LEADINGEDGE PROPELLER CLUB LIVERPOOL
05/17 REMEMBERING THE #CHENNAI6
LIVERPOOL'S HISTORY BUOYS
MAKING THE MOST OF LISW17
CELEBRATING OUR MEMBERS
We remember the innocent men held in an Indian jail
We look at the fascinating maritime history of our city
London International Shipping Week beckons
First Propeller Club Liverpool awards are handed out
CORD TIME
FULL STEAM AHEAD! Propeller Club Liverpool was created to bring a different dynamic to the maritime scene and shipping community in the city and region. We have done this by reaching out and bringing people, companies and organisations together in one place. We look forward to continuing this work. Well, who can believe that Propeller Club Liverpool is two years old? We are now a corporate toddler...same crying and mewling, but now we can take to our feet and cause chaos on the move. It has been an amazing journey to get to where we have. That is testament to the people who have done so much to make it happen. The latest Propeller Club Liverpool lunch marked succession of our Presidential flow - with Steven Jones relieving Jim Bellew, as it were. Steven stressed that it was both a responsibility and challenge to take over the role - and likened it to John Bishop having to somehow follow Ken Dodd. Hopefully the laughter can continue, but so too can the massive steps we have taken together. We seem to have found our stride in these past two years - we have our lunches, the First Thursdays are incredibly well supported - and we are becoming involved in ever more events. Increasingly we are finding that members are doing business together, so it really does deliver on its promise. The one stumbling block is that our membership numbers appear to have stalled. We have been teetering on the hundred mark for individuals for some time, and we desperately need to drive that figure up. We want to have at least 200 members by the end of the year - and we need your help to do it. If you are already a member, thank you - and please tell your friends and colleagues to sign up too. If you aren't a member, please consider joining. We don't ask much, the fee is set pretty low and the benefits are enormous - not least the fact that you are supporting the local maritime community, recognising and rewarding the hard work that so many put in, and also helping to raise the profile or our industry. So please do get involved. We need you! If you have any questions, comments or would like to help in populating the calendar, just drop us a line. Email propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com PROPELLER CLUB LIVERPOOL propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com www.propellerclub.co.uk @propellerists
PROPELLERCLUB
COME AND JOIN US TODAY... The Propeller Club Liverpool is your readymade maritime network in the region. We welcome all who work in shipping, or who have a passion for promoting it. Membership links you to am amazing group of professionals - not just in Liverpool, but the world over. So join us today - it costs just ÂŁ45 per year, and you will help us to deliver even more for the maritime community locally. Enjoy our First Thursday evenings, golf days, events and lunches. There is so much going on, and we want you to be part of it. We need your support...
http://propellerclub.co.uk/joining/
CHARTER PARTYING: N STYLE
CHARTER PARTYING IN STYLE Propeller Club Liverpool has once more gathered to lunch and network in the city. April saw us convene in the sumptious surroundings of the Racquet Club, a place that is increasingly feeling like home from home. Once again it was another sell out success - as over 70 members and guests enjoyed a sumptious lunch and networking drinks, kindly sponsored by Lloyd's Register. This time round there was even more to pack into a busy schedule than normal - as we had official business to attend to. The President's term of office has been held for two years, and so our Charter Party anniversary saw a passing of the baton to a new team at the head of our officers. After guests gathered for welcome drinks, we were seated and Jim Bellew got the event started in his usual inimitable style. Welcoming those who had come from far and wide, and near and narrow. There were a number of new faces at the lunch, and many who had travelled just to join in the fun. Which for an auspicious occasion like the changing of our guard was particularly welcome and important. We even had guests from three of the four biggest shipping companies in Liverpool, with Bibby Marine, CMA CGM and Maersk Line in attendance. Which is great news, and thank you so much for coming along. Jim said his hello, but it was also something of a goodbye - as he has now stepped down as President, to become our first Past President. He officially handed over to Steven Jones, who will now serve for two years also. In thanking the members and guests, Jim stressed just how far the group has come in the past few years. It seems just LEADINGEDGE
a short time ago when 8 people gathered in McGuffies to find out what maritime networking in Liverpool was all about. My how things have changed. Steven, thanked Jim for his time at the helm, awarded him a prize to mark his term of office and thanked him for the effort he has put in, the reams of paper produced on planning and the many ideas and visions he has brought to the table. After lunch was served, a delicious repast of chicken followed by chocolate then it was back to business. Steven spoke again, this time about the his pride at becoming President, and his gratitude to the friends and members of the Propeller Club who had done so much to support him through some trying times in the past year. Then it was on to our main speaker. This time around Sean Moloney or Elaborate PR and Ship Management International was onhand to talk about another hat he wears...London International Shipping Week. Sean spoke about the events which will be held in London, and of the many opportunities which were there for companies from Liverpool to grab with both hands. It was stressed that Propeller Club is well placed to assist, and so it is a massive benefit to our members to be able to have such direct links to a prestigious event. Then we had the first Propeller Club prize giving, with the #Chennai6 guards recognised for their bravery - and their award was accepted by one of their sisters, Lisa Dunn who thanked the club for its recognition and generosity. With very few dry eyes left in the room, we then went to our post lunch networking thanks to Lloyd's Register's generous sponsorship.
SAVE THE DATE... NEXT PROPELLER CLUB LIVERPOOL LUNCH IS FRIDAY 13TH OCT!
Well-trained crews deliver exceptional fleet performance Videotel’s industry-leading eLearning maximises your seafarer learning investment:
3 Improves crew performance 3 Reduces financial and safety risks 3 Lowers OPEX 3 Helps recruit and retain motivated, happy seafarers
Watch the video: Training Matters
www.kvh.com/trainingmatters
Seafarers on 12,000 vessels worldwide use Videotel’s award-winning, blended learning approach to effectively build their knowledge and performance. Let us help your crews do the same.
Learn more at: videotel.com sales@videotel.com ©2015-2017 KVH Industries, Inc.
•
+44 (0)207 299 1800
KVH and Videotel are trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.
