The Journey | Issue 13 | Autumn 2018

JOURNEY Issue 13 | Autumn 2018

THE

Magazine of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group

WHAT DOES A TECHNICAL SUPERINTENDENT DO?

COMMUNITY FUND SUCCESS

NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Marine team member Ian Hobbs explains all.

Read about the biggest charity donation we have ever given away.

Meet Judith Piper and discover the wealth of experience she brings to her new role.

Steamship I S L E S O F S C I L LY

G RO U P

For internal use only

THE

JOURNEY

COMMUNITY FUND AWARD ‘Pulling Together the Past’ Page 8

SPONSORED TICKETS - page 3 We donated Skybus tickets to make sure two key players made it back on time to join their team in Exeter.

WELCOME In this issue we look at what the Dry Dock team got up to in September when the luxury yacht ‘Big Eagle’ came in for some essential repairs and maintenance. We also fired some questions at the newest Marine team member, Ian Hobbs, to find out a little bit about him.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW STARTERS...

Since April we’ve welcomed lots of

Do you know a good cause that could benefit from our 30K community fund? Skip ahead to page 8 to find out how to get involved and to catch up on the latest three community projects, that have been celebrating after receiving grants from our latest round.

For our regular business update on G-SASX this summer’s passenger and freight numbers, turn to page 5.

new additions to the group. You may know them already but if not, allow us to introduce: PENZANCE Charles Lister, Quay Hand Robert Miles-Thomas, Finance Apprentice Sally Keen, Management Accountant Nicola Griffiths-Lumb, HR Assistant Ian Hobbs, Technical Superintendent Helen Cole, Marketing & PR Coordinator Judith Piper, Chief Financial Officer

LAND’S END G-SASX

Tom Soulsby, Aircraft Fitter Cameron Bridger, Aircraft Fitter Sharon Beech, Café Supervisor

ST. MARYS QUAY LUXURY YACHT ‘BIG EAGLE’

Over on page 6 you’ll find an interview with Judith Piper, our new Chief Financial Offi cer, who joined us on the 15th October. Find out what her highlights have been so far.

Isles of Scilly Steamship Company Limited, Steamship House, Quay Street, Penzance Cornwall TR18 4BZ The Journey is produced by Isles of Scilly Steamship Group inhouse communications team.

02 THE JOURNEY–ISSUE 13 AUTUMN 2018

And finally, as we approach the end of 2018, we would like to thank everyone for all their hard work and to get you into the festive spirit, details of this year’s Christmas parties can be found over on page 4.

Tina Hutchins, Cleaner Nigel Hunt, Quay Hand

ISLAND CARRIERS Christopher Stevenson, Mechanic Mark King, Driver John Bird, Aircraft Refueller

Happy reading!

T +44 (0) 1736 334240 marketing@islesofscilly-travel.co.uk Editor Sharon Sandercock ssandercock@islesofscilly-travel.co.uk

Jack Stone, Driver

With grateful thanks to all team members who’ve helped contribute articles and photos. Opinions expressed are the authors and not necessarily those of the company. Whilst every effort is made to ensure total accuracy Isles of Scilly Steamship Group cannot be help responsible for any errors or omissions within this magazine. When you have fi nished with this magazine please pass it on or recycle it.

Say hello to…

IAN HOBBS RECENTLY JOINED OUR DRY DOCK TEAM AS TECHNICAL SUPERINTENDENT. TO GET TO KNOW IAN BETTER, WE ASKED HIM SOME QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS… Where are you from?

I’m originally from Sampford Peverell, a small village in mid Devon. After school I joined the Merchant Navy and moved to the North Devon coast, but since leaving the sea in 2013 I’ve relocated back to mid Devon.

What does a Technical Superintendent do?

What three words best describe your job?

Challenging, demanding but rewarding If you could switch jobs with someone at ISSG whose would it be and why?

I provide the technical support for the company’s vessels to make sure they operate safely and efficiently whilst complying with classification and statutory regulations. I also manage their operational and repair periods to ensure value for money and cost management.

That’s an easy one...

- a Helicopter Pilot. Growing up it’s all I wanted to be.

What does your typical day look like?

When you have 30 minutes of free-time, what do you do?

My day usually starts around 7:15am and ends at 5pm, but that’s as typical as it gets every day is different.

[Laughs] I get no free time with 3 young children, especially with the youngest only being 6 weeks old.

If you could pick up a new skill in an instant what would it be?

Kite surfing - it’s something I’ve been wanting to do, but I never have the time to learn.

SPONSORED TICKETS EVERY YEAR WE HAND OUT A NUMBER OF SPONSORED TRAVEL TICKETS TO HELP OUT AND SUPPORT LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS. THE LATEST TEAM TO BENEFIT WERE PENRYN RFC; CORNWALL’S OLDEST RUGBY CLUB.

Robin Taylor got in touch as Penryn’s under 12’s team had the opportunity to take part in the 11th Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup at Exeter.

The competition supports youngsters at grassroots level and encourages them to continue playing rugby at senior levels.

journey at Land’s End Airport and found out that the team not only topped their Pool, but also finished as the top Cornish side and 3rd overall in the tournament.

The competition was being held on the last weekend in October, when Oli Deering and Louis Taylor, two key players of the under 12’s team would be staying on the islands. If these two players were unable to get back it would have meant that the whole team would have missed out on this incredible opportunity.

We decided to donate the two Skybus tickets they needed to make sure both youngsters made it back on time to join their team and take part in this amazing experience.

We caught up with Robin Taylor, Louis Taylor and Oli Deering on their return VISIT ISLESOFSCILLY-TRAVEL.CO.UK 03

04 THE JOURNEY–ISSUE 13 AUTUMN 2018

BUSINESS UPDATE

G-SASX

G-SASX

As the 2018 season comes to an

+

end, we take a look back at the total passenger numbers for Summer 2018 (April to September):

+

+

G-SASX

G-SASX

SCILLONIAN

SKYBUS

Penzance

including Island Helicopters

TOTAL PASSENGERS

110,593

70,505

181,098

2018

2018

2018

112,633

68,694

181,327

2017

2017

2017

104,639

70,944

175,583

2016

2016

2016

FREIGHT IN NUMBERS OCT 2017 - SEPT 2018

x 100 2667

DESTINATION: TONNAGE: TOTAL 16,000 = 100 BLUE WHALES MAIL 196 = 1 BLUE WHALE = 2667 HUMANS

BY MONTH:

TRANSPORTED BY:

VISIT ISLESOFSCILLY-TRAVEL.CO.UK 05

Judith P

We caught up with our new

Chief Financial Officer

Judith Piper, to find out

a little bit about her and

how’s she’s settling in.

06 THE JOURNEY–ISSUE 13 AUTUMN 2018

Piper

w

r

t

d

.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I was born and brought up in Cornwall.

I lived in Hayle for 18 years, attending Hayle School and Penwith College before studying for a BSc (Hons) degree in Psychology at Plymouth University.

I began my career in the NHS in 1996 working for Westcountry Ambulance Services NHS Trust in the finance department, based in Plymouth and subsequently Exeter. I worked there for 5 years and studied for my ACCA accountancy exams throughout this time, passing in 2001. I then worked for Unipart in Coventry for 5 years as Finance Manager in the Group Property department.

I moved back to Cornwall in 2006 where I spent 4 years bringing up my children. I have 3 children and live in St Levan. My husband and I built our own house and will soon be converting a granite barn as our next project.

What do you think of ISSG now you’re here?

What is something new you learnt this week?

My first impressions of ISSG are that it is an exciting place to work. I’m used to working for a company that has a variety of different departments and ISSG is the same in this regard, so I will certainly be kept busy and I look forward to forming close relations with each area.

My induction week has been one big learning curve, but I’m enjoying learning about every aspect of the company, its history and its future plans.

What has been a highlight in your job so far?

I have a number of hobbies – I enjoy running and swimming and regularly sign up for local events. I go to Zumba classes every week as I’ve always loved dancing. I also play the piano and am learning the saxophone.

It has to be the helicopter flight to the Isles of Scilly on my 2nd day at work – not everyone gets to commute to such a beautiful place and I’m very grateful to be working for a company where this is possible. I hope to travel across regularly.

What three words best describe your job?

Exciting, interesting and challenging.

When you have 30 minutes of free-time, what do you do?

Do you have a favourite part of Scilly?

Bryher has to be my favourite Island, I’ve camped there many times in the past. On a sunny day it is beautiful with very clear waters and I particularly enjoy the stone-baked pizzas there!

What did you do before joining us?

I returned to work in 2010 and worked for W. Stevenson & Sons Ltd for 8 years. I progressed from Management Accountant to Finance Manager and Finance Director. I was also Company Secretary. For 3 years I was Acting Managing Director of the company which involved all aspects of the company’s operations (Fishing, Engineering, Commercial, Market and Health & Safety) in addition to my Finance and Human Resources role.

If you could pick up a new skill in an instant what would it be?

Marketing would be a good skill to learn and I look forward to working with Sharon Sandercock wherever possible to understand how she carries out her work. Such a skill would be put to good use working for a company that has such a beautiful place as the Isles of Scilly to promote.

