Propeller Club London

Away Day with the Pirates

2011-11-18T16:58:50+00:00

On Tuesday, 8th November we joined up with the TSS group (with whom we share a number of joint members) for a convivial well attended lunch at the splendid East India Club in St. James's Square. Our TSS host Captain Graham Finch provided a warm ambience and fulsome welcome to Propeller Club members and guests who were treated to an excellent presentation from Karen Jacques, Chief Operations Officer at Dryad Maritime Intelligence Services.

Karen is a practitioner in Anti-Piracy operations who spent 9 years at sea with the Royal Navy many of them as a Boarding Officer. Fortunately she didn’t need to call upon these skills as her presentation was well received. Her company supports a large number of shipping companies, and owners in assessing and anticipating the risk to their ships, cargoes and crews. We look forward to continued collaboration with TSS and to welcoming Karen aboard as a Propeller Club member!

Celebrating 75 Years in Style

2011-11-18T14:57:40+00:00

If a week is a long time in politics then 75 years in the life of a US maritime fraternity organization based in London is an eternity. On 24^th October 2011 over 100 members, guests and specially invited dignitaries gathered on the mezzanine of the International Maritime Organization’s building on the banks of the Thames to celebrate this significant anniversary. Three quarters of a century after its inaugural lunch in the American Embassy in Grosvenor Square the Port of London Propeller Club of the United States was pleased to acknowledge the fact that it had survived the blitz, numerous wars and recessions, the transients of the world shipping and competition from every other maritime focused society in London.

At the glitzy reception we were joined by our honorary member and host for the evening Mr Efthimios Mitropoulos, Secretary General of IMO and Commander John (Jack) Shriver USN Asst. Naval Attaché and his wife Kasandra. We were also pleased to welcome Mr Andrew Riester Exec VP from Propeller Club Headquarters who amongst many other VIPs including friends, former speakers and industry leaders enjoyed the fellowship, fine food and fraternity which is the trademark of our organization. Particular thanks go to Mr John P McDonald President of ABS Europe Div and his crew for their continued support and sponsorship.

Our new President Cmdr. Ian Millen RN welcomed members and friends with a spicy extract of the club’s history and some kind words from Mr Mitropoulos set the tone for a memorable occasion, a flavour of which can be gleaned from the photos in the Gallery. Compliments and thanks go to David Randell and his wife Elizebeth for their sterling work in putting the event together ably assisted by treasurer Philip Hayden

Worse Things Happen at Sea!

2011-11-18T06:18:55+00:00

Lunch on the 27th of September provided us all with a reminder (in case it was needed) of the fallibility of human behaviour and the perils of the sea. Our guest speaker Stephen Clinch, Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents at the Marine Accident Investigation Branch brought with him “tales of the unexpected” and examples of “how not to run a ship”. With slides and stories Stephen took us back
to some celebrated disasters with insight into the whys and wherefores. A riveting presentation that had us welded to our seats.

A Change of Command

2011-11-18T06:11:59+00:00

Following the election by the members at the AGM on the 29^thJune 2011 Commander Ian Millen RN Rtrd. was duly elected president with immediate effect. We welcome Ian and look forward to the development of the club under his leadership. Our thanks go to Jim Bellew for the progress made during the four years of his presidency. The full results of the election are as follows:

President: Commander Ian Millen RN: Vice Presidents: Jim Bellew, Dimitrios Kranios, Rear-Admiral Michael Stacey CB, RN, Hon Sec: David Randell, Hon Treasurer: Philip Hayden

Governors: John Byrne, Patrick Hammerton, Geoffrey Murphy, Nigel Smith, Gillian Smyth, Sue Terpilowski, George Zarvanos.

NOTE: David Randell has agreed to continue as Secretary for a further year.However, he is still anxious to stand down and hopes a successor will be found soon. Please give this matter your urgent consideration.

Annual Subscriptions 2011/2012

At the AGM revised subscription rates were agreed. This is the first increase for at least 12 years! The new rates, which apply from 1^stSeptember 2011, are set out below. A pro-forma invoice will be sent to members in September.

SUBSCRIPTION 2011/2012

Full Member £40

Retired Member (65 years and over) £20

Corporate Membership (up to 3 representatives) £75

Honorary Members Nil

Following the AGM at the well-attended lunch on the 29^thmembers and guests were informed and entertained by Captain John Noble, a Marine Consultant, who is currently General Manager of the International Salvage Union. John shared with us an overview of the salvage business and some interesting stories based on his experiences.

