No. 409 Mr Ian McKnight A
Role No 408 Capt Todd McClennan F
Role No 410 Capt Dominic McCarron F
Role No 411 Capt Tony Cousins F
We are pleased to advise Capt. Mike Squires FNI has agreed to become a Council Member.
28 June 2017
The following New Members were welcomed:
F : Full Membership, A : Associate Membership.
Capt A James F
Mr P Kelly A
Mr S Cornwall A
Mr J Parkinson A
Mr L Parkinson A
Mr P Parkinson A
Mr C Clark A
Mr T Clark A
Mr R Eagle A
Capt L Nye F
Capt K Court F