AFTER “an extraordinary maritime career spanning almost 60 years” Port Phillip pilot Captain David Burns has retired.
In a LinkedIn post Auriga Group paid tribute to Capt Burns’ lengthy career, which includes almost 40 years of pilotage in Melbourne and adjacent ports. Auriga noted this as the longest continuously active pilotage tenure in Victoria’s history.
Most of Capt Burns’ pilotage stint was spent with Port Phillip Sea Pilots, which he joined in 1984 before moving to Auriga’s APG in 2021. His last job was the movement of the CMA CGM Nemo service containership APL Columbus from anchorage to Webb Dock on Friday night [10 October].
“David’s career has been defined by courage, excellence, and a deep respect for the sea,” Auriga said. “From his early days as Master of [Bass Strait ro-ro] Mary Holyman, where he famously guided the rudderless vessel to safety off Tasmania’s west coast, to piloting some of the world’s largest ships, including Queen Mary II, his skill and composure under pressure have earned him admiration across the maritime community.
“Throughout his time with Auriga Melbourne, David has been a mentor, leader, and friend. His integrity, humour, and steadfast commitment to Diligentia et Honos (“Diligence and Honour”) have left an enduring mark on our organisation and the generations of pilots he has guided.
“As David embarks on a well-earned retirement, we thank him for his decades of service, leadership, and legacy. One built on professionalism, humility, and humanity.
“David has earned a place and a status very few people achieve in a lifetime - he has become an icon.
“From all of us at Auriga: fair winds and following seas, Captain Burns.”
David Burns is 79 years old.