Industry marks International Day of the Seafarer

INDUSTRY has marked International Day of the Seafarer, noting the contribution of mariners across the globe and for Australia.

In a statement, Maritime Industry Australia noted the world’s fifth largest user of shipping, Australians were “all beneficiaries of this invisible workforce that maximises the benefits of our natural resources, brings us critical medicines, machinery and products from across the seas and delivers all of the high quality, in demand and locally grown and produced products to the global market”.

MIAL chief executive Angela Gillham said in Australia the amazing work of seafarers was often overlooked.

“We have seen it during COVID-19 and through wars — this is a workforce that keeps the world moving and is absolutely essential to our island nation,” Ms Gillham said.

“Australia benefits hugely from the hard work and dedication of this global workforce. Equally, as a nation, we must double down on efforts to develop and nurture our own domestic seafarer workforce to develop strategically important skills that support our national interests and deliver the sovereign maritime capability that we need.”

Shipping Australia chief executive Melwyn Noronha said seafaring "is now, always has been, and probably always will be a remarkably difficult job owing to the physical challenges, exposure to the marine environment, the high-risk nature, and, of course, separation from family, friends and culture".

"So to all seafarers – whenever and wherever they may be – today, our thoughts are with you," Captain Noronha wrote.

"You have our thanks, and our best wishes for your future."

Several Australian ports also posted reflecting on the significance of the day.

In a social media post, Port of Melbourne noted this year’s theme, “Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks”, was "a powerful reminder of the often unseen contribution seafarers make, spending months away from home and navigating the challenges of life at sea so that goods can reach our shores".

Commenting on social media, Pilbara Ports Authority (PPA) thanked seafarers "for their commitment, resilience and the vital role they play every day, often far from home".

"Each year in the Pilbara, there are more than 150,000 seafarer visits, supporting more than 8000 vessel arrivals, enabling the movement of $153 billion in commodities — an incredible effort by those who are often far from home," PPA stated.

"We acknowledge the dedication and sacrifices seafarers make and remain committed to supporting their wellbeing."

The International Day of the Seafarer was first developed at a Diplomatic Conference in Manila, Philippines, home to many of the world’s seafarers.

This conference in 2010 marked the adoption of a significant changes to the Standards of Training and Certification for Watchkeepers (STCW) Convention.