The much-loved Port of Weipa supervisor John Clark is getting an NQBP vessel named in his honour.
NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports is honouring some of its long-serving staff members by naming some of its new assets in their honour.
The legendary Weipa Port supervisor John Clark will have a first-strike oil response vessel named in his honour, as will NQBP’s financial reporting officer Debbie McDonald.
Additionally, a maintenance truck has been named after port service Worker Greg Steward.
NQBP acting CEO Belinda Kenny said the trio had amassed an impressive 103 years of service.
“We know our success is achieved through the support and commitment of our people, port partners, customers and port communities,” Ms Kenny said.
“It is fitting we name the assets after long-serving staff members who have contributed a significant part of their lives to helping our ports operate safely and efficiently.”
Mr Clark, or Clarky as he’s known best in Weipa, credited his love for the people, the bush, family connections and the Western Cape lifestyle as the secret to his 20 years with the company.
“The people are lovely to work for. I couldn’t have had a better set of bosses,” Mr Clark said.
“My office in Weipa is about 20 metres from the water and there’s a nice south-east breeze all year round – it’s a pleasure to come to work.”
Mrs McDonald, who said she was humbled by the move to name a vessel in her honour, shared her favourite memories at the Port of Mackay.
“Over my 43 years in the finance team, I have been involved in exciting major projects that have changed the look of the port like the construction of the grain terminal, wharf five, the workshop complex and the new southern breakwater to name a few,” she said.
“I feel privileged every day to work at the port that has been a large part of the Mackay community and economy. The view of the water and the people are pretty special as well.”
NQBP port service worker Greg Steward, financial reporting officer Debbie McDonald and Weipa Port supervisor John Clark.
Mr Steward said his proudest achievement since joining the Port of Mackay four decades ago is helping train young people.
“There are so many memories but my favourites are from working with a great bunch of people and making life-long friendships,” he said.
When asked what he most enjoys about working at the port, he responded, “Working beside the water and no two days are the same.”
