After nearly three years, Caroline Milmo is stepping down as Chair of the Cruising Association’s Honorary Local Representatives (HLRs) group. During her tenure, Caroline played a pivotal role in establishing the HLRs as an integral part of the CA, fostering strong relationships with Section Secretaries and maintaining close contact with HLRs around the world.
Taking over as the new HLR Chair is James Parnell, a CA member of over 30 years. James is also joint Secretary of the Mediterranean Section and a member of the Marketing Committee. He will be supported by Andrew Halcrow, HLR in Shetland, and John Tait, based in Hartlepool, who form a new team to lead the HLR network.
James expressed his gratitude to Caroline for her outstanding contributions, which includes promoting the use of the HLR flag, recruiting new HLRs and showcasing individual HLRs in the popular ‘HLRs and their Coasts’ articles in Cruising magazine. "Caroline has bequeathed a well-run organisation to the new team and a few really good ideas to be followed up," he said.
Caroline, reflecting on her time as Chair, shared her confidence in the new team, saying, "Having talked to James, Andrew, and John, I am really pleased they are taking over the HLR group. James has spoken to me of some great ideas going forward. The HLRs will be a great asset in this."
The new team plans to build on Caroline’s legacy, focusing on innovative ways to support and expand the HLR network. They aim to further develop the role of HLRs in shaping the CA and its policies.
About HLRs
At sea, unforeseen circumstances can arise, and having local support is invaluable. The CA Honorary Local Representatives (HLRs) are ready to assist members wherever they may be.
HLRs are a vital resource for members, offering help with a wide range of issues. Whether it’s sourcing emergency repairs, finding safe moorings, navigating visa requirements, or overcoming language barriers, HLRs are there to provide practical support. They can also offer insights into local customs, simplify complex bureaucracy and help locate spare parts or equipment. And if they can’t assist directly, they’ll likely know someone who can.
With over 165 HLRs strategically located in 55 countries worldwide, the CA ensures that members have access to reliable, on-the-ground assistance no matter where they are.
Non-members can discover more by visiting HLRs.
Find HLRs
Members can find HLRs on the CA website and CAptain’s Mate.
On the website members can view a list of HLRs by country. CAptain’s Mate shows all HLRs linked to locations and members can also run an HLR filter search. Pins with a person symbol indicate HLRs. An orange/yellow HLR pin marks the primary location of an HLR. A plain yellow pin represents HLRs without a primary location, who cover a wider geographic area, with the pin location showing the middle of their area.
26 March 2025