Fullers Master Bruce Crabtree retires after 30 years
Media Release – 7 January, 2011
Auckland, 7 January 2011 – Bruce Crabtree, of Fullers Group Limited, retired on Wednesday 22 December after 30 years as a Master on Auckland’s harbour.
Bruce began his career on Auckland harbour in 1963 when he joined North Shore Ferries. After years of working in the office and as a deckhand, he completed his Master’s training in 1974, with his first command as Master on Kestrel which sailed the Devonport service. He was also Master on Baroona and Toroa, making him one of the last remaining Steamship Masters. North Shore Ferries was purchased by Fullers Group in 1980, and Bruce carried on as Master; much of his time was spent on the company’s big boats including Quickcat, and more recently Kea. Bruce was the Senior Master of Quickcat when it sailed from Perth following its purchase in 1987. He also spent time as Master for a period of time on the Captain’s Lady, Auckland’s dinner cruise vessel. In total, Bruce has spent an enormous 47 years working on the harbour.
Douglas Hudson, Fullers CEO, says Bruce will be sadly missed. “Bruce is a rock of stability for Fullers. He will be remembered for his reliability and commitment. I thank him for his outstanding dedication and service.”
Bruce says his key to being successful in his profession was “doing what needed to be done. I never went anywhere without my phone list”. He says “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Fullers. The company is like one big family”. Bruce plans to spend more time with his wife who has recently retired also. Both are avid cyclists, and having recently spent time cycling alongside the River Danube, his retirement plan includes more cycling trips.
-ENDS-
Further information
Stephanie Bell
Marketing Communications Executive
Fullers Group Limited
stephanie.bell@fullers.co.nz
09 367 9143
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