AMWS News 2024
|
Young Endeavour Voyage 6/24 concludes – A Journey of Growth and Friendship as part of the Trevor Haworth Memorial Sponsorship Programme. 4th November 2024
AMWS Councillor Alain Tait met the ship on arrival. Rebekah from SSH and I recently had the privilege of meeting Lacy, a remarkable young trainee aboard the Young Endeavour on its arrival Newcastle at the completion of Voyage 6/24. Lacy graciously gave us a tour of the vessel, showcasing her impressive mastery of the bridge equipment and sharing her experience as Chief Cook during the "trainees in charge" evening. She even shared her thoughts on life aboard, finding the accommodations surprisingly comfortable given the circumstances. One of Lacey’s biggest personal achievements was conquering her fear of heights. Cheered on by her fellow trainees, crew, and supporters ashore, she climbed the rigging—a moment that exemplified her courage and determination. The camaraderie among the trainees was evident, and Lacy referred to the friendships she made as the highlight of her experience. Her peers clearly admired her spirit, as captured in a heartwarming team video. Well done Lacey and again a big thanks to the crew of the Young Endeavour. |
|
Final Comments from Captain Adam Charlie Farley, Voyage 06/24
STS Young Endeavour is, by the definition and origin of her name, about Aussie youths trying hard to achieve something difficult. This voyage certainly provided that… and then some. A real challenging experience from all angles and areas. Yet the Youth Crew prevailed and found success. They should therefore be justifiably proud of themselves for persevering, seeing the silver lining and never waivering in their mission to have a great adventure. I am very proud of all of them and I’m sure you are too! 9 Days ago, 22 Youth Crew from all over Australia, came together to sail this vessel, have fun and challenge themselves. They have not only done that, but have faced and overcome fears, and learnt a lot about themselves and each other. They leave with new skills, improved persistence, resilience and adaptability, as well as generally knowing they are more capable than what they probably thought. And of course, having made great new friends – most probably, friends for life. It never gets old for us staff members, as we truly love our work. Fair winds and following seas. Captain Adam Charlie Farley – Out+ |
|
Exciting News: Lacey Sets Sail on the STS Young Endeavour! Sydney 25th November 2024
As co-sponsors of the Trevor Haworth Memorial Sail Training Programme, the Australian Mariners Welfare Society (AMWS) and Sydney Cove Rotary are thrilled to share the news that Lacey embarked on her 10-day adventure aboard the STS Young Endeavour yesterday. Lacey was given a warm send-off at the Sub-Berth in Neutral Bay by Sheila from Stepping Stone House and Bill Little of Sydney Cove Rotary. Representing AMWS, Councillor Alan Tait is looking forward to welcoming Lacey in Newcastle upon the successful completion of her journey on 4th November 2024. This experience offers young participants such as Lacey the chance to build resilience, teamwork, and confidence, whilst being chaperoned by the great RAN Young Endeavour crew. |
|
AMWS Quarterly Councillor Meeting Report. 26th November 2024.
