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IN THIS ISSUEu TRAINING SPECIAL

u Twarra drydock u Women at sea u Newcastle Green Award u College graduation

IA • NEW ZEALA• AUSTRAL

HOUSE JOURNAL OF THE ASP SHIP MANAGEMENT GROUP

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2 ASPECTS MAY 2014

Training: Our commitment David Borcoski Group Managing Director

Cover Picture:Confi ned Space Entry Training February 2014.From left: Capt Mlinder Erakovic, C/Eng Nicolaas Hoefhamer, John Bird, Peter Stiles (donning tank), Stephen Walton, Premraj Pullai, Melissa Morgan (obscured), Grenville Hines (with tank), Steven Andrew and Shawn Lindenmuth.

ASPectsHouse Journal of the ASP Ship Management Group

Editor: Nigel PorteousEditorial Consultant: Bryan Reid

Design: Paul Miller Illustration & Design

Correspondence to: The Editor, ASP Ship Management473 St Kilda Road, Melbourne Vic 3004 Australia

Tel: +61 3 9211 9379 Email: nporteous@aspships.com

At a recent cadet graduation ceremony in the Philippines a telling point was made by Capt Denzil D’Souza, Marine Operations and Safety Manager for ASP Tanker Management, when he said that the more advanced and sophisticated ships of the future will need to be manned by fewer, but better educated and trained offi cers and crew.

But he also added that skilled and experienced seagoing staff are essential for today’s vessels, even when considered from the single perspective of the safe operation of the vessel.

Thus, ASP Group’s heavy concentration on training, both on board and ashore, in the safe and effi cient running of our vessels will remain a key element in the Group’s business philosophy.

Reports in this issue of ASPects show how this training philosophy is being carried out with vigour and acknowledgment of its many different aspects. Professional input on many other issues of shipping industry best practice and compliance with port and fl ag state security measures, has also been discussed. This is highly important for the avoidance of ship detentions and other problems.

In Mumbai, the topics covered at an ASP Tanker Management seminar included situational awareness, maritime safety initiatives and learning from shipboard incidents.

As well as shore-based seminars and group training meetings, on board training is also a continuing initiative, comprising of comprehensive 4-5

day training voyages conducted by ASP Australia Fleet Training Superintendent Capt Tim Tamani on Australian and New Zealand vessels.

The recent establishment of an ASP Training Centre in the use of Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) takes us further into the future of navigation, as traditional paper charts become redundant.

ASP’s ECDIS simulator in Mumbai offers a comprehensive training solution complying with offi cial industry requirements meeting the objectives and training requirements specifi ed by the IMO. The ECDIS simulator allows trainees to practice the theoretical concepts, as well as becoming familiar with the operational menus of the ECDIS software.

Classifi cation approved

Congratulations are due to ASP Crew Management Myanmar for gaining approval from the Japanese based international ClassNK classifi cation society for conformity with its Standards for Seafarer Recruitment and Placement Service Providers, and compliance with the requirements of MLC (2006), and the provisions of the Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance.

Women at sea

ASP Group has always had a policy of encouraging the recruitment and training of women seafarers, in line with the trend in the shipping industry generally. In this issue of ASPects we see how this is being carried out by ourselves and other companies.

Farewell to veteran

We pay tribute to Capt Brian Lewis, who retired recently at the age of 82, after a varied career of almost 70 years in the shipping industry, at sea in command of a number of merchant ships, and as a Port Phillip pilot, as well as in tug and salvage administration. We wish him well.

Green Flag Award

ASP Ship Management in Newcastle, UK, is one of only fi ve bulk carrier operators to hold the prestigious Green Award Certifi cation.

The award entitles the ASP managed Rio Tinto Marine bauxite carriers operating on the Australian coast to fl y the Green Flag of the Green Award Foundation. This promotes high standards for safe operations and environmental management, by subjecting companies and their ships through a rigorous audit process.

IMEC membership

ASP Group has renewed its membership of the International Maritime Employers Council for 2014. IMEC is the only international employers’ organisation dedicated to maritime industrial relations.

Travel initiative

An interesting initiative by Mariner Travel is the establishment of a $50 reward towards travel costs by booking an international air fare with Mariner Travel or referring someone else to make a booking. It is also pleasing to note that Mariner Travel is obtaining increased business in the cruise ship sector.

Community benefi t

ASP Group encourages community involvement. Staff of ASP Manila, which is active with a local Rotary Club were among Club members attending a thanksgiving function at Niconor Garcia Elementary School in March, and staged by benefi ciaries of the ‘Wellness and Feeding Program’ sponsored by Rotary. ASP Manila participates in Rotary projects such as medical missions,tree planting, natural disaster assistance and environmental clean ups.

New staff members

We welcome Phil Jones, the recently appointed IR/HR Manager for ASP Australia Crew Management and Paul Dunn, Travel Consultant at Mariner Travel.

Both of them come to ASP with a wealth of experience. We wish them well.

Help for Mission

ASP is always active in support for the Mission to Seafarers. Recently ASP has assisted The Mission in Portland, Australia to obtain a new engine to get an old bus operational again, used to transport seafarers from visiting vessels in the port.

Fleet expansion

ASP India has taken over management of the 21,538dwt container vessel Tian Yi owned by X-Press Feeders, a company which has been operating in South-east Asia for 40 years. She is a valuable addition to the ASP fl eet.

ASPECTS MAY 2014 3

RTM Twarra drydock

ASP UK retains coveted Green AwardASP UK has been re-certifi ed by the ‘Green Award Foundation’ and is one of only fi ve bulk carrier operators to hold the certifi cation.

The award entitles the ASP managed Rio Tinto Marine bauxite carriers operating on the Australian coast to fl y the prestigious Green Flag of the Green Award Foundation. This promotes high standards for safety operations and environmental management on ships by subjecting companies and their ships through a rigorous audit process.

ASP UK General Manager Keith Brown and (Ship Manager) Robert Unwin proudly display the Green Flag in their offi ce.

The Green Award Foundation is a neutral, independent foundation, established 1994 on the initiative of the Rotterdam Municipal Port Management and the Dutch Ministry of Transport. Since January 1 2000, Green Award has been completely independent.

The Green Award bestows international recognition on extra clean, extra safe seagoing vessels, which are more than welcome in any seaport. As a totally independent and neutral, non-profi t organisation, Green Award seeks to create market preference for quality tonnage resulting in fewer incidents and accidents that can jeopardize the marine environment.

ASP UK General Manager Keith Brown told ASPects:

“The Newcastle offi ce is proud to have been awarded this additional accreditation. Rio Tinto Marine have encouraged ASP Ship Management in Newcastle to retain this prestigious award that encourages continual improvement in shipping.

The Green Award is a voluntary Compliance Scheme which entails meeting standards set by the Green Award Foundation, which are higher than the regulatory standards.

Ship owners agree that they want their vessels in the scheme (acknowledging the costs of additional audits). We then invite the GA Foundation to our offi ce to audit us for compliance to the scheme.

Once the offi ce is audited, the surveyors visit each vessel entered into the scheme and undertake extensive audits. The advantages of the award are better quality ships and reduced risk in safety and to the environment.

Many ports around the world now offer discounts on port services to holders of the Green Award.”

The RTM Twarra has just completed her fi rst Special Survey and docking, between April 30th and May 2nd, at the HRDD Shanghai yard (Chongming Island) in China.

