More maritime students jump on board to support industry

Students from three Darwin high schools took to the water this week to complete their studies and graduate with a Certificate II in Maritime Operations.

The qualification is required in the NT by the commercial fishing industry, Indigenous Rangers, Border Force, oil and gas support operators, ferry services, NT tourism operators including fishing charters, and others. It is also recognised nationally and internationally.

Facilitated by Charles Darwin University (CDU), the qualification is otherwise known as a coxswain’s ticket. In addition to Darwin, the university also offers the qualification in Yirrkala, Alyangula, Nhulunbuy, Baniyala, Borroloola, Elcho Island and Maningrida.

The Darwin students—from O’Loughan Catholic College, Casuarina Senior College, and Darwin High School—have been studying in the classroom and on the water part-time for almost a year.

Team Leader Automotive, Transport and Civil Construction in CDU’s College of Engineering, IT and Environment, Leith Darrach said being a coxswain was a demanding and high-pressure position.

“A coxswain is responsible for navigating and steering small commercial vessels within 15 nautical miles of the coast,” Mr Darrach said.

“They’re expected to lead a crew and make decisions under pressure, such as taking appropriate actions in an emergency.”

Other tasks include maintaining engines, updating logbooks, using ropes and chains, operating winches, stowing anchors at sea, securing a vessel in rough weather, and lashing and securing equipment.

O’Loughan Catholic College student Matthew Jenko said studying for his coxswain’s ticket was a natural choice.

“I love the water and I love boating and fishing,” Mr Jenko said.

VET Lecturer and Workplace Assessor, Maritime, David Cubis said that to get a job on a commercial vessel in Australia you must have qualifications.

“You need to prove that you're competent in the appropriate skills and you know all the latest rules and regulations,” Mr Cubis said.

“Once you have your coxswain’s ticket, you open yourself up to an entire world of potential jobs.”

Other positions requiring a coxswain’s ticket include deckhand, environmental monitoring officer, sail charter guide and oyster farm hand.