As boaters look north to new adventures, Redland City Marina continues to be a vital stopover – but it’s what’s happening on land that’s turning heads. Behind the scenes, a new generation of skilled tradespeople is shaping the future of Australia’s marine industry, one project at a time.
From classic timber restorations and high-performance aluminium builds to diesel mechanics and flawless refinishing, these young professionals are bringing fresh energy, old-school work ethic, and serious talent to the waterfront. Some have started their own businesses. Others are learning from seasoned mentors. All of them share one thing in common: they’re passionate about boats and proud to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Tom Robinson, 26 – Founder, Underwood’s Marine
At just 26, Tom Robinson is steering a legacy of craftsmanship into the future. As the founder of Underwood’s Marine, based on the shores of Moreton Bay, Tom leads a full-service marine team specialising in everything from custom boat builds and refits to classic timber restorations.
Tom’s journey began young rowing the Brisbane River and sailing on the bay, he was hooked by age 14. School holidays were spent shadowing tradesmen at boatyards, soaking up knowledge and honing his skills through hands-on projects.
One of his proudest achievements? Designing and building a 24-foot ocean rowing boat and using it to cross the Pacific solo at 22.
“Every day in this industry is different,” Tom says. “From dinghies to ships, timber to composites – it keeps you sharp.”
Now working at Redland City Marina, he praises the supportive community and facilities that allow businesses like his to thrive. His goal? To keep Underwood’s Marine growing while passing on skills to the next generation – ensuring maritime tradition and innovation stay afloat.
Nate, 17 – Marine Boilermaker Apprentice at Stradbroke Yachts
At just 17, Nate is one of the youngest faces at Redland City Marina – but his work speaks with the confidence of someone well beyond his years.
As a marine boilermaker specialising in aluminium vessels, Nate is already playing a hands-on role in custom boat builds at Stradbroke Yachts, a workshop known for its innovation and strong team culture. Nate began his journey at 15, landing an apprenticeship straight after work experience – and never looked back. “I’ve always liked making things,” he says. “I make all sorts of things with my dad, and it just clicked.”
Now, under the mentorship of Dan the owner Stradbroke Yachts, Nate thrives in an environment that’s both supportive and seriously hands-on. Projects like the aluminium catamaran Delos 2.0 fuel his passion, especially watching sketches transform into full-scale vessels.
Whether it’s crafting a Thundercat boat with his dad or fabricating his own ute tray, Nate’s proudest moments come when ideas become reality. His dream? To one day build boats of his own—and keep the marine boilermaking trade alive for the next generation.
Nicolas Gaeta, 22 – Spray Painter at Bayside Marine Refinishing
At 22, Nicolas Gaeta is already the head spray gunner at Bayside Marine Refinishing, specialising in fairing and high-end marine paintwork. Introduced to the trade by his father, who taught him the ropes on boats and cars, Nick’s passion for transformation started early.
What drives him is the reward of seeing a once-worn vessel turned into a head-turner. “There’s nothing like watching a well-loved boat become something the owner and everyone else can really appreciate,” he says.
One standout job? The complete fairing, repaint, a transom extension of KOKOMO II, a 1987 build by Lloyds Ships. A challenging, legacy vessel – and a proud addition to his portfolio.
Working at Redland City Marina keeps Nick busy with a steady flow of projects in a well-connected local hub, but one day, he hopes to take his skills south and set up shop in Yamba, NSW.
Nick is honest about the trade: “It’s not for everyone,” he says. “Fairing and paintwork are dying arts. You don’t learn them in a TAFE—they’re passed down from the old-school professionals who know their stuff.”
Mikaela, 26 – Marine Mechanic at T-Tech Marine
For Mikaela, being a marine mechanic isn’t just a job, it’s a career built on hands-on learning, technical skill, and a bit of family influence. Now 26, she works alongside her brother-in-law at T-Tech Marine located in Redland City Marina. For Mikaela, this path started with a work experience placement from Tim’s father which evolved into a Mercury apprenticeship later on.
What keeps her motivated is the variety and constant evolution of the work. “There’s always something different,” she says. “You learn as you go – it never gets boring.”
One of her proudest moments came at age 20, when she completed her first major rewire and full Yamaha 200HP setup. “It was a milestone,” she recalls. “After that, everything was just easy.”
Based at Redland City Marina, she enjoys the friendly environment and constant flow of projects. Mikaela believes young people are key to the industry’s future. “Technology is changing fast. Older generations can struggle to keep up, but for us, it’s second nature.” Looking ahead, Mikaela hopes to service commercial diesel engines or large vessels overseas, drawn by the endless opportunities in the marine world.
Her advice? “If you don’t like getting dirty and oily, don’t do it.” But for those who do – it’s one hell of a ride.
