THE SUN shone brightly over the Merchant Navy Memorial in Canberra on Sunday for the 35th Annual Commemoration of the National Merchant Navy War Memorial.
The service brought together members of the armed forces, diplomatic community, government representatives and the maritime industry to pay tribute to Australia’s merchant seafarers who served in times of war and peace.
Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund chair Sean Barrett welcomed attendees to the service, his second since assuming the role in 2024. He was joined by Sister Mary Leahy and later John Kewa, who each led prayers.
As is tradition, one of the first orders of the ceremony was to honour those who have crossed the bar since last year’s commemoration, including Don Kennedy OAM, who passed away just two weeks after the 2024 service. Mr Barrett also welcomed Tom Curry, who was the only veteran present at this year’s event.
The reading was delivered by former AMSA CEO and newly elected Merchant Navy board director Mick Kinley. Other new board members welcomed at the ceremony included AMSA’s Catherine Linley.
The 2025 Merchant Navy address was delivered by distinguished guest Andrew Kefford, deputy secretary for policy and program.
Mr Kefford reflected on the enduring legacy of the memorial, “dedicated 35 years ago, far from the sea, yet still an enduring monument to those who played such a vital role in Australia’s war efforts.”
He reminded attendees that half of the Australian merchant seamen killed in the Second World War died within Australia’s own waters, recounting the story of 16-year-old deckhand Billy Rushford, one of 38 crew lost when the SS Iron Crown was torpedoed off Gabo Island in 1942.
Quoting General Douglas MacArthur, Mr Kefford said merchant seafarers “brought us our lifeblood - and they paid for it,” noting that their courage and sacrifice continue to inspire those who serve at sea today.
Representatives of Australia, UK and USA at the annual commemoration. Image: Lindsay Reed
Following a minute’s silence, wreaths were laid by representatives of several organisations and nations, including Lieutenant Commander Gemma Mountney, RAN, on behalf of the Chief of Navy; Captain Josh Fagan, United States Navy, representing the Embassy of the United States of America; Lieutenant Ollie Gray, Royal Marines, representing the High Commission of the United Kingdom; and Commander Zea Jones, Royal New Zealand Navy, representing the High Commission of New Zealand.
Wreaths were also laid on behalf of the RSL, AMSA, AMWS and Daily Cargo News, among many others.
The commemoration remains a significant event on the maritime calendar, bringing together members of the merchant navy community, industry and government to honour those who served and those who continue to keep the tradition alive.
The next annual commemoration will be held in Canberra in October 2026.
View images from the event.