A routine special survey and overhaul of the main engine and other systems, was undertaken to the satisfaction of the Class Surveyor.

Furthermore, a full coating of silicon paint was applied to all of the underwater areas of the hull.

Other work included painting of accommodation spaces, funnel, main deck bulkheads and all cargo holds.

4 ASPECTS MAY 2014

Feeder ship for IndiaASP India has obtained the management contract of the 21,538dwt container vessel Tian Yi (formerly named X-press Karnaphuli). She is owned by X-Press Feeders, a company which has been operating in South-east Asia for 40 years.

Currently the vessel is trading in the Persian Gulf.

ASP India General Manager Sanjay Kelkar told ASPects that the Tian Yi was a welcome addition to the Indian based fl eet.

Tian Yi (formerly named X-press Karnaphuli):

Built at Hyundai Heavy Industries in Korea in 1997, Tian Yi is powered with a MAN B&W 6S60SMC main engine producing 12,265KW. She has a cruising speed of 19.6kts, has three MAN B&W generators for power requirements and is fi tted with bow thrusters. Two main cranes of 40mt capacity handle loading and discharge of containers. The vessel has a capacity for 1,220 teu’s. SPEC

S

ASP Manila is an active member of the Rotary Club of Makati Legazpi, and also sponsors the Niconor Garcia Elementary School.

ASP staff were among the Rotary Club members who attended a thanksgiving function in March held at the school, and staged by the student benefi ciaries of the ‘Wellness and Feeding Program’.

The children gave a lively performance and enjoyed a meal with the Rotarians and ASP Manila staff members Raquel, Rose, Sheena and Rayaza.

ASP Manila, has been an active participant in the Rotary district 3830 projects since Capt Milind Phadnis became involved 12 years ago. They have since participated with medical missions, tree planting, natural disaster assistance and environmental clean ups.

Milind said that this collaboration with Rotary creates good staff morale.

ASP supports Rotary Club

ABOVE:

In front (white shirt) incoming District Governor of Rotary District 3830 Angelito Colona with ASP staff members:

Back row from right; Rolando, Razaya.

Front row from left; Raquel, Rose Ann.

LEFT:Children enjoying a meal with Rotarians and ASP Manila staff.

ASPECTS MAY 2014 5

Warning over oily water complianceNorth P&I Club has warned its members of the importance of being ‘above suspicion’ when port authorities allege an oily water discharge that would result in multi-million dollar penalties. The warning comes in a recent issue of the Club’s loss prevention newsletter ‘Signals’.

North’s head of loss prevention Tony Baker says, “Fines under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) for bypassing a ship’s oily water separator system continue to increase. This is particularly so in the USA, where the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS) applies in parallel with the Clean Water Act.”

According to North, a ship operator was recently fi ned over US$10 million for violations of APPS and obstruction of justice. Another operator and two engineers were convicted for conspiracy, failure to maintain an oil record book, and falsifi cation of records.

Unfortunately there can also be considerable consequential losses suffered by ship owners and crews who are falsely accused of illegal discharges, says Baker. ‘These include mental trauma for senior crew members, damage to the ship operator’s reputation, off-hire claims and crew costs during long detentions, and legal costs, which are irrecoverable in the USA whether or not a case succeeds.

The Club recommends crews ensure that oily water separators are reliable, well maintained, user friendly and tamper proof so that crew members are not tempted to bypass them.

The separators should be designated as ‘critical equipment’ within the ship’s safety management system and all oily water should be accounted for in the oil record book. Most importantly crew members should be fully versed in the equipment, procedures and regulations as well as the importance of being co-operative during port state inspections.

Cdr La Jimenez and Capt D’Souza review the Guard of Honour.

Manila College GraduationCapt Denzil D’Souza, Manager Marine Operations and Safety ASP Singapore was the guest speaker at the Graduation ceremony of the Mariners Polytechnic College at Naga City, Philippines. He was accompanied by Marcelino Bautista Jr. ASP Manila Training Manager.

Cdr La Jimenez, Principal of the Mariners Polytechnic College welcomed the guests of honour. After taking the salute, Capt D’Souza reviewed the Guard of Honour with Cdr La Jimenez.

The theme for the Commencement ceremonies was “Graduates at the forefront of a technology driven era”. In his address Capt D’Souza stated that the maritime industry being one of the oldest industries in the world, plays an important role in the economic advancement of any country. He pointed out that with the rapid emergence of new

Mr Bautista, Capt D’Souza and Cdr La Jimenez meet in the Principal’s offi ce.

technologies, ships which are the main instruments of the industry, are becoming more advanced and sophisticated. In the future these kinds of vessels will be required to be manned by fewer but better educated and trained offi cers and crews.

Capt D’Souza stressed that skilled and experienced offi cers and crew are essential for the successful operation of today’s technologically advanced vessels. The growing shortage of qualifi ed and committed seafarers could have a dramatic impact, even when considered from just one perspective – the safe operation of a vessel. As some 80-90% of accidents on ships can be ascribed to human error, it is critical that seafarers be well trained, able to follow orders, manage risks and solve problems.

6 ASPECTS MAY 2014

A new International Maritime Organization (IMO) fi lm promoting the role of women in the maritime sector was launched during a conference on the Development of a Global Strategy for Women Seafarers.

The conference, held in Busan, Korea last year, organized and funded by the Government of the Republic of Korea together with the IMO, adopted a declaration of intent towards the development of a Global Strategy for Women Seafarers.

Shipping has historically been a male dominated industry and that tradition runs long and deep. However, through its global program on the Integration of Women in the Maritime Sector (IWMS), IMO is making a concerted effort to help the industry move on from that tradition and to help women achieve a representation within it, that is more in keeping with 21st century expectations.

The film, “Women at the helm”, shows how the work of IMO, and others, is promoting positive change for women in shipping, and highlights first-hand experiences from those who have already succeeded.

The conference adopted the Busan Declaration, in which the participants agreed to forge partnerships and solicit support of government agencies, as well as international and regional bodies to facilitate the implementation of a Global Strategy for Women Seafarers.

The conference also adopted a slogan to promote women seafaring: “Go to sea TOGETHER”.

IWMS was established to encourage the participation of women in the maritime sector, with regards to the training of women alongside men in national and international training institutes.

Regional harmonization has also been a key priority under the program, resulting in the establishment, through IMO support, of six regional associations for women in the maritime sector covering Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacifi c Islands.

IMO continues to support the participation of women in both shore-based and sea going posts, in line with the goals outlined under the United Nations Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 3 “Promote gender equality and empower women”, under the slogan: Training - Visibility - Recognition.

Pictured above: Capt Inga Olsen, appointed Master of the Cunard cruise vessel Queen Victoria in 2010 at the age of 43.

Nineteen members of the Brisbane branch of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) visited the tanker British Loyalty in March to have a thorough tour of the ship and get detailed briefi ngs from all departments.

WISTA is an international organisation for women in management positions involved in the maritime transportation business and related trades worldwide. It is a major player in attracting more women to the industry and in supporting them in management positions.

With networking, education and mentoring in focus, WISTA seeks to enhance members’ competence and empower career success.

WISTA already has more than 1,800 members in 32 countries worldwide, pursuing and supporting the creation of both national and international business relationships among WISTA members.

The WISTA members from Brisbane were welcomed on board by the Master, Capt Rob Spicer, who explained the safety procedures to be followed during their visit and gave a brief talk on the British Loyalty.

