13 November 2025 – Bairnsdale, Victoria
The Boating Careers team, in partnership with Gippsland East LLEN, Gippsland Ports, TAFE Gippsland, and Gippsland RV & Marine, hosted an inspiring Industry Immersion Day across Bairnsdale and Paynesville — giving 27 students and career advisors a first-hand look at the career opportunities waiting in the boating and marine industry.
The day began with students from Lakes Entrance Secondary College and Bairnsdale Secondary College boarding the Boating Careers bus, travelling to Gippsland RV & Marine, where Fran and Brad welcomed the group for a behind-the-scenes look at their busy marine servicing and retail operation. Students were able to explore workshop processes, learn about marine mechanical technology, and see the variety of career pathways available in dealership and service settings.
From there, the tour continued to Gippsland Ports in Paynesville, where students enjoyed lunch overlooking the waterfront before hearing from TAFE Gippsland about local marine training and apprenticeship pathways.
Students then joined the Gippsland Ports team for a guided tour of the facility, where they viewed the Raymond Island Ferry out of the water — a rare chance to see large-scale marine engineering and maintenance work in action.
Dan Brown, from Boating Careers, said it was an incredible day of hands-on learning:
“It’s always awesome to see students inspired by real people and workplaces. You can see the moment some of them make the decision to give it a go, that’s what it’s all about.”
The event showcased the diversity of careers in the marine industry — from boat building and servicing to maritime operations, mechanical trades, and marine technology — and highlighted how local training and employers are working together to create clear pathways for young people in the region.
Boating Careers would like to thank Brad at Gippsland RV & Marine, Gippsland Ports, Gary from TAFE Gippsland who came in on his day off, and Don Shaw and the team from Gippsland East LLEN for their coordination, hospitality, and continued support of student engagement in the boating industry.