Murdo Ewen Mackenzie

I started as 2nd Mate, which involved chart corrections, watchkeeping and working with Chief Officer and Master, checking routine maintenance and safety of the crew on a daily basis. Other duties involved medical and security duties where necessary. On joining my second vessel I was up-graded to Chief Officer which involved more watchkeeping, Management on deck and extra security duties, as well as being Safety Officer.

I started working on tugs for marine construction on the West coast of Scotland. This involved the loading, discharging and manoevering of barges and other equipment. Originally I was on the deck of the tugs but was put in command of the vessels on many occasions, eventually becoming full time Master one one of the vessels.

I started fishing as a YTS trainee, doing a 2 year course, then gaining full-time employment on a local vessel. During my employment I covered a large range of tasks, involving the watches, winches, power blocks, hold, engine room and management of the vessels, being relief Skipper when required. During this time I gained my Class 2 Fishing certificate.