JUSTICE FOR THE #CHENNAI6....
LEFT TO ROT IN JAIL - BRAVE BRITISH PIRATE FIGHTERS The first Propeller Club Liverpool, "Maritime Personality of the Year" award has been won collectively, and sadly in abstentia, by a group of six British mariners unjustly convicted of weapons offences, and left languishing for years in an Indian prison.
Jones added, “Propeller Club Liverpool is pleased to make this award to the #Chennai6 and a donation to support the efforts of the families in the UK who are working tirelessly to ease the dreadful situation."
The #Chennai6, Nick Dunn, Billy Irving, Ray Tindall, Paul Towers, John Armstrong and Nicholas Simpson, have been recognised by Propeller Club Liverpool for their brave endurance in the face of a terrible injustice, having been arrested while going about their business of protecting seafarers on merchant vessels in the Indian Ocean.
The six men, all proud and respected former members of the British armed forces, were working as security guards providing vital protection to commercial shipping against pirates in the Indian Ocean. The ship was intercepted by Indian authorities in October 2013, and the crew and guards were detained after it entered Indian waters.
As the Propeller Club Liverpool is a membership organisation made up of shipping industry professionals, we felt it so important to recognise not just the sacrifice that these men had made, but to hopefully flag the astonishing injustice they were subjected to and to lift their spirits, and those of their families and supporters.
The full tale of what happened and of how the vessel allegedly ended up in Indian waters has been subject to much scrutiny, and the company who owned the vessel "Seaman Guard Ohio" have made a range of claims and counterclaims.
Steven Jones, President of the Propeller Club Liverpool speaking on the award, said "These brave men are not criminals or terrorists. They have served between them some 74 years for Queen and country, and were earning a living protecting seafarers from Somali pirates. For them to be held in jail and to face such uncertainty, health risks and injustice is something that the maritime community believes is wrong�.
LEADINGEDGE
Initially it was stated the vessel had been running to safety from a typhoon, but the most widely accepted story appears to be that the vessel's owners and master had been lured into Indian waters seeking cheap bunkers to refuel the ship. The #Chennai6 would have no say, at all in the running of the ship they were simply using it as accomodation as they rested between vessel assignments. The ship was used as a floating armoury, which has been common in the international waters of the Indian Ocean.
JUSTICE FOR THE #CHENNAI6....
Initially the men were expected to be let off - as they were no threat to India but as there were increased tensions in the country as a result of the Mumbai terrorist attacks in2008, then it seems the group were targetted by a political campaign to make a scapegoat and example of them. Their employers initially looked like they would stand by the men, however when it became apparent they were not settling legal bills and were seemingly seeking to pass the buck at every opportunity, then it became more and more obvious that the #Chennai6 were not only in deep trouble, but that they were alone. The fundamental legal issue seemed to hinge on the fact that while the weapons and ammunition onboard were legal and correctly licensed when sat in International waters - they were not when they stressed into Indian territory. Then, things were very different. It is understood that the Sierra Leone-flagged Seaman Guard Ohio had more than 35 firearms, 102 magazines and 5,682 rounds of ammunition on board. Which to a nation hurting after a terror attack made them extremely, and perhaps understandably jittery. The fact that such firepower was sat off their coast was not well received, and there was a fear stoked in the population that they were once more potential targets. The fact that nothing could be further from the truth did nothing to soothe this paranoia. The vessel, weapons and ammunition should not have been in Indian waters, but this was a failing which rested with the owners of the ship, and not the guards, who had no control or influence over the vessel. The men were interrogated and initially charges were dismissed. However, in a seemingly political motivated response, the courts overturned this decision and sentenced them to 5 years imprisonment. Having suffered such injustice the group is currently held in Chennai's notorious Puzhal Central Prison, and they are desperate for help and support; they are in poor health and under intense mental strain after being convicted for crimes they did not commit. Efforts to get them freed are ongoing. It had long been hoped that diplomatic efforts would bear fruit - but as the UK now seeks enhanced trading ties with India in the wake of BREXIT, there are some who believe the Foreign Office is less likely to pursue these channels and pressure the Indian government. Two representatives of the group attended the Propeller Club Liverpool Charter lunch organised on the 20th April, at which the award was formally handed over. Jordan Wylie, who is running the Chennai 10K in June to further help raise awareness of the plight of the #Chennai6 was by accompanied by Lisa Dunn, whose brother Nick is one of the men being held. The club has donated to the cause and is seeking to support Jordan in his charity run but Steven Jones believes there is still much that can be done while the families lobby the British government to press for their release. Propeller Club Liverpool hopes the funds raised can help make life more bearable for the men, and that the award goes some way to showing the men and their families that their fellow professionals in the shipping industry recognise their sacrifice and bravery, and the injustice they are suffering.
To do your bit and to help the #Chennai6 please give generously: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jordan-wylie-1 PROPELLERCLUB
LIVERPOOL'S HISTORY BUOYS
International commercial law firm, Hill Dickinson recently invited clients and guests on an exclusive look around Liverpool and it's amazing maritime history. Propeller Club Liverpool was on hand to marvel at the delights, and take in the historic sights as a Blue Badge guide took us round our fine city and told tales of the past.
LIVERPOOL'S
HISTORY BUOYS... JOHN, by the grace of God, King of England, to all his faithful people who have desired to have burgages at the township of Liverpul, greeting. No ye that we have granted to all who have taken burgages at Liverpul that they shall have all liberties and free customs which any free borough on the sea has in our land. King John, August 28, 1207
Where once the destiny and destination had been Ireland - in the late 1500s, suddenly it became America. With the founding of Jamestown and the colonies, Liverpool began to take on more and more importance. The ebb and flow of relationships between Catholics and Protestants had washed men of influence into Liverpool’s sphere of influence, and it seems we never looked back.
With these words, little could King John, have known that he was changing the world - by creating a monster. A city that would stand as an antithesis to all that had gone before, to all that would come, and perhaps even today, to the future too.
