26 November 2019

International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF) skiing champion, 17 year-old Carter Robertson is gliding towards turning his passion for water into a career by studying at TAFE NSW while completing the HSC.

The Grasmere local said, “I am passionate about everything maritime, and chose to study a Certificate I in Maritime Operations online with TAFE Digital because I wanted to kick-start my career before I had left school.

“With all the hours that I’ve spent on Sydney Harbour training for my ski racing, being out on the water and around boats is part of my DNA.”

While training for the championships, Mr Robertson put the practical aspects of his maritime studies to good use.

“I enjoyed the practical aspects of the course the most,” he said.  “Survival skills in the event of vessel abandonment was great training - I needed to keep a clear head, while ensuring that my fitness levels were up to the tasks.”

Considering his aspirations to become a marine firefighter, Mr Robertson, took a particular interest in the firefighting elements of the course.  “Minimising and fighting fires on board vessels was exciting,” he said.

“It was interesting learning that not all fires are put out with water and how to quickly respond to different types and categories of fires.”

Mr Robertson said that at times it was challenging staying on track with his online studies, while ski training and completing his HSC.  “I soon learnt that the timeframe I’d set to complete my maritime studies was achievable and all fell in place, as long as I didn’t procrastinate,” he said.  “At times Mum would nag and remind me which units were coming up, which really helped.”

Mr Robertson appreciated the flexibility that TAFE Digital afforded him to deliver assignments around his hectic training and HSC schedule.  “I live quite a distance from any TAFE NSW facility, so the flexibility of studying online in my home environment at my own pace, was great,” he said. 

“The learning platform was engaging and easy to follow.  When I had any questions there was always someone to help via email or phone, and they gave me tremendous support with tasks and scheduling best times for practical sessions.”

To explore the range of TAFE NSW online courses across a range of modern industries, please visit https://www.tafensw.edu.au/digital

Media contact: Bonny Gunn, TAFE Digital Media and Communications Business Partner.  M: 0417 134 048