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18 January 2006

Phil - Outboard Mechanic

Crew.
Outboard Mechanic


Canadian
The ship is my home for six months of the year, but when not on board I try to live in Canada, not far from Toronto. I've been with Greenpeace for 14 years. The past 11 on the ships. I've been a deckhand, a boatswain, a cook, an engineer and outboard mechanic. On this tour we have four rigid hull inflatable boats on board. Their care and maintenance is my responsibility. I have two teenage children that are the centre of my universe. This is the first time I've participated in the Greenpeace whaling campaign. I hope to save at least one whale. Having the Japanese whaling industry collapse would of course be a better result for all whales. Just being in the Southern Ocean has been quite a challenging experience. Our ship is notorious for the degree to which she can roll in just a moderate sea. The heavier seas common to this ocean have made it a truly bizarre environment in which to work. Trying to conduct normal activities while your workplace is behaving like a rollercoaster presents certain difficulties which we all have to find ways to overcome. We've talked about starting the "bruise of the day" club. The continued existence of these animals should not be left to the likes of us. The world has to oppose whaling. Not just Greenpeace. Wish us luck and prey for the whales. Peace Phil

   

Comments

Heya Phil.
Nice work out there! I've heard reports its still pretty rough out there (sea wise and emotionally)hope your all holding up OK. Thankfully your hard work has not gone unnoticed, with whaling making headline news every few days or so, and smaller articles nearly everyday. The world is watching, so thankyou for being brave out there and giving those whales so much love!
It doesnt seem so long ago that you were teaching me how to drive those dam inflatables! Miss you lots, and the ocean.
Keep up the good work, and stay safe.
Big hugs, Sam (from teh sunny shores of Melbourne Australia)

Posted by: Sam Mikus at January 19, 2006 2:53 AM

I can't believe I have to actually write to you this way just to say 'hi.' Hope you are well and I'm looking forward to seeing you seaside.
Beth

yeah, I'm back. what can I say?

Posted by: beth at January 28, 2006 3:57 AM

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