VISIT ISLESOFSCILLY-TRAVEL.CO.UK 07

OUR BIGGEST CHARITY DONATION YET In September at the Men’s Gig County Championships in Newquay we were extremely happy to hand over £5,000 to The Cornish Pilot Gig Association (CPGA) to support their project - ‘Pulling Together the Past’. This exciting project aims to preserve the heritage of gig rowing for future generations for the first time in a new online digital archive.

The Cornish Pilot Gig has played an important role in the working and social lives of communities across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly for many generations.

They were used as lifeboats, for salvage, general work and pilotage. They were also used for leisure, with early community regattas evolving into the colourful and competitive sport enjoyed by over 8,000 people today across the UK, with the most recent Gig Club being founded in Norfolk.

08 THE JOURNEY–ISSUE 13 AUTUMN 2018

Over the last 30 years the sport has exploded, growing from 12 boats to 200 CPGA registered gigs, and this rapid growth shows no signs of slowing. In the UK there are now around 8,000 active rowers aged from juniors to super vets, spread across 71 clubs in 10 UK counties – making it one of the fastest growing sports in the UK. Cornish Pilot Gig racing is also active in the Netherlands, USA, Bermuda, France, UAE and Kuwait.

The CPGA project will recognise the colourful history of the gigs, boat builders, clubs and crews that have been involved over the years. The money we have donated to CPGA will help go towards storing the material in a new archive, training the volunteers, promote gig rowing, clubs & events and delivering a film telling the story of Cornish Pilot Gig Rowing to inspire new generations.

“

“

This is the biggest Community Fund amount we have ever given away and given the company’s vital part in gig history, transporting the gigs and passengers to Scilly every year for the World Pilot Gig Rowing Championships.

We were delighted to be able to help CPGA safeguard the historical data for this traditional Cornish sport.

“I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company on behalf of the entire gig rowing community for awarding the CPGA funding towards this special project.”

Karen Beswetherick Project Manager CPGA

HERE ARE SOME MORE OF OUR COMMUNITY FUND SUCCESS STORIES… CONSTANTINE WI HALL The small group of fundraisers from Constantine village WI said they were “bowled over” by the company’s generosity.

Our Community Fund donation of £2,000 meant they reached their £7,000 target to replace the 60 year old leaky roof on their well-used village hall.

The builders came in at the beginning of August and the new roof means the hall can be used by community groups for generations to come.

SCILLY KIDS TRIATHLON On a beautiful June summer’s day on the Garrison, 57 children from all five of the inhabited islands took part in the third Scilly Kids Triathlon. It was a great success and all the children were awarded medals, t-shirts and drinks, thanks to our £850 donation.

“The children were chuffed to bits with their t-shirts and have been wearing them proudly since. It added a lot to the event and we were both delighted and surprised to be awarded the money from the Steamship Group. We’d like to say a very big thank you.”

Steven Gibson, Event Organiser

DO YOU KNOW A GOOD CAUSE?

SPREAD THE WORD... ...and let them know about our Community Fund. The fund is open to voluntary groups or charities, schools and education establishments, community clubs or societies, and individuals undertaking not-for-profit projects for the benefit of the wider community.

For full details and application forms go to www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk/community-fund-apply/ VISIT ISLESOFSCILLY-TRAVEL.CO.UK 09

CAREERS

A SELECTION OF OUR CURRENT VACANCIES:

If you’re looking for a change – or you know someone who’d be a great fit for the Steamship Group – here’s a quick look at some of our current vacancies…

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL OFFICER

VAN DRIVER / OFFICE ASSISTANT

(ATOC)

SCILLONIAN III / GRY MARITHA SEASONAL RATINGS

Location: Land’s End

Location: St Mary’s, Isles of Scilly

Location: Penzance / Isles of Scilly

Due to continued growth and

We are seeking an enthusiastic and

A new opportunity has become

expansion we are looking for

self-motivated individual to join our

available for a Seasonal Ratings to

another full-time ADI qualified

team at Island Carriers.

sail on both the Scillonian and Gry

ATOC to provide Air Traffic Control

Maritha with designated security

Services at Land’s End Airport in

Working for a small business means

accordance with MATS pt1 and pt2.

you will get involved with a variety

The successful candidate must

duties.

of different tasks, so prioritising and

The successful candidate will have

flexibility is paramount.

their Seaman Grade 1 or be certified

have at least 2 years’ experience

AB to Manilla 2010 and hold an ENG1

and hold an EU Air Traffic Controller

The successful candidate must

medical certificate.

