Family odyssey

How long have you been working at Maritimo?

Nearly 17 years in total.

What was your career path from studies to present day?

I’m a motor mechanic by trade and spent time in Automotive sales before joining Maritimo. I spent eight years running the Engineering team, before moving into Managing supply chain and logistics.

From 2020 to 2024, I worked with Volvo Penta as Director of Service Market for Oceania, before returning to Maritimo 12 months ago.

What’s your sailing and offshore experience?

I grew up around boats, raced cars, and did a bit of sailing but I wasn’t super-interested. I’m new to offshore yacht racing, though I’m thoroughly enjoying learning the ropes and representing Maritimo.

How are you approaching the challenge in the lead up to the big day? Other events? Training? Mentors?

The Cabbage Tree Island race along with a number of Maritimo supporting events and practice days have been spent learning about the Maritimo 100.

What is it about the RSHYR that inspires and intrigues people – sailors and the non-sailing community?

The Hobart has been a family tradition. My father, Kendall, has competed in 12, and Bill has done a few, as well having yachts in the Race. The event draws spectators from all walks of life. The spectator fleets that cheer on competitors as they leave Sydney Harbour are a marvel to behold.

On board Maritimo 100, what will your role be?

With my previous experience running engineering, my role is to ensure our vessel mechanically operates to its full potential. There are 14 crew in total including two engineers, as well as dedicated hydraulics, electronics and electrical specialists.

What are your impressions of the yacht: standout features, best attributes, the on board experience?

Maritimo 100 is an outstanding blend of luxury and performance. The effort that Bill and his crew have put in to refresh the systems to provide a reliable and comfortable yacht that is capable for the RSHYR and in style is an inspiration.

The Race started out as a cruising event, and we believe the 100 honours those traditional roots.

What are you looking forward to and dreading about the race?

There’s not really anything I’m dreading about the race, though obviously safety is a high focus for the whole team.

I’m looking forward to my first RSHYR and I’m thrilled to be able to be competing in this year’s, the 80^th, with family and the great crew that’s assembled on Maritimo 100.

I’m also looking forward to arriving in Hobart for the warm welcome, the Festival and spending New Year’s Eve there.

How is sailing with your uncle?

Bill is an inspiration for not only me, but so many people in the marine industry. It’s an honour to be invited to compete with him and to represent Maritimo.

How did you find sailing in Cabbage Tree Race on the Maritimo 100?

Competing in the Cabbage Tree Island Yacht Race was a marvellous experience. From the excitement and demands of the start line and race out of the heads, right through to my first full night of ocean racing. The Maritimo 100 crew were extremely supportive and always happy to teach newcomers like me.

How about the future?

I’ll get through this one and let you know, once we’ve confirmed what Bill’s intentions are for next year!

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