Propeller Club London

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

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

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

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?”

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.