Port of Brisbane day to inspire maritime careers

  • Posted by Allen Newton
  • |
  • 21 May, 2026

MORE than 30 marine trade groups have taken part in a Port of Brisbane careers open day in a bid to inspire students, parents and teachers about the value of a maritime career.

On Tuesday, more than 300 people attended the day which was delivered through the Maritime Industry Careers Group comprising the Port of Brisbane, local river-based maritime businesses and industry, government and union stakeholders.

Port of Brisbane chief executive Neil Stephens said the open day was an opportunity to connect directly with young people considering a career in maritime.

Andy Perry, Joan Pease MP, Michaela Moss and Neil Stephens

L to R: Andy Perry, Executive General Manager Marine, Port of Brisbane; Joan Pease MP,
Member for Lytton; Michaela Moss, Australian Commercial Vessel Operators Association;
Neil Stephens, CEO Port of Brisbane. Image: Port of Brisbane

“Essentially the event is about promoting what a maritime career looks like, sparking interest, and showcasing real pathways into the industry,” Mr Stephens said.

"From vessel operations, to dredging and hydrographic surveying, to customs, environmental roles and port management – maritime careers are diverse, rewarding and critical to ports and the communities we serve.

“To ensure the ongoing success of our industry, we all have a role to play to help actively build awareness, develop skills and connect with the next generation of talent.

“It was incredibly encouraging to see such strong attendance and interest from young people exploring careers in the industry.”

The open day provided a unique platform to promote maritime career pathways, both on-water and onshore with key partner Australian Commercial Vessel Operators Association.

Industry groups provided hands-on displays and information stands and joined panel discussions sharing their experiences of working in the industry.

The Maritime Industry Careers Group comprises: Australian Commercial Vessel Operators Association (ACVOA); Australian Maritime Officers Union; Australian Institute of Marine and Power Engineers; AMS Group; Bhagwan Marine; Marine Jobs; Maritime Industry Australia Limited; Moreton Island Adventures; Maritime Union of Australia; Offshore and Specialist Ships Australia; Pacific Tug Group; Port of Brisbane; Poseidon Sea Pilots; River City Ferries; Sealink; Svitzer; and QMTS Training.

 

Port of Brisbane day to inspire maritime careers
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Posted by Allen Newton

Allen is DCN's WA correspondent. He is one of WA's most experienced journalists with a career that includes roles as Managing Editor of The Sunday Times and PerthNow and as Editor in Chief of Fairfax's WAtoday.

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