Walter was born in 1886 in Scotland. In 1917, he obtained his third class engineer license. He worked on the S.S. Camosun in 1918. He invented and obtained a patent for a safety device for burners in 1925. He was married to Bertha Claribel (Belle), nee Grant.
The Company of Master Mariners of Canada was incorporated by Federal Charter on May 11th, 1967. There are eight regional divisions, with the National Office in the City of Vancouver, British Columbia. The Company was established to encourage and maintain the high and honourable standards of the Nautical Profession, further the efficiency of the sea service and uphold the dignity and prestige of Master Mariners.
Vision
The Company of Master Mariners of Canada continues to be a recognized and respected organization, representing the interests of Canadian shipmasters and senior deck officers, from which advice and guidance will be sought.
Mission
The Company of Master Mariners of Canada exists to:
Encourage and maintain a high and honourable standard of ability and professional conduct of the officers of the Canadian Merchant Service
Provide a central body of command level mariners representing senior officers of the Canadian Merchant Service
Encourage and further develop education, training and qualifications of young seafarers and cadets
Participate in, and provide input into, National and International groups in matters concerning the safety, operation, and regulation of ships and their crews
Organize conventions and seminars for the discussion and consideration of topics of interest to the Merchant Service and mariners
Promote and maintain efficient and friendly cooperation between the commercial, government and military fleets of Canada
Values
Recognizing the unique nature of employment in the marine profession, we are guided by:
Professionalism
Respect
Integrity
In early 1897, work commenced on a sleek 5.86 gross tons, 30ft, wooden gaff cutter (sloop) in the James Bay boatyard of John J. Robinson. Although nothing remains of Robinson’s busy shop — now the site of the Laurel Point Inn — the vessel he built is still ‘above the waves’. Today, Dorothy is considered the oldest sailing yacht in all of Canada and a major artefact in the Maritime Museum of BC’s collection.
To learn the latest on S/V Dorothy, please refer to our website: http://mmbc.bc.ca/dorothy/