CHRISTMAS spirit was in abundance at Port Botany recently when more than 50 volunteers from across the port community united to pack gift bags for seafarers.
Staff from the Port Authority of New South Wales, New South Wales Ports, WISTA, Engage Marine, DCN, Ampol and others united for an annual event aimed at boosting seafarers’ mental health.
Svitzer Australia donated the barbecue lunch, while additional support came from the NSW Seafarers Welfare Fund (SWF) which is backed by PANSW, NSW Ports and the Port of Newcastle.
Mission to Seafarers Sydney chief executive Clayton Strong said for seafarers who often hadn’t seen their families for many months, a gift bag could improve mental health.
“The ship visits from Sister Mary [Leahy of Stella Maris] and our [MtS] chaplains are a valuable support at this often-difficult time, as well as throughout the year,” Mr Strong said.
Sister Mary Leahy of Stella Maris said there now would be another 2000 toy koalas bringing smiles around the world thanks to the volunteers’ hard work.
She said simple gifts were a constant reminder for seafarers that Sydney’s port community cared.
“The community spirit today was wonderful. We saw the flourishing of humanity, friendship, generosity and the spirit of Christmas in action,” Sister Mary said, praising the work of volunteer organiser Michael Kelly.
Pilots are to deliver gift bags including cute koalas, Aussie fridge magnets, socks and even handwritten Christmas cards directly to ships during December.
The PANSW has also helped support seafarers in need this festive season by donating a prize of a Sydney Harbour trip on their marine firefighting vessel.
Qube Ports stevedore shift manager Teanna Heta rallied 16 volunteers through WISTA.
“I work with lots of seafarers and it can be very lonely for them so far from home. It must be even harder at Christmas,” Ms Heta said.
“This is just a small way to show them we value their work.”
Freight power couple Paul and Caroline Zalai attended after hearing Michael Kelly’s call for support at the recent DCN Shipping and Maritime Industry Awards.
Attending on his birthday, Paul Zalai said he “thought it was a great idea; it’s an easy way to give back and help seafarers, especially when lots of people get involved”.
“It’s been a wonderful industry community event; I’ve reconnected with people I haven’t seen for years.”
A volunteer from NSW Ports named Mark who has previously served with the State Emergency Service said Christmas was “all about giving”.
“The world revolves around volunteering so take the chance when you can,” he said.
“It’s a great way to help seafarers and connect with old friends and make new ones.”
DCN publisher Lindsay Reed delivered sweet treats and stayed to fill bags.
“It’s wonderful to see everyone come together like this, there’s such a spirit of joy,” Ms Reed said,
Former Port Hedland pilot Ian Anderson said it was a great opportunity to help.
“You just never really know what [seafarers] are going through, but you can see from their smiles these bags are worth the effort,” Mr Anderson said.
Port Authority marine pilot and key organiser Michael Kelly said port workers returned “year after year” because they could see the happiness it brought.
“It’s a small gesture on our part, but it can have a huge impact on someone’s welfare,” he said.