Late Captain Hill Buried At Sea
The late Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji acting chief executive officer (CEO) Captain Philip Hill was described as a humble man by his youngest son, Thomas Hill.
Captain Hill died on March 12 aged 58, following a short illness.
As he had wished he was buried at sea yesterday. The late Captain Hill hailed from Naselesele village, Taveuni and has maternal link to Bau Island.
“My dad was always a cheerful person and would never show any sign of pain and tiredness when he comes home from work,” Mr Hill said.
“He was someone we could always count on and he would never let us down. I miss him so much,” he said.
“He was always ready to help people and never expected anything in return; he was a humble man.
“My dad wanted to be buried out at sea. It was his wish and we fulfilled his wish.”
Mr Hill said his father was someone who always treated everyone equally.
“My father always sees everyone as equal and he never let his position define him,” he said.
“I will miss the way he motivates us and encourages us. My dad always makes sure that we worked hard.
“He always makes sure that we do everything to the best of our abilities. He instilled discipline in us.”
Captain Hill’s funeral service was held at the Garden of Joy church in Navua.
About Captain Hill
1981-1987- Joined Fiji Navy
1987- Joined Merchant Navy
1988- Re-enlisted Fiji Navy
1989-2007 – Transferred to Fiji Marine Department
2007- Became deputy port master
2009- Promoted to port master
2012- Manager port operation and emergency response
2014- Manager safety, compliance and response
2018- Acting CEO of Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji
During his tenure as acting CEO, the late Captain Hill led the charge to improve the standards of sea transport providers, amendment of the Maritime Safety Acts in Fiji, and improve survey and safety procedures.
His leadership saw to the salvaging works of MV Southern Phoenix at the Suva Harbour last year. The late Captain Hill is survived by his wife Buna and four children – Eugene, Emma, Matthew and Thomas and his only grandson Philip II.
Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj
