Seasoned singer Seaman Dan turns 80 this year and the co-producer of his CDs - Dr Karl Neuenfeldt from CQUniversity Bundaberg - reckons he's well and truly on his victory lap.

On top of his Jimmy Little Lifetime Achievement Award for Contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Music - announced at the 2009 Deadly Awards on October 16 - Seaman has also picked up his second ARIA Award (Best World Music Album) for his latest CD recording Sailing Home.

LINK HERE to Seaman Dan's ARIA Awards speech

LINK HERE to see Dr Karl Neuenfeldt and Seaman at the ARIA Awards

Seaman and Karl in live performance mode

Seaman Dan has announced his retirement from the recording studio, where he has spent many hours since being 'discovered', aged in his 70s, with the help of Dr Neuenfeldt.

The former Thursday Island pearl diver has charmed audiences with his laid-back style influenced by island rhythms and American blues.

Although also retired from live performances, Seaman has recently crooned a tune or two for Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and delegates at the Pacific Leaders Forum in Cairns, and also for Queensland Premier Anna Bligh and Queensland Governor Penelope Wensley at the inaugural Cairns Indigenous Arts Fair.

Seaman is enjoying the lovely tropical surrounds of the Torres Strait region and keeps active with his large extended family and the occasional sing-song on the verandah of his home on Horn Island.  

A promo for the latest album