C/O Keith Hagen then introduced the other offi cers who explained their shipboard roles. 1st/Eng Doug Cleworth discussed his role and functions and IR Glen Mallon explained the work of an IR.

WISTA Group visit British Loyalty

New initiatives promote female crews

WOMEN AT SEA

ASP crew members (in uniform), back row: 3/O R. Miller, Dk/Cdt J. Hokin, Ch/O K. Hagen, Dk/Cdt H. Frew, 1/E D. Cleworth. Centre: Capt R. Spicer. Front: C/O M. Aucello.

ASPECTS MAY 2014 7

Four young women have been offered seagoing cadetships by the Australian shipping company Sea Swift after fi ve days on board the company’s vessel Trinity Bay on a voyage from Cairns to Torres Strait and back, according to a report in Lloyd’s List Australia.

More than 100 applications for the cadetships were received from throughout Australia and seven were selected for the voyage, after which four of the candidates were chosen.

The applicants saw Sea Swift’s operations at Lockhart River, Horn Island, Thursday Island and Seisa.

During the voyage, they completed bridge and engine room inductions and kept watches.

On return to Cairns, a selection board named Alexandra Walker and Gabriella Crowther as engineer cadets, and Kayla Brabin and Ellen Hatton as deck cadets.

The Sea Swift Marine cadetship program consists of training at sea, and courses at the Cairns International Maritime College.

Not pictured above: Sandra Sutherland C/C RTM Piiramu, Julie Anderson I/R RTM Twarra and Kellie Northfi eld G/P/H Larcom.

Four women selected for cadetships

ASP female crew membersASP Crew Management have also been very active in the recruitment and training of women in our seagoing workforce. This has been a policy of the Group implemented some years ago and is being expanded and encouraged. Female crew members currently serving in the ASP fl eet are:

Holly Clayton 3/OTorea

T’aki TamaniDeck Cadet

Astrid Wilson 3/O Spirit of Tasmania II

Chief Officer Jenny Cuttriss is currently serving as acting Master of the New Zealand inter-island ferry Aratere, on the voyage from Wellington to Singapore for dry-docking, and return.

New Zealand born, Jenny left the country for the first time in 1997 to start a cadetship with P&O Containers. She later worked on a Ro-Ro passenger ship for The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, completing her Chief Mates and Masters certificates. She returned to New Zealand in 2012 to serve on Aratere, where she holds the permanent position of Chief Officer.

Female NZ offi cer acting Master

ABOVE: Gabriella Crowther, Alexandra Walker and Kayla Brabin. (Ellen Hatton not pictured as she was at sea.)

Melissa Morgan Acting 3/O Torea

Vicki Morta I/R and Bianca Michael 2/O RTM Weipa

8 ASPECTS MAY 2014

Paperwork for offi cers overwhelmingOfficers are spending “eye-watering” amounts of time on paperwork, says InterManager Secretary General Capt Kuba Szymanski (pictured), and his organisation wants to work with other groups to lobby for less red tape and more standardisation, according to a recent report in the Nautilus Telegraph. Capt Szymanski said

the survey fi ndings came as no surprise and he warns that offi cers’ capacity to handle paperwork has reached overload point.

“The aviation industry realised a long time ago that pilots are there to fl y, not to do anything else. It is high time that we in shipping realised something similar”.

“Offi cers are engaged to safely navigate from A to B, to maintain their vessels and cargo, not to be negotiators in ports and canals; accountants and payroll clerks; security offi cers; network administrators; communication offi cers; fatigue experts; quality assurance auditors; purchasers and victualling offi cers.”

The requirements of ISPS and quality management, and the “nonsense” port papers, crew lists for every berth and immigration and customs papers for every country - even within the EU - and the ‘paper fl ood’ from shore to sea becomes intolerable, Capt Szymanski says.

“Offi cers would love to see simplifi cation and standardisation, especially for documents which have to be fi lled in daily, weekly, monthly,” he points out.

Key targets are medical reporting forms - with InterManager planning to develop a standardised format and to lobby for all governments to use it, rather than insisting on their own.

As well as harmonisation of documents and procedural requirements, making more use of electronic formats and stored data would drastically cut the pressure on seafarers, he argues.

The ISPS Code should be reviewed, with the emphasis placed on ports rather than ships, he adds.

Capt Szymanski says InterManager welcomes the DMA recommendation for further research into ‘work smart’ techniques. ‘There is an enormous amount of research being carried out at present, but the challenge for us is to make sure the fi ndings are implemented,” he points out.

ASP Group has renewed its membership of the International Maritime Employers Council for 2014, Group Operations and Quality Manager Vitaliy Chayka reports.

The International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC) is the only international employers’ organisation dedicated to maritime industrial relations. Established over fi fty years ago, it operates from offi ces in London, UK, and Manila in the Philippines and represents more than 180 shipping companies located throughout the world.

Members are individual shipping companies, both owners and managers, large and small, operating all types of ships including dry

ASP IMEC membership continuesbulk and container, cruise liners, livestock carriers, reefers and tankers. Together they operate more than 9,700 vessels registered in more than 50 different countries and employ more than 210,000 seafarers.

IMEC also recognises the critical need to increase the supply of high quality, professionally skilled seafarers.

The IMEC Recruitment and Training Committee was established in 2006 in order to address this requirement. It is responsible for overseeing the various IMEC training initiatives including the Cadet Training Enhanced Program, Rating to Offi cer Scheme and the English Language courses.

The International Maritime Employers’ Council

Passengers on the ASP managed ferries in the Western Islands of Scotland can now check their timetables through a specially designed app on their mobile phones.

ASP Newcastle, which handles the four separate ferry services which provide a lifeline link for three communities in the region, partnered the electronic media company Core Media Ltd in creating the phone app.

Routes are Cuan to Luing, with the vessels Belnahua and Torsa; Easdale to Seillsland, Easdale and Fladda; Lismore to Port Appin, Lismore.

In addition, the Eilean Dhuira trades between Port Aslaing and Feolin. (Featured in previous editions of ASPects).

The ferries are operated by the Scottish Argyll and Bute Council. The ferry Fladda moored at Cuan.

Timetable apps for Scottish ferries

ASPECTS MAY 2014 9

Nickel ore cargo liquefaction is suspected to be behind yet another ship casualty in Asia despite owners following rigorous cargo testing and safety procedures, according to a report in Trade Winds magazine.

The 56,720dwt Golden Union bulker Anna Bo (built 2010) developed a heavy list near Luzon on the northern coast of the Philippines in early December, carrying a cargo of nickel ore loaded in Indonesia.

The crew were safe, and with the vessel at anchor and not in any danger, the cargo had to be discharged by lighters before she was taken to a safe port.

The Anna Bo’s trade and the characteristics of the incident bear a close resemblance to previous bulker casualties in the region, involving the liquefaction of nickel ore.

An offi cial from Golden Union said the correct procedures had been followed in testing the cargo, but concerns will be raised because the casualty

involved a well regarded operator with a quality ship who is believed to have followed correct loading and stowage protocols.

In response to recent casualties, P&l insurers now make it mandatory for owners to notify them if a nickel ore cargo is to be carried in order to ensure correct testing takes place.

The Anna Bo’s insurer, the North Club, is one of the P&l Clubs that has been warning its members of the dangers of cargo liquefaction. Failure to notify insurers of a nickel-ore cargo can now compromise the insurance cover of a vessel.

