Please select your home edition
Edition
A+T Instruments BFD 2024 Leaderboard

TAFE NSW makes Maritime Magic

by Alice Dalley 23 Jul 2020 00:28 PDT
Sydney Maritime Simulator © Alice Dalley

TAFE NSW graduate Arakel Hamamdjian pursued the job of his dreams and became the skipper of his own vessel. Now he's worked his way up from showboat waiter to proud owner of his own business - Magic Cruises - and wants others to consider a swashbuckling career on the high seas.

The maritime sector has an estimated annual revenue of $5.76 billion and added approximately $2.58 billion to the Australian economy in 2017. Domestic Commercial Vessels (DCV) in New South Wales have continued to operate during COVID-19 with social distancing measures in place, allowing local holiday makers to enjoy recreation activities without having to travel interstate or overseas.

Arakel fell into the maritime industry largely by accident, taking a job as a waiter on showboats at the age of 21. He worked his way up until he became one of the cruise directors on the vessels and continued to work in the hospitality side of the business. He enjoyed his work but had always harboured a dream to own his own vessel and run a business.

Arakel said, "I decided to purchase the charter vessel 'Magic' in 2015. It was something I had wanted to do for many years and when the opportunity presented itself, I jumped on it.

"Becoming a captain wasn't something I had envisioned when I was leaving school however now that I am a Certified Master Class 4 with the opportunity to continue my studies and upgrade my qualifications into the future, I feel blessed and confident in what the future holds for me."

TAFE NSW maritime operations and marine engineering experts deliver a wide range of marine qualifications in state-of-the-art facilities across the state and online with TAFE Digital. Students can advance their practical skills using the latest, high-quality simulated training equipment and on the water.

Arakel has now completed his Certificates II, III and IV in Maritime Operations at TAFE NSW and launched his own charter business - Magic Cruises - offering Sydney Harbour cruises to groups for special events and celebrations.

Arakel said the high quality of training and incredible facilities available at TAFE NSW kept him coming back to continue to grow his qualifications.

"The TAFE NSW marine equipment is the same as you would expect on any large ship. I have enjoyed the opportunity to learn about and use the incredible electronic equipment and marine simulator."

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Maritime Operations, Mario Murzello, said the maritime industry was the perfect choice of career as the COVID-19 pandemic eased.

"Charter vessels have continued to operate during the COVID-19 crisis and a maritime career has good long-term job prospects," Mario said.

"As the pandemic eases, there will be more opportunities for maritime businesses so now is the perfect time to commence training at TAFE NSW to get into the industry."

Enrolments are now open for Semester 2, 2020. To learn more about the range of Maritime courses at TAFE NSW visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Related Articles

Railblaza unveils inflatable fishing kayak concept
Ready-for-anything hybrid inflatable fishing platform - The Mule RAILBLAZA, manufacturer of premium quality, user-friendly electronics, fishing and boating mounting systems and accessories, unveiled today its newest ready-for-anything hybrid inflatable fishing platform - The Mule. Posted on 3 Jul
TowBoatUS Sacramento opens in Delta Region
Provides 24/7 on-water assistance to recreational boaters California's Delta region, an incredible boating paradise and home to more than 700 miles of navigable waterways and thousands of recreational vessels, now has professional on-water assistance available with the opening of TowBoatUS Sacramento. Posted on 3 Jul
MPC announces date for Q2 2025 financial results
The Company will host a conference call to review the Company's financial and operating results Marine Products Corporation (NYSE: MPX) announced today that it will release its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025 on Thursday, July 24, 2025 before the market opens. Posted on 3 Jul
Quick thruster & Mercury Marine integration
Mercury Joystick Piloting is compatible with applicable Quick Nautical Equipment bow thrusters Quick Nautical Equipment is proud to confirm that the integration between Quick Nautical Equipment's bow thrusters and Mercury Marine's Joystick Piloting is now officially available on the market—as originally scheduled within the first half of the year. Posted on 3 Jul
Push for advancement of Senate tax provisions
NMMA and several member companies signed a joint industry letter urging leaders to pass the bill The Senate passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill” on July 1, marking a significant step forward for key provisions long championed by the manufacturing sector. Posted on 3 Jul
MarineMax Yachts appoints Azimut Brand Manager
Randy brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the role MarineMax Yachts announces Randy Coleman as its new Brand Manager for Azimut Yachts. Posted on 3 Jul
Grand Trawler 63
A new benchmark in elegant voyaging With the launch of the Grand Trawler 63, BENETEAU sets a new benchmark in long-distance luxury cruising. Posted on 3 Jul
CSA commits to collaboration and sustainability
This year's AGM saw participation from a diverse group of stakeholders The Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA) proudly announces the successful conclusion of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Regatta Organizers Conference, held from June 25 to June 28, 2025, in St. Maarten. Posted on 2 Jul
Letter aims to reduce harm to U.S. Manufacturing
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America NMMA joined 29 leading industry associations in a letter to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick advocating for revisions to the Department of Commerce's implementation of Section 232 tariffs on steel, aluminum and related derivative products. Posted on 2 Jul
Marine Auctions: Special July Online Auction
The bidding will end on Tuesday 22 July at 2pm AEST The alternative way of selling any type of vessel or marine asset with proven and successful results. Posted on 2 Jul
RS Sailing 2021 - FOOTERMaritimo M50Allen Dynamic 40 Footer