Welcome to AMPI
The Australasian Marine Pilots Institute is the professional body representing marine pilots throughout Australasia. It assists in the setting of standards, safety management and provides support and guidance with ongoing professional development.
AMPI provides advice to regulators on how to improve operational safety in our ports, and ensures that member pilots and their organisations continue to lead in world’s best practice. Together with its partners, AMPI has developed a set of training standards for both initial and continual training for pilots. As a partner of the International Marine Pilots Association, AMPI also has input into all important decisions made by the International Maritime Organisation
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Is Bigger Always Better?
In the latest edition of Safe Passage Magazine, Captain Henk Hensen explores how the evolution of tug power has reshaped port operations. As modern tugs grow more powerful, with some boasting over 100 tons of bollard pull, there’s an increasing reliance on these high-power tugs for handling large vessels. But is bigger always better?
While strong tugs are essential for guiding massive tankers and bulk carriers, smaller ships are often best handled by less powerful tugs for precision and safety. The article highlights how some modern fleets can lack these smaller tugs, which can lead to challenges in efficiently managing small to medium-sized ships.
Read more about the impact of large tugs on smaller vessels and how fleet composition affects safety and response times in this article. Visit the AMPI website for the full story and others in the latest Safe Passage Magazine.
ampi.org.au/publications/
#MaritimeSafety #TugOperations #MarinePilots #ShippingIndustry #TugFleetManagement #SafePassage
Cairns Speaker Announcement: Pasi Paldanius
We are excited to announce that Pasi Paldanius from @finnpilot_pilotage will be joining us as an esteemed presenter in Cairns.
Pasi brings a wealth of experience and expertise in maritime safety and operations. His career began in maritime school, where he served as an instructor in safety training, demonstrating a strong commitment to safety awareness.
Transitioning from icebreaking offshore vessels to a pilot role in Finland, he was assigned to the challenging Bay of Bothnia, where the open water season is notably brief. As a district chief pilot, he managed a range of responsibilities, often navigating complex and unforeseen challenges.
Over six years ago, he embraced a new role as an HSEQ Manager, focusing on occupational health, safety, environment, education, and quality. Despite the demanding nature of this position, he has successfully led initiatives to enhance safety and operational standards, contributing to the continuous improvement of his organisation.
We invite you to join us as Pasi presents on the fatal capsizing of Finnpilot's pilot boat in 2017. This presentation aims to provide valuable insights and lessons learned from this tragic event, emphasising organisation’s commitment to continuous improvement in safety and operational excellence.
Tickets are selling fast; we urge you to register now while there are places still available: ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#PilotBoat #MarinePilot #CairnsConference #AMPI #FinnPilotage #SafetyatSea #ReefPilotage #CruiseShip #MentalHealth #PeerSupport
Cairns Sponsor Announcement: Robert Allan Ltd. (@robertallanltd)
Please join us as we welcome Robert Allan Ltd. on board as a highly valued sponsor for the 2025 AMPI Conference in Cairns!
With nearly a century of experience in innovative vessel design, Robert Allan Ltd. is globally recognised for its expertise in high-performance tugs, ferries, and specialised research vessels.
As independent naval architects, they are dedicated to delivering cutting-edge marine design solutions that prioritise safety and operational integrity.
Thank you, Robert Allan Ltd., for your continued support! We look forward to working alongside you in Cairns.
Register here: ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#AMPI2025 #CairnsConference #MaritimeSafety #MarinePilots #RobertAllanLtd #ReefPilotage #CruiseShips #CriticalIncidentReporting #PeerSupport #MentalHealth
AMPI on Instagram
Is Bigger Always Better?
In the latest edition of Safe Passage Magazine, Captain Henk Hensen explores how the evolution of tug power has reshaped port operations. As modern tugs grow more powerful, with some boasting over 100 tons of bollard pull, there’s an increasing reliance on these high-power tugs for handling large vessels. But is bigger always better?
While strong tugs are essential for guiding massive tankers and bulk carriers, smaller ships are often best handled by less powerful tugs for precision and safety. The article highlights how some modern fleets can lack these smaller tugs, which can lead to challenges in efficiently managing small to medium-sized ships.