The Year of the Seafarer – a perspective from Mr Michael Grey, MBE

2011-03-23T09:50:44+00:00

Members and guests attending our lunch on the 11th of January were treated to the eloquence and perception of Michael Grey's assessment of 2010-The Year of the Seafarer. Critical observations based on his knowledge and understanding of the industry were tempered with the realities of the challenges and changes impacting our industry. Michael's perspective as a writer, shipping journalist and former editor of Lloyd's List provided a reasoned and balanced appraisal of the achievements and limitations of the past 12 months.

This insightful analysis was remarkably enhanced with a response from our honorary member and Secretary General of IMO, Efthimios Mitropoulos whose inspiration created the Year of the Seafarer as a vehicle to raise the consciousness regarding the lives and contributions of the men and women who serve at sea. Our largest attendance since our annual dinner expanded by the welcome participation of the TSS group were informed and entertained and subsequently invited to join in an enlightened debate on
the ethos and values of our industry. This premier league match between two maritime heavyweights sent members and guests home (or off to the bar) with a buzz of excitement and inspiration on a topic close to everyone's heart.

Huw Mosford brings cheer and charity to our Christmas party

2011-03-23T09:46:04+00:00

The Revd Canon Huw Mosford, Director of Chaplaincy, at the Mission to Seafarers continued our tradition of sharing our Christmas feast with his worthy organization. Once again we were entertained with anecdotes and stories from all corners of the world (including Wales). Playing to a full house the banter and camaraderie extended beyond the lunch and into the Naval club bar (and for those with a late pass, further afield). In keeping with the festive tradition the club made a donation on behalf of its members many of whom have directly benefited from the support and care of the Mission around the world.

Forthcomming Events - Lunch at The Naval Club

2011-03-09T15:44:15+00:00

On Thursday 24^th March 2011 - 1230 for 1pm - (Bar open from 12 noon) we are pleased to announce that our guest and speaker at this Lunch will be

Chris Jones of the International Transport Workers’ Federation

Chris is with the Seafarers Section of the Federation. The ITF has been helping seafarers since 1896 and represents their interests worldwide. Chris will focus on many of the serious problems facing his members today.

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To book a place either complete the form attached and send together with your cheque for £42.00 per person to David Randell OR reserve a place by e-mail followed by your cheque. Alternatively, payment may be made by BACS. Details are on the booking form.

“So whatever happened to the King George’s fund for Sailors?”

2011-03-09T15:23:23+00:00

On the 16th of February our lunch in the Naval club had the pleasure of welcoming Commodore Barry Bryant, CVO Royal Navy Director General “Seafarers UK” which is the working title of the King George’s fund for Sailors. While many in the room were familiar with this traditional worthy charity Barry lifted the veil to expose an extremely modern and progressive organisation geared up to tackle the myriad challenges facing NGOs and charities supporting our military personnel in these difficult times. Those attending not only gained fresh insight into how the men and women that serve our nation are cared for but also discovered a wholly new prospective on charitable works in the 21st century. The high-level of professionalism required today was reflected in Barry’s excellent presentation and interaction with the members.

We were also pleased to welcome as a new member Graham Finch who is the organiser of the TSS group that joined us for our January lunch. We look forward to seeing more of him and his fellow TSS members.

Horrendous Errors and Heroic Solutions

2010-10-21T16:39:09+01:00

Our September lunch had Propeller Club member Capt Mark Hoddinott wowing a full house with his fascinating commentary and spectacular photos of maritime disasters. The salvage industry is always a great source of amazing mistakes and heroic challenges and Mark gave us an impressive selection with his expert insight and light touch humour. The lively meeting also welcomed Commander David Shutts OBE RN Rtrd, who recently joined Inchcape Shipping Services as our latest new member.

How not to miss the boat - Iain Chalmers of SERCO

2010-09-06T17:07:00+01:00

On Wednesday the 27th of October Iain Chalmers Divisional Operations Director, of SERCO providing us with a glimpse of the intricacies of maritime supply. Prior to getting his feet wet in the maritime industry Iain was a high flyer with the RAF as Tornado Squadron Commander and worked for the MOD in Strategic Influence and Information Operations. With a number of members connected on one side or the other to the challenging game of marine supply the debate was animated and enthusiastically contributed too by those present. Iain gave us an enjoyable session and plenty to talk about at the bar afterwards. Having managed a squadron of Tornados and wrestled his way around the MOD a joust with a bunch of landbased mariners was pure recreation. A good time was had by all!

"Worse things happen at sea"

2010-05-05T16:22:50+01:00

The old addage "worse things happen at sea" rang true as our guest speaker for lunch on the 18th March 2010 Lt Cdr Gareth McHale, Royal Navy impressed and entertained us with his excellent presentation entitled ‘Those in Peril’. The topic covered maritime search and rescue with experiences drawn from Gareth working life in the Royal Navy as a navigator, helicopter observer, sea command, and some time with the MOD. Gareth’s oratory skills were in full flow and it was clear that his status as current UK & Ireland Speaking Champion within the Toastmaster International organisation was well deserved. Yet another club luncheon ended with an animated Q&A and convivial banter – thanks to Gareth and our enlivened members.