The meeting covered a wide range of topics, reflecting the diverse priorities of the Australian Mariners Welfare Society (AMWS). John Brecht, at the invitation of the Chair, presented an update on his draft Future Directions & Strategy Plan, sparking valuable discussion on the Society’s long-term goals. Key agenda items included reports on new membership applications, social media and the Lifeline newsletter, and updates on grant applications from Apostleship of the Sea (AOS) and Mission to Seafarers (MTS). Sister Mary’s Christmas hamper program was also highlighted, along with Port Welfare Committee reports for Sydney and Newcastle, and an update from the Australian Seafarers Welfare Council (ASWC).Other notable discussions covered: The AMC Malcolm Longstaff Memorial Scholarship report. Updates on the Jim Israel and Trevor Haworth sail traineeships. Approval of a donation to the STS Leeuwin restoration program. Approval for two cadet berths on the STV One & All in February 2025 as part of the LOAM funding program supporting young seafarers.The Finance & Investment Report and an update on the Horizon Towers accommodation program were also tabled. As the meeting concluded, the Chair announced that Councillor Mr. Llew Russell would be stepping down immediately. The Chair and Councillors expressed thanks for Llew's significant contributions to the Society, particularly his leadership of the AMWS Scholarship sub-committee. Discussions followed on recommendations to fill the resulting Councillor vacancies |
|
AMWS Chair receives thanks from MTS for its ongoing financial support. MTS November 2024
Via recent correspondence, the Mission to Seafarers across Australia has expressed profound gratitude to Mr. David Parmeter and the Australian Mariners' Welfare Society for their generous grant funding. This funding has facilitated vital services, including internet connectivity to help seafarers stay in touch with their families and essential transportation solutions like buses, tyre replacement, and vehicle registration. Additionally, support for the Australia Council of MTS has enabled impactful programs benefiting seafarers nationwide. The letter acknowledges the Society’s commitment to enhancing the physical and mental well-being of the maritime community, highlighting its instrumental role in fostering meaningful improvements in seafarer welfare.. |
|
Outcomes: The Australian Seafarers Welfare Committee Meeting. 6th November 2024
The Australian Seafarers Welfare Committee (ASWC) convened in Canberra on 6 November 2024. The meeting, facilitated by AMSA, brought together representatives from member organizations. Representatives from relevant Government Departments and New Zealand Maritime also attended. The meeting addressed an agenda that included AMSA’s co-sponsored proposal with Canada and the UK to amend the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) to address violence and harassment in the maritime sector, an IMO/ISM review on foreign-flagged vessel safety concerns, and RightShip’s collaboration with the Sustainable Shipping Initiative to develop a Code of Conduct and crew welfare assessment tool. The ASWC meeting was followed by the Port Welfare Committee (PWC) national forum, which addressed gaps in port welfare structures and industry obligations under the MLC. AMSA’s hospitality and organization were acknowledged for ensuring productive outcomes. |
|
AMWS Awards Scholarship to NSW TAFE Digital student. 12th November 2024.
The Australian Mariners Welfare Society (AMWS) is pleased to announce that TAFE Digital student Annabelle has been awarded a $3,000 scholarship to support her pursuit of the "Master less than 24 metres" qualification. Annabelle, who is a dedicated deckhand with experience on the Sydney Harbour Tallships, plans to further her maritime skills and qualifications through this course. The AMWS Scholarship Committee is excited to support Annabelle's journey, recognizing her commitment to the maritime industry. AMWS extends its best wishes to Annabelle as she embarks on this next step in her maritime career. |
|
|
Shipwrecked Newcastle (2024) – "Stories of Our Town" Film Release. 31st October 2024.
The latest Stories of Our Town film has been six months in production, and runs to almost an hour. It brings the most amazing stories of Newcastle’s shipwrecks, which are arguably “among the earliest, if not the earliest wreck sites in New South Wales.” The film forms a tribute to the late Terry Callen, artist and historian, who documented Newcastle’s maritime history in great detail through two books, Bar Dangerous and Bar Safe. Available free to watch on Youtube here >> https://youtu.be/WPT2tw4I-qQ |
|
Thanks from Mission to Seafarers, Sydney. 30th October 2024.
Thank you AMWS, the Australian Mariners Welfare Society, for helping us to continue to help seafarers come into the city from Port Botany and to contact their families for free when they arrive! The AMWS has given us a grant of almost $5000 towards the running expenses of our buses including registration and tyres. They are also helping to cover the costs of our internet expenses which includes our free Wi-Fi service for seafarers. AMWS, a leading supporter of seafarer welfare in Australia, provides grants to organisations and individuals passionate about serving seafarers and their families. They select organisations that will help to ensure all seafarers and their families, irrespective of nationality, gender or beliefs, are treated with dignity, respect and compassion. We are very grateful for their ongoing support over many years. |
|
Captain Jeanine Drummond accepts donation to AMWS from Bobbin Head Cruising Yacht Club after Guest Speaker Address. Sydney 12th October 2024
Captain Jeanine Drummond, a seasoned maritime professional, member of AMWS and a passionate advocate for seafarers' welfare, recently attended the Bobbin Head Cruising Yacht Club’s 41st season opening as guest speaker. During the event, she had the opportunity to cruise the beautiful waters of the Hawkesbury and later address the audience at dinner, discussing maritime and shipping issues, and highlighting the work of the Australian Mariners Welfare Society (AMWS). In appreciation, the yacht club generously donated $400 to the Australian Mariners Welfare Society. |
|
Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund (MNWMF).