P&I Clubs act on liquefaction

The Steamship Mutual P&l Club has issued a Risk Alert regarding working on deck in heavy weather after undertaking a review of 180 crew injury and death claims cases incurred during 2010-2012.

In total, there were 21 fatalities and two thirds of these involved deck personnel. The majority of those deaths involved crew being lost overboard, either washed away in heavy weather or lost in unexplained circumstances, suggestive of suicide.

In those cases where personnel were on deck in heavy weather, it appears that the risk assessment leading to the decision to deploy crew on deck was inadequate.

Masters and owners have an obligation to ensure their crews are provided with a safe workplace and that they are regularly trained in emergency procedures such as MOB drills.

COSWP Section 13.9 (Safety Work Practice) states that “no seafarer should be on deck during heavy weather unless it is absolutely necessary for the safety of the ship or crew”.

In winter conditions, on being swept overboard the casualty would almost certainly be affected by cold water shock and hypothermia which would soon cause unconsciousness and death. In view of this, wearing proper PPE such as an immersion suit and a lifejacket would significantly increase the seafarer’s chances of survival, and would also make it easier for his colleagues to rescue him.

The Club recommends the following pre-work steps: • Work on deck during heavy weather should be authorised by the

Master only and the bridge watch should be informed

• A risk assessment should be undertaken • A permit to work and a company checklist for work on deck in

heavy weather should be completed • Any persons required to go on deck during heavy weather should

wear a suitable life jacket, proper PPE, and be equipped with a portable transceiver

• Seafarers should work in pairs or in teams. All seafarers should be under the command of an experienced senior offi cer.

In a case study in 2012 in which two seafarers were washed overboard from a poop-deck on a vessel in heavy seas, an investigation concluded that a risk assessment made at the time was not adequate and should have taken into consideration the possibility of waves breaking astern onto the poop-deck in the severe seas.

- (Reproduced with permission of Safety4Sea magazine).

Image: marinesurveypractice.blogspot

T

Warning on deck work in heavy weather

10 ASPECTS MAY 2014

Human factors in marine accidents

In complex engineering programs, people are like any other part of a system—they have a certain specifi cations, design parameters and environmental limits, according to BMT Reliability Consultants ’Human Factors Specialist Chris Greenbank, reported in a recent issue of Marine Log magazine. He listed the following key factors in approaching the human element in a structured way in the area of marine accidents.

Manpower

Manpower plays a critical role in any given situation and so the cost of personnel is signifi cant. Therefore it is important for organizations to feel confi dent that they have the optimum number of people with the right set of skills to do the job effectively and safely.

Personnel

Although there is a basic build standard for humans, individuals vary in their experience and other human characteristics, including body size and strength. Designing equipment with a detailed understanding of body size, and how it moves, as well as what people can realistically see from their height and location will result in enhanced performance and fewer errors.

Training

In general too much reliance is placed on training and procedures as a means to mitigate fundamentally poor system design. We have to recognize that training is one of the weakest mitigations for human error, and design the wider system and checks and balances accordingly.

Human factors engineering

People are extremely adaptable and will cope with bad design and inadequate equipment or with the most horrendous conditions, but that doesn’t mean that they’re doing well, it just means they are coping. Equipment has a known specifi cation, interface requirements and limiting factors which have to be used as they are. If you treat the human in a similar systems engineering approach then it is far easier to integrate HSI into engineering programs.

System safety

It is true to say that too much time is spent discussing the purely negative aspects of being human; the human in the system is in fact one of the best and most effective mitigations for a wide range of failures and accident sequences. Even where equipment cannot be modifi ed during the design process it remains important to understand any defi ciencies and confi rm that appropriate mitigations are in place.

Health hazards

Linked to system safety, it is important to go through the process of identifying and addressing conditions inherent in the operation or use of a system (e.g. vibration, fumes, radiation, noise, shock, etc.) that can cause death, injury, illness, disability or reduce the performance of personnel.

Drowning preventionEvery person on board a vessel wanting to increase their

chance of survival in water should be aware of the critical importance of: • Wearing the correct size, type and performance standard of a

Personal Flotation Device (PFD) to perform a risk-related activity whilst enjoying the highest level of appropriate protection,

• Properly wearing the PFD fi tted with a hold-down device, such as a crotch strap or thigh straps, over the top of all clothing

• Recognising that clothing traps air which may cause a person not to fl oat as would be expected and clothing absorbs water making a person heavier to support. The person may need to use a PFD with a higher performance standard to ensure that when in water, they will self-right face up and their mouth and nose will be kept suffi ciently clear of the water

• Following the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and servicing that must be attached to and accompany their PFD.

The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Directive specifi es general requirements against all risks encountered, and specifi cally for lifejackets and buoyancy aids for the prevention of drowning. Before making a PPE device available on the European Union market, the manufacturer of the PPE device shall draw up a declaration of conformity certifying that the PPE device is in conformity with the provisions of the Directive, and affi x the CE marking to it.

- (Reproduced with permission of Safety4Sea magazine).

A WORLD ROUND-UP OF SHIPPING

Pay attention or face disaster

The London P&l Club has warned of the dangers of failing to correct charts and navigational publications and of not paying attention to information displayed on the ship’s Navtex.

The mutual liability insurer says: “If T&P notices are not consistently applied to the chart folio, the ship’s navigating offi cer and offi cers of the watch may be deprived of valuable passage planning information.”

Furthermore, not paying attention to meteorological information provided by the Navtex system on the bridge of a ship contributed greatly to a recent big oil spill claim, the insurer says.

The Navtex forecast heavy weather, which was unusual at the time of year, but nobody noticed.

When the bad weather came in the early hours of the morning, it caught the bridge team by surprise, with the vessel at anchor. Before the main engine could be started, the ship had dragged her anchor and stranded on a nearby rocky shoreline, puncturing her bunker tanks.

The resulting oil spill clean-up cost over US$ 44 million.

ASPECTS MAY 2014 11

Safety case studies for on board discussion

We are indebted to SAFETY4SEAlog magazine for these case studies in Safety Issues, which will to be suitable items for discussion at shipboard safety meetings.

The preventative actions stated below are already part of the ASP safety on board policies and crews are regularly trained accordingly (see cover story).

CHAIN LOCKER DEATH

During a routine inspection of a chain locker with cables stowed, one member of an inspection team fainted during the inspection and died shortly after. A second member fainted during the rescue operation, but recovered.

Root causes

Lack of oxygen in the chain locker, caused by the on-going corrosion process over time and the stagnant atmosphere in the chain locker. The manhole for the chain locker had been opened some hours prior to the inspection. The hawse pipes leading to the locker had been made temporarily tight with cement, in order to keep the cable locker watertight.

Preventive action

Enclosed spaces must be properly ventilated prior to entry. The atmosphere should be monitored during inspection with a portable meter. A team of two persons should carry out an inspection of enclosed spaces. Rescue equipment including breathing apparatus should be kept available at the space entrance in case of emergency. Companies should review their personal safety instructions.

LIFEBOAT NEAR MISS

During re-hooking of a lifeboat during training, extensive movement of the lifting blocks and falls were encountered due to a heavy swell and current. The hoisting operation was stopped when the lifeboat was about halfway up, as it was noticed that the aft wire had slipped from the upper sheave and was jammed between the sheave and the block body. The lifeboat was secured with extra wires and chain blocks and the crew were taken on board the ship by rope ladder and safety belts.

