Upcoming Online Training & Education Opportunities for 2026

Straddle Carrier Operations and Maintenance Course

18 - 19 April 2026 | White Bay 6 Marine Park, Sydney

Registrations are now open for the first Straddle Carrier Operations and Maintenance Course of 2026, presented by Angela Melville, Service Manager, at White Bay 6 Marine Park.

This two-day course is essential for anyone operating a straddle carrier and provides practical guidance on:

• Operational procedures

• Workplace Health and Safety

• Communication in the workplace

• Lift planning and considerations

• Blocking and standing vessels safely

Dates: 18 – 19 April 2026
Time: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm each day
Location: White Bay 6 Marine Park

Course Cost: MIA Members: $1,900 | Non-Members: $2,250

Additional courses are also scheduled for 2026, and registrations are now open:

• 2 – 3 May – Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard

• 1 – 2 August – Fremantle Sailing Club

Emergency Preparedness Course

Virtual Session (Part B), 26 March, 2 pm - 4 pm AEST

The first Emergency Preparedness Course supported by Nautilus Marine Insurance for 2026 will be delivered virtually on 26 March at 2 pm Sydney time.

Presented by Jayson McDonald CMM, the course explores real-life marina emergency scenarios and practical response strategies. Participants will:

• Examine case studies of marina emergencies

• Explore methods to control, manage and respond to incidents

• Share ideas, issues and experiences with industry peers

This interactive session provides valuable insight into improving preparedness and response planning within marina operations.

Next virtual session (Part B):

Date & Time: 26 March, 2 pm - 4 pm (AEST)

Location: Online via Zoom

Equipment: Computer or mobile device with webcam and microphone

Fee: AU$ 205 (+GST) for members, AU$ 277 (+GST) for non-members

New Course Launch - Dock Operations Course

23 - 24 June Pittwater Area

Registrations are also now open for the first Dock Operations Course, which will be held on 23 – 24 June 2026 in Pittwater.

The Dock Operations Course is a two-day professional development program developed by the Marina Industries Association for individuals with 1–3 years’ experience in the marina industry. It is designed for those looking to strengthen their operational knowledge and leadership capacity as they prepare for future supervisory or management roles.

The course acts as a bridge between the Dockhand Course and the Intermediate Marina Management Course, offering participants a deeper understanding of:

• Marina operations

• Business and operational functions

• Emergency preparedness and response

• Professional development and industry engagement

This first delivery of the course will be presented by industry leaders from across multiple marinas and marina businesses, providing participants with practical insights and real-world experience from professionals working across the sector.

Dates: 23 - 24 June 2026
Time: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm each day
Location: TBC, Pittwater area

Course Cost: MIA Members: $1500 | Non-Members: $1850

Bird Management Webinar

Online 19 March, 2 pm Sydney Time

Our 2026 Webinar Series kicks off next week.

Join Les Binkin CMM on 19 March at 2:00 pm (Sydney time) as he presents a case study from Shellharbour Marina, where laser technology from Bird Control Australia was implemented to manage bird activity within the marina environment.

We are also pleased to welcome new MIA members, Bird Control Australia, to join the discussion. Bird Control Australia will also be exhibiting at the Marinas26 Conference later this year.

Dates: 19 March
Time: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Sydney Time
Location: Online via Zoom

Course Cost: MIA Members: Free | Non-Members: $95

MIA Online Course Bundle Deal

$800 +GST | Available to MIA members only

MIA is currently offering all five online induction courses for $800, effectively giving you one online course free.

These courses are designed as introductory training for marina staff, covering essential elements of marina operations and safety. When combined with your own site-specific inductions, they help ensure employees start with a strong baseline understanding of the industry.

Give your staff the tools to thrive in the marina environment from day one.

Online Anytime Courses

Complete online in approximately 2 hours | $170 + GST each

• WHS Best Practices

• Environmental Best Practices

• Extreme Weather Preparedness

Online + Virtual Session Courses
Complete online modules, then attend a 2-hour Zoom session| $205 + GST each

• Emergency Preparedness – First session 26 March 2026

• Oil Spill Response – First session 26 February 2026

Email education@marinas.net.au to register today!

Marinas26 Early Bird Pricing Closes in 5 Days!

Save $200 on delegate tickets

Marinas26 is the must-attend biennial event for marina owners, operators, and suppliers, bringing together around 400 industry leaders from across Australia and internationally.

The 2026 theme, Future Smart, celebrates how technology, sustainability, and innovation are transforming marinas into connected, efficient, and environmentally responsible hubs.

Don’t forget to book your accommodation on site at the RACV Royal Pines Resort. On site accomodation is limited, so get in quick!