Shipping Australia was pleased to hold or NSW Spring Luncheon 2026 at the Sydney Harbour Marriott on Pitt Street late last week.
Held on 03 September, our guests were treated to a delicious three course meal, consisting of the soup of the day, an alternate service of Barramundi with shaved asparagus, pea puree and smoked ham of chicken breast with grilled mushrooms and sambal spinach sauce.
We were delighted and honoured that our guest of honour was the Hon. Natalie Ward MLC, Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads and the Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party. Ms Ward spoke on a range of topics related to her portfolio, and we will publish a separate item on her speech shortly.
Shipping Australia’s chair, Phillip Holmes, who is also the managing director of “K” Line Australia introduced Ms Ward to our guests.
Matthew Cook of maritime consultants and shipping expert Thompson Clarke provided an overview of their new approach to measuring complexity, and we will be pleased to write an outline of the approach in a separate article.
Our Master of Ceremonies, was none other than our very own CEO, Captain Melwyn Noronha, who read the Acknowledgement of Country, generally ensured that the luncheon progressed smoothly, and introduced the speakers to our luncheon guests.
Capt Noronha also welcomed and acknowledged the COO of the Port Authority of NSW, Capt John Finch, and also the Harbour Master of Port Kembla, Sharad Bhasin.
The Rev. Un Tay of the Mission to Seafarers led our guests in the Maritime Grace, which was acknowledged by Ms Ward.
Shipping Australia’s Chair, Phillip Holmes, led a vote of thanks to the main sponsors, Thompson Clarke Shipping and Brigantine Marine Services for their sponsorship.
Ms Ward and Mr Holmes jointly did the Door Prize Draw and presentation to six lucky winners!
The event was organised and run by the Shipping Australia secretariat.
A big thank you to our sponsors!
Shipping Australia simply could not put on such events without the support of our sponsors.
We would like to thank:
Main sponsor: Thompson Clarke, which was represented by Matthew Cook and Grant White. Thank you Thompson Clarke!
Support sponsor: Brigantine Marine Services, which was represented by CEO Capt Ravi. Thank you Brigantine Marine Services!
And, most of all, we would like to thank all of our guests who attended the luncheon. Shipping Australia’s fundamental purpose is to serve the interests of our members. Thank you.
Upcoming events
- Shipping Australia’s Gala Night in Queensland, 10 October (Sold Out!)
- Shipping Australia’s Melbourne Christmas Luncheon – 27 November at the RACV (details to come)
