A remarkable milestone was celebrated, as David McDonald marked his 50th year of working at LPC, the current longest tenure.

Dave started on 8 July 1974, the same year as the Christchurch Commonwealth Games and the year Richard Nixon resigned as US President following Watergate scandal.

Many people came together to honour Dave’s instrumental role at the port, particularly noted was his role in upgrading security operations, supporting newcomers, and advocating for workers’ rights.

His adaptability, resilience and dedication were described as exemplary by his colleagues.

They shared how he instilled unwritten knowledge in newcomers, and that his legacy is reflected in them, too.

Dave has witnessed many changes and challenges during his five decades of service.

He was at sea when seamen were deregistered in 1971.

He became a watchman working with pilots, monitored ship lines, and after significant changes in the early 90s, transitioned to a new security role that covered line supervision, watchman duties, security and after-hours services. He continued in this until 2004 when a reformed security team was established to comply with the Maritime Security Act 2004.

A story was shared of how Dave once saved the day by calling the fire brigade when he spotted a blaze.

Dave was presented with a pounamu, blessed by Maui Stewart with a wooden stand made by Ivan Grooby, Civil Maintenance from recycled jetty timber.

Dave expressed his gratitude and pride in being part of the Lyttelton Port.