Zac finds his sea legs with TAFE Queensland

“I don’t come from a maritime background at all, but once I joined Marine Rescue Queensland, I knew I wanted a career at sea,” Zac said.

Sparking an unexpected passion, Zac enrolled to study a Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) (MAR20321) through TAFE Queensland’s Senior College, where he combines school with industry training to fast-track his career.

He studies his course on Fridays - his day off from high school – while studying aquatic practices and volunteering as a boat crew member with Marine Rescue Queensland.

“It fits perfectly into my schedule. I’m learning new skills and getting a head start in the industry I love,” he said.

TAFE Queensland’s Senior College program, offered exclusively at the Alexandra Hills campus, provides a flexible and mature learning environment where students can complete Years 11 and 12 differently.

Designed for 15 to 17-year-olds seeking a practical alternative to the traditional school system, the program supports students in earning their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and, if they choose, an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR).

This adult-learning environment perfectly fits Zac, allowing him to balance his senior studies with hands-on maritime training and real-world work experience.

By combining academic learning with direct access to TAFE Queensland’s vocational courses, Zac is gaining the skills, qualifications, and industry connections he needs to achieve his dream of a career in marine rescue or water police.

His training has already led to valuable hands-on experience with Pacific Tug Company at the Port of Brisbane and seen him join the fleet operations team with Marine Rescue Queensland.

“At Pacific Tugs, I helped with towing and vessel maintenance and even got to drive a tugboat. I’ve been involved in vessel planning, design, compliance, and assessments with Marine Rescue Queensland. It’s given me a great understanding of commercial operations,” explained Zac.

His course combines classroom theory at the Alexandra Hills campus with practical training at Wellington Point Boat Ramp. Zac trains on six vessels, using different equipment, propulsion types, and real-world maritime conditions.

“TAFE strikes a great balance between theory and practice. We’ll do a navigation exercise on paper, then test it out on the water, which really helps things stick,” he said.

Since starting the course, Zac’s confidence and skills have grown significantly, which he credits to the support of his teachers.

“My teacher, Jared Ellmers, has been amazing - he’s coached me, expanded my knowledge, and pushed me to do more. I feel more confident making decisions and taking charge, whether I’m on deck or at the helm,” he said.

“It’s also great studying alongside other students who are just as passionate about the marine industry as I am.”

After completing his Certificate II, Zac plans to pursue his Master 5 certification and aims for a career in marine search and rescue or the water police.

Queensland is home to thousands of kilometres of mainland and island coastline; there will always be a need for qualified maritime operators. His advice to others thinking about a career on the water?

“Just sign up. Get your application out there, meet people, and use the course to get your start. After that, it’s all about building connections - people will help you grow,” Zac concluded.