At 80, Frank Donn continues to shape the future of the fishing industry.
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Frank Donn: Inspiring the next generation of seafarers at 80
As Frank Donn celebrated his 80th birthday, one might assume he would prefer a peaceful retirement. However, this veteran North Sea trawlerman is far from slowing down. Instead, he is passionately engaged in his second career as an instructor at the Scottish Maritime Academy (SMA) in Peterhead, where he has dedicated the past 16 years to teaching the intricacies of life at sea.
A hub of maritime education
The Scottish Maritime Academy, a center of excellence in North East Scotland, serves as a vital training ground for aspiring seafarers. With its state-of-the-art facilities, including bridge simulators and radio rooms, SMA caters to students from across Scotland and beyond.
The academy offers a variety of courses, from foundational training for newcomers to refresher courses for seasoned professionals in the maritime industry.
Frank’s involvement in the academy is particularly focused on the 12-week trainee deckhand course, which runs three times a year. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of fishermen is evident in his pride when witnessing the success of his students. “It’s brilliant when you see one of the students you taught when they were young getting on in their career,” he reflects, highlighting the impact of his mentorship.
From humble beginnings to a lifelong career
Born in Banff and raised in Crovie, Frank’s journey into the fishing industry began at the tender age of 15 when he joined the crew of the Easter Morn. His early experiences on the line-fishing boat were formative, instilling a strong work ethic and a deep respect for the sea. “The fishing industry was a tough environment to go into, but it was where I wanted to be,” Frank recalls. His dedication to the craft led him to work on various vessels, including the white-fish trawler Harvest Reaper, where he spent over 26 years with the same crew.
Despite the challenges of a demanding career, Frank managed to balance his professional life with family commitments. He and his wife, Kathleen, raised two children while he navigated the often unpredictable waters of the North Sea. “We never sailed on a weekend, and when the fishing was good, we could be out in the morning and back with a full hold the same night,” he shares, reminiscing about the rewarding days of fishing.
Throughout his extensive career, Frank has faced both triumphs and tragedies. The loss of his father at sea when he was just eight years old serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers inherent in the fishing profession. “Working at sea is a dangerous job – you have to respect the sea and have your wits about you,” he emphasizes. This respect for the ocean is a core component of the training he provides at SMA, where he integrates real-life experiences into the curriculum.
As he reflects on his 80 years, Frank offers invaluable advice to aspiring fishermen: “Fishing is a brilliant career if you stick at it. Keep in your mind what you want to achieve and follow up on it.” His words resonate with the determination and resilience that have characterized his own journey.
Frank Donn’s legacy at the Scottish Maritime Academy is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about inspiring a new generation to embrace the challenges and rewards of a life at sea. As he continues to teach, he remains a beacon of hope and guidance for those who aspire to follow in his footsteps.
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