Root causes

The sea conditions, with heavy swell and current, caused the aft wire fall to slip from the upper sheave due to the extensive movement of the lifting blocks and falls during the re-hooking operation.

Preventive action

Proper maintenance, operation, familiarization and training to avoid accidents during lifeboat testing.

Before the test an examination of the lifeboat, davits, etc. is recommended.

Before test, the sea conditions are to be considered.

During recovery the following should be checked: (a) Lift the lifeboat about one metre above the water level and stop the winch.

SAFETY ISSUES(b) Confi rm by visual inspection that hooks, wires etc. are in the correct position before recovery is commenced.

Whenever any strange behaviour of the blocks and wires during testing is noticed, the test should be stopped immediately and a thorough check of vital parts should be carried out. The test should not recommence until the problem is detected and solved. In case of any doubt, the test is to be stopped, the crew should be disembarked, and the recovery completed without anybody on board the lifeboat.

CARGO TANK INSPECTION

During the close-up inspection of a deck-head in a cargo tank by rafting, one person became dizzy in the tank and was half unconscious when evacuated from the tank.

Root causes

Cargo residue had been left in the cargo tanks during ballasting causing a dangerous atmosphere to be present.

Preventive action

Always adhere to required procedures for safe entry of enclosed spaces.

When conditions for entry are changed, the work permit previously issued is no longer valid and a new permit is to be issued.

The new permit is to include proper testing of the tank atmosphere, ventilation and so forth.

ONGOING MAINTENANCE IMPERATIVE

On completion of cargo operations on a 15,000 gt cargo vessel recently, the crew had commenced closing the hydraulically operated hatch covers. One of the connected hydraulic hoses ruptured during the closing process releasing hydraulic fl uid onto the deck, which caused the hatch cover to jam in a semi-open position. As a result, when the weather conditions deteriorated at the loading port, rain entered the hold causing signifi cant damage to the cargo of bulk cement, before the crew were able to replace the damaged hose and close the hatch cover.

Root causes

The hose ruptured as a consequence of use long after its due replacement date. A signifi cant number of defi ciencies on board the vessel associated with the structural condition of the ship had been recently registered.

There had apparently been an inherent breakdown of planned maintenance procedures.

Preventive action

Continued implementation of planned maintenance programs in compliance with the certifi cation regime and risk. A well maintained ship will encourage a more proactive approach to personal safety and instil good practices on board.

12 ASPECTS MAY 2014

ASP rescues old bus for seafarersASP Ship Management Australia has given an old bus new life with a donation late last year for a new engine.

The Mission to Seafarers in Portland, Victoria were in desperate need of the engine for their old Ford Transit van which provides transport for seafarers from ships visiting the port. This initiative was undertaken as a result of input from the ASP managed vessel Portland, after the crew had become aware of the problem.

Since then The Portland Mission has acquired a second new bus (pictured right) which is making the Mission’s service to seafarers in the port more effi cient and effective, and which also sports the ASP logo.

Portland Mission Manager Neville Manson said the old re-engined bus had been cleaned up and the logos re-affi xed acknowledging ASP’s support for the Mission.

Afternoon start for ASP Golf DayASP Australia held its annual Golf Day in March, at Green Acres Golf Club, Kew, in Melbourne where 11 teams of ASP staff, clients and associates took part, including a women’s team. The usual program changed to an afternoon start at 1pm.

After the match, players and guests attended an evening buffet dinner, when former Collingwood Football Club player Tony Shaw spoke about his football career and took questions afterwards.

ASP Group COO Bob Bird presented the prizes as follows:

1st: Tom Ivic (BP), Steve Randall (Strategic Marine Group), Scott Hutchins (Rightship), Chris Egan (HWL Ebsworth). Score: 53.62.

2nd: David Borcoski (ASP), Don Hastie (Honey Software), Geoff Handberg (Rodgers, Reidy), Andrew Pryor (Bank of Melbourne). Score: 54.

3rd: Pratap Shirke (ASP) Mike Alexander (Rio Tinto Marine), David Pearce (Commonwealth Bank), Gavin Vallely (Holman Fenwick & Willan). Score: 55.25.

Straightest Drive: Aaron Jordan, Longest Drive: Andrew Pryor, Nearest Pin: (NTP) 9th hole Gavin Binmore and NTP 11th hole Bob Bird.

ABOVE: Steve Randall, Tom Ivic, Chris Egan and Scott Hutchins.

LEFT: Angela Gilham, Trudy Rundle, Mel Thomas and Kauru Curmi.

BELOW: Meredith Borcoski, Tony Shaw, David Borcoski and Martina Sansom.

ASPECTS MAY 2014 13

On Watch A round-up of maritime newsUnder Keel requirement

Ships transiting the Torres Strait in Australia are now required by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to use an Under Keel Clearance Management (UKCM) system.

This is the fi rst time a UKCM system has been implemented in a coastal environment in Australia.

AMSA CEO Graham Peachey said the aim of the system is to enhance shipping safety in the Torres Strait by ensuring minimum under-keel clearance requirements are met.

“The UKCM system is standardised and provides an enhanced level of safety for vessels transiting this unique area,” Mr Peachey said.

High praise for Emissions book

The subject of shipping emissions has generated so much ‘hot air’ over the past few years that it could probably rank as a greenhouse gas, according to a review in the Nautilus Telegraph review of Marine Fuels and Emissions (Witherby Publishing).

This excellent book cuts through so much of the ‘chaff’ in the debate to examine the practical aspects of ship fuels and emissions and pragmatic methods of abatement.

Thorough and comprehensive, it explains the emissions and pollutants that come from ships, the political context in which the “green”rules for the industry are being developed, and the scientifi c, environmental and public health factors which are infl uencing the debate over emissions.

The book contains cool and considered analysis of the different regulations already in place around the world and examines the varied abatement technologies, engine systems and alternative fuels. It also makes a persuasive fi nancial case for effi cient energy management, while another chapter contains some useful information on maintaining fuel quality, and some of the potential safety problems that can arise from fuel switching.

The 150 page book is well laid out and uses photographs, graphics and tables to good effect. It makes a thoughtful and practical contribution to one of the most controversial and diffi cult issues affecting the shipping industry.

Construction rules for bulkers and tankers

IMO audit teams will shortly be established to verify classifi cation societies’ construction rules for bulk carriers and oil tankers.

A new SOLAS regulation II-1/3-10 on Goal-based ship construction standards (GBS) for bulk carriers and oil tankers was adopted by IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), at its eighty-seventh session in May 2010, by resolution MSC.290(87).

This regulation, which entered into force on 1 January 2012, requires that all oil tankers and bulk carriers of 150m in length and above, for which the building contract is placed on or after 1 July 2016, satisfy applicable structural requirements conforming to the functional requirements of the International Goal-based

Ship Construction Standards for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers (GBS Standards) (resolution MSC.287(87)).

In support of the Committee’s request that the verifi cation process should be conducted as effi ciently as possible, the International Association of Classifi cation Societies (IACS) has delivered its Common Package 1 comprising various IACS requirements to support the requests from its member societies.

Alternative fuels to LNG foreseen

Classifi cation society DNV-GL says liquefi ed natural gas (LNG) is expected to be an early success but that over time, other alternative fuels could also be used to replace shipping’s current dependence on heavy fuel oil.

