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Posted by David Sexton
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2 July, 2026
TRIBUTES have flowed for respected industry figure David Sterrett, who passed away this week just short of his 85th birthday.
Dr Sterrett had an impact in several maritime roles over the years including as managing director of ASP Ship Management, as chief of the Australian Shipowners Association (now Maritime Industry Australia) and with the Australian Maritime College.
Maritime Industry Australia chief executive Angela Gillham said MIAL was “saddened to hear of the passing of David Sterrett” noting he had made “an outstanding contribution to the Australian industry”.
“In recognition of his leadership and contribution to our industry, David was made an inaugural honorary member of MIAL,” Ms Gillham said.
“Our thoughts are with David's family at this sad time.”
Former ANL managing director and Mission to Seafarers Victoria chair, John Lines AM, said David Sterrett was “a person of high intelligence with a solid grounding from a young age on all matters involved with ship maintenance and operations”.
“His leadership of ASP saw the business grow and prosper. May he rest in peace,” Mr Lines said.
ASP Ship Management Group chief operating officer, Bob Bird, spoke of his contribution to training.
“From his recruitment from Bibby Line in the UK to take charge as CEO of the newly formed ASP joint venture in the early nineties in Melbourne, through to his significant contribution as chair of ASA and not to forget his major commitment to the training of young seafarers on the board of the AMC, he will be fondly remembered by so many in the maritime industry,” Mr Bird said.
In a statement to DCN, the Australian Maritime College said staff were “saddened to learn of the passing of Dr David Sterrett”.
Dr Sterrett was a member of the Australian Maritime College Council from 1995 and chair of the AMC council from August 2003 until December 2007. He was also on the board of AMC Search.
“[He] made a significant contribution to AMC through his experience in shipping, management and his marine engineer background,” the AMC statement read.
“In recognition of his commitment to the advancement of the maritime industry and his services to the Australian Maritime College, especially for his leadership role in the integration of the Australian Maritime College with the University of Tasmania, David was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Engineering at the Graduation ceremony in March 2007.
“He will be sadly missed.”
A funeral is to be held at Federation Chapel, Lilydale Memorial Park, at 11.45am on Friday 10 July.