Sir Francis Walsingham, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster had obvious designs on America, and with his business interests no doubt in mind, he even encouraged Sir Francis Bacon to become MP for Liverpool for a short time.
John was a villain of so many pieces, but a hero to our city, he saw the potential. Yes, admittedly a violent one, as we were to act as a springboard to claim more land in Ireland. A place which provided so much, there is water, land, resources and a fire in the belly of the people. Something that has not changed much in 810 years.
For the man who created the very idea of Utopia to have had links to our city is something that is oft overlooked and understated. It perhaps explains though, why it was Liverpool that was at the forefront of so much social, industrial and moral change (not all of it good).
It was actually something of a slow burner for the city - and for around 500 years was fairly quiet. Then either borne of a modern age, or as a shaper of it, Liverpool as our history is entwined, suddenly burst forth.
Something about Liverpool lifted it to do more, to think farther and further. To shake up all the ways that things had been done before. To develop docks, systems of mercantile law and insurance which have allowed trade to flourish. Liverpool was a modern city, before the concept was even truly understood.
Beyond its seven streets and the feuding Stanley (yes the people who introduced the ice hockey cup to North America) and Molyneux families, it looked not backwards to those squabbling behind it -but instead outwards, to the sea. To its destiny over the waves. LEADINGEDGE
Looking around, and of course never forgetting to look up, you can see the riches, the industry and the sheer passion and drive which has created the city we know and love today.
LIVERPOOL'S HISTORY BUOYS
A place of infinite capacity to overcome challenges - whether they be technical, medical, political or social. Liverpool, and we within it, have always found a way, and hopefully will continue to do so. Of course for all the glorious heritage and pride, there are dark stains on our city's collective conscience. The matter of slavery cannot and must not ever be forgotten. There were terrible crimes against humanity committed in the pursuit of commerce, and that does taint so many of the wonderful buildings. We cannot change the past - but we can accept it, we can understand it...and we can also embrace the role once more of Liverpool as an antithesis, even to itself. It was in Liverpool that so much was done to turn the slavery trade the campaigners, the writers, the thinkers and the doers, who changed history. The likes of William Roscoe, who influenced so much of America's eventual thinking on slavery, showed the power of our city. However, by that time, Liverpool had once more eaten its moral compass - and the city was a haven for the Confederates in the US Civil War. The first shot of that war was from a cannon built in Liverpool, while John Wilkes Booth who arguably shot the last when he killed Lincoln, was a man shaped by Liverpool. His father was a famous actor in our city... even today Cherie Blair shares the same bloodline. The only British Prime Minister to be assassinated in office - yes, you guessed, killed by a Scouser. Spencer Perceval was shot by a Liverpool merchant, John Bellingham. Who in turn was apprehended by the then MP for Liverpool, Isaac Gascoyne. Our city is in the thick of most things...good and bad in history.
Hill Dickinson's Colin Lavelle, deep in conversation.
Liverpool's fortunes have waxed and waned over centuries. While the Second World War saw our city decimated, it rose again to global prominence as trade once more flourished. It was not until the 1970s that perhaps the hardest fight was to be fought - and as that decade closed Liverpool was at its lowest ebb. Take away trade, take away jobs, take away people, take away whatever from Liverpool, but the pride will always remain. So it is, that here we are today - in a UNESCO World Heritage Site city, with an incredible booming tourist trade. The docks are busy, there are signs of affluence, happiness and enjoyment around every corner. Liverpool has done more than most cities, but it has suffered more too. To see what it has been through, to understand its place yesterday, today and tomorrow in the world, you need to put your walking shoes on and take to the streets. Walk our fine streets, look up, look down, look all around and listen. You can hear the laughter that has boomed out around our city for over 8 hundred years. Laughter in the face of wars, famines, pestilence and political sabotage. So take a tour, wander with your family and friends - but take pride in where you are in our city. Our Liverpool. For those of you who would love a Blue Badge guide tour of the city, our Vice President Terry Ogg is generously donating a tour with lunch at the Art School for a lucky Propeller Club member. We will be holding an auction for this amazing prize soon, and will be raising funds for Seafarers Awareness Week. Email us for details if you would like to know more propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com 20 Chapel Street, a dazzle ship tribute
PROPELLERCLUB
BALL GAMES ALLOWED HERE
BALL GAMES ALLOWED HERE One of the questions that members often ask is how we can get involved with other things. What else can we do as a group and encourage. What about sports they say...and here is an answer. YES! YES! YES! Over the past couple of years, thanks to Propeller Club members Bill Carter of InXpress and Chris Farrell of Neptune P2P Group, we have hosted our annual golf event. The August event sees our "golferists" gather in Formby Hall Golf Club, enjoying the hospitality which is increasingly making the club famous. All while playing a round with each other. As the spring slips into summer we will be confirming the arrangements, but we will hope to host the Propeller Club Open on First Thursday in August - so pencil the 3rd into your scorecard. The golf has been an undoubted hit - and we thank those who organise it and who have attended so much. It is you that has made it what it is, and we know you have all enjoyed it. From Dr Ken Kirby's sun kissed cheeks, through to tales of Chris' victory last time round, the fairway boys have truly embraced the event. Not content with golf, we want to do more. We want to branch out and give even more ball games to the members. So this time round it is football...we are looking to move from fores to high scores. So if you think you have what it takes to dust off your Adidas Samba and get involved, we would love to hear from you.
Chris Farrell and Leading Edge made it to The Open...could you ?