The global merchant fl eet currently consumes around 330 million tonnes of fuel annually, 85% of which is residual fuel with a high sulphur content.

In the long term, short sea shipping is expected to take advantage of locally produced fuels such as biodiesel and shoreside electricity.

Deep sea shipping needs globally available fuels and so will tend towards LNG - and biodiesel, if it becomes available, DNV-GL predicts.

Engineers to look after “scrubbers”

Ships’ engineers will be increasingly expected to look after emission abatement equipment, or “scrubbers”.

In January 2015, Emission Control Areas (ECAs) will impose a limit of 0.1% sulphur content in funnel exhausts. As a result, more owners are ordering scrubbers as a way to continue using relatively cheap residual fuel oil, rather than switch to a much more expensive distillate fuel such as marine gas oil.

Budget for the cost of regulation

A recent survey cited regulations to control emissions as particularly gruelling, expecting ship owners to require fi nancial support to install necessary technology on ships and urging owners to budget now.

Some relief came with the revision of the Ballast Water Management Convention’s implementation schedule postponing costly ballast water management installations until after a ship’s next renewal survey, thus spreading the implementation burden. Nonetheless, concerns persist about C02 emissions reduction plans, about which the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) will lobby.

The ICS, resisting unilateral regional measures such as European Commission proposals relating to international ships trading with Europe, will continue arguing that mandatory reporting of fuel consumption and C02 emissions by internationally trading ships should be introduced incrementally.

That, it says, might enable early adoption and entice member states disinclined to commit to more radical measures.

14 ASPECTS MAY 2014

TRAINING NEWS

On board training for tanker ToreaCapt Tim Tamani ASP Australia Fleet Training Superintendent recently held an on board training program on the Silver Fern Shipping tanker Torea in February while she was in transit from Dunedin to Marsden Point in New Zealand.

The training with practical demonstrations and crew participation included:• Confi ned Space Entry Precautions and Management• ILO Maritime Labour Convention 2006 – General Awareness• STAR Information and Planning System (IPS) • ISM Code and ASP Integrated Management System (IMS)• Job Safety Analysis and Risk Management

Concluding his report on the Torea program, Tim commented: “attendance at the course and general response was excellent.”

He said that much discussion was concentrated on:• The Lockout Tag-Out System – to ensure uniform

implementation of the procedures on all ASP vessels• Risk Assessment and Management – a thorough approach

to identifi cation of hazards, the associated risks and control measures to achieve a safe work environment

• Job Safety Analysis – the new forms in the Vessel Operations Manual (VOM) should be strictly adhered to

• ILO MLC (2006) – the purpose of the new Convention and guidelines on implementation and ongoing compliance.

Tim undertakes at least two on board training voyages each month, visiting each ship at least twice a year and in between produces new training material for the ASP Group Training on board training and guided study program.

CSL offi cers skill training in GoaTwo training workshops for offi cers of the Chowgule Steamships Limited (CSL) fl eet were held by ASP Group Training at the Parvatibai Chowgule College in Goa in February and April.

The two workshops, under the title “Basic skills and knowledge transfer” included an introductory phase, knowledge of basic ship operation tools, updating with new regulations, and a fi eld day for observations and practical training.

Supervising the workshops were ASP Group Training Manager Capt Prabhat Nigam, General Manager Operations and DPA Capt Manish Dixit, and Ship Manager Girish Rao. Managing Director Sanjay Kelkar and Capt Suresh Verlekar of CSL also interacted with the participants.

Chairman Mr Vijay Chowgule of Chowgule Steamships Ltd also graced the occasions.

From left: 3/O Melissa Morgan, 3/O Steven Andrew and Cook Grenville Hines (with tank).

Each workshop ended with the distribution of certifi cates to participants, and drew very positive feedback from them, with comments including:• “The course and initiative was excellent and the chance to interact with the DPA, Technical

Superintendent and Group Training Manager was really appreciated.”• “There was a proper interaction and exchange of knowledge”.• “I have personally learnt a lot about Chowgule’s history, and my (our) morale is now high. I will do my

best to maintain Chowgule and ASP high standards. • “ASP should conduct these workshops regularly.”

From left: Capt Manish Dixit, Girish Rao, Kannheya Prasad 3/O, Soumyajit Sengupta 2/O,Trindhana Rao Mutyala 2/O, Sushant Pimpale 3/O, Akhilesh Upadhyay 3/E, Vikash Agrawal Jr/O.

ASPECTS MAY 2014 15

Situational awareness, maritime safety initiatives and learning from shipboard incidents were some of the topics covered at a one day Seminar for ASP Tanker Management sea staff held in Mumbai in January.

The Seminar, held at the MMC Mumbai campus in Andheri opened with a welcome from ASP Group Training Manager Capt Prabhat Nigam and an introduction to the ASP Group structure by ASP Tanker Management General Manager Capt Robert Walker.

Prabhat Nigam introduced an interactive session on the importance of situational awareness, not only on board ship but also in daily life.

Robert Walker introduced a brainstorming session on Maritime Safety Initiatives to reduce the number of incidents occurring and to pursue a collective vision of a zero incident industry, addressing high risk exposure in navigation, mooring, equipment failure, spills and personal safety through a Focused Safety Campaign (FSC).

Capt Denzil D’Souza, Manager Marine Operations and Safety, ASP Singapore Tanker Management, discussed “Learning from Incidents” and the new company circulars on the topic were distributed. He also discussed case studies from recent accidents.

Capt Ajit Kumar Ojha discussed the topic of SIRE and CDI inspections which included a check on the background history of oil tanker disasters which changed the oil industry outlook on tanker inspection and chartering processes and introduced SIRE and CDI regime.

During the coffee break, Capt Nigam took all attendees on a tour of the MMC Mumbai Campus introducing them to various simulators and courses.

Tanker Management sea staff Seminar

Denzil D’Souza receives his certifi cate from Rob Walker and Prabhat Nigam.

Bunker and tanker crew trainingA four day course in advanced Oil/Chemical tanker operation was held at the ASP Majella House in Melbourne for 11 deck and engine room crew members of the ASP Australia bunker tankers Destine and Zemira and the BP tanker British Loyalty in April.

In line with SCTW training, the intensive course, was conducted by Anne Rutherford, a principal of Briar Maritime Training Consultants, and included:• Physical and chemical properties of cargoes• Hazards of cargoes• Tanker design, development and systems• International Conventions, national legislation and industry

guidelines• Pollution prevention and response• Confi ned space entry• Practical tanker operation including inert gas systems• Gas detection and bulk liquid measurement

Briar Maritime Services which is owned by master mariners Brian Peters and Anne Rutherford, conduct a wide range of marine courses and has a presence in Devonport, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney.

In the afternoon Capt D’Souza presented the topic on JSA, RA & Star IPS in which he discussed the step by step process of making JSA and RA, highlighting the common mistakes found in those functions. The topic was very interactive and all attendees participated enthusiastically.

At the completion of the Seminar all attendees and resource speakers were presented with certifi cates by Capt Nigam followed by a vote of thanks by Cadet Rohit Sikarwar.

Rear: Andrew Baker, Stephen Datton, Prachant Prakash, David Jenkins, Tim Gleeson.

Centre row: Brant Anderson, Greg Wilson, Adrian Morris.Front: Ted Bull, Anne Rutherford, Mohammed Kabir, Leon Raymond.

