News & Events
Livestock carriers and a long memory …
Since retirement from seafaring at age 75, David James has spent the last seven years researching and writing about events revolving around a remarkable ship; one that first set him upon his course way back in 1964. She was the SS Eros formerly built for the Jamaica-UK banana trade, but when he joined as engineer in Sydney, re-named as the SS Trangie, converted to carry cargoes of live Australian sheep from Sydney to Mexico, via Suva, Tahiti and Honolulu.
David "swallowed the anchor" after some 54 years of engineering in a wide range of cargo/passenger liners to hydrofoil ferries, Sydney Harbour tugboats, Rainbow Warrior II, Dutch and Belgian dredges and container ships.
In his recently published book The Windward Mark is an account of the many factors that led to the dumping at sea of 7,200 dead sheep and within a year company bankruptcy and the stranding of the ship in Mexico.
The book is an adventure story even down to a first-hand account of what it took to fire the five boilers and drive the now long vanished triple-expansion, open crankcase main engine in six trans-Pacific crossings. On what contributed to David writing the book is a story in itself … Read more …
With thanks to Pittwater Online News
David "swallowed the anchor" after some 54 years of engineering in a wide range of cargo/passenger liners to hydrofoil ferries, Sydney Harbour tugboats, Rainbow Warrior II, Dutch and Belgian dredges and container ships.
In his recently published book The Windward Mark is an account of the many factors that led to the dumping at sea of 7,200 dead sheep and within a year company bankruptcy and the stranding of the ship in Mexico.
The book is an adventure story even down to a first-hand account of what it took to fire the five boilers and drive the now long vanished triple-expansion, open crankcase main engine in six trans-Pacific crossings. On what contributed to David writing the book is a story in itself … Read more …
With thanks to Pittwater Online News
Vale, Member, Capt Peter George Duncan LVO RAN Rtd.
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We have received advice League Member, Capt Peter George Duncan LVO RAN Rtd, Crossed the Bar on May 9, 2018.
During his RAN service Capt Duncan commanded HMAS Stuart which served as Royal Escort for the Queen's visit to Australia in 1973 to open the Sydney Opera House. Capt Duncan was honoured by the Queen with Membership (Lieutenant) of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO). Conferment of the honour dates back to 1896 to the time of Queen Victoria and is made solely at the discretion of the Sovereign. For Capt Duncan’s obituary please visit the Crossed the Bar page. Photo: With thanks to Ian Duncan |
Construction of Advanced Composite Racing Yachts
A RINA IMarEST WebEx Webinar
Wednesday March 3, 2021 at 6.30pm AEDT
Full details and Registration Click Here
A RINA IMarEST WebEx Webinar
Wednesday March 3, 2021 at 6.30pm AEDT
Full details and Registration Click Here
League merchandise for Members
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The League has a range of items available for purchase by Members. In addition to the items in the photo, there are badges displaying the League’s emblem. With the League’s Annual Luncheon scheduled for May 1, 2021 at the Kirribilli Club, Milsons Point, there is an opportunity as per the Luncheon Invitation sent to Members, to request items for collection and payment at the luncheon. Prices of items: Cap $20; Tie $20; Umbrella $30; Badge (small) $5; Badge (large) $15 |
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Ballast Water Treatment: Challenges, Solutions & Operations
A RINA IMarEST Zoom Webinar
Wednesday February 24, 2021 at 6.30pm AEDT
For full details and Registration Click Here
A RINA IMarEST Zoom Webinar
Wednesday February 24, 2021 at 6.30pm AEDT
For full details and Registration Click Here
Calendar of events for Members …
League AGM March 25, 2021 at 1100, the Barrack Club, Level 2, 5-7 Barrack Street, Sydney
Annual Luncheon May 1, 2021. Kirribilli Club, Milson’s Point.
Due to the uncertain Covid 19 conditions it was felt the Kirribilli Club offered the best option to have a successful function. Guest speaker will be Michael Gallacher, Chief Executive Officer of Ports Australia.
Transition to email communication with Members
The League would like to move to a email based communications system to members next year. To be successful we require members’ current email addresses, so could all members please email Captain John Cardelli our Secretary at loam.secretary@gmail.com with their details.
Full details of the above events will be delivered by Australia Post to Members. Please watch for the newsletter, Between Decks.
Donation to Tas Bull Foundation
The League has donated $1000 to the Tas Bull Foundation to assist in supplying portable 4G WiFi Router Units to visiting vessels to Australian Ports. The units are placed on board vessels for the duration of their stay to enable crew to contact their families and help ease the effects of separation and for improved mental health.
Annual Luncheon May 1, 2021. Kirribilli Club, Milson’s Point.
Due to the uncertain Covid 19 conditions it was felt the Kirribilli Club offered the best option to have a successful function. Guest speaker will be Michael Gallacher, Chief Executive Officer of Ports Australia.
Transition to email communication with Members
The League would like to move to a email based communications system to members next year. To be successful we require members’ current email addresses, so could all members please email Captain John Cardelli our Secretary at loam.secretary@gmail.com with their details.
Full details of the above events will be delivered by Australia Post to Members. Please watch for the newsletter, Between Decks.
Donation to Tas Bull Foundation
The League has donated $1000 to the Tas Bull Foundation to assist in supplying portable 4G WiFi Router Units to visiting vessels to Australian Ports. The units are placed on board vessels for the duration of their stay to enable crew to contact their families and help ease the effects of separation and for improved mental health.
An honour bestowed …
League President, Capt Murray Doyle’s post nominals ‘AAM’, prompted interest and an invitation at a recent meeting of the Port Club to show the award that he was honored with in 2011. Capt Doyle was presented with the Australian Antarctic Medal (AAM) in 2011 for outstanding service in support of Australian Antarctic expeditions. The citation stating Capt Doyle has made an outstanding contribution to the on-going success of Australia's scientific and logistic activities in Antarctica as the Master of the RSV Aurora Australis. The Medal was presented to Capt Doyle on December 2, 2011 in Hobart by the then Governor-General, The Hon Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO.