It would be great if we could perhaps have a regular little five-a-side thing going. However, to start ball rolling (literally), we have been invited to enter a team into the prestigious, "Marine Challenge Cup 2017". This is an annual event hosted in London by the US maritime law firm, Chaffe McCall. It is a big deal, and over the past could of decades the event has been a growing number of teams gathering on the South Bank University sports ground to do battle. There are teams from across the shipping industry - law firms, insurers, the maritime media. There are many, and they come from very far and very wide. We have rather excitedly, in a Field of Dreams manner, accepted the invitation. So now we have built it up, then we hope that you will come. So, we need you to get involved and to come with us to fly the Propeller Club flag at the event on 6th in London. Age, fitness, ability and gender are no barrier. Primarily it is about having a wonderful day of networking, granted with an emphasis on the "net" rather than the "working". If you would like to find out more let us know, and we would love to tell you how you can get involved. Email our incredibly excited Director of Football Sue Henney on propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com
This could be you...it's more fun than it looks.... PROPELLERCLUB
LONDON INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING WEEK
HOW YOU COULD CLEAN UP IN LONDON DURING 2017... Propeller Club Liverpool was thrilled to welcome Sean Moloney as our key note speaker at the recent Charter Party lunch. Sean is one of the most connected maritime movers and shakers in the business... whether through his PR business Elaborate, his magazine Ship Management International, or as the cofounder of London International Shipping Week. Sean knows everyone and makes everything tick. Like Dick Whittingtons, London is calling us - and there are many who believe that even in these uncertain times, that the streets could very well be paved with gold. Sean Moloney was on hand to tell us more about the 2017 London International Shipping Week (LISW), to discuss what is going on and of course how companies from Liverpool and the North West could make the very most of the opportunities that such a huge gathering can deliver. The week of events is spread across London - and each day contains many, many goings on. From breakfast briefings to cocktail receptions, with all manner of conferences and lectures in between. There isn't a lull in the proceedings from when it kicks off, through to the gala dinner. The week starts on 11th September and runs through to the 15th. LISW17 will feature over 160 industry functions and networking opportunities in London during the week of 11-15 September, 2017, attended by leaders across all sectors of the international shipping industry. The events will be held by international shipping and marine trade associations and UK Government (known as Supporting Organisations), as well as by official sponsors of the week. An LEADINGEDGE
estimated 15,000 industry leaders are expected to attend the week, suggesting a global networking opportunity of the highest level. Major players and leaders from global shipping and related industries will attend the 160 or so events to be held during the week. Attendance categories are Ship Owners, Charterers, Ship Managers and Shipbrokers, Engineering, Marine, Shipbuilders, Emerging Technologies, Ship Suppliers, Specialists eg. Classification Societies Port Operators, Terminal Operators, Logistics Specialist Companies, Freight Operators, Lawyers/Arbitrators, Insurers, Bankers, Stock Exchanges, Investors, Maritime Education Bodies, Maritime Training and Skills Organisations, Maritime Recruitment Specialists Industry Bodies, Regulators, NGOs, Governments and many more. LISW17 works because the strong number of high level industry events and networking opportunities will guarantee attendance by the global shipping industry. Either because they are members of the various Supporting Organisations and coming into London to attend their specific trade association or sponsor-led event, or because they see value in staying and attending other aligned events – so benefiting from the high level networking opportunities. While there are many, many different events covering very different topics. the LISW17 Conference and Week formally has a number of
LONDON INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING WEEK
themes which form a framework for debate at the official LISW17 Conference as well as for the various event organisers to follow when deciding which event they may wish to hold. The overarching theme is: ‘Tomorrow’s Maritime World: UK – the centre of maritime business’, LISW17 will explore five key topics: Tomorrow’s Prosperity • Tomorrow’s Industry Professionals • Tomorrow’s Business Solutions • Tomorrow’s Environment • Tomorrow’s Partnerships TOMORROW’S PROSPERITY How will a prosperous industry into the future be shaped and sustained? What conditions will be required and what actions should be taken in order to ensure the shipping industry is able to meet the demands of world trade, technological advancement and global regulation and is able to seize opportunities for growth and prosperity. TOMORROW’S INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS What demands and expectations will shipping place on tomorrow’s industry professionals? An industry which is multifaceted and which embraces the career ambitions of the young and talented. Where innovation and personal advancement walk hand in hand with industry diversification and collaboration; all key requisites of the need to propel world trade. TOMORROW’S BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Why an efficient and innovative maritime business sector will solve tomorrow’s known and unknown challenges.
business practices effect change across the global shipping industry and how will the industry respond and adapt to these new realities? TOMORROW’S PARTNERSHIPS Can current business structures in shipping deliver what is needed for the future, or will we see new models? Will there be new relationships within the overall shipping and logistics world, both vertically and horizontally? What partnerships will we need to build with businesses outside shipping such as technology companies, network providers and infrastructure developers to create the services and businesses of the future? Propeller Club Liverpool is finalising plans to host a joint event with other bodies during the event, and we would be very pleased to gauge member interest as to who would be in the city and would like to support and get involved. To keep up to date, in real-time, on the LISW17 schedule of events, event news, sponsors and to be able to interact with attendees before and during the event, there is an LISW17 event app. We highly recommend downloading this - there is much going on, and it is hard to keep abreast without it. We want our members to be able to make the most of the opportunities which LISW2017 can bring. so we look forward to working with you, and our fellow Propeller Club members in the London chapter to make sure that we all have the best possible week, with the most amazing results. See londoninternationalshippingweek.com for more information.
TOMORROW’S ENVIRONMENT In an ever changing political and business environment, how will global market forces, regulatory environments and innovative
PROPELLERCLUB
MERSEYPARADISE
IN OUR MERSEY PARADISE The Stone Roses got one thing right about the Mersey, the river does indeed splash against the rocks - even our jury is out on the "paradise" bit...but you would be surprised by recent goings on in and around the "Pool of Life"...
bibby wavemaster launched
nuclear journey begins
Bibby WaveMaster 1 has been launched at the shipbuilder’s yard in Romania. This marks a significant step forward in the delivery of the purpose-built Service Operations Vessel, which will support offshore farm wind construction and operations and maintenance work. The vessel will be delivered to Bibby in mid August 2017.