TRAINING NEWS

16 ASPECTS MAY 2014

Myanmar Class certifi cation

The ASP Crew Management Services Myanmar quality management system has been verifi ed to be in conformance with ClassNK Standards for Seafarer Recruitment and Placement Service Providers, and to comply with the requirements of MLC (2006) and the provisions of the Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance.

Nippon Kaiji Kyokai, known as ClassNK or NK, is a ship classifi cation society actively engaged in a growing range of ship related activities and services aimed at contributing to promoting the protection of human life and property at sea as well as protection of the marine environment.

Mumbai ECDIS Training Centre

The primary work of the ClassNK Society is to undertake surveys to ensure that the rules which it has developed are applied to new buildings and existing ships to ensure their safety.

The rules cover not only hull structures, but also propulsion systems, electrics, electronic systems, safety equipment, cargo handling gear, and various other areas.

The NK Head Offi ce is located in Tokyo, and has an offi ce in Chiba, Japan, with other branch offi ces in major Japanese cities and other cities throughout the world. At the end of February 2013, the Society had 8,270 ships totalling over 212 million gt under Class, approximately 20% of the world’s merchant fl eet.

ClassNK provides certifi cation for seafarer recruitment and placement service providers in line with Regulation 1.4 (Recruitment and Placement) of Maritime Labour Convention 2006, MLC (2006). This requires ship owners who make use of seafarer recruitment and placement services in countries or territories that have not adopted the Convention to confi rm that their service providers are in conformance with adopted standards.

As traditional paper navigation charts become redundant, complete and absolute reliance on ECDIS for position monitoring takes over. However the navigators have to learn to use it effectively, with complete awareness of the limitations and constraints of the equipment.

The ASP ECDIS simulator in Mumbai was inaugurated last year. It offers a comprehensive training solution complying with the requirements of STCW 2010, meeting the objectives and training requirements as specifi ed in the IMO modular course 1.27 and subsequent DGS guidelines.

In addition to being used as a training tool for familiarization and operational training, the simulator can also be used to demonstrate competence in accordance with the STCW 2010 (Standards of Training, Certifi cation & Watch Keeping) requirements.

The ECDIS simulator allows trainees to practice the theoretical concepts, as well as becoming familiar with the operational menus of the ECDIS software.

The ASP ECDIS training also has an inherent capability to connect with and confi gure for type specifi c training for MARIS 900.

Since the commencement of the ECDIS Training Centre, ASP has successfully completed 21 batches and trained 104 candidates.

The course at this ‘Centre of Maritime Simulations’ is conducted by Capt A. K. Ojha, and Principal Capt Prabhat Nigam.

LEFT: Vitaliy Chayka, ClassNK Lead Auditor: Akito Yamagishi,ClassNK team member/auditor: C/E Nanda Thein Zan,C/E Kyaw Win Thein, Ms Win Maw Ne, Ms Khaing May Zin.

New HR Manager has wide experiencePhil Jones, the new ASP Australia Crew Management IR/HR Manager, was previously HR Manager for the Relux Group in the construction industry. He has previously worked for 14 years with Coca Cola Amatil in South Australia and Victoria.He told ASPects that the principal differences in HR and IR for the maritime industry arose from the “fl y-in fl y-out” nature of the work. “Basically, though, we still work with unions and the same sort of issues,” he said.Phil’s out-of-offi ce interests are centred on his passion for renovating and landscaping houses.

STAFF NEWS

ASPECTS MAY 2014 17

Veteran Master retires after 70 years’ serviceVeteran Australian Master Mariner Capt Brian Lewis, who retired recently at the age of 82 after nearly 70 years at sea, was also a former President of the Port Phillip Pilots Association (1985 - 1988) in Melbourne.

He fi rst went to sea at the age of 16 in 1948. Brian then served with ASP on the Endeavour River, River Boyne, and Lindesay Clark. More recently, his experience was put to good use in setting up the bunker tanker Zemira, and he also served on the two other bunker ships, Whitnavigator and Larcom.

After the resolution of the confl ict in East Timor, Capt Lewis was seconded to command a vessel ferrying supplies for the Australian forces, and received special recognition from the Commander, General Peter Cosgrove, who was recently appointed Governor General of Australia.

Colleagues and shipmates of Capt Lewis recently marked his retirement with a celebratory lunch and a presentation of a framed print of Zemira.

From left: Capt Brian Lewis in East Timor with General Peter Cosgrove, Brian’s employer David Curtain and David’s family.

Seafarers’ myths and superstitionsDo sea monsters really exist? Stories about unknown creatures, inhabiting the deep, have existed for a long time. Most of them are exaggerated and some are even made up to scare people. These tactics were used by the Phoenicians who did not want others to sail beyond Gibraltar. Many of the “monsters” were sea animals such as the sea serpent and giant squid which sometimes attacked fi shing boats and terrifi ed people with their sight and size.

However, we cannot dismiss the large amount of recorded sightings of unexplainable gigantic beings, spotted all around the globe. We cannot also ignore facts and evidence of the existence of such creatures that amaze even professional marine scientists. Everybody has heard about the Loch Ness monster of Scotland (Nessie) - perhaps the most popular monster of all time.

In 1925, photographs (right) were published of what appeared to be a plesiosaur washed up on rocks near Santa Cruz, California. The animal had a huge head, a beak like snout, and tiny eyes. Described as 35 to 50 feet long, it had a narrow 20 foot long neck. The California Academy of Sciences Museum concluded that it was an extremely rare type of beaked whale - so rare scientists doubted whether any zoologist in the world would have been able to identify the carcass, since few, if any, had ever seen the animal alive.

Andrew Douglas, ASP Australia Superintendent Marine Standards, presents Capt Lewis with his parting gift.

18 ASPECTS MAY 2014

TRAVEL NEWS

Cruise business is booming at Mariner Travel

Mariner Travel books cruises with all the major Cruise operators worldwide. Contact us for a quote.

New Travel ConsultantThe expansion of the Mariner Travel business in recent months has resulted in the appointment of consultant Paul Dunn. Paul comes to Mariner Travel from Newcastle-on-Tyne in the UK, where he has worked for two and a half years for a travel agency specialising in maritime crew transfer work. He will be mixing that experience with general travel business and charter consultancy.

Paul, who came to Australia in late 2013 is a keen follower of English football, and an even keener supporter of the Newcastle United team. His Australian wife Julie works in Occupational Health and Safety.

Mariner Travel has just recorded its best monthly figures for cruise liner bookings with 20 cruises booked in April, General Manager Aaron Watts reports.

“This result proves that our marketing strategy for Mariner Travel to be a destination for cruise sales is paying off,” Aaron said.

“Diane Blitman, our dedicated Cruise Consultant, has built up great knowledge of the cruise business as well as fruitful contacts with our cruise clients and the cruise companies.

This has enabled us to offer worldwide cruising from virtually any cruise ship departure point with a variety of companies.’’

Corporate business expandsRecent additions to the Mariner Travel Corporate Travel portfolio include the French retailer L’Occitane en Provence who have appointed Mariner to arrange the travel requirements for their Australian regional office.

Furthermore, Riche Hotels have also engaged Mariner Travel to handle all their air travel bookings for both clients and staff.

“The team at Mariner are excited to have these two companies join our portfolio of third party corporate clients and we are always on the lookout for more to join” Aaron said.