The ancient among the ancients …
The League of Ancient Mariners of NSW was established as long ago as 1903. We’re pleased that this website prompts enquiries from family members about our early members. Where we can help with information we do so, and we also appreciate information that we are provided with about our early members. Recently, family of member Robert Francis Talbot (1842-1935) contacted us. For a profile of Mr Talbot, visit the Archives page.
In recognition of help to seafarers …
Reverend John Kewa, Mission to Seafarers, Port Kembla has been named Wollongong’s 2021 Citizen of the Year.
The award to Reverend Kewa is in recognition for his outstanding work catering to the welfare of seafarers in Port Kembla especially for pastoral and humanitarian care of the crew of the MV Ruby Princess during the Covid outbreak on the vessel in April 2020.
The League, under letter from President Capt Murray Doyle AAM, has conveyed congratulations to Reverend Kewa for the well-deserved award.
The award to Reverend Kewa is in recognition for his outstanding work catering to the welfare of seafarers in Port Kembla especially for pastoral and humanitarian care of the crew of the MV Ruby Princess during the Covid outbreak on the vessel in April 2020.
The League, under letter from President Capt Murray Doyle AAM, has conveyed congratulations to Reverend Kewa for the well-deserved award.
Meetings throughout 2020
Throughout 2020 a number of meetings of interest to Members, some by Zoom, were made known on this webpage, including joint meetings convened by the Sydney Branch of the Company of Master Mariners, Australian Institute of Navigation & The Nautical Institute; The Wellington Trust UK on the subject of Maritime Heritage in the UK. And meetings convened separately by IMarEST NSW/ACT & by RINA and IMarEST including the subject of Cruise Ships and Covid.
Any future meetings by the above organisations or others that are of interest to Members will be notified on this webpage as soon as advices become available.
Any future meetings by the above organisations or others that are of interest to Members will be notified on this webpage as soon as advices become available.
80-year commemoration of a wartime shipping tragedy
… at 3.20 pm, 5 December 1940 Nimbin experienced a violent explosion, started sinking by the stern and disappeared in just two minutes. Seven of the ships company were lost … The North Coast Steam Navigation coaster Nimbin, heading south from Coffs Harbour with a cargo of timber and livestock anticipating a routine arrival in Sydney Harbour, became the first Australian merchant ship lost in WW2. Photo shows Nimbin when built in Denmark in 1927. To read the commemorative presentation by Captain Iain Steverson FNI at Norah Head near where the tragedy occurred, Click Here.
The Port Club and the League’s 2005 Annual Cruise
The above photo shows Port Club members photographed during the League’s 2005 Annual Cruise & Luncheon, remembering those who have since Crossed the Bar.
Back Row Nick Lampe (Decd), John Webster, Kevin Fleming, Tony Panos and Frank Wheeler (Decd).
Front Row Bill Duthie (Decd), Hans Vanderwell (Decd), Martin Skipper, Dick den Brinker (Decd) and Graham Botterill (Decd). Photo Credit Tony Panos
Back Row Nick Lampe (Decd), John Webster, Kevin Fleming, Tony Panos and Frank Wheeler (Decd).
Front Row Bill Duthie (Decd), Hans Vanderwell (Decd), Martin Skipper, Dick den Brinker (Decd) and Graham Botterill (Decd). Photo Credit Tony Panos
MV Noongah – new memorial
Plans are underway to erect a more appropriate memorial commemorating the loss of MV Noongah which foundered on August 25, 1969 off Smokey Cape, NSW with a cargo of steel bound for Townsville. Of the 26 crew members, 21 were lost. (The 50th anniversary commemorating the 1969 loss can be found elsewhere on this page).
The existing memorial consists of a plaque 15 centimetres square and not very visible.
The Maritime Union of Australia has donated a sculpture created by artist, Gary Deirmendjian, to be sited at the Smokey Cape Lookout as a symbol of remembrance. The project will be coordinated by Glen Williams representing the MUA and Bernie Farrelly of the Tas Bull Seafarers Foundation. The memorial will include a glass plaque displaying names of the crew.
Subject to planning procedures and completion of the project a formal opening of the new memorial and special service is planned for 2021.
Photo shows the sculpture superimposed on the proposed site which by looking through the square opening in the sculpture provides a line of sight to where the ship is believed to have gone down.
The existing memorial consists of a plaque 15 centimetres square and not very visible.
The Maritime Union of Australia has donated a sculpture created by artist, Gary Deirmendjian, to be sited at the Smokey Cape Lookout as a symbol of remembrance. The project will be coordinated by Glen Williams representing the MUA and Bernie Farrelly of the Tas Bull Seafarers Foundation. The memorial will include a glass plaque displaying names of the crew.
Subject to planning procedures and completion of the project a formal opening of the new memorial and special service is planned for 2021.
Photo shows the sculpture superimposed on the proposed site which by looking through the square opening in the sculpture provides a line of sight to where the ship is believed to have gone down.
Australian Mariners Welfare Society appointments
Mr David Parmeter (pictured) has taken over as Chairman of the Australian Mariners Welfare Society (AMWS) from retired Chairman Captain Alan Tait who is also a Past President of the League of Ancient Mariners and Life Member-Gold Badge. Mr Parmeter’s background in the shipping industry includes industrial relations, law and human resources. Other Councillor appointments include Captain Jeanine Drummond and Mr Anthony Highfield to fill vacancies upon the retirement of Mr Malcolm Longstaff and Mr Simon Liddy. Captain Drummond, the first female to join the Council, is a Board Member of AMSA and Advisory Board Member of the AMC. Mr Highfield’s experience is maritime and transport law. Both Mr Parmeter and Captain Drummond are Members of the League.
A history of a founding member of the League
The history of the founding of The League of Ancient Mariners in 1903 can be found on other pages in this website. When a personal account of one of the early founders of the League becomes available it makes interesting reading. Captain Charles Alfred McKinnon was born March 8, 1838 on the Isle of Tiree, Inner Hebrides of Scotland. Joining the Scottish fishing fleet he began a career that included almost every kind of sailing ship service. Upon his death on March 18, 1926, the Sydney Morning Herald noted – Read more Click here.
Note: In the photo on the About us page on this website there is a gentleman standing, third from the left holding his hat, who we identify as Capt MacKinnon. The photo was taken circa 1906, three years after the founding of the League.
