The Annual Dinner attracted 735 guests from across the shipping community, including past and present Maritime Ministers. 

This event heard from current Maritime Minister Lord Davies of Gower, the Chamber's CEO, Sarah Treseder, and the Chamber's President Graham Westgarth. The President opened his speech by addressing the unpredictable and difficult ongoing situation in the Red Sea and emphasised that whilst he cannot make predictions, his thoughts are with the seafarers impacted by these events.

He touched on the advancements that have been made in the shipping industry to date. He then moved on to the Chamber’s new strategy, which aims to deliver additional value for its members, and introduced the first-ever Chamber conference in October, which will enable much-needed discussions. He also announced the relaunch of the Careers at Sea Ambassador Programme, which will help reinforce the message of why a rewarding career in shipping could be for the younger generation. 

2023 MCA's Officer Trainee of the Year Award 

The Annual Dinner hosted the 2023 Maritime Coastguard Agency's Officer Trainee of the Year, which this year was won by Katie Jayne McGahan Hargreaves. Presenting the award was MCA CEO Virginia McVea who said that Katie was chosen for her willingness to go above and beyond in promoting the maritime industry as an enthusiastic and dedicated ambassador.

Commenting on this the Maritime Minister Lord Davies said:

Congratulations to Katie, who truly embodies the spirit of maritime – her strong work ethic and early passion have moulded her into a dedicated and outstanding officer.

It is great to see the MCA celebrating outstanding individuals like Katie. This achievement not only reflects her hard work and commitment but also serves as a testament to the high standards upheld by the MCA.

President's Chosen Charity The Sailors’ Society

Yearly, the Chamber's President chooses one charity among seven Chamber Charity Members, which people can donate to throughout the evening.

Guests were very generous in their donations to The Sailor's Society and helped raise well over £5,600, thank you to everyone who helped raise money.

Thank you also to all our sponsors:

• Gold Sponsor: Northern Marine
• President's Reception: V. Group
• Silver Sponsors: Denholm, Lloyd's Register, and ABS
• Bronze Sponsor: Viking Maritime
• Programme Sponsor: MLA College

If you are interested in sponsoring the next Annual Dinner, please contact the Chamber's Head of Membership and Business Development Tony Jerome.

View more pictures of the evening.