Cammell Laird’s journey to being a world leading nuclear industry hub is on track after the announcement of a new partnership with the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC). Cammell Laird energy division managing director Jonathan Brown said the new partnership will see the opening of a Nuclear AMRC facility in Birkenhead.
all aboard the danny
CORK AND LIVERPOOL ROUTES Peel Ports Group-owned BG Freight Line has announced a new container service between the ports of Cork and Liverpool. The new service wiil directly link the two ports for the first time. The new route will offer greater opportunities for customers in the South of Ireland to make connections with the deep-sea services now calling at Liverpool, particularly from Canada, the east coast of the US and the Mediterranean. LEADINGEDGE
Fully restored historic steam tug the Daniel Adamson has launched its 2017 cruise schedule including its eagerly anticipated maiden voyage on April 12 and regular cruises along the Manchester Ship Canal and the River Weaver. Click through for details of all voyages and associated prices: https://thedanny.digitickets.co.uk/tickets The vessel is a testament to so much hard work and dedication, so take some time to enjoy it and see what the fuss is all about.
We would love to have any photos or thoughts of events you have seen or attended locally. We are proud to live and work in such a vibrant maritime community and look forward to featuring some of the goings on here.
Aggressive business drive In more Cammell Laird news, the yard plans to unleash an ‘aggressive exports drive’ in 2017 after one of its busiest years for commercial marine work. Cammell Laird CEO John Syvret said the winning of the £150million contract to build the Sir David Attenborough polar research vessel (see background) for the UK Government ‘threw open’ a new global market to build a range of high value polar vessels from research to cruise ships.
PROPELLER CLUB REVOLUTION Rather incredibly it is now two years since Propeller Club Liverpool received its formal Charter from the International Propeller Club of the United States. It was a really proud moment for all who had signed up as founder members, and made the group of 25 which enabled to us to be recognised. That two years means that it is time for our first ever evolutionary step, as our officers compete their term of office. So it is that we see a new President, two new Vice Presidents and the creation of a new role to support the Secretary. At the recent Propeller Club Liverpool lunch, Steven Jones was incredibly proud to take over the mantel of President from Jim Bellew. Jim now becomes our first Past President, and we thank him so much for his service, wise counsel and the energy he has thrown into the role.
Past President, Jim Bellew
Jim has been a most welcome fixture at our events, and his speeches, poems and gently ribbing of guests from far and wide have been a lovely part of the whole experience. Usually we would only have one Vice President vacancy to fill, but Paul Georgeson felt it right to step down - as he wishes the Vice Presidents to be based more locally, Paul has given generously and thanklessly to the club, and it is testament to his contributions that we have achieved so much. So, the two members who are stepping up from the Committee are Adam Whittle as Senior Vice President and Terry Ogg. We thank them for putting themselves forward, and know that they will continue to build on the work they have already done, to further build Propeller Club LIverpool.
Vice President Terry Ogg
New President, Steven Jones
As part of the evolution, our Port Secretary Sue Henney and Treasurer Anneley Pickles both put themselves up for re-election. They stood unopposed, and so have been accepted back into their vital officer roles. The work that both complete on behalf of the club is incredible, and we are so lucky to have such dedicated professionals working for us. There is so much work in fact, that it was decided that a role of Assistant Secretary should be created. We are very pleased to announce that Linda Cotton has volunteered for the role, and will be supporting Sue, and helping to support members.
Senior Vice President Adam Whittle and Assistant Secretary Linda Cotton
Special thanks too for those who also do so much for the club. Holly Savage has been heading up our events efforts for the past 2 years, and has made a success of so many lunches for us. Thank you Holly. Then there is the Committee - a group of members who sacrifice their time to get together, to support and guide our work. Thank you to all, and we are looking for some new members to step up and get involved. So if you would like to join the Committee please email Sue Henney, propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com
Port Secretary Sue Henney, Events Manager Holly Savage and Treasurer & First Thursday host Anneley Pickles
PROPELLERCLUB
PROPELLER CLUB AWARDS
CELEBRATING OUR PEOPLE FIRST ANNUAL PROPELLER CLUB LIVERPOOL AWARDS
every year propeller club chapters around the world reward and recognise the good things that great people do. this year we handed out our first Propeller Club liverpool awards, DRUM ROLL PLEASE... We are thrilled to announce the following winners! As part of The International Propeller Club of the United States, each local chapter has to honour a selection of people across a range of categories. These are Maritime Personality of the year, Member and young member of the year.
links with maritime colleagues and groups over on the Humber and around Hull. Thank you to Paul for his amazing support.
This was the first time we have had our awards, and we were thrilled to hand out the prizes and heap plaudits upon some very special people. The prizes went to:
As our founding President, Jim has been a real driving force behind the development of the organisation. Jim has been working in the shipping industry for many years, and whether in the US, London or back home in Liverpool, he has always been a vocal presence. We wanted to thank him for the dedication, energy and vitality he brought to the role of President, and to recognise his important and vital input in making it all happen.
HOLLY SAVAGE YOUNG MEMBER OF THE YEAR Holly may be one of our younger members, but displays such an incredible maturity and professionalism. In her day job she works for KVH Media Group as Marketing Executive. For Propeller Club Liverpool, Holly has taken on the task of organising our events. What a job she has done, the lunches are proving to be an incredible success, and they are something that members and visitors look forward too.