Support for Sydney Children’s Hospital
We're happy to report that Sydney Children's Hospital at Randwick has benefited by $500 through an auction of League umbrellas donated to the Rotary Club of Sydney Cove to raise funds for the hospital. The club has had a long partnership with the hospital in fundraising.
Appointments
Shipping Australia
Captain Melwyn Noronha will be appointed as the next Shipping Australia Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2021 taking over the position from Rod Nairn AM, who has led the organisation since 2013. Captain Noronha has been with Shipping Australia since 2015, initially as a General Manager, Technical Services and Industry Policy, and later as Deputy CEO. Before joining Shipping Australia, Captain Noronha served at sea and gained his Master Mariner qualification at the Australian Maritime College. He sailed internationally as a master of bulk carriers before moving ashore into maritime administrative and regulatory roles in Federal and State governments. Shipping Australia’s Signal 65
Harbour Master, Sydney & Botany Bay
Port Authority of New South Wales has announced that Captain Myron Fernandes has been appointed as the new Harbour Master for Sydney and Botany Bay. He began his role on 30 October 2020. Captain Fernandes has over twenty years experience in the maritime industry which includes more than ten years in port management within Port of Dampier and Port Headland. He has been the Harbour Master for the Port of Port Hedland for the past three years. He has also had an international sea going career in the merchant marine industry. Shipping Australia’s Signal 65
We congratulate Captains Noronha and Fernandes on their appointments.
Captain Melwyn Noronha will be appointed as the next Shipping Australia Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2021 taking over the position from Rod Nairn AM, who has led the organisation since 2013. Captain Noronha has been with Shipping Australia since 2015, initially as a General Manager, Technical Services and Industry Policy, and later as Deputy CEO. Before joining Shipping Australia, Captain Noronha served at sea and gained his Master Mariner qualification at the Australian Maritime College. He sailed internationally as a master of bulk carriers before moving ashore into maritime administrative and regulatory roles in Federal and State governments. Shipping Australia’s Signal 65
Harbour Master, Sydney & Botany Bay
Port Authority of New South Wales has announced that Captain Myron Fernandes has been appointed as the new Harbour Master for Sydney and Botany Bay. He began his role on 30 October 2020. Captain Fernandes has over twenty years experience in the maritime industry which includes more than ten years in port management within Port of Dampier and Port Headland. He has been the Harbour Master for the Port of Port Hedland for the past three years. He has also had an international sea going career in the merchant marine industry. Shipping Australia’s Signal 65
We congratulate Captains Noronha and Fernandes on their appointments.
Member Capt Michael Kelly honoured
Member Capt Michael Kelly has been honoured with the Dempsey Medal for his work with seafarers visiting the Port of Sydney.
The citation for the Award of the medal by the Catholic Archbishop of Sydney Most Rev Anthony Fisher stated Capt Kelly merited the award through his demonstrated dedication to the Church’s mission through his work with the Apostleship of the Sea and his strong social conscience, care for the most vulnerable and for his Christian witness on the waterfront as a marine pilot.
Capt Kelly in his role at Sydney Ports has been involved in raising funds among his fellow marine pilots to provide necessities of life to mariners who are unable to go ashore and has also helped to provide internet access whilst in port.
Capt Kelly is also the main force behind the Sydney Ports Deck Cadet training program. We congratulate Capt Kelly on receiving the award which is well deserved. The award was presented on behalf of the Archbishop by Sister Mary Leahy OAM (Photo).
The citation for the Award of the medal by the Catholic Archbishop of Sydney Most Rev Anthony Fisher stated Capt Kelly merited the award through his demonstrated dedication to the Church’s mission through his work with the Apostleship of the Sea and his strong social conscience, care for the most vulnerable and for his Christian witness on the waterfront as a marine pilot.
Capt Kelly in his role at Sydney Ports has been involved in raising funds among his fellow marine pilots to provide necessities of life to mariners who are unable to go ashore and has also helped to provide internet access whilst in port.
Capt Kelly is also the main force behind the Sydney Ports Deck Cadet training program. We congratulate Capt Kelly on receiving the award which is well deserved. The award was presented on behalf of the Archbishop by Sister Mary Leahy OAM (Photo).
Sister Mary’s work honoured in media report
Members will know and have welcomed Sister Mary Leahy’s attendance at the League’s Annual Cruise & Luncheons where she is always an honoured guest. As well as being Stella Maris Chaplain to seafarers within Sydney Ports, Sister Mary Leahy OAM is regional coordinator for Stella Maris Oceania and has been honoured by Pope Francis for her dedicated work tending to seafarers. A report on Sister Mary’s work appeared in The Sunday Telegraph October 11, 2020 and is attached in the link below.
| sister_mary_leahy_oam_sunday_telegraph_oct_11_2020.pdf |
Maritime employment service launched
Details about a free service launched recently intended to link the maritime industry in Australia between those offering jobs and those looking for work might be of interest to Members to make known to others. Called Jobseakers, it was launched recently with the support of Jillian Carson-Jackson, president of the Nautical Institute and David Bendall, MariTrade. Details of the work in progress can be viewed at https://www.jobseakers.com.au/
Covid - Death on the High Seas
US Court Ruling news item. Click here.
National Flag & Merchant Navy Day
Thursday, 3 September 2020 is Australian National Flag and Merchant Navy Day.
Australian National Flag Day celebrates the first time the flag was flown, over the dome of the Exhibition Building in Melbourne on 3 September 1901.
As Merchant Navy Day it’s an opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of thousands of Australia’s merchant mariners during wartime. Organisations and individuals commemorating Merchant Navy Day may fly the Australian Red Ensign. When the Australian Red Ensign is flown along with the Australian National Flag, the Australian National Flag should be flown in the position of honour. Commonwealth Flag Officer
Australian National Flag Day celebrates the first time the flag was flown, over the dome of the Exhibition Building in Melbourne on 3 September 1901.
