Jim Horton entered the dredging industry in 1984 as Vice President of H&H Pump Company in Mississippi. From there Jim went on to start IMS in 1986. Jim’s relentless pursuit of becoming the world’s leading portable auger dredge supplier started to take form in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s as IMS captured market share from established competitors with new innovations.

The introduction of the patented Starwheel Drive self-propulsion system and Jim’s focus on international markets solidified IMS as a global player in the one-truck transportable dredging market. In 2003 IMS became part of the Ellicott Dredge group of companies which is now the largest portable dredge builder in the world. Jim was responsible for the inception of the Model 7012 HP Versi-Dredge which has gone on to become the most popular 10×12 (254mm x 305mm) dredging system in the world. He will retire on March 31, 2015.

“This is a real turning point for OMC because the Arrium Whyalla DUKC real-time software navigation system is not only our first South Australian installation but also, more significantly, this is the first time that DUKC is being used for a trans-shipment operation,” Dr O’Brien said. “These are exciting times for our maritime engineerin company whose priority is always safety first.”

DUKC innovator Dr O’Brien, who is the recognised world expert in under keel clearance management, said work was underway on this new installation for Arrium (an Australian iron ore exporter and steel maker previously known as OneSteel) and it was expected to be commissioned by June this year.

“DUKC technology will help enhance Arrium’s operations by safely maximising the drafts of ocean-going iron ore carriers above the existing limit of 18.2m down the Spencer Gulf from a trans-shipment point,” Dr O’Brien said.

Trelleborg has over 30 years’ experience designing, manufacturing and supplying innovative docking and mooring solutions across the globe. The new ReadyMoor series of QRHs offers a number of benefits, including:
1. Improved safety
2. Improved efficiency
3. Reduced costs

RWG did not rule out discussion about an operational collective agreement beforehand but unfortunately, the unions decided to reject their offer of dialogue because they insisted that RWG enforces a collective agreement for every RWG employee. It is disappointing that the unions have adopted this position.

RWG is ‘pro-choice’ when it comes to union membership and collective agreements for its employees. All RWG employees are free to be members of any union if they wish, but RWG will not enforce any collective agreement upon its employees without their express desire and consent. To date there has been no such request from RWG employees.

RWG has explained to the unions that the company has assigned all operational work, based on long-term contracts, to companies who have existing collective agreements for dockers.

RWG continues to emphasise that it offers a competitive individual package of employment benefits that compares well within the industry. Despite the disappointment RWG is ready to resume talks with the unions at all times.