New welfare officer for Port of Esperance

LONG-time port welfare officer for The Mission to Seafarers at the Port of Esperance, Fred Lochowicz has retired.

His replacement, Robyn Blackman, says she has big shoes to fill in Fred’s footsteps who has years of dedicated service to seafarers visiting the port on WA's south coast.

Mission to Seafarers regional director for Australia and Papua New Guinea, Sue Dight, said Fred had been a steadfast advocate for seafarer welfare, providing practical care, hospitality and pastoral support to thousands of seafarers from around the world.

“His commitment, local knowledge and calm presence have helped build strong relationships with port stakeholders, volunteers and visiting crews, ensuring Esperance is recognised as a welcoming and supportive port,” Ms Dight said.

“Fred’s contribution to seafarer welfare in Esperance has been exceptional.

“He has embodied the Mission’s values of compassion, consistency and care, and his legacy will be felt for many years to come.”

Replacement Robyn Blackman said she had a long association with the port, following in the footsteps of her father who worked on the wharf.

When she saw the Mission advertising for volunteers Robyn volunteered as a driver, but then she heard that Fred was retiring she decided that was the job for her.

“I thought, hang on, everything I’ve done in my life is leading up to this so why not?” Robyn said.

She recognised that there are plenty of challenges in the job.

“But the inspiration that I have for Esperance in sharing it with seafarers arriving at the port is quite inspiring.

“The first time I actually took some of the crew out to one of our beaches, which are absolutely beautiful, they were semi-quiet in the bus, but coming back they were so loud, and just so full of joy as well.

“It's rewarding to see them be happy. I am honoured to step into this role and build on the strong foundations Fred has established.

“Seafarers play a vital role in our global supply chains, and I look forward to supporting them during their time in our port.”

Sue Dight said Robyn brought strong local connections, a deep understanding of community engagement, and a clear commitment to supporting the wellbeing of seafarers and volunteers alike.

In her new role, Robyn will work closely with volunteers, port operators and welfare partners to ensure seafarers continue to receive high-quality support while visiting Esperance, including transport, connectivity, practical assistance and a welcoming place to rest.

“The Mission to Seafarers extends its sincere thanks to Fred Lochowicz for his outstanding service and warmly welcomes Robyn Blackman to her new role,” Ms Dight said.

Southern Ports acting regional manager – Esperance, Greg Solly, thanked Fred for his long-time commitment to serving the visiting seafarers at the Port of Esperance, noting how pleased he was to see the Esperance community answer the call to support the local Mission to Seafarers branch through a boost in local volunteers.

“Mission to Seafarers do a tremendous job supporting our operations at the Port by providing well-earned shore leave opportunities to the thousands of hardworking seafarers visiting Esperance annually,” Mr Solly said.

“Fred has been an outstanding contributor for the Mission and a great advocate for seafarer welfare for almost two decades and we all wish him well.

“I’m confident the new team of volunteers, led by Robyn, will build on the strong foundation created by Fred and Southern Ports will continue to support them through our Port Welfare Committee and other initiatives.”