Invitation to attend the 34th Annual Commemoration at the National Merchant Navy War Memorial, Canberra. Where: Kings Park When: Sunday 20th October 2024, commencing 1100 hours Full details of the Service and the Memorial Dinner on the 19th October are contained in the files below. 
| ||||
|
World Maritime Day - Navigating the Future; Safety First. IMO - 26th September 2024
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has chosen "Navigating the future: safety first!" as its 2024 World Maritime Theme, to be highlighted on World Maritime Day on September 26, 2024. This theme emphasizes enhancing maritime safety, security, and environmental protection while adapting to rapid technological changes and innovations, such as new fuels and digitalization. IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim noted that the theme would address safety regulatory challenges posed by new technologies and alternative fuels, alongside efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As the IMO marks the 50th anniversary of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, it continues to evolve its regulatory framework, notably working on the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code. |
|
Malcolm Longstaff Memorial Scholarship Scheme at AMC. August 2024
Via the AMWS Malcolm Longstaff Memorial Scholarship scheme, the AMC selection council has nominated Ethan as its recipient for Semester 2. As its recent meeting, the AMWS Council formally approved the nomination and took the opportunity to wish Ethan every success with his ongoing studies. At the same meeting, AMWS accepted a recommendation from members to increase the value of the scholarship on offer at AMC to $3500 per semester, commencing February 2025. Those studying at AMC nest year and who meet the Societie's selection criteria, are encouraged to apply. |
|
Merchant Navy Day Service. 11AM 3rd September 2024
A Remembrance Service will be held on Tuesday, 3 September 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Main Hall of the Mosman Art Gallery in NSW, adjacent to the War Memorial and Allan Border Oval. The service honors the Australian merchant seamen who played a critical role during the First and Second World Wars by manning ships that transported essential supplies and troops, often under dangerous conditions. Despite their crucial contributions, many of these seamen's sacrifices remain undocumented. The Australian War Memorial has recorded the names of 520 mariners who died in World War II. Attendees are invited to lay a wreath or tribute following the official ceremony, with prior notification to Merrill Barker, the M. N. Chapter Coordinator. |
|
AMWS Quarterly Meeting. 27th August 2024.
Chaired by David Parmeter and with the newly appointed AMWS Councillor Shane Hobday attending his first quarterly meeting, a broad agenda of issues was discussed. These included, AMWS "Future Directions & Strategy" policy, outcomes from the recent Dean Summers charity fundraiser, new membership applications, AMWS publications - "Mariners' Lifeline & AMWS E-News", AMWS Social Media issues, grants and donations to MTS & AOS, recent Australian Seafarer Welfare Council (ASWC) and Port Welfare Committee outcomes, scholarships at AMC via the Malcolm Longstaff Memorial Scholarship Programme, tall ship traineeships, financial reports and an update on the AMWS accommodation support programme. The meeting concluded with Councillors agreeing to endorse and sign the Safety4Sea Internet Connectivity Petition. |
|
Australian Seafarers Welfare Council (ASWC) Meeting. Fremantle 17th July 2024
The July 2024 ASWC Meeting was held in Fremantle to coincide with the Seafarers Welfare Conference. Issues on the agenda for discussion included; 1. An Overview of Seafarer Welfare Funding in Canada. 2. DITRDC Updates 3. MLC Complaints & Marine Incident Trends 4. Report on the Joint ILO/IMO Tripartite Working Group regarding Seafarer Issues and the Human Element 5. ASWC Member Updates 6. General Business AMWS Deputy Chairman Tony Cousins attended the meeting on behalf of the Society |
|
Day of the Seafarer. AMWS Chair Mr David Parmeter comments. 25th June 2024
A significant date in the Maritime Industry calendar is the Day of the Seafarer, celebrated on 25 June. Day of the Seafarer is an annual celebration organised by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to recognise the contribution that seafarers make to our everyday lives. To use the words of the IMO: “Its stated purpose is to recognize the unique contribution made by seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society as a whole.” In 2024, the theme for the Day of the Seafarer is the contribution of seafarers' to making the maritime industry a safer workplace. This is a very appropriate as there is nothing more important than safety. Seafarers work in difficult, sometimes dangerous conditions and safety must always be priority number one. Safety at sea is everyone’s responsibility and best practices should be shared with all. Everyone deserves to get home safely. It is hoped that by holding the Day of the Seafarer, the general public will become more aware of the role that seafarers play in their lives and why they are so fundamental in determining the prosperity of the worldwide economy. |
|
The Mariners' Lifeline. June 2024 Edition Published.
