David - Stevedore
Growing up, David used to visit the wharf to watch the ships being unloaded. After learning a trade, David has progressed to a challenging career as a leading hand stevedore.
David has a strong family connection with stevedoring, with both his father and grandfather working in the industry. His father still works for Patrick as a foreman and training officer.
David always wanted to work as a stevedore, and as a child came down to the wharf to watch the ships and the cranes unloading the cargo. Before applying to work as a stevedore, David completed a heavy-vehicle mechanic apprenticeship to show he had staying power and to learn a trade.
Stevedores generally begin with a casual contract while they learn the role. Since becoming a Permanent Guaranteed Employee, David has progressed to the level of leading hand, leading a team of 6 to10 stevedores.
What drew me to working as a container terminal stevedore?
“Growing up in a family of stevedores and living locally, I always felt a link to the port, the industry and the people working here. I love working out doors particularly by the water. This is a team environment and as someone who has always enjoyed team sports, the atmosphere here on the wharf is perfect for me.”
Career highlights
“Here we have automated (unmanned) straddle carriers to load and unload the trucks. These million dollar robots are “awesome pieces of gear.” I also had the opportunity to work on a huge ship recently, the Maersk Brooklyn, which at 294m long is an amazing ship.”