Stars in their Eyes for Seafarers
by Steven Jones, Propeller Club Liverpool
Every so often in life you find yourself in a situation that you aren’t entirely sure how it happened, and even less certain how you will get out of it. Draped in a regal cape and paper crown, wearing a false moustache and miming to Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” in front of an audience of 100 maritime professionals would seemingly count as one of those times!
Yes, that was my experience of the Propeller Club Liverpool Gala Dinner.
Held in aid of the Nautilus Welfare Fund and their Mariners Park, an amazing facility for retired seafarers. Every October we host an event and try to make it a little different. We have had a Casino Night, ABBA tribute, and now this…the Stars in their Eyes “Lip Sync Challenge”.
From Madonna to Elton John, Boy George, Dolly and Kenny, with Shania Twain and Britney thrown in, compered wonderfully by our own Matthew, – members of the Club took to the stage to entertain friends, colleague and our maritime family.
The reception was astonishing, the crowd roared, whooped and screamed with laughter and encouragement. While Shania Twain won the contest, thankfully we all triumphed as Mariners Park is set to receive over £550 from the collection.
You might ponder what would make someone do their Freddie Mercury in front of a large, live crowd instead of happily in front of the mirror. The answer is complex. I think it comes down to a sense of belonging, and the responsibility which comes with that.
It is not just Liverpool, but all over the world the maritime industry creates bonds which run amazingly deep into one’s lives. We may call it work, and of course there are many trials and tribulations, but we are also blessed. We are surrounded by passionate people who care, we care about seafarers and ships, we care about trade and business, cut-throat commerciality, but with a sense of deep humanity and connection which runs through everything we do.
So, in donning my cape I became not a super hero or super star, but a reflection of the amazing people in shipping who I respect, revere and enjoy. That is what a network is, and we are nothing without those connections.
Would I like to do it again? No! Am I avoiding seeing any photos and videos? Yes! Am I glad I did it? Definitely.
So, a massive thank you to our sponsors and all who took part, a group who gave so much of themselves to help others! Thank you to all who attended, of course, but a very special thank you to Liverpool John MooresUniversity (LJMU) students who came in great numbers and who seemed to have an even better time!
They are the future of our industry, and in their smiles and singing, in their respect for all that maritime is and can be, I see great things ahead. Now we just have to guess who will be the maritime Elvis..?
