Aboriginal skipper qualifies as First Fleet class master
Mingaletta member Mr Ryan Champley has been signed off for the First Fleet Class vessels at Sydney Ferries.
Three years ago he became the first aboriginal skipper at Sydney Ferries.
Recently he qualified as a "Master IV", an unrestricted qualification, for the First Fleet Class vessels.
"He is still the first and only aboriginal master at Sydney Ferries," said his father Mr Mark Champley.
"The ironic thing is we now have the first aboriginal skipper on the class of vessels that were named after the First Fleet that arrived in 1788.
"It is a symbol of resilience and reconciliation."
Mr Champley said: "This news was shared at the Mingaletta Community meeting and the gathering supported the story be used to showcase how the Mingaletta membership are making a difference.
"We are hoping the story will inspire other aboriginal people but also encourage the wider community to visit the Mingaletta premises in Sydney Ave, Umina, and hopefully join us.
"Ryan's grandmother, Aunty Fay, was a respected elder of our community before her passing and was always encouraging Ryan to be 'his best self and a role model for others'.
"We are sure Aunty Fay would be beaming with pride.
"Mingaletta is very proud of Ryan Champley who has been a member with his family for many years."
SOURCE:
Media release, 7 Sep 2022
Mark Champley, Mingaletta