Read more about the impact of large tugs on smaller vessels and how fleet composition affects safety and response times in this article. Visit the AMPI website for the full story and others in the latest Safe Passage Magazine.
https://ampi.org.au/publications/
#MaritimeSafety #TugOperations #MarinePilots #ShippingIndustry #TugFleetManagement #SafePassage
Is Bigger Always Better?
In the latest edition of Safe Passage Magazine, Captain Henk Hensen explores how the evolution of tug power has reshaped port operations. As modern tugs grow more powerful, with some boasting over 100 tons of bollard pull, there’s an increasing reliance on these high-power tugs for handling large vessels. But is bigger always better?
While strong tugs are essential for guiding massive tankers and bulk carriers, smaller ships are often best handled by less powerful tugs for precision and safety. The article highlights how some modern fleets can lack these smaller tugs, which can lead to challenges in efficiently managing small to medium-sized ships.
Read more about the impact of large tugs on smaller vessels and how fleet composition affects safety and response times in this article. Visit the AMPI website for the full story and others in the latest Safe Passage Magazine.
https://ampi.org.au/publications/
#MaritimeSafety #TugOperations #MarinePilots #ShippingIndustry #TugFleetManagement #SafePassage
Cairns Speaker Announcement: Pasi Paldanius
We are excited to announce that Pasi Paldanius from @finnpilot_pilotage will be joining us as an esteemed presenter in Cairns.
Pasi brings a wealth of experience and expertise in maritime safety and operations. His career began in maritime school, where he served as an instructor in safety training, demonstrating a strong commitment to safety awareness.
Transitioning from icebreaking offshore vessels to a pilot role in Finland, he was assigned to the challenging Bay of Bothnia, where the open water season is notably brief. As a district chief pilot, he managed a range of responsibilities, often navigating complex and unforeseen challenges.
Over six years ago, he embraced a new role as an HSEQ Manager, focusing on occupational health, safety, environment, education, and quality. Despite the demanding nature of this position, he has successfully led initiatives to enhance safety and operational standards, contributing to the continuous improvement of his organisation.
We invite you to join us as Pasi presents on the fatal capsizing of Finnpilot`s pilot boat in 2017. This presentation aims to provide valuable insights and lessons learned from this tragic event, emphasising organisation’s commitment to continuous improvement in safety and operational excellence.
Tickets are selling fast; we urge you to register now while there are places still available: https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#PilotBoat #MarinePilot #CairnsConference #AMPI #FinnPilotage #SafetyatSea #ReefPilotage #CruiseShip #MentalHealth #PeerSupport
Cairns Speaker Announcement: Pasi Paldanius
We are excited to announce that Pasi Paldanius from @finnpilot_pilotage will be joining us as an esteemed presenter in Cairns.
Pasi brings a wealth of experience and expertise in maritime safety and operations. His career began in maritime school, where he served as an instructor in safety training, demonstrating a strong commitment to safety awareness.
Transitioning from icebreaking offshore vessels to a pilot role in Finland, he was assigned to the challenging Bay of Bothnia, where the open water season is notably brief. As a district chief pilot, he managed a range of responsibilities, often navigating complex and unforeseen challenges.
Over six years ago, he embraced a new role as an HSEQ Manager, focusing on occupational health, safety, environment, education, and quality. Despite the demanding nature of this position, he has successfully led initiatives to enhance safety and operational standards, contributing to the continuous improvement of his organisation.
We invite you to join us as Pasi presents on the fatal capsizing of Finnpilot`s pilot boat in 2017. This presentation aims to provide valuable insights and lessons learned from this tragic event, emphasising organisation’s commitment to continuous improvement in safety and operational excellence.
Tickets are selling fast; we urge you to register now while there are places still available: https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#PilotBoat #MarinePilot #CairnsConference #AMPI #FinnPilotage #SafetyatSea #ReefPilotage #CruiseShip #MentalHealth #PeerSupport
Cairns Sponsor Announcement: Robert Allan Ltd. (@robertallanltd)
Please join us as we welcome Robert Allan Ltd. on board as a highly valued sponsor for the 2025 AMPI Conference in Cairns!
With nearly a century of experience in innovative vessel design, Robert Allan Ltd. is globally recognised for its expertise in high-performance tugs, ferries, and specialised research vessels.
As independent naval architects, they are dedicated to delivering cutting-edge marine design solutions that prioritise safety and operational integrity.
Thank you, Robert Allan Ltd., for your continued support! We look forward to working alongside you in Cairns.
Register here: https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#AMPI2025 #CairnsConference #MaritimeSafety #MarinePilots #RobertAllanLtd #ReefPilotage #CruiseShips #CriticalIncidentReporting #PeerSupport #MentalHealth
Cairns Sponsor Announcement: Robert Allan Ltd. (@robertallanltd)
Please join us as we welcome Robert Allan Ltd. on board as a highly valued sponsor for the 2025 AMPI Conference in Cairns!
With nearly a century of experience in innovative vessel design, Robert Allan Ltd. is globally recognised for its expertise in high-performance tugs, ferries, and specialised research vessels.
As independent naval architects, they are dedicated to delivering cutting-edge marine design solutions that prioritise safety and operational integrity.
Thank you, Robert Allan Ltd., for your continued support! We look forward to working alongside you in Cairns.
Register here: https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#AMPI2025 #CairnsConference #MaritimeSafety #MarinePilots #RobertAllanLtd #ReefPilotage #CruiseShips #CriticalIncidentReporting #PeerSupport #MentalHealth
Cairns Sponsor Announcement: Australian Maritime Safety Authority - AMSA
We’re excited to announce that the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is continuing their long-standing support of AMPI as a sponsor for the upcoming Cairns Conference in March 2025.
As Australia’s national regulatory body, AMSA plays a vital role in safeguarding our marine environment, ensuring the safety of navigation in Australian waters, and leading national efforts in maritime and aviation search and rescue.
We look forward to working alongside AMSA to deliver a fantastic and engaging conference experience.
Join us in Cairns this March. Register now before it`s too late! https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#AMPI2025 #CairnsConference #MaritimeSafety #AMSA #CruiseShips #ReefPilotage #PeerSupport #MentalHealth #Cairns #MarinePilot
Cairns Sponsor Announcement: Australian Maritime Safety Authority - AMSA
We’re excited to announce that the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is continuing their long-standing support of AMPI as a sponsor for the upcoming Cairns Conference in March 2025.
As Australia’s national regulatory body, AMSA plays a vital role in safeguarding our marine environment, ensuring the safety of navigation in Australian waters, and leading national efforts in maritime and aviation search and rescue.
We look forward to working alongside AMSA to deliver a fantastic and engaging conference experience.
Join us in Cairns this March. Register now before it`s too late! https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#AMPI2025 #CairnsConference #MaritimeSafety #AMSA #CruiseShips #ReefPilotage #PeerSupport #MentalHealth #Cairns #MarinePilot
Cairns Speaker Announcement: Mark LeBusque
Please join us as we welcome @marklebusque to our line-up for Cairns.
Mark is the author of "Being Human" and "The Little Book of Human". He has Over 25 years of corporate experience and is also Harvard-trained in Adaptive Leadership. Mark specialises in helping leaders develop the "human skills" that are essential for success in today`s workplace, including self-awareness, resilience, empathy, and vulnerability. He creates a safe and challenging environment where honest conversations can happen, allowing teams to break through barriers and achieve their full potential.
We are excited to welcome Mark back to AMPI as he presents his take on the work/life balance which is so critical in our industry.
Secure your registration now while we still have some space remaining: https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#CairnsConference #Wellbeing #PeerSupport #MarinePilot #ReefPilotage #CruiseShips #Maritime
Cairns Speaker Announcement: Mark LeBusque
Please join us as we welcome @marklebusque to our line-up for Cairns.
Mark is the author of "Being Human" and "The Little Book of Human". He has Over 25 years of corporate experience and is also Harvard-trained in Adaptive Leadership. Mark specialises in helping leaders develop the "human skills" that are essential for success in today`s workplace, including self-awareness, resilience, empathy, and vulnerability. He creates a safe and challenging environment where honest conversations can happen, allowing teams to break through barriers and achieve their full potential.
We are excited to welcome Mark back to AMPI as he presents his take on the work/life balance which is so critical in our industry.