Members and friends are reminded that AMWS publishes a newsletter in June and December of each year. The latest edition, June 2024, has just been published. With the exception of June and December, AMWS also publishes a Monthly E-News via email. Access to view both publications is straight forward and simple. You can also subscribe to receive regular copies. The Mariners' Lifeline - click the link immediately below https://www.marinerswelfare.com/mariners-lifeline.html The AMWS Monthly E-News - again click the link below https://www.marinerswelfare.com/amws-monthly-e-news.html |
|
Merchant Navy Memorial Service, Newcastle. 1st June 2024.
In wet conditions, with about 60 in attendance at the Mission to Seafarers, Mr Iain Steverson made the following heartfelt address Lest We Forget 
| ||
|
|
AMWS Annual General Meeting. Sydney, 28th May 2024
On Tuesday, May 28, 2024, the Australian Mariners Welfare Society (AMWS) experienced a significant change with the stepping down of two Council members: Captain Jeanine Drummond and Mr Graham Lightfoot. This event coincided with a Council meeting and the AMWS Annual General Meeting (AGM). Although Jeanine participated via Zoom, she received thanks for her service and support for seafarer welfare and Women in Maritime. Following the AGM, a function was held for members, supporters, and representatives of supported welfare organizations. During the event, the Chair read a speech by Alan Tait, acknowledging Graham's exceptional service to both the Sydney Sailors Home and AMWS. Graham modestly responded, expressing his enjoyment of his involvement with AMWS. His unique contributions will be missed. Both Graham's and Alan's comments are attached below.
| ||||
|
AMWS Quarterly Meeting. Sydney, 28th May 2024
Three Councillors attended the meeting via Zoom. Topics raised included: Cyber Security, Changes to grant request forms, Membership, Communications - Mariners' Lifeline & E-News, Grants for approval, Changes to AMWS grant policy, Emergency funding arrangements, ASWC and Port Welfare Reports, Scholarships, Traineeships, Financial Reports and Other business.. The meeting concluded with the Chairman noting that Councillors Mr Graham Lightfoot and Captain Jeanine Drummond would be standing down at the Annual General Meeting, scheduled to follow immediately. |
|
WISTA Australia Women in Maritime - AMSA
The Nautical Institute International Day for Women In Maritime event will be held in Perth this year on 16th May, with the event also available online to everyone else who can’t make it in person. Go to the following link for full details. https://www.facebook.com/share/SscBmxk98k1VLMrW/?mibextid=9l3rBW |
|
Lest We Forget
|
|
Maritime Community Commemorates Merchant Navy War Losses. Lindsay Reed DCN, 15th April 2024
On April 14th, during the 59th Annual Commemoration at the Merchant Navy War Memorial in Rookwood cemetery, newly installed stone plaques were unveiled. Representatives from naval and maritime organizations attended the event. Sister Mary Leahy initiated the ceremony with prayers, acknowledging the recent tragic events in Bondi Junction. Finola McMahon uplifted the atmosphere with a spirited rendition of "God is Our Strength and Refuge," accompanied by the Bankstown and Yagoona Brass. Captain Ted van Bronswijk delivered a gospel reading, followed by MNMWF Chairman-elect Sean Barret introducing NSW Governor Margaret Beazley as the guest of honor. Governor Beazley praised the enhancements made to the memorial, particularly the addition of four stone tablets containing the names and ships of 864 Australian Merchant Mariners who lost their lives in the World Wars. She highlighted the crucial role of merchant mariners, quoting Australian wartime Prime Minister John Curtin. The Governor emphasized the significance of their contributions and the sacrifices they made for Australia's well-being. |
|
Two AMWS Malcolm Longstaff Memorial Scholarships for Semester 1 2024 at AMC, have recently been awarded. April 2024
Both recipients, Tobias and Max fully met the Societies selection criteria and are now studying for Bachelor of Applied Science (Nautical Science) qualifications. All AMWS members wish both students every success as they move forward with their maritime careers. |
|
2024 International Women's Day. 8th March 2024
