20 September 2022

A Victorian primary school teacher is taking to the seas in the tall ships of Sydney Harbour thanks to a TAFE NSW maritime qualification which is allowing her to pursue two professions.

Natalie Moore became interested in the maritime industry as a university student, studying teaching while working at Melbourne’s Maritime Museum. A few voyages later and her hobby had turned into a passion which she now hopes to turn into a career thanks to a Certificate IV in Maritime Operations with TAFE NSW.

“The flexibility of studying online with TAFE NSW was the best decision for my lifestyle, particularly during COVID lockdowns and job uncertainty,” said Natalie.

“I was able to study the theory components online when it suited me, and then complete the navigation practical component over a weekend on Sydney Harbour.

“TAFE NSW teachers have real industry experience and were always there to answer my questions and support my online studies, and they were flexible when plans for our practical studies were disrupted by lockdowns.”

The nationally accredited Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal) qualifies TAFE NSW graduates to work as a master on vessels up to 35m long, or chief mate on vessels up to 80m, and gives them the skills and training to apply for an Australian Maritime Safety Authority certificate.

TAFE NSW Maritime Head Teacher Nicole Gillies said the demand for certified crews is growing as Australia emerges from the pandemic.

“A maritime career is a rewarding choice for anyone with a love for being on the water, and the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations teaches practical skills like operating deck machinery, managing cargo, ensuring a safe vessel, and monitoring vessel operations,” said Ms Gillies.

“TAFE NSW is pleased to support the maritime industry and students like Natalie who are looking for flexibility in their studies while they pursue a pathway into a rewarding new career.”

Natalie now spends as many weekends as she can with the Sydney Heritage Fleet on the 19th century tall ship the James Craig, which regularly goes to sea with up to 80 passengers. While her dual careers continue and Natalie dreams of longer stretches at sea, there is also synergy between the two professions.

“Working with passengers and the public is my favourite part about the industry, and that probably aligns with my teaching and students,” said Natalie.

Media contact: Amy Johnson, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, amy.johnson87@tafensw.edu.au,  phone: 02 7921 0354