Secure your registration now while we still have some space remaining: https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#CairnsConference #Wellbeing #PeerSupport #MarinePilot #ReefPilotage #CruiseShips #Maritime
Cairns Speaker Announcement: Wendy Sullivan
We are excited to announce that Wendy Sullivan, maritime medical training specialist and founder of @marinemedicalsolutions, will be joining us as a speaker at our upcoming Cairns Conference.
Wendy will be bringing a wealth of experience, information and practical experience with her as a Master 24, MED III and holding a Diploma of Paramedical Science.
Wendy has pioneered the delivery of top-tier medical emergency training tailored specifically for the maritime industry in Australia. Her commitment to the safety of those working in maritime environments has made her a respected figure in the industry. Her engaging speaking style and deep understanding of offshore medical challenges make her a valued guest speaker.
Wendy`s presentation is titled "Navigating Medical Emergencies: Fit-for-Purpose First Aid Training for Maritime Professionals" and is one that you don`t want to miss! She will also be staying with us to facilitate the First Aid Training Course at the end of our conference.
Please register now to avoid disappointment: https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#MaritimeFirstAid #MarinePilot #CairnsConference #MedicalSolutions
Cairns Speaker Announcement: Wendy Sullivan
We are excited to announce that Wendy Sullivan, maritime medical training specialist and founder of @marinemedicalsolutions, will be joining us as a speaker at our upcoming Cairns Conference.
Wendy will be bringing a wealth of experience, information and practical experience with her as a Master 24, MED III and holding a Diploma of Paramedical Science.
Wendy has pioneered the delivery of top-tier medical emergency training tailored specifically for the maritime industry in Australia. Her commitment to the safety of those working in maritime environments has made her a respected figure in the industry. Her engaging speaking style and deep understanding of offshore medical challenges make her a valued guest speaker.
Wendy`s presentation is titled "Navigating Medical Emergencies: Fit-for-Purpose First Aid Training for Maritime Professionals" and is one that you don`t want to miss! She will also be staying with us to facilitate the First Aid Training Course at the end of our conference.
Please register now to avoid disappointment: https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#MaritimeFirstAid #MarinePilot #CairnsConference #MedicalSolutions
Cairns Sponsor Announcement: Port Ash (@port.ash)
Please join us as we welcome Port Ash Ship Handling Training Centre as a sponsor for our Cairns Conference.
Port Ash is renowned for providing world-class training in ship handling for Masters, Ship’s Officers, and Pilots, with instruction led by experienced Pilots.
At the heart of Port Ash`s training approach is its purpose-built manned ship-model simulator, designed to deliver hands-on, practical learning. The facility focuses on the complexities of ship handling and low-speed control in confined and shallow waters, both with and without tug assistance.
Located just 35 minutes north of Newcastle, NSW, the Centre boasts a 5-acre training port, offering unparalleled opportunities for real-world simulation.
Register now to avoid disappointment, this conference will be a sell-out event - https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#AMPICairns2025 #Sponsorship #MaritimeTraining #PortAsh #ShipHandling #MarinePilots #ProfessionalDevelopment
Cairns Sponsor Announcement: Port Ash (@port.ash)
Please join us as we welcome Port Ash Ship Handling Training Centre as a sponsor for our Cairns Conference.
Port Ash is renowned for providing world-class training in ship handling for Masters, Ship’s Officers, and Pilots, with instruction led by experienced Pilots.
At the heart of Port Ash`s training approach is its purpose-built manned ship-model simulator, designed to deliver hands-on, practical learning. The facility focuses on the complexities of ship handling and low-speed control in confined and shallow waters, both with and without tug assistance.
Located just 35 minutes north of Newcastle, NSW, the Centre boasts a 5-acre training port, offering unparalleled opportunities for real-world simulation.
Register now to avoid disappointment, this conference will be a sell-out event - https://ampi.org.au/conferences/cairns-2025/
#AMPICairns2025 #Sponsorship #MaritimeTraining #PortAsh #ShipHandling #MarinePilots #ProfessionalDevelopment
Introducing AMPI’s 2025 Series: Meet the Member!
We`re excited to launch a new initiative this year to spotlight the hardworking members who make up the Australian Marine Pilots Institute. Each month, we’ll feature one of our members, sharing insights about their role, their port, and their perspectives on marine pilotage.