PAUL GEORGESON MEMBER OF THE YEAR Paul had until recently been one of our Vice Presidents, however he took the difficult decision of stepping down as he feels that we need someone based locally. That hasn't stopped Paul's unstinting and wonderful support for the club. Since our founding, Paul has been on hand to do so much. He is now acting as our man in the East, as we grow our LEADINGEDGE
JIM BELLEW SPECIAL THANKS AWARD
#CHENNAI6 MARITIME PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR The six men who are now serving a 5 year prison sentence in a squalid Indian jail were convicted in the face of common sense and natural justice. These were honest, decent men who were simply working to protect seafarers in the Indian Ocean. The award was in recognition of the fact that they have suffered so much, and have done so as a result of simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time. We hope the award lifts their spirits, and those of their supporters. The family are raising funds to support the men, please give generously to the #Chennai6 https://www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jordan-wylie-1
PROPELLERIST NEWS
PROPELLERIST NEWS videotel helping crews Videotel, part of KVH Industries, has produced a series of 10 programs with accompanying workbooks that explore the many aspects of crew health onboard. The “Healthy Living at Sea” series highlights many important areas, including the benefit of eating a balanced diet, regular exercise, disease prevention, and proper working patterns to avoid fatigue and stress. Other programs in the series tackle substance abuse, safe sex, and the importance of the Statutory Medical Certificate. The last of these focuses on the responsibility of seafarers to provide honest and accurate information when undergoing a medical, including details of any prescribed medication taken to ensure enough supplies are available onboard. www.videotel.com
rob raises the spirits Rob Parkin, Maritime Sales Director at KVH Media Group spoke at one of Mersey Maritime's morning "Face to Face" sessions. Rob managed to lift the early spirits with a rousing talk on the wonders of maritime satellite communications and the importance of connectivity for crews and vessels alike. kvh.com
new appointment at ACL Great friends of the Propeller Club, the executive search and executive coaching firm Sherrington Associates has delivered a key search project for shipping line Atlantic Container Line resulting in the appointment to ACL in March of a new National Sales Manager, Steve Simpson, to lead the UK sales team. www.sherringtonassociates.co.uk/
ITCL GOOD GOING FOR CHARITY The team at non destructive testing experts, ITCL have been investing in charitable pursuits, as they have been taking part in the SticknStep 50/50 challenge. They have been raising funds by using an investment of just £50, to support the charity. The team recently took part in a Grand National themed pub crawl, buying costumes and t-shirts with our £50. We have now raised £415 and will be investing some of this to raise even more! We have a range of events organised for the rest of the year including the 3 Peaks Challenge in September! http://itcl.org.uk
PROPELLERCLUB
WHATSON
REMEMBER THE SHARED CALENDAR
Since the launch of Propeller Club Liverpool we have looked to play a unique and useful role in the local maritime community – this has seen us work with other groups to promote events, attend functions, and make sure we all know what each other is up to. In discussions with other maritime groups it became apparent that a shared “Shipping calendar” would be useful – so we have developed one… http://propellerclub.co.uk/calendar/ Thank you to the Nautical Institute, IMarEST and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers for helping us get the ball rolling. One of the issues locally had been the lack of a centralised events hub, and we hope this is a first step towards that goal. This is just a start, and we will be adding more events – so please do tell us if you are involved or hosting something you would like to see listed. We very much hope you find it useful, and that you will inundate us with more information, and the events of any other groups you would like to see involved. The system we have used is called "Teamup" – and this will allow you to sync with iOS devices into iCalendar, and there is also an Android app – as well as on your desktop. It will also be embedded on our website – and if you would like to have it on your own site we can provide the technical details to you – just ask. If you have any questions, comments or would like to help in populating the calendar, just drop us a line. Email propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com Use it, and tell others about it - it is a great tool for our local maritime community! LEADING EDGE
Thank you to all who have contributed their support, and more importantly their events...this is growing, and is the place to find out what is happening in the maritime community. So visit the website, download the App or integrate it with your own calendar on your smart phone or tablet.
FIRST THURSDAYS
FIRST THURSDAY
LIFEBLOOD OF OUR CLUB You can have all the lunches, quizzes, and sports events you like, but for Propeller Club Liverpool, it is First Thursday which is the real lifeblood of the club. These regular maritime networking events were the genesis of the Propeller Club in the city, and they remain a most vital and integral part of what we do. We are so proud to welcome our members, supporters and maritime friends to the events, and we are increasingly getting a steady flow of new guests into the city. They have heard about what we are doing, and want to sample the atmosphere for themselves. At the April event, which was sponspored by the Propeller Club, we were doubly pleased to welcome a group of Masters degree students from Liverpool John Moores (pictured right). Thanks to Stephanie Peers and LJMU lecturer Christos Kontovas for making this happen. It provided such a welcome boost of energy, ideas and a further reason for us to all gather and help each other out. Please do come along to the events, bring your colleagues, friends, clients and those who you think would enjoy mixing with maritime professionals. It is all about people, we exist to bring good people together to achieve great things. We were pleased to hear that Fort Recruitment had managed to successfully place a new Operations Manager, Robert Fitzgerald, with ITCL (The Fort team and Mike Dodd pictured right). We look forward to seeing them all at upcoming First Thursdays, and continuing the good work. The next First Thursday is sponsored by Hill Dickinson - and we will be releasing details of the event soon. This will be ticket only, as it is being hosted in their wonderful offices. So expect not only the best networking opportunities, but also one of the finest views of the river as the sun sets. We look forward to seeing you there, and make sure you visit our site to book a place www.propellerclub.co.uk LEADINGEDGE
MERSEY MARITIMEAWARDS
CONGRATULATIONS THE MERSEY MARITIME AWARDS 2017 You can learn a lot about a city or industry by the awards ceremonies they hold. So in a further sign of Liverpool and Merseyside's continued shipping renaissance, it was great to see that the 2017 Mersey Maritime Awards #mmia17 were the best yet. Walking up the steps to Anfield's amazing new main stand, there was a sense of anticipation and expectation in the air. With a host of categories, and with Propeller Club members and friends amongst the sponsors and nominees, there was a real buzz. Brookes Bell, who have been winners regularly in the awards, this year decided to give others a chance, and were proud to sponsor an award. So Managing Partner Colin Kershaw was on hand to present the award for Best Newcomer of the Year. Sadly, it wasn't to be for Propeller Club corporate members, Fort Recruitment - but Ian Buckley and Kate Birmingham took it on the chin. Hopefully recognising the honour of being nominated was some consolation.