Moves are afoot to arrange a humerous speaking duel between Gareth and Ian Millen - watch this space for details of this RN Spectacular - eat your heart out Simon Cowell!

Annual Dinner 2010 Sponsored by the American Bureau of Shipping

2010-03-14T15:46:14+00:00

The 18th of February saw a full house at the Naval Club to enjoy our annual dinner sponsored by the American Bureau of Shipping with Robert Spencer VP ABS Europe in attendance. Our guest speaker Alan Marsh, CEO of Braemar Shipping Services, provided an insightful viewpoint of the market in these challenging times which provoked a lively Q&A session. Captain Andy Winbow represented IMO which declared this to be the Year of the Seafarer in recognition of which Club President Jim Bellew recited an anonymous poem to toast the "forgotten seafarer". This verse is available on the site. The dinner went off in grand style and the convivial mood is conveyed by the pictures in the gallery.

Thanks and appreciation goes to ABS for its continued support and Gillian Smyth, Manager Communications and Nicola Eyles for their grand efforts and contribution to the event.

A Toast to Forgotten Seafers

2010-03-13T11:58:48+00:00

A marvellous creation, her builder's pride and joy

The hope of all her owners as she swings upon the buoy

Her siren shrieks it's farewell note, and proudly on her way

The brand new liner moves ahead in grandeur down the bay.

The passengers in festive mood, 'mid laughter, jest and quip

With every keen delight, enjoy thee great ship's maiden trip

She's sure to break the record, she'll do 30 knots or more

Is the hope of all aboard her, as she leaves her native shore.

Upon the bridge, her Captain proud, like every skipper bold

Is bedecked in gorgeous raiment of navy blue and gold

All eyes are fixed upon him - it's going to his head

He stops to drop the pilot, then rings down "Full Ahead".

And down below the battle starts, for the trophy of the seas

by engineers, not clad in gold, but greasy dungarees

On deck the scene is blithe and fair, with ladies, song and wine

But hell is popping down below, beneath the Plimsoll line.

The Chief lays out his orders to his officers below

and they obey his mandates as about their tasks they go

Steam pressure must not fluctuate; the bearings must not run hot

The revolutions must not drop, to make 30 knots.

At dinner the first night out, the Captain proudly boasts

"We'll surely break the record", the gallant ship he toasts

The task of breaking records greyed no hairs upon his head

His contribution ended when he rang down "Full Ahead".

Thru weary days and sleepless nights to consummate the dream

The engineers slave ceaselessly, 'til Ambrose Lights abeam

The record's been broken, average, "thirty one point four!"

The Captain wears a broad gold stripe - he's now the Commodore!

And yes - he claims the credit for what other men have done

He boasts thru press and radio the victory he's won

Neglecting even to mention as he swings his ballyhoo

The men of brain and brawn who pushed the great ship thru.

The moral of this poem is, quite conclusively

That glory seldom comes to those who win the victory

So keep this simple thought in mind, admiring record trips

The men behind the throttle are the men who drive the ships.

Author: Unknown

Cargo Liners: An Illustrated History (Hardcover)

2010-03-13T11:51:52+00:00

A new book from Past President and long-standing club member Lord Greenway deserves your scrutiny. Ambrose comprehensively covers the era of the cargo liner from its Liverpool origin in the 1860s through the exciting period as the nations of the world bounced back from World War II to compete on the oceans with style and grace. Ending with its decline as the container revolution changed shipping forever. These were the days when ships looked like ships rather than office blocks! The book is full of excellent pictures but more importantly provides background and history on the ships, ship types, their companies and the trade in general. Within these pages the reader can enter the world inhabited by the last true Mariners. No slight is intended on today's seafarers but the life and culture of those times was closer to the traditions of men committed to a life and love of the sea. The ships had character and the industry style. Without overstating it Ambrose manages to convey this romance to the cognoscenti.

To check out the book click on the link below:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Ambrose+Greenway&x=12&y=14

Maritime Crime - Hostage and Piracy

2010-01-07T22:51:17+00:00

Our next meeting on the 12th January 2010 offers intriguing insight into the most heinous crimes afloat. The ancient and modern practices of hostage taking and piracy will be addresses by seasoned expert Suzanne Williams QPM. Suzanne served as a police officer for 32 years, she retired last year. Her final role saw her heading the Hostage Crisis Unit at New Scotland Yard.