As Merchant Navy Day it’s an opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of thousands of Australia’s merchant mariners during wartime. Organisations and individuals commemorating Merchant Navy Day may fly the Australian Red Ensign. When the Australian Red Ensign is flown along with the Australian National Flag, the Australian National Flag should be flown in the position of honour. Commonwealth Flag Officer
Council Member John Harding elevated to Fellow of the Nautical Institute
At the recent Nautical Institute AGM on July 2, 2020 (held on line due to COVID 19) John was elected as a Fellow and is now Mr John Harding FNI. We congratulate John on this honour on behalf of the League of Ancient Mariners.
Member News - Capt Mike Bertram
Capt Mike Bertram, a member of the Council of the League, suffered a serious fall in April 2020 in which he broke his hip and spent a few weeks in St Vincent Hospital. He is recovering at home and in good spirits. We wish him well and that he's back with us as soon as possible.
Vale: John McNaught
Member, John McNaught, well-known Engineering Superintendent, passed away recently (June 5, 2020) after a period of ill-health. Refer Crossed the Bar.
Captain Alan Tait OAM
Life Member - Gold Badge
Life Member - Gold Badge
Captain Alan Tait OAM, Past President of the League of Ancient Mariners and Life Member - Gold Badge, on May 19, 2020 retired as Chairman of The Australian Mariners Welfare Society after fifteen years as Chair and twenty-six years on the AMWS committee.
In November 2018 Captain Tait was inducted into the Australian Maritime Hall of Fame in recognition of more than six decades of service to the Australian maritime industry.
Captain Tait shared his reflections of his time as Chair of the AMWS. Click on the file below.
In November 2018 Captain Tait was inducted into the Australian Maritime Hall of Fame in recognition of more than six decades of service to the Australian maritime industry.
Captain Tait shared his reflections of his time as Chair of the AMWS. Click on the file below.
| amws_capt_alan_tait_oam.pdf |
CANCELLATIONS
Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon
&
Merchant Navy Memorial and Columbarium
56th Annual Commemoration
Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon
&
Merchant Navy Memorial and Columbarium
56th Annual Commemoration
We regret that the above events have had to be cancelled due to the current threat of the coronavirus.
The League's Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon was scheduled to be held on May 2, 2020. The Merchant Navy Memorial Commemoration was scheduled for April 19, 2020.
Both events will not now take place. Fees paid by those to attend the Harbour Cruise & Luncheon will be refunded.
The decisions to cancel the events have been made in the interests of protecting the health and safety of all those who may be at risk.
The League's Annual Harbour Cruise & Luncheon was scheduled to be held on May 2, 2020. The Merchant Navy Memorial Commemoration was scheduled for April 19, 2020.
Both events will not now take place. Fees paid by those to attend the Harbour Cruise & Luncheon will be refunded.
The decisions to cancel the events have been made in the interests of protecting the health and safety of all those who may be at risk.
Between Decks
old news of the League in the Archives
old news of the League in the Archives
Some copies of the League's old newsletter, Between Decks, have come our way. To read them and find out what was happening years ago, visit our Archives page.
Support for Bushfire Recovery
Long-time member and supporter of the League and guest on the League’s Annual Harbour Cruises, the Hon Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Mil) CVO MC Retd (former Governor-General), will oversee the establishment of a bushfire recovery and rebuilding program initiated by the Business Council of Australia.
Called BizRebuild the program is working to quickly restore the jobs and small businesses that hold communities together to ensure bushfire affected towns do not fold and fade away.
“Our job is to get money and action on the ground as fast as possible. We are not going to be bogged down by bureaucracy”, said Sir Peter.
For more information about the program and how to donate visit the Business Council of Australia’s website or Click here.
Called BizRebuild the program is working to quickly restore the jobs and small businesses that hold communities together to ensure bushfire affected towns do not fold and fade away.
“Our job is to get money and action on the ground as fast as possible. We are not going to be bogged down by bureaucracy”, said Sir Peter.
For more information about the program and how to donate visit the Business Council of Australia’s website or Click here.
Vale
Vice Admiral David Leach AC, CBE, LVO, RAN (Ret)
Vice Admiral David Leach AC, CBE, LVO, RAN (Ret)
Vice Admiral Leach, former Chief of the Naval Staff and a former member of the League, passed away on January 20, 2020.
Born in Perth, WA in 1928, Cadet Midshipman Leach joined the RAN College in 1942 and in 1946 – 47 served in Royal Navy ships of the British Pacific Fleet before completing his Sub Lieutenant Courses in the UK in 1948.
To read his full Obituary please visit the Crossed the Bar page.
Born in Perth, WA in 1928, Cadet Midshipman Leach joined the RAN College in 1942 and in 1946 – 47 served in Royal Navy ships of the British Pacific Fleet before completing his Sub Lieutenant Courses in the UK in 1948.
To read his full Obituary please visit the Crossed the Bar page.
Port Authority NSW CEO appointment
Sydney Harbour Master and Member of the League, Capt. Philip Holliday has been appointed Chief Executive and Director of the Port Authority of New South Wales.
Capt. Holliday’s responsibilities cover the ports of Sydney Harbour, Port Botany, Newcastle Harbour, Port Kembla, Eden and Yamba.
Capt. Holliday joined PANSW in 2011 and he has been fulfilling the role of acting CEO following an announcement in September that Grant Gilfillan would step down after 12 years at the helm.
Starting his maritime career as a cadet with Ropner Shipping Services, Mr. Holliday moved on to Souter Shipping where he gained his Class 1 (FGN) Masters certificate.
In 1998, Capt. Holliday joined Associated British Ports, the UK’s largest port operator, in a port operations role, becoming the Harbour Master for the ABP Port of Southampton and Marine Advisor for the group’s 21 UK ports. On moving to Australia, Capt. Holliday became chair of Ports Australia’s Port Operations Working Group and helped develop the Australian Port Marine Safety Management Guidelines.
We congratulate Capt. Holliday on his appointment.
With thanks to DCN Daily Cargo News
Capt. Holliday’s responsibilities cover the ports of Sydney Harbour, Port Botany, Newcastle Harbour, Port Kembla, Eden and Yamba.
Capt. Holliday joined PANSW in 2011 and he has been fulfilling the role of acting CEO following an announcement in September that Grant Gilfillan would step down after 12 years at the helm.