Referral Rewards Scheme launchedMariner Travel has launched a new improved Referral Reward Scheme to enable existing clients to build up referral dollars towards their next holiday.

Registered members will earn a $50 reward towards travel costs from Mariner Travel by:• Booking an international air fare with Mariner Travel• Referring someone else to make an international booking with

Mariner Travel

To join the Mariner Travel Referral Rewards Scheme, all you need to do is register with Mariner at:

marinertravel@marinertvl.com or call 1800 075 499 and then start booking and/or referring and watch your balance grow to use towards your next holiday booked by Mariner.

Aaron Watts told ASPects that this is a great way to reward our loyal clients for their continued support, and to grow the overall business at the same time. We wanted to make the Scheme user friendly and will send out monthly balance updates and specials etc. similar to a Frequent Flyer program.

It is open to everyone, as long as they are registered, and is a great opportunity to build up funds for a truly affordable holiday,” Aaron said.

“These results prove our

marketing strategy is paying off”

ASPECTS MAY 2014 19

ASP Group supports The Mission to Seafarers

PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

The latest entries in the photographic competition for ASP crews:

ASPects is now conducting a photographic competition which carries a prize of $US500 for the best photograph in terms of subject and photographic merit, received across each of the three issues of ASPects in a calendar year. The judges will then select the best photos for

each edition to be published. Thereafter the best judged photo out of the selected fi nalists for the year will be awarded the prize.

The competition is open to all crews of the ASP fl eet. Subjects may cover life on board a working vessel, fellow crew members at work, seascapes, ports, shoreline scenery, seabirds and other marine life, other vessels of interest, etc.

Only photographs of 5 megapixels and above in resolution (approx 3-5 megabytes or more in fi le size or ‘Superfi ne’ setting on some cameras) can be accepted, and may be either in colour or monochrome.

The judges’ decision will be fi nal. Submit photos via email to: The Editor, ASPects, ASP Ship Management. Email nporteous@aspships.com

“Sunset, Grimsby Port”

Taken by:Oleg Khomenko 3/O,

Sea Cruiser 1

Camera: Nikon LP820.Location: UK

“Spirit in Drydock”

Taken by:Luke Franks 2/O of RTM Twarra

Camera: Canon 5DLocation: Sydney

2013 Photography Prize WINNER namedWinner of the ASPects photograph prize for 2013 is Chief Offi cer Sahil Sachdeva. He is currently studying for his Master’s Certifi cate in India. Sahil will be presented with his US $500 cheque in due course.Sahil won the award for his excellent photograph, “Islands off the coast of Vietnam” published in the May edition of ASPects last year.He joined ASP in August 2012 and served on the Botany Tribute as chief offi cer, which has now been renamed ASL Tribute.Our congratulations go to Sahil.

Adrian WhatleyGroup Chief Finance Offi cer

T: +61 3 9211 9320 M/C: +61 419 177 522 E: awhatley@aspships.com

Bob BirdGroup Chief Operating Offi cer

T: +61 3 9211 9300 M/C: +61 412 313 969 E: rbird@aspships.com

AUSTRALIAMelbourneContact: Tim AsomeTel: + 61 3 9211 9332Mob/Cell: + 61 411 022 825Email: tasome@aspships.com

NEW ZEALANDSilver Fern ShippingWellingtonContact: Warren NelsonTel: + 64 4 460 3924Mob/Cell: + 64 27 4524 744Email: wnelson@sfsl.co.nz

UNITED KINGDOMNewcastleContact: Keith BrownTel: + 44 191 230 8261Mob/Cell: + 44 789 690 4614Email: kbrown@aspships.com

FINLANDMariehamn Contact: Mikael HolmTel: + 358 18 620 600Mob/Cell: + 358 40 900 7090Email: mholm@aspships.com

JAPANTokyoContact: Yasuhiro SensuiMob/Cell: +81 909 324 2166Email: sensui_gms@ybb.ne.jp

SINGAPOREASP Tanker ManagementContact: Robert WalkerTel: + 65 6576 5700Mob/Cell: + 659 757 3678Email: rwalker@aspships.com

ASP Dry BulkContact: Robert WalkerTel: + 65 6576 5700Mob/Cell: + 659 757 3678Email: rwalker@aspships.com

INDIAMumbaiContact: Sanjay KelkarTel: + 91 22 6602 9011Mob/Cell: + 91 9867 922 006Email: skelkar@aspships.com

AUSTRALIAMelbourneContact: Phil JonesTel: + 61 3 9211 9335Mob/Cell: + 61 487 403 005Email: pjones@aspships.com

INDIAMumbaiContact: Ajeet SinghTel: + 91 22 6602 9133Mob/Cell: + 91 98195 10686Email: ajeets@crewships.com

PHILIPPINESManilaContact: Milind PhadnisTel: + 63 2 310 7640Mob/Cell: + 63 917 558 4829Email: captmilind@crewships.com

SINGAPOREContact: Harpal SinghTel: + 65 6576 5746Email: hsingh@crewships.com

UKRAINE/GEORGIAOdessaContact: Peter PashegorTel: + 380 48 785 1114Mob/Cell: + 380 674 830 390Email: ppashegor@crewships.com

MYANMARYangonContact: Win Maw NeTel: + 95 1 666 889Mob/Cell: + 95 9517 3173Email: mawne@aspships.com

BANGLADESHASP Omera, DhakaContact: Muhammad ZaberTel: + 880 2 9884312-7 (Ext: 13)Mob/Cell: + 880 1711 4759Email: mzaber@crewships.com

AUSTRALIAGladstoneContact:Mark PatmanTel: + 61 3 9211 9333Mob/Cell: + 61 411 141 942Email: mpatman@ibsfuels.com

Universal BunkeringMelbourneContact: Mark NeveTel: + 61 3 9211 9313Mob/Cell: + 61 418 530 171Email: mneve@unibunker.com

AUSTRALIAMelbourneContact:Aaron WattsTel: + 61 3 9211 9341Mob/Cell: + 61 419 122 354 Email: awatts@marinertvl.com

UKRAINEOdessaContact: Violetta LyubaretsMob/Cell: + 38 850 4161 987 Email: vlyubarets@marinertvl.com

ASP CREW MANAGEMENTASP SHIP MANAGEMENT

David BorcoskiGroup CEO / Managing Director

T: +61 3 9211 9390 M/C: +61 402 892 717 E: dborcoski@aspships.com

Group Commercial Managers

Mikael Holm (Northern Europe / Scandinavia)T: +358 18 620 600 M/C: +358 40 900 7090 E: mholm@aspships.com

Girish Phadnis (South-East Asia)T: + 91 22 6602 9,000 M/C: + 91 98 2064 9939 E: gphadnis@aspships.com

David Skentelbery (United Kingdom)T: +44 7786 660 499 E: dskentelbery@aspships.com

•• Fleet Management Offi ces•• Crew Management Offi ces•• Mariner Travel Offi ces•• Representative Offi ce

INDIA MumbaiContact:Aly ShirjiMob/Cell: + 91 9820 208 106Email: ashirji@marinertvl.com

Group Chief Operating Offi cerAdrian Whatley

Group Operations Manager and Group Quality Control ManagerVitaliy Chayka

T: +65 657 65724 M/C: +65 9777 1358 E: vchayka@crewships.com

Group Training Manager:Prabhat Nigam

T: +91 22 6602 9171 M/C: +91 9903 46175 E: pnigam@aspships.com