Suzanne has previously contributed to covert policing and served on numerous specialist squads. This work saw her involvement in many kidnaps, extortions and high profile sieges in London. She is an accredited Senior Investigator and has also formed part of the Royalty Protection Group working from Buckingham Palace.

Suzanne qualified as a National Police Hostage Negotiator in 1991, since then Sue has completed numerous international negotiation courses and was a member of the UK directing staff on the national course. Her involvement in maritime violence began in 1996 when she was requested on behalf of a British Coroner to investigate a suspicious death at sea perpetrated by pirates. Since that date Sue has contributed to various working groups around the legislation and prevention of piracy. She has assisted in both the preparation and execution of Counter Terrorist exercises involving kidnap and hostage negotiation, many of which were of a maritime nature.

In 2004 Suzanne was awarded the Queen's Police Medal as part of the Queen's Birthday Honours, in recognition of her commitment to the fields of kidnap and negotiation. Due to her extensive experience in these areas she often formed part of the UK government response to overseas hostage taking with regard to negotiation and Crisis Management. Suzanne has also advised many foreign governments on their responses to international kidnapping. Suzanne who has previously visited the club as a guest is a crisis management adviser to Special Contigency Risks Ltd (Lloyds Broker)

Christmas Lunch - Stereo Version

2010-01-07T14:54:11+00:00

On the 3rd Dec 2009 we once again welcomed the Secretary General of the Mission to Seafarers only this year we got two helpings of Christmas fare. Our old friend Rev'd Canon Bill Christianson brought along his recently appointed successor Rev'd Tom Heffer who was warmly welcomed by all. Bill also received the best wishes of the crowded gathering as he outlined his plans for the next stage of his career (retirement is not an appropriate word). Tom regaled the festive revellers with a reminder of the great work and expanding commitment of the Mission, liberally spiced with humour and anecdote. The Mission to Seafarers is a worthy cause that deserves all of our support and quite a number at the lunch had benefited from the Mission's support in some foreign port in previous times.Time to give back? Anyone needing an update or wishing to help support the vital work (particularly in these stressed times) performed by our friends at the Mission can find a direct link on this site.

The Thoughts of Chairman Jim

2010-01-07T13:19:25+00:00

Lunch on the 27th October 2009 presented James Davis CBE, Chairman of the International Maritime Industries Forum amongst other significant marine involvements, with the opportunity to engage with old friends and new on a range of issues related to ships and shipping. Jim's avuncular style and sparkling repartee provided an entertaining and lively lunch with members and guests warmly responding to the commentary, stories and anecdotes of a "maritime master". We welcome Jim back as a returning member.

“Walter clears the air”

2010-01-07T12:02:00+00:00

On the 15th Sept 2009 Walter Baenzinger, Chief Marine Engineer of HUG Engineering AG of Switzerland ably assisted by HUGs UK MD Propeller Club member Urs Halter provided an entertaining and informative presentation on HUG’s contribution to cut the effects of climate change. Focused on the reduction of pollutants from exhaust gas emissions from diesel engines Walter succeeded in making this highly technical topic both understandable and engaging for our non-technical members while our techies demonstrated their enthusiasm with an extended Q&A session. For more info visit: www.hug-eng.ch/ or view the following PowerPoint presentation

Download The Propeller Club Presentation_15.09.2009

Past Meetigs & Speakers

2009-06-14T18:54:00+01:00

30^th June 2008

(Supper)

Commodore Jim Scorer RN, Director of Operations,

Trinity House.

17^th September 2008

Mr Philip Parry, Chairman,

Spinnaker Consulting Ltd.

30^th October 2008

Commander Ian Millen RN

3^rd December 2008

The Rev. Canon Bill Christianson,

Secretary General, The Mission to Seafarers.

12^th February 2009

(ABS Sponsored Dinner)

Mr Arthur Todd,

Fleet Director, James Fisher & Sons Ltd.

19^th March 2009

Dr Robert Treharne Jones,

Press & Publicity Officer, Leander Rowing Club.

4^th June 2009

Stephen Allum, Independent Risk Consultant

Risk and reward at the Naval club

2009-06-14T18:27:21+01:00

A good attendance at lunch on the fourth of June followed our AGM with the diners rewarded with an excellent speech on risk from Lloyds broker Stephen Allum.

With around 30 years experience in the marine and energy sectors and having worked in R&D on a broad range of project's with BP Stephen was well-equipped to relate to the breath of interests around the table.

His extensive background in safety management and participation with Aon Risk Consultants enabled Stephen to present a diverse and innovative perspective on risk and insurance that engaged the audience.

In 2007, Stephen formed Renaissance Risk to act as an independent consultant and judging from the extended Q&A session he will have no shortage of enquirers.