Our genial host, Louise Minchin
Elsewhere, other Propeller Club members were dotted around the event. Table 2, the Isle of Man Register, seemed to be the focus of much attention. However, when you realise that both Sue Henney and Dick Welsh were seated there, perhaps you can understand why. Nothing says "having a good time" quite like bread baskets being worn as hats... Back on the stage, BBC Breakfast's Louise Minchin did another wonderful job of hosting. Louise is a shipping person, she understands the industry, and there is a genuine sense that she enjoys the ceremony. It is certainly great to have her around. Unfortunately more of our regular First Thursday friends narrowly missed out, as ITCL were pipped in their category, "Engineering Company of the Year" and Hill Dickinson missed out on the "Maritime Professional Services" Award. Hopefully the pain of loss was numbed by the pleasure of being nominated. Though for ITCL with a smattering of Evertonians in their number, it must have been a stretch to truly appreciate the surroundings.
Ian and Kate of Fort Recruitment
The recently opened new facilities at Anfield are simply wonderful. From welcome drinks overlooking the pitch, the views which stretch out into the Irish Sea - and incredible audio visual capabilities, it is great to have such a venue in the city. Whether you are red or blue, that is something can hopefully agree on. So congratulations to all those who were nominated, a massive well done to the winners. So too a huge thank you to the organisers - this is an awards event on a grand scale. It is a real coup for our area, and like Brookes Bell, we should all rally round to support it. Nice job everyone.
Words are not enough...
PROPELLERCLUB
MERSEY MARITIMEAWARDS
Managing Partner Colin Kershaw on stage with host Louise Minchin and winner Complete Training Solutions
SUPPORTING THE BEST NEWCOMERS IN MARITIME Brookes Bell were pleased to attend the recent Mersey Maritime Industry Awards (MMIA), along with guests from McWatt Jones PR, Richards Hogg Lindley and committee members from the Propeller Club. Now in its third year, and having outgrown the previous venue (Wallasey Town Hall), the awards were held in the magnificent new stand at Liverpool Football Club. Brookes Bell has a strong reputation at the MMIA’s, winning the inaugural ‘Global Reach Award’ in 2015 and the ‘SME Business of the Year’ last year. This year, we were pleased to sponsor the award for ‘Best Newcomer’. This award, as the name suggests, is for a new or recently established business that began trading since 1 January 2015, and the 12 judges in this category considered pace of growth or growth potential; turnover and impact on the region. Brookes Bell’s impact in the region has been well documented and our roots in Liverpool and the Merseyside area date back as far as 1903. From our humble beginnings in naval architecture and marine surveying, we now employ over 100 marine engineers, master mariners, naval architects, consulting scientists, loss adjusters, fire investigators, metallurgists, loss adjusters and NDT technicians in the UK, Singapore, Shanghai and Hong Kong. While we may have grown over the years, our head office remains in our spiritual home of Liverpool. Although it has been a long time since we could be called a ‘newcomer’, as founding members of Mersey Maritime, and the Propeller Club, Brookes Bell were pleased to sponsor the award for ‘Best Newcomer’. Competition in this category was strong but having whittled the nominations down to a short list of three; Complete Training Solutions, Propeller Club members, Fort Recruitment and MAS Consultants, the award for ‘Best Newcomer 2017’ went to Complete Training Solutions. Congratulations to all the winners and the nominees involved in this year’s awards, you all help mould and shape the future of this great maritime region. Find out more about the work of Brookes Bell at www.brookesbell.com and also check out Mersey Maritime for news of the MMIA2018 www.merseymaritime.co.uk Look forward to seeing you there. PROPELLERCLUB
THE THINGS PEOPLE DO
OUR PRIDE IN CLAIRE'S ART AT THE WILLIAMSON GALLERY
PROPELLER CLUB LIVERPOOL IS ALL SET TO CELEBRATE SEAFARERS AWARENESS WEEK WITH AN EVENT IN LIVERPOOL...AND WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT AND INPUT We are planning to host a Seafarers Awareness Week event in Liverpool on Thursday 29th June. Just how we celebrate is up to you. What format should it take? We want your input and thoughts. What do you think are the best ways to celebrate and raise awareness of seafarers?
There are two schools of thought vying for approval at the moment - one is a miniconference with speakers talking about seafarers. The other is a bit more fun...a quiz on shipping and maritime matters. Let us know what you think and share your opinions with us. As ever, email propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com for info.
WONDERFUL NEWS FOR WIRRAL VISITING CREWS...
Propeller Club Liverpool has been proudly supporting the "Expressive Art on the Mersey" project. Artist Claire McCarthy recently saw the launch of her exhibition of watercolours and oils, which capture the sheer beauty of our city and river from the Mersey Ferries. Members of the Propeller Club were onhand to join Claire at the opening of the exhibition, and we were so proud to have played a small part in the project.
Congratulations to the Liverpool Seafarers Centre, on the opening of the new Seafarers Hub in Eastham. Distibguished guests were on hand recently to formally open the centre, and Propeller Club Liverpool was in attendance. It is a fantastic facility, and will be a real boost for seafarers who call into the local area. http://liverpoolseafarerscentre.org
The exhibition of the work is on until 21 May in the wonderful setting of the Williamson Gallery in Birkenhead in April 2017. So please do get yourselves along, it is well worth it. You can find out more details at http:// williamsonartgallery.org/ Or you may even bump into Claire at upcoming First Thursdays networking events. LEADING EDGE
NOT EVEN STORM DORIS COULD STOP THIS LIFT...
