Recently, the Year 11 Aquatic Practices classes toured businesses and organisations connected to the marine industry as part of their Boating Unit. The purpose of the excursion was to discover potential employment opportunities working in the boating industry, and understand the role of Volunteer Marine Rescue for recreational boaties.

Brett Hensler, Manager at Bundaberg Port Marina, conducted a tour around their facilities – from the mooring of boats, to the ship-lift and maintenance operations – as well as informing students about boat construction and storage in the hard stand areas. Students were given an insight to a wide range of work opportunities across all facets of the boating industry, and were struck by the price-tag for owning and maintaining some of the spectacular vessels moored at the marina – some locally built.

Karl Bowman, along with other volunteers of Burnett Heads Volunteer Marine Rescue, provided an overview of the role of VMR and its importance to recreational boaties, both local and those travelling through. Students visited the radio room and were able to chat with volunteers about that aspect of the organisation, along with checking out their impressive off-shore rescue boat – an 11.5 metre, $500,000 alloy catamaran with some very hi-tech rescue equipment.

Many thanks to Brett at Bundaberg Port Marina, and Karl and volunteers at Burnett Heads VMR for once again giving of their time and sharing their expertise.

Mr Troy Braund, Mrs Michelle Moller & Mr Steven Jenes
Aquatic Practices Teachers
Troy_Braund@shalomcollege.com
MollerM@shalomcollege.com
steven_jenes@shalomcollege.com