Licence with ADI rating and an EU

hold a full driving licence, have

Class 3 Medical Certificate. You will

previous experience in a customer

It would be advantageous if you have

also need to have as a minimum

service environment and have

fork lift truck experience.

language proficiency of EN-L5.

excellent communication and organisation skills.

It would also be beneficial if you have a Met Observer certificate and a current OJTI endorsement.

Steamship Steamship I S L E S O F S C I L LY

G RO U P For all jobs and further information please visit

ISLESOFSCILLY-TRAVEL.CO.UK/CAREERS 10 THE JOURNEY–ISSUE 13 AUTUMN 2018

I S L E S O F S C I L LY

G RO U P

MENTAL HEALTH

Confidential support 24 hours a day

In our employee benefits series we continue to look at Health Assured and how they can help you with Mental Health problems.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF POOR MENTAL HEALTH? If you are worried about your own mental health, or the wellbeing of someone you care about, it is important to look out for emotional warning signs, which include: •

Changes in mood

•

Erratic thinking

•

Chronic anxiety

•

Lack of self-worth

•

Impulsive actions

According to the mental health charity Mind, approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR BENEFITS Remember, because you work for the Steamship Group, you benefit from…

FREE SCILLONIAN TRAVEL Free travel on Scillonian III for you and your spouse/children.

DISCOUNTED SKYBUS TRAVEL Landing-fee only travel on Skybus for Steamship employees.

MENTAL HEALTH TOP TIPS: TALK: It’s vital for your own mental wellbeing that you open up to your support network and talk about your thoughts and feelings.

EXERCISE: Regular exercise can boost your self-esteem and can help you become more productive and improve your sleeping patterns.

EAT WELL: A balanced diet is good for your mental wellbeing. Your brain needs a mix of nutrients to stay healthy and function well.

TAKE FAMILY AND FRIENDS Six free Scillonian tickets to share with family and friends GREAT FLYBE RATE Standby-rate flights with Flybe VISIT THE CONTINENT 50% discount on Brittany Ferry crossings and 15% off holidays

DRINK LESS: Stay within the recommended daily alcohol limits.

BE MINDFUL OF OTHERS: Caring for others is often integral in maintaining relationships with people you care about. It can also help to put our own problems in perspective.

If you are suffering from issues with your mental health and need further assistance, please call the Health Assured helpline on:

0800 030 5182 Or alternatively, visit the online health portal to view advice articles, webinars and 4-week programmes all aimed at improving your wellbeing.

www.healthassuredeap.com

TAX FREE BICYCLES Cycle to work scheme TAKE CARE OF EYE HEALTH Free Specsavers eye test for computer VDU users SOMEONE TO TALK TO Confidential support service with 24-hour helpline For more details, terms and conditions and booking forms, look on the P: Drive… or talk to Siân on 07342 881979 / ext. 4200.

(NB: Some benefits are available to permanent staff members only.)

VISIT ISLESOFSCILLY-TRAVEL.CO.UK 11

CASE STUDY

THE

BIG EAGLE

AFTER SPENDING THE SUMMER TOURING NORTHERN EUROPE, THE LUXURY CHARTER YACHT BIG EAGLE MADE HER WAY IN SEPTEMBER TO OUR DRY DOCK. SHE WAS IN NEED OF SOME ESSENTIAL REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE BEFORE BEING ABLE TO MAKE HER TRANSATLANTIC CROSSING. Built in Japan in 1980 you might recognise this luxury yacht, as she starred in the 1996 film ‘Striptease’ under the name Big Sugar. These days, Big Eagle is a popular charter yacht available for around £12,500 a week!

The repairs and maintenance needed on Big Eagle ahead of its transatlantic crossing, included: • Underwater line class survey • Propeller repair work • A high-water pressure clean of all underwater areas of the hull • Underwater anti-foul repairs and general maintenance

YACHT SPECIFICATIONS Built

1980

• Aluminium welding repairs to the superstructure

Builder

Mie Shipyard

Length

52.43m

• Ultra-sonic testing of the hull plates

Beam

7.8m

Draft

2.74m

Gross Tonnage

399

Cruising Speed

13 knots

Cruise Range

5500 NM

Number of Guests

12

Number of Crew

10

Guest Cains

6

The Dry Dock team successfully completed all the work 36 hours ahead of schedule, allowing the Big Eagle to set sail early.

Andy Kesson, Dry Dock Manager said:

“

“It’s been a pleasure having MV Big Eagle in Penzance. The fact

“

we’re becoming attractive to

these types of vessels is fantastic news, it’s an indication of the

resurgence of Penzance Dry Dock.”

12 THE JOURNEY–ISSUE 13 AUTUMN 2018

Propeller repair work