Images courtesy of Armitt Group
The Armitt Group successfully managed the recent removal of two 1050 metric tonne Ship Un-Loaders from the former Tilbury power station located on the Thames, east of London. After a lengthy planning phase, with various solutions considered, Armitt’s plan was accepted by the client. Armitt project managed the operational communication, vessel agency and chartering, liaising closely with all parties to perform two large piece movements, overcoming any unforeseen issues as they arose. “From the initial draft surveys of the berth, through lashing and securing systems and the engineering calculations, notwithstanding the stringent requirements for the lashing and welding teams, Armitt worked tirelessly to propose the most economic and efficient solution that met the strict criteria of the client,” said Nicholas Marshall, Commercial Director, at the Armitt Group. “The SPMT equipment was supplied by Mammoet and worked efficiently with both machines clearing the ground pretty much as expected, with the water bags only required for one of the lifts.” “I’d particularly like to thank Armitt’s on site project manager, Scott Lang, who coordinated all operational activities in UK and Netherlands,” he continued. Armitt chartered the HHL TOKYO to uplift the machines for shipment to the Netherlands for demolition and the quality of work from the Hansa Heavy Lift Engineers proved invaluable. On arrival in the Netherlands, a suitable tug & barge combination was chartered to enable the transhipment alongside the Waalhaven port before final delivery to the demolition facilities, sourced with Armitt’s close Netherlands partner DASS. So, with two consecutive voyages, four lifting operations, four lashing operations, and four port calls all went to plan and not even storm Doris could ruin the party. Congratulations to our Propeller Club friends at Armitt...Find out more at www.armitt.co.uk PROPELLERCLUB
PROPELLERCLUB
A CALL TO ALMS
A CALL TO ALMS... One of our members, Conan O'Driscoll of Brookes Bell has been seeking ways of supporting a marine charity which is working with refugees and migrants in Greece. The charity Youth With A Mission (YWAM) is working on a a gaff-rigged steel-hulled ketch, the S/Y Next Wave, to assist with a dreadful humanitarian crisis. The vessel has even visited Liverpool in the past, so there are strong links to our city. Everyday close to a thousand refugees cross from Turkey to Lesvos on rafts. Once on the island they register to seek asylum and wait for their papers before taking a ferry to Athens. They arrive in Lesvos with only the clothes on their back which are usually soaking wet. They come with horrifying stories of war and no longer having a home. They are in need of basic necessities, hope, joy and love. That is where the Next Wave and the charitable work kicks in. YWAM working under Euro Relief is working in several of the refugee camps on the island. but the main focus is on Moria camp in Lesvos. The camp is home to about 3000 refugees stuck in very difficult and challenging circumstances.
Horrifying tales of war and suffering - and we need to help these people washing onto the shores of Greece The volunteers staying on Next Wave in Mytilene Marina are providing the following support: • Running the food, tea and clothing tents from around 9 am till 11pm. • They also provide security for family compounds so there is some separation between woman and children and single men. They are making a difference to the quality of life, the safety, security and psychological needs of the poor unfortunates who are literally washing up on the beaches of the island.
LEADING EDGE
Rows of people que up to receive these services. The clothing unit also supply soap, shampoo, toothpaste etc. when they are available. As the summer comes around once more, then one of the major issues will be shade from the punishing sun and heat. Life in the camps is hard, and the charity is working hard to make all the difference it can. Due to the drop in tourism to the island, the vessel has managed to get a good deal at the Mytilene Marina back in town. Normally private marinas are extremely expensive, especially for a 42-meter sailing vessel, up to now they have avoided them like the plague. However the change in circumstances has seen them get a reduced rate for a 12-month contract. So now they are happily berthed in a private marina, with security gate, café, restaurant, parking, water, electricity and wifi. That is the good side of things, but there is always more assistance and support needed. Conan has been working out in Greece, and became aware of the charity and the vessel, and has been in dialogue about how to support their work and to assist.
The charity are looking for volunteers donations etc and Conan is hoping to organise and appeal to assist them. He says, "It is early days yet but hopefully ourselves and Propeller Club Piraeus may be able to find ways of supporting this venture both the vessel and charity". From technical support, and paint, through to actual crew - the charity is eager to get as many hands to the pump as possible. If you would like to know more, and have some ideas on how Propeller Clubs Liverpool and Piraeus can perhaps assist, then we look forward to hearing from you. Find out more at ywamnextwave.org/
OUT & ABOUT
As ever it has been a busy few months for the Propellerists. Not just from a Propeller Club perspective, but professionally too. There are so many of us that are always out and about, whether in Liverpool, London or even farther afield if you could imagine such a thing. So here are some images from the past couple of months. Don't forget to tell us what you have been up to. We've bid farewell to the Revd Ken Peters, as he retired from the Mission to Seafarers. We've quizzed and raised funds. We've lunched, sponsored the Seafarers UK Centenary dinner...and we've even gambled, gamboled and frolicked. We've taken in art and graffiti and we've been spreading the good word about Propeller Club membership. Tweet us your images @propellerists or email them to propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com
OUT & ABOUT PROPELLERCLUB
RHL is a leading provider of independent marine claims advice. As global average adjusters, we are able to handle complex hull and machinery cases, shipyard losses, loss of hire claims and the largest general average losses. Our worldwide team includes more Fellows of the Association of Average Adjusters than any other business and our training programmes are widely recognised as among the best in the industry.
Services
Hull and Machinery Claims
Loss of Hire Claims
General Average Claims
Security Collections
Salvage, Collision and other Liability Claims
Shipbuilders’ Risks
Ship repairers’ Liability
Cruise Ship Claims
Contact Details 4th Floor Royal Liver Building Pier Head Liverpool L3 1JH Tel: +44 151 227 2175
info-liverpool@rhl-ct.com
For more information regarding RHL and the Charles Taylor Group visit:
www.rhlg.com Richards Hogg Lindley is a trading name of Charles Taylor Adjusting Limited.
OFFICERS President: Steven Jones Port Secretary: Sue Henney Vice President Adam Whittle Vice President: Terry Ogg Treasurer: Anneley Pickles COMMITTEE MEMBERS Linda Cotton, Assistant Secretary Bill Carter, InXpress Andrew Barlow, Independent David Corkish, CMA CGM Colin Kershaw, Brookes Bell Chris Farrell, Neptune Port2Port Holly Savage, KVH Media Group LEADING EDGE PRODUCTION Content, Editor, Design: Steven Jones CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence Address: C/O KVH Media Group One Derby Square, Liverpool, L2 9XX United KIngdom Email: propellerclubliverpool@gmail.com
PROPELLER CLUB LIVERPOOL IS PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:
The International Propeller Club of the United States Liverpool & North West A global business network dedicated to the promotion of the maritime industry, comerce and global trade. www.propellerclub.co.uk @propellerists