South Africa’s shipping industry lost one of its stalwarts, Roderick Eaton, on March 5.
Industry associate, Diane Schmidt, said: “Rod was a cherished friend and a guiding light who helped so many become who they are today.
“He went out of his way to share his wisdom and industry knowledge, which went on to shape so many careers.”
His career spanned many years, predominantly in a ships agency, where he was the perfect fit.
“Rod was always calm and patient. He was never rattled, never boasted of his successes and never let his disappointments show.
“Containers were gaining ground in the Northern hemisphere, only hitting South Africa shores in the mid 70’s. It was during these topsy turvy days of comparing breakbulk rates with container rates, full container loads and less than full container loads, and later, when the lines capitulated offering container rates to groupage operators, that Rod’s leadership skills blossomed,” says Schmidt, adding that he was the epitome of an officer and a gentleman.
Having worked with him at the TBN Club, she recalls that the venture, started in 2001, was his brainchild while he was still working at IIS-Voigt Shipping.
Along with "wharf rat" Paul Clarke, they felt the need to fill a void left by the old Association of Ships Agents and Brokers of Southern Africa, “which no longer met, as well as the Johannesburg chapter of the Exporters Club, which too no longer functioned”.
“In addition, the two gents wanted to find an informal home for ICS (Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers) members.
“The Club had two charities benefit whenever possible, namely NSRI (National Sea Rescue Institute) and MTS (Mission to Seafarers).”
Thanks to Eaton’s dedication, the TBN met every second month and enjoyed support from a good cross section of the industry, and continued to welcome new members,” says Schmidt.
“This provided a networking opportunity for industry players and their customers to swop news, stay in touch and discuss reciprocal business. In some cases, a guest speaker was featured; for example, when shipping companies had colleagues up from the coast it served as an ideal forum for them to socialise with their inland counterparts.”
In March 2012, Rod went on to head up the SA Maritime School and Transport College which had opened a campus in Johannesburg, based in Braamfontein. The first courses to be offered were International Trade and one on Cargo Handling.
He always said that the SA Maritime school was unique in that it was much more shipping-focused than other training facilities in the area. It offered an integral part of higher education in the marine, shipping and freight industries, delivering employable people into the market.
Rod was one of the first students at the SA Maritime School in 1988 shortly after it opened its doors in Durban, Schmidt remembers.
In late 2013, he launched a new venture, Knowledge of Transport Services (KNOTS), offering an alliance of marine industry experts to address what he termed a “knowledge gap” for the sector.
“As a skilled lecturer, drawing on his vast industry knowledge and array of industry contacts, he saw a need for more practical training in addition to the formal classroom training, particularly in Gauteng.
“Through KNOTS he would offer one-day workshops or longer-term mentorship programmes.
“His deep love for his family will be forever cherished as will his spirit, which will continue to inspire us all,” says Schmidt.
Rod is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, his son Neil, daughter Juliette and his grandchildren.
