The John Strang A.O. Memorial Award was launched by ICHCA International in its 65th year to recognise dedication to the development of the cargo handling industry; achievements that have led to improvements in efficiency, effectiveness, health and safety, as well as the organisation or individual being a catalyst for positive change and innovation within the industry. The judging panel who bestowed this award noted that IMO’s continued regulatory and guidance work fulfils all the stated criteria.
The Strang family have a long history of supporting ICHCA International. John’s father was involved in its establishment in the 1950s and John was a pioneer and ambassador of ICHCA throughout his lifetime. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (A.O.) in HM The Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June 2016. This award is the highest recognition for outstanding achievement and service in the Australian honours system. It was conferred for his distinguished service to the transport and logistics sector through executive roles in progressing industry development.
Sadly, John Strang A.O. passed away in September 2016. Sallie Strang, Board member of ICHCA International and daughter of John said, “We are thrilled that ICHCA have chosen to honour our father by launching this award in his name and we cannot think of a more worthy recipient than the International Maritime Organization”.
Since its inception in 1948, IMO has played a significant role in the marine side, but also the port side of the ship/port interface by regulating the industry to ensure safe practices throughout. Such work is also part of the core concepts behind ICHCA.
Since then, the range and depth of IMO’s involvement has broadened out and many new pieces of legislation and associated work impact significantly on ports and terminals. This year the connectivity between ships and ports is highlighted as their major theme. ICHCA sees the port sectors involvement with IMO only increasing. IMO has, and continues, to make a significant contribution to improving the health and well-being of seafarers and port workers alike.
For this reason, the Award judging panel, which includes senior ICHCA representatives and members of John’s family have decided to honour IMO with the inaugural award. The award is kindly sponsored by The Strang-Tradex Group and will be presented on Tuesday 3 October by Sallie Strang during the official awards ceremony of the ICHCA International Conference 2017.
IMO’s Secretary General Mr Kitack Lim will be represented by Mr Joseph Westwood-Booth, IMO’s Senior Deputy Director, Subdivision for Marine Technology and Cargoes, Maritime Safety Division who will accept the award on behalf of the IMO.

ICHCA International