From casual General Hand to Master of the vessel: Meet Port of Brisbane’s Master TSHD, Mark Knight.
When Mark Knight joined Port of Brisbane 16 years ago as a casual General Hand, he set a personal goal to one day work on the Trailing Suction Hopper Dredge (TSHD) Brisbane, the Port’s flagship vessel. Fast forward to today, he’s achieved the highest grade of seafarer qualification, a university degree, and memories to last a lifetime as Master TSHD at Port of Brisbane.
What he’s achieved throughout his career at Port of Brisbane is no small feat, and an achievement well worth celebrating…
A CAREER JOURNEY REALISED IN ONE COMPANY
Mark joined Port of Brisbane as a casual General Hand in 2008, working at the Port’s reclamation area after his good mate and port employee told him of the role. Mark initially started work tying up the TSHD Brisbane, also proudly referred to as ‘The Brisbane’, when it berthed. Before long, he was offered a full-time role in the Support Craft team working on various Survey and Channel maintenance vessels. Mark said before he knew it, he was onboard The Brisbane training as a relief Dredge Master, a common progression for the Port’s marine team members even to this day.
“From the beginning I knew I wanted to get onto The Brisbane; that was my goal. I started with relief work, and it was a fantastic journey. It’s very common practice for the team, to start in the marine Support Craft section working with the Brisbane crew in a relief role before coming onboard as a crew member,” said Mark.
It was the encouragement from the Port through the likes of on-the-job training as well as study assistance and professional development opportunities that motivated Mark to embark on a career he never expected.
“I could clearly see the opportunity and career journey from the beginning. I don’t think there are many companies where you could achieve this in the one place – usually you’d have to move around to progress. It’s pretty amazing.
“The Port of Brisbane encouraged me to progress my training and further my career by going to the Australian Maritime College within the University of Tasmania for twelve months. I came out with a university degree along with a Master Mariner Ticket. I left school in grade 10 to do a trade, I never thought I’d have a university degree.”
PBPL’s Senior Manager Dredging and Crewing, Cheree Figg, said Mark had a natural style of leadership – engaging and communicating with his crew, people ashore, and the Port’s valued customers.
“In Mark’s role, strong communication skills are critical. As Master, you’re responsible for the safety of the crew, the vessel and of course, the successful and safe completion of the work that needs to be done,” said Cheree.
“Having worked across a multitude of roles prior to becoming Master means that Mark brings great insight into how the crew works together, the different tasks, functions and systems onboard, and of course, relationships with shore-based operations.
“He’s an invaluable member of crew, we’re very proud to have him onboard as the Master of the Brisbane to lead her, and the crew going forwards.”A DAY AT SEA – SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY DRIVE THE DREDGE
As a 24/7 operation working along the Queensland coast, no two days are ever the same on The Brisbane.
As Master, Mark starts at 4am every morning to check-in with his team and says it's a matter of looking at the big picture and planning accordingly on the day – with safety at the core of every decision made.
“We need to look at the whole operation, including shipping traffic, weather and environmental conditions, to help plan what work will be completed that day.
We’re also working with the shore-based teams and managers based in Brisbane and locally in the Port of operation to ensure all dredging activities are completed safely and efficiently,” said Mark.
“A lot of the Masters’ role is also ensuring we keep up with legislation, ensuring our records are kept up to date and operational procedures are followed. I’ve seen massive changes in safety throughout my career – safety and sustainability have become a leading focus in the marine industry, as they have in many industries, which is fantastic to see and to be a part of. I’m also very privileged to work with a team of highly skilled and professional people both onboard and ashore.
“For us, safety is a core part of our culture and the whole crew and Port of Brisbane team really champion this, it’s something I’m very proud to be part of.
“A sustainable mindset has also become the norm and we’re actively recycling on board, while also working closely with the team onshore to look at ways we can also manage and reduce emissions as much as possible.
“This is the way of the future and it's a great way to go. It’s a whole team effort and we’re proud of the part we play every day to champion safety and sustainability.”A FLEXIBLE ENVIRONMENT – TWO WEEKS ON, TWO WEEKS OFF
While less common in the marine industry today, Mark said the Port has proudly stuck to a two weeks on/off roster for its crew rather than moving to a four or six week on/off roster. While it may cost the Port a little bit more in down-time and crew changes, Mark said the company can see the benefits for its people and their work-life balance.
“It’s a fantastic lifestyle, and a huge attraction for anyone working in this industry,” he said.
“Especially for crew with young children, it’s hard enough being away from our family for that time, but at least they’re only away for two weeks.”
On his two weeks of downtime, if he’s not taking advantage of the time for an overseas trip with his wife Caroline, Mark calls Tasmania home with his family, making the most of the wine, produce and nature that Tassie has to offer.
“I think the two weeks on/off is a perfect balance and I’m proud the Port continues to provide that lifestyle to our crew. The work that I do allows me to jump on a plane and go for a holiday for 10 days or so in between swings, it’s great.”PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH ACHIEVED AT THE PORT
When reflecting on his 16 years with the Port, Mark said he didn’t think you'd find too many other companies that can offer the career opportunities that he’s had with PBPL and would encourage anyone thinking about joining the maritime industry, to do so.
“There’s so much opportunity in this industry to grow and for me, it’s amazing to see that progression could be achieved all the way through with Port of Brisbane.
“I followed that career path and to be given the incentive to do that was fantastic.
“As well as the opportunities, I think first and foremost for the whole team the Port it's just a good place to work. It’s a secure, safe and engaging place to work.”Are you ready to explore the best career you never imagined? Follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to be the first to hear about new opportunities.
