The NCT Story

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N CT was now in the log export business. Over the next five years about two shipments a month on average of either Pine or Eucalyptus pulpwood logs were despatched to Europe and the Middle East. Many a hiccup arose but those responsible took such problems in their stride. Lost: one stevedore... While loading a shipment of eucalyptus logs on the MV St Nicholas in Durban harbour, the stanchions supporting the deck cargo suddenly gave way, and logs tumbled and cascaded over the side onto the wharf, and between wharf and ship. Prior to this, stevedores had been scrambling over the piles of loaded logs and immediate fears were that people may have been swept overboard. A quick roll-call established some with slight injuries – and one missing. Frantic efforts were made to clear the jammed logs and locate the missing man. Those overseeing the operation were sweating with anxiety and had visions of a mangled body appearing any second. ... and found Unbeknown to anyone the missing man had quietly left his workplace earlier to answer nature’s call and was safely ensconced in a nearby toilet. Hearing the fuss he emerged and stood to the side calmly viewing in wonder the uproar before him. He was completely unaware that they were searching for him. We leave it to the reader to imagine the reaction of the foreman!

1979 – MCV Ace Pioneer – loaded for France with 10 813 tons of pine pulpwood

The NCT Story

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