Starting his maritime career as a cadet with Ropner Shipping Services, Mr. Holliday moved on to Souter Shipping where he gained his Class 1 (FGN) Masters certificate.
In 1998, Capt. Holliday joined Associated British Ports, the UK’s largest port operator, in a port operations role, becoming the Harbour Master for the ABP Port of Southampton and Marine Advisor for the group’s 21 UK ports. On moving to Australia, Capt. Holliday became chair of Ports Australia’s Port Operations Working Group and helped develop the Australian Port Marine Safety Management Guidelines.
We congratulate Capt. Holliday on his appointment.
With thanks to DCN Daily Cargo News
30th Annual
Merchant Navy War Memorial Service
Merchant Navy War Memorial Service
On Sunday, October 20, 2019, the 30th Annual Merchant Navy Memorial Service was held at the National Merchant Navy Memorial in Kings Park Canberra on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.
Remedial works which installed additional commemorative elements which now list 862 names of Australian Merchant Mariners who are known to have lost their lives in the two World Wars were unveiled by Senator the Hon. Linda Reynolds CSC, Minister for Defence.
The works were undertaken by the Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund Ltd to which the League made a contribution, and congratulations to the Funds Chairman, Mr David Field FAICD and Captain Ted van Bronswijk, Grand Master of the Company of Master Mariners for the hard work in raising funds and carrying out the works.
Remedial works which installed additional commemorative elements which now list 862 names of Australian Merchant Mariners who are known to have lost their lives in the two World Wars were unveiled by Senator the Hon. Linda Reynolds CSC, Minister for Defence.
The works were undertaken by the Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund Ltd to which the League made a contribution, and congratulations to the Funds Chairman, Mr David Field FAICD and Captain Ted van Bronswijk, Grand Master of the Company of Master Mariners for the hard work in raising funds and carrying out the works.
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The service was attended by a number of League members including Vice President (Ex Officio) Captain Alan Tait OAM and President Murray Doyle AAM AFNI (see photo), Committee Member John Harding FISC AFNI and also an Old Stalwart of the League, Captain Ken Edwards OAM (seen standing between two of the new panels) – there are four in all – listing ships and men lost in both wars.
The importance of these remedial works was brought home to all there by the attendance of two grandsons and granddaughter of C.H.C Mills, 2nd Engineer of SS Wollongbar* which was lost in WWII. They had only learnt of the memorials existence after seeing an article in a newspaper last week. They were thrilled that their grandfather had finally been recognised for his service to the nation.
* SS Wollongbar - North Coast Steam Navigation Company, was sunk off Crescent Head NSW by Japanese submarine I-180 on April 29, 1943 with the loss of 34 crew members. Five survivors were picked up by two fishermen, Tom and Claude Radleigh.
The importance of these remedial works was brought home to all there by the attendance of two grandsons and granddaughter of C.H.C Mills, 2nd Engineer of SS Wollongbar* which was lost in WWII. They had only learnt of the memorials existence after seeing an article in a newspaper last week. They were thrilled that their grandfather had finally been recognised for his service to the nation.
* SS Wollongbar - North Coast Steam Navigation Company, was sunk off Crescent Head NSW by Japanese submarine I-180 on April 29, 1943 with the loss of 34 crew members. Five survivors were picked up by two fishermen, Tom and Claude Radleigh.
MS Fanefjord / HMAS Wyatt Earp
100th Anniversary Commemoration
100th Anniversary Commemoration
At the invitation of the Norwegian Ambassador to Australia, H.E. Paul Gulleik Larsen & the President of ANARE Club, Dr Joe Johnson, I attended a luncheon on behalf of the League, at Hadley’s Orient Hotel in Hobart, Tasmania on September 27, 2019 for the 100th Anniversary of the launching of MS Fanefjord / HMAS Wyatt Earp in Molde, Norway.
The League of Ancient Mariners was one of the sponsors of the Commemorative Plaque which was unveiled at the Luncheon.
The League received acknowledgement for its support from the ANARE Club President and also we are acknowledged in the credits of a short film that was shown at the event.
The vessel, known as MV Natone was wrecked on Rainbow Beach in Queensland on 24th January 1959, returning from Port Moresby after delivering a cargo of cattle.
Also present at the luncheon, Mr Norman Tame RAN, an AB on its voyage as HMAS Wyatt Earp to Antarctica and the last remaining crew member from that time.
The League received acknowledgement for its support from the ANARE Club President and also we are acknowledged in the credits of a short film that was shown at the event.
The vessel, known as MV Natone was wrecked on Rainbow Beach in Queensland on 24th January 1959, returning from Port Moresby after delivering a cargo of cattle.
Also present at the luncheon, Mr Norman Tame RAN, an AB on its voyage as HMAS Wyatt Earp to Antarctica and the last remaining crew member from that time.
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The Plaque and Capt Murray Doyle AAM AFNI, President of the League. With Mr & Mrs Norman Tame. Mr Tame was an AB on the voyage of HMAS Wyatt Earp to the Antarctic and is the last survivor of that expedition.
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Mr Kenneth Staurset Fane, Curator at Romsdal Museum in Molde, Norway addressed the luncheon on the early life of the vessel and Mr David Dodd covered the vessels story as Wyatt Earp for the Ellsworth Antarctic Expeditions and war years as HMAS Wongala and as Wongala & Natone in later years as a coastal trader.
A slide and video presentation was made at the end of the Luncheon by Mr Kevin Phillips, from Mooloolaba, Queensland who has dived on the wreck and salvaged a number of items.
Captain Murray Doyle AAM AFNI
President
League of Ancient Mariners
Note: A brief account of the history of the vessel appears elsewhere on this page.
A slide and video presentation was made at the end of the Luncheon by Mr Kevin Phillips, from Mooloolaba, Queensland who has dived on the wreck and salvaged a number of items.
Captain Murray Doyle AAM AFNI
President
League of Ancient Mariners
Note: A brief account of the history of the vessel appears elsewhere on this page.
Keynote speaker for the 2020 Cruise
Please note as per the above information that this event has regretfully been cancelled due to the current threat of the coronavirus
Please note as per the above information that this event has regretfully been cancelled due to the current threat of the coronavirus
We are very pleased to report that Mike Gallacher, Chief Executive Officer of Ports Australia will be guest speaker for our 2020 Cruise & Luncheon on Sydney Harbour. Ports Australia is the national peak body representing government and privately owned ports. It’s an opportunity for members not to miss this event by making a diary note now for the Cruise & Luncheon on Saturday, May 2, 2020.
Following an intensive and varied 16 year career as a Police Officer, Mike Gallacher was appointed to the NSW Legislative Council in 1996. Within three years he was elected Leader of the Liberals and Nationals Coalition in the Legislative Council; a position he held continuously for over 15 years.
He has performed the Shadow Ministerial role across a variety of portfolios including Ports, Industrial Relations, Transport and Police. He also served numerous years as Shadow Minister for the Hunter Valley and Central Coast regions strongly advocating upon behalf of those communities.
Winning government in 2011, Mike was appointed Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Minister for the Hunter and later the further role of Minister for Industrial Relations.
Mike is widely recognized for his robust approach to policy development and his preparedness to strongly advocate the need for reform. As Minister he led on behalf of Government the public debate on issues such as measures to reduce alcohol related violence, rampant gang/gun related crime and introduced initiatives to change driver behavior.
Leaving Parliament in 2017 he has now taken the role as CEO of Ports Australia, the peak industry body for the Ports industry. Mike is already well underway in lifting the awareness of the Port sector and the important role it plays in the future.
Following an intensive and varied 16 year career as a Police Officer, Mike Gallacher was appointed to the NSW Legislative Council in 1996. Within three years he was elected Leader of the Liberals and Nationals Coalition in the Legislative Council; a position he held continuously for over 15 years.
He has performed the Shadow Ministerial role across a variety of portfolios including Ports, Industrial Relations, Transport and Police. He also served numerous years as Shadow Minister for the Hunter Valley and Central Coast regions strongly advocating upon behalf of those communities.
Winning government in 2011, Mike was appointed Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Minister for the Hunter and later the further role of Minister for Industrial Relations.
Mike is widely recognized for his robust approach to policy development and his preparedness to strongly advocate the need for reform. As Minister he led on behalf of Government the public debate on issues such as measures to reduce alcohol related violence, rampant gang/gun related crime and introduced initiatives to change driver behavior.
Leaving Parliament in 2017 he has now taken the role as CEO of Ports Australia, the peak industry body for the Ports industry. Mike is already well underway in lifting the awareness of the Port sector and the important role it plays in the future.
We remember them ...
The sharing of thoughts and remembrance of those lost at sea some fifty years ago has prompted many emails. On August 25, 1969 MV Noongah foundered off Smokey Cape, NSW with a cargo of steel bound for Townsville. Of the 26 crew members, 21 were lost. A detailed account of the tragedy appears in the Spring 2019 issue of Merchant Navy News. Click here.
Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund Raising Appeal
A donation of $1000 has been agreed by the League to be made to the above appeal. The donation will assist in placing names of Australian members of the Merchant Navy and names of vessels lost in both World Wars on the National Merchant Navy War Memorial in Kings Park, Canberra.
Members and their guests who attended the League’s Annual Cruise & Luncheon on May 4, 2019 on Sydney Harbour also gave generously to this worthy cause, raising $1260. (Refer to the Report elsewhere on this page).
Members and their guests who attended the League’s Annual Cruise & Luncheon on May 4, 2019 on Sydney Harbour also gave generously to this worthy cause, raising $1260. (Refer to the Report elsewhere on this page).
Member Capt Robert Buchanan honoured in
Queens’s Birthday List
Queens’s Birthday List
League Member, Capt Robert (Bob) Buchanan has been honoured in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday List with an OAM for service to the maritime transport industry.
Capt Buchanan has been recognised for his commitment & achievements as a member and former member to a vast range of national and South Australian maritime and community endeavours including the Company of Master Mariners, Seven Seas Club of Australia, Australian Institute of Navigation, Chartered Institute of Transport, Australian Maritime College (Nautical Science Committee), Australian Maritime Safety Authority (National Plan to Combat Pollution at Sea), Australian Transport Advisory Council, Maritime Law Association of Australia and New Zealand (SA Branch), International Association of Ports & Harbours and the Ports Planning and Construction Committee.
Capt Buchanan has served as Captain of the Captain Cook Cruise vessel, Reef Endeavour, Managing Director of CCC Great Barrier Reef and as Member, Qantas/CCC Joint Venture Board. He has also served as an Acting Director of The Department of Marine & Harbours, South Australia, a member of the Fishing Havens Advisory Council, Recreational Boating Advisory Council and as a Consultant to Sealink.
Robert Buchanan commenced his career soon after he was 17 when he joined Howard Smith Ltd as a seagoing cadet on the SS Balarr. He obtained his Second Mates Certificate in 1953, went to the UK to sit for his First Mates Certificate and then sailed on vessels from the UK. He returned to Australia in 1956 as Second Mate on the delivery voyage of the new ship Century. By 1959 he had obtained his Master Cl. 1 Certificate, was married with a young child and planned to move to Adelaide in 1960.
In addition to being a Member of the League of Ancient Mariners Capt Buchanan is a Fellow of the Institute of Navigation of Australia and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Transport in Australia.
Capt Buchanan is a Rotarian and holds or has held a number of offices and responsibilities at Club and District level.
Congratulations Bob for a well-deserved Award.
Capt Buchanan has been recognised for his commitment & achievements as a member and former member to a vast range of national and South Australian maritime and community endeavours including the Company of Master Mariners, Seven Seas Club of Australia, Australian Institute of Navigation, Chartered Institute of Transport, Australian Maritime College (Nautical Science Committee), Australian Maritime Safety Authority (National Plan to Combat Pollution at Sea), Australian Transport Advisory Council, Maritime Law Association of Australia and New Zealand (SA Branch), International Association of Ports & Harbours and the Ports Planning and Construction Committee.
Capt Buchanan has served as Captain of the Captain Cook Cruise vessel, Reef Endeavour, Managing Director of CCC Great Barrier Reef and as Member, Qantas/CCC Joint Venture Board. He has also served as an Acting Director of The Department of Marine & Harbours, South Australia, a member of the Fishing Havens Advisory Council, Recreational Boating Advisory Council and as a Consultant to Sealink.