Our first featured member is Callum MacAdie from the beautiful port of Esperance. Callum shared with us what makes his job unique and offers a glimpse into what life looks like working with Southern Ports in Esperance.
🔹 Name: Callum MacAdie
🔹 Position: Marine Pilot
🔹 Port: Southern Ports - Esperance
🔹 Years in this position: 2 years
🔹 What inspired you to pursue a career in the maritime industry?
I grew up on the water and often went to sea with my father when he was sailing as a Chief Officer (pictured). Even as a young boy, I was mesmerised by what my father and grandfather did. I fell in love with the ocean and couldn’t wait to leave school and join a ship.
🔹 What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, personally or professionally?
A quote by Eckhart Tolle has always stuck with me: "If it is a mistake, at least you learn something, in which case it`s no longer a mistake. If you remain stuck, you learn nothing." Don’t be afraid of making mistakes because every mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow.
🔹 What do you love most about the community at your port?
The camaraderie and teamwork at the Port of Esperance are what I love most. Working at a regional port allows me to feel like I’m not only part of the Port Authority but also part of the local town and community.
🔹 What’s the most challenging aspect of working at your port?
Esperance Port is an exposed port, subject to surge conditions that can make safe mooring and piloting quite challenging at times.
Learn more about becoming an AMPI member today: https://ampi.org.au/membership/
#AMPI #MeetTheMember #MarinePilotage #MemberSpotlight #PortofEsperance #SouthernPorts
Introducing AMPI’s 2025 Series: Meet the Member!
We`re excited to launch a new initiative this year to spotlight the hardworking members who make up the Australian Marine Pilots Institute. Each month, we’ll feature one of our members, sharing insights about their role, their port, and their perspectives on marine pilotage.
Our first featured member is Callum MacAdie from the beautiful port of Esperance. Callum shared with us what makes his job unique and offers a glimpse into what life looks like working with Southern Ports in Esperance.
🔹 Name: Callum MacAdie
🔹 Position: Marine Pilot
🔹 Port: Southern Ports - Esperance
🔹 Years in this position: 2 years
🔹 What inspired you to pursue a career in the maritime industry?
I grew up on the water and often went to sea with my father when he was sailing as a Chief Officer (pictured). Even as a young boy, I was mesmerised by what my father and grandfather did. I fell in love with the ocean and couldn’t wait to leave school and join a ship.
🔹 What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, personally or professionally?
A quote by Eckhart Tolle has always stuck with me: "If it is a mistake, at least you learn something, in which case it`s no longer a mistake. If you remain stuck, you learn nothing." Don’t be afraid of making mistakes because every mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow.
🔹 What do you love most about the community at your port?
The camaraderie and teamwork at the Port of Esperance are what I love most. Working at a regional port allows me to feel like I’m not only part of the Port Authority but also part of the local town and community.
🔹 What’s the most challenging aspect of working at your port?
Esperance Port is an exposed port, subject to surge conditions that can make safe mooring and piloting quite challenging at times.
Learn more about becoming an AMPI member today: https://ampi.org.au/membership/
#AMPI #MeetTheMember #MarinePilotage #MemberSpotlight #PortofEsperance #SouthernPorts
AMPI News Posts
MEDIA RELEASE: AMPI Supports the Call for Sun-Shelters on Bridge Wings for Pilots
According to the Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011, workplaces must provide a safe working environment for employees, which includes protection from UV related harm.
Sun exposure can cause permanent and irreversible damage to the skin and eyes. Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the leading cause of skin cancer in Australia.
PNG 2024 – Speaker Presentations Now Available
AMPI is pleased to announce that speaker presentations from our highly successful Port Moresby Regional Pilotage and Ports Conference are now available for viewing. Click
Setting Sail for Change: AMPI Members to Chart New Waters at IMO International Women in Maritime Day 2024
In an exciting step towards gender equality and industry advancement, the Australian Marine Pilots Institute (AMPI) proudly announces its collaboration with International Maritime Pilots Association
Captain Sangmin Goag
It is with deep sadness that AMPI recently learned of the loss of Captain Sangmin Goag.
MV Dali – Bridge allision in Baltimore MD
The Australasian Marine Pilots Institute (AMPI) is the peak professional body representing marine pilots throughout Australia and Papua New Guinea. AMPI advocates for the highest
