SA’s Ferguson Australia family mourns the loss of son, brother
WILLIAM James Ferguson, 33, third-generation member of SA seafood exporter Ferguson Australia Group, passed away suddenly of a heart attack at his home in Port MacDonnell last week.
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WILLIAM James Ferguson, 33, third-generation member of SA seafood exporter Ferguson Australia Group, passed away suddenly of a heart attack at his home in Port MacDonnell last week.
The son of Andrew and Debra Ferguson and brother of Kate Birch and Eliza Ferguson, William had forged a formidable career in the local seafood industry and was the sales director for the group and general manager the export subsidiary, Five Star Seafoods (SA).
He joined the family business after completing Year 12, initially as a crew member for Ferguson Fisheries during its lobster season in the Northern Zone.
William’s innovative thinking and expertise in seafood processing and export accreditation to the EU, Japan, Russia and, more recently, China and Asia, helped the company to forge ahead, build international relationships and take export sales to another level.
A recognised and respected industry leader, strategic thinker and problem solver, he was also
credited with establishing the family-owned business as one of South Australia’s most significant Southern Rock Lobster exporters.
“William had salt in his veins and first went out on the lobster boats with me at the tender age of four,” his father, and Ferguson Australia Group Managing Director, Andrew Ferguson recalled.
“While a true general manager with the knack for involving and listening to everyone while keeping his eye on the big picture, William was so much more than that — he was a son, a friend, a business partner and a strategist.
“He had a big heart and personality to match and will be sorely missed for his love and passion for our family and his great sense of humour.
“I feel I owe William a great deal for the role he played in our business development. Rest assured, mate, we will carry your vision on and finish that unfinished business in your honour.”
He passed away on June 20.
The Ferguson family welcomes donations to the Heart Foundation in lieu of flowers.
A funeral service will be held at the Malvern Uniting Church on Friday at 2.30pm.
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