Robert Buchanan commenced his career soon after he was 17 when he joined Howard Smith Ltd as a seagoing cadet on the SS Balarr. He obtained his Second Mates Certificate in 1953, went to the UK to sit for his First Mates Certificate and then sailed on vessels from the UK. He returned to Australia in 1956 as Second Mate on the delivery voyage of the new ship Century. By 1959 he had obtained his Master Cl. 1 Certificate, was married with a young child and planned to move to Adelaide in 1960.
In addition to being a Member of the League of Ancient Mariners Capt Buchanan is a Fellow of the Institute of Navigation of Australia and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Transport in Australia.
Capt Buchanan is a Rotarian and holds or has held a number of offices and responsibilities at Club and District level.
Congratulations Bob for a well-deserved Award.
The 2019 Annual Cruise & Luncheon
Today we’d like to sit and sip
Forget about the world a bit
Ignore the things we have to do
And just enjoy a drink or two.
Forget about the world a bit
Ignore the things we have to do
And just enjoy a drink or two.
And with those words from Mrs Finola McMahon who graciously stood in for Sister Mary Leahy OAM and delivered Grace, the tone was set for another very successful Sydney Harbour Cruise & Luncheon for Members and their Guests.
Sister Mary who has delighted all on board with her Grace on past Cruises had to attend a meeting overseas in her capacity as Stella Maris Chaplain, Oceania Region. However, Mrs McMahon did say that Sister Mary will be on board next year to check once again on those who consume their bread-rolls before Grace and give the necessary absolution, but they are getting a dispensation this year.
Blessed with fair weather, a smooth sea and abundant good companionship 157 Members & guests boarded the Captain Cook vessel, Sydney 2000 for an enjoyable day out.
President, Capt. Murray Doyle welcomed Members and guests, honoured Guest Speaker, Graeme W Finney OAM and noted with sadness Members who had Crossed the Bar since the last Cruise. For a full report of the President’s Speech Click Here.
Sister Mary who has delighted all on board with her Grace on past Cruises had to attend a meeting overseas in her capacity as Stella Maris Chaplain, Oceania Region. However, Mrs McMahon did say that Sister Mary will be on board next year to check once again on those who consume their bread-rolls before Grace and give the necessary absolution, but they are getting a dispensation this year.
Blessed with fair weather, a smooth sea and abundant good companionship 157 Members & guests boarded the Captain Cook vessel, Sydney 2000 for an enjoyable day out.
President, Capt. Murray Doyle welcomed Members and guests, honoured Guest Speaker, Graeme W Finney OAM and noted with sadness Members who had Crossed the Bar since the last Cruise. For a full report of the President’s Speech Click Here.
Left to Right. Capt Ted van Bronswijk, Director of Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund; Capt Murray Doyle AAM, President; Graeme W Finney OAM Guest Speaker; Capt Alan Tait OAM Immediate Past President, Vice-President (Ex Officio); Dr Paul Scully-Power AM, Patron.
Keynote address
Guest Speaker, Graeme W Finney OAM, FAIM, CAHRI, Deputy Commissioner Fire & Rescue NSW, is a former serving Brigadier in the Australian Army and has enjoyed a 28-year leadership career. He has predominantly served in operational and training assignments including as Director General Operations for the Australian Army and as Director Future Operations for the NATO led International Security Assistance Force (Afghanistan). He has also served in a range of training appointments with the Australian and US military, including as Commandant of recruit training at Kapooka (Wagga Wagga) and as an instructor with the US Army Command and General Staff College (Fort Leavenworth).
His service in Afghanistan, information about the country and facts and issues associated with the land formed the basis of his interesting presentation, with many issues posed to consider and remark upon, engaging the audience which showed its enthusiastic appreciation.
Musical entertainment
All on board were entertained by a musical duo who maintained a very enjoyable tempo throughout the Cruise. And all Members again contributed to the musical gusto in putting excellent voice to the singing of Sea Shanties.
Guest Speaker, Graeme W Finney OAM, FAIM, CAHRI, Deputy Commissioner Fire & Rescue NSW, is a former serving Brigadier in the Australian Army and has enjoyed a 28-year leadership career. He has predominantly served in operational and training assignments including as Director General Operations for the Australian Army and as Director Future Operations for the NATO led International Security Assistance Force (Afghanistan). He has also served in a range of training appointments with the Australian and US military, including as Commandant of recruit training at Kapooka (Wagga Wagga) and as an instructor with the US Army Command and General Staff College (Fort Leavenworth).
His service in Afghanistan, information about the country and facts and issues associated with the land formed the basis of his interesting presentation, with many issues posed to consider and remark upon, engaging the audience which showed its enthusiastic appreciation.
Musical entertainment
All on board were entertained by a musical duo who maintained a very enjoyable tempo throughout the Cruise. And all Members again contributed to the musical gusto in putting excellent voice to the singing of Sea Shanties.
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Revellers on board have also noted with some excitement that the Cruise achieved a significant milestone this year being the first time anyone has danced at an Ancient Mariners outing in its 116 years of existence.
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War Memorial Fund Raising Appeal
Donations by Members made on the day will go to The Merchant Navy War Memorial National Fund Raising Appeal.
The Appeal was addressed by Capt Ted van Bronswijk, Sydney Tug Master and Director of the Fund and was well supported by Members raising $1260. The Fund will assist new and remedial works at the Memorial in Canberra in honour of those of the Australian Merchant Navy who gave their lives in World Wars 1 & 2. For a Summary of the Appeal Click Here.
Offshore & Specialist Ships
In the toast to visitors, Reg McNee responded and outlined his organisation for the benefit of Members – Offshore & Specialist Ships Australia which was formed in 2017 to work towards preserving the history of specialist ships in Australia. For more information Click Here.
Many thanks to all those who contributed with their time and effort to make the 2019 Cruise a great success.
A photo display of the Cruise can be found in the Gallery.
The Annual Cruise & Luncheon is firmly established on the League’s calendar of events allowing members to gather, rekindle old friendships and make new ones.
The next Annual Cruise & Luncheon will be May 2, 2020.
Donations by Members made on the day will go to The Merchant Navy War Memorial National Fund Raising Appeal.
The Appeal was addressed by Capt Ted van Bronswijk, Sydney Tug Master and Director of the Fund and was well supported by Members raising $1260. The Fund will assist new and remedial works at the Memorial in Canberra in honour of those of the Australian Merchant Navy who gave their lives in World Wars 1 & 2. For a Summary of the Appeal Click Here.
Offshore & Specialist Ships
In the toast to visitors, Reg McNee responded and outlined his organisation for the benefit of Members – Offshore & Specialist Ships Australia which was formed in 2017 to work towards preserving the history of specialist ships in Australia. For more information Click Here.
Many thanks to all those who contributed with their time and effort to make the 2019 Cruise a great success.
A photo display of the Cruise can be found in the Gallery.
The Annual Cruise & Luncheon is firmly established on the League’s calendar of events allowing members to gather, rekindle old friendships and make new ones.
The next Annual Cruise & Luncheon will be May 2, 2020.
Many thanks to those who donated to the Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund.
The Receipt from the Fund expressing appreciation is herewith. Click here.
Members who missed the opportunity at our Annual Cruise & Luncheon to hear about the work the Fund is undertaking might like to read more. Click here.
The Receipt from the Fund expressing appreciation is herewith. Click here.
Members who missed the opportunity at our Annual Cruise & Luncheon to hear about the work the Fund is undertaking might like to read more. Click here.
55th Annual Commemoration at the Merchant Navy Memorial
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President, Capt Murray Doyle laid a wreath on behalf of the League at the Merchant Navy Memorial, Rookwood on Sunday April 14 2019.
The Commemoration was well attended by some 80 people and the Address was delivered by Peter Dexter AM, Chairman of the Australian National Maritime Museum. Photo shows Capt Murray Doyle and the Wreath presented by the League at the top of the three in view. |
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In commemoration of Antarctic Exploration vessel,
Wyatt Earp
Wyatt Earp
The League has joined with the ANARE Club (Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions) in commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the 1919 launching in Molde, Norway of a 400-ton vessel which played a significant role in Australia’s Antarctic exploration.
ANARE Club President, Dr. Joe Johnson wrote to League President, Capt Murray Doyle inviting the League’s support for the project. The League will donate $500 towards the commemoration.
Launched as MS Fanefjor, the ship saw service under different owners and became widely known as the Wyatt Earp as a result of ownership by American, Lincoln Ellsworth who used it for Antarctic expeditions, 1933 – 1939.
The Wyatt Earp was then bought by the Australian Government and renamed HMAS Wongala and spent the War years as a Guard Ship in South Australia. After the War she spent a short time as a training ship for the Boy Scouts of South Australia.
Australian Antarctic Service – HMAS Wyatt Earp
For her Australian Antarctic service she was rebuilt, re-commissioned as HMAS Wyatt Earp and took part in the 1947- 48 Antarctic Expedition, a voyage which led to the establishment of Australian Antarctic bases.
On return from the Antarctic the Wyatt Earp was sold in 1951 and used by successive owners in the coastal trade. As the Natone, she was lost in 1959 when damaged in a storm and driven ashore near Double Island Point, Queensland while en-route from Cairns to southern ports.
It is planned that the commemoration and unveiling of a plague to mark the vessel’s Antarctic service takes place in Hobart, Tasmania given the city’s close association with Antarctic exploration.
ANARE Club President, Dr. Joe Johnson wrote to League President, Capt Murray Doyle inviting the League’s support for the project. The League will donate $500 towards the commemoration.
Launched as MS Fanefjor, the ship saw service under different owners and became widely known as the Wyatt Earp as a result of ownership by American, Lincoln Ellsworth who used it for Antarctic expeditions, 1933 – 1939.
The Wyatt Earp was then bought by the Australian Government and renamed HMAS Wongala and spent the War years as a Guard Ship in South Australia. After the War she spent a short time as a training ship for the Boy Scouts of South Australia.
Australian Antarctic Service – HMAS Wyatt Earp
For her Australian Antarctic service she was rebuilt, re-commissioned as HMAS Wyatt Earp and took part in the 1947- 48 Antarctic Expedition, a voyage which led to the establishment of Australian Antarctic bases.
On return from the Antarctic the Wyatt Earp was sold in 1951 and used by successive owners in the coastal trade. As the Natone, she was lost in 1959 when damaged in a storm and driven ashore near Double Island Point, Queensland while en-route from Cairns to southern ports.
It is planned that the commemoration and unveiling of a plague to mark the vessel’s Antarctic service takes place in Hobart, Tasmania given the city’s close association with Antarctic exploration.
Heroes – a poem
History reminds us of the casualties of war but it was the incredible number of lives of merchant mariners lost during the Battle of the Atlantic in World War 2 that has prompted one person to honour them in a special way. To read the commemorative poem, Heroes, visit the Gallery or Click here.
Captain Alan Tait OAM
Inducted into the Australian Maritime Hall of Fame
Inducted into the Australian Maritime Hall of Fame
We are very pleased to report that our esteemed Immediate Past President and current Vice-President Captain Alan Tait OAM, has been inducted into Australian Maritime Hall of Fame.
The Award, in recognition of Captain Tait’s more than six decades of service to the Australian maritime industry was made before some 450 delegates who attended the DCN Australian Shipping and Maritime Awards held on November 22, 2018 at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Hotel.
The well-deserved award for someone who through dedication and commitment has contributed so much to the industry is very satisfying indeed.
Congratulations Alan.
The Award, in recognition of Captain Tait’s more than six decades of service to the Australian maritime industry was made before some 450 delegates who attended the DCN Australian Shipping and Maritime Awards held on November 22, 2018 at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Hotel.
The well-deserved award for someone who through dedication and commitment has contributed so much to the industry is very satisfying indeed.
Congratulations Alan.
The Ancient Mariners of Victoria – where did they sail off to?
The Royal Historical Society of Victoria’s website has archived records of the Victorian Ancient Mariners but the Society’s researcher, Tessa Occhino has found few records after 1930. For more information refer to our Archives page. Click here.