As we commemorate the 2024 International Women's Day, two central themes emerge: the United Nations' call to 'Invest in women: Accelerate progress' and the imperative of 'Inspire Inclusion'. These themes underscore the collective effort required within the maritime industry, where men comprise the majority, to advocate for gender equality. While women play a crucial role in fostering networks and driving progress, it's the unified voices of all genders that will truly advance women's representation and inclusion in maritime workplaces. Access to knowledge and resources, such as workshops and online information, facilitates this process. Link: Women in the Maritime Industry. |
|
STS Young Endeavour Voy 3/24. Reflections from the latest Jim Israel Award recipient: Hayden. March 2023
"I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible experience I had aboard the Young Endeavour. The adventure was truly transformative, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of such a remarkable journey. From navigating the open seas to learning the ropes of sailing, every moment on the ship was filled with valuable lessons and unforgettable memories. The challenges we faced together as a team helped me grow, and I am so grateful for the guidance and support of the crew throughout the voyage. The skills and lessons I learned aboard the Young Endeavour will stay with me for a lifetime, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of such a remarkable program. Thank you for everything you do to inspire and empower young people like me to discover their full potential." |
|
ITF Seafarers, 25th February 2024
NEW RULES AND RIGHTS FOR SEAFARERS ON IBF COVERED SHIPS IN THE RED SEA Please share these important updated rules for Seafarers transiting the Red Sea. These new rules apply to all seafarers aboard ships covered by International Bargaining Forum (IBF) agreements. The IBF consists of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) representing seafarers and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG) representing ship managers and owners. Read the new rules in full at link below https://www.itfglobal.org/.../ibf-warlike-operations-area |
|
Departure STS Young Endeavour, Voyage 03/24. Sydney 30th January 2024
Hayden, the latest recipient of the AMWS Jim Israel Tall Ship Sail Training Scholarship, was farewelled at HMAS Waterhen by his Mum and Sister last Tuesday. Jayden, a recipient of the same Young Endeavour AMWS scholarship in 2022, Chris from the Salvation Army and AMWS Rep Chris Green were also in attendance to wish him well. STS Young Endeavour is scheduled to complete its voyage in Newcastle on the 9th February 2024 Photo Left: Hayden, now part of Red Watch ( back row, second from right) can be seen with his new mates as they approach the ship's first night anchorage. |
|
Safety4Sea - Petition "Make Internet Free for Seafarers under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC)". 18th January 2024
Internet Connectivity to facilitate contact with families is an important basic seafarer need. It is at least equally important as food and drinking water for the wellness and wellbeing of seafarers. Via their petition, Safety4Sea is seeking regulatory change via the MLC to ensure that seafarers are provided with internet connectivity – free of charge during their period of engagement and of appropriate quality and bandwidth that adequately covers the requirements of the crew and takes into account their differing needs and cultural backgrounds. If you support this view and wish to sign the petition, please access the initiative by clicking the photo at left. |
|
Can You Help? 21st January 2024
AMWS are looking for a member volunteer social media coordinator. If you are not a member, we can happily help you join. We are keen to find someone passionate about mariners' welfare and the maritime industry here in Australia who has a creative flair with modern communications to update and increase interaction on AMWS’s social media platforms so as to increase awareness of AMWS’s work. We anticipate this to require no more than four hours per week. If you would like to learn more about the role or send an expression of interest, please email the AMWS Secretary at the following address [email protected] |
