From teenage receptionist to living history at the Port of Mackay

On 21 October 1975 a nearly 16 year old Bronnie Kapitzke walked into the Mackay Harbour Board as the new receptionist.

Back then things looked a little different. The office ran on typewriters, phone calls were patched manually through a switchboard and payroll was counted in cash then escorted back from the bank by police every Friday.

She was the youngest in the room unaware she would become one of the longest stories in the Port of Mackay’s history.

“My journey began after completing six months of business college in Brisbane,” Mrs Kapitzke said.

“Back home in Mackay, I spotted a newspaper ad for a receptionist at the Harbour Board. Out of 36 candidates, I got the job and half a century later, I’m still here and still enjoy coming to work every day.”

Over the years Bronnie has witnessed and helped shape some of the Port’s biggest milestones. She has also become the person colleagues turn to when they need to know about the Port of Mackay’s history.

“In the mid-1990s I became one of the first women to join the lines handling crew, tying up and letting go vessels,” she said.

“There were other chapters including the 2009 formation of North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation that brought together the ports of Mackay, Hay Point, Abbot Point and Weipa.

“I’ve also had a vessel named after me, which was an honour.”

One of her proudest achievements is designing the organisation’s annual reports from the late 1970s to the early 1990s.

“Working on the annual reports was a chance to bring out my creative side,” she said.

“It also led to me becoming the go-to person for the port’s history and photos. Even today, community history enquiries land on my desk. From a granddaughter hunting for the name of a great-grandfather’s vessel to a local tracing the history of a berth. I love helping people learn more about the Port of Mackay.”

North Queensland Bulk Ports CEO Brendan Webb applauded Bronnie’s milestone saying she was the longest serving staff member known at the Port of Mackay.

“For 50 years Bronnie has been an important part of Mackay’s maritime history,” Mr Webb said.

“She has seen it evolve through eras of change, challenge and growth and she has done it all with a wonderful sense of humour and care for her community.

“Bronnie embodies what makes our organisation special. People who care deeply about their work and the communities and surroundings in which we operate.

“Her contribution has left a mark not only on NQBP but the entire Mackay community.”

When asked what she’s loved most the answer is simple. The people, the water and the work.

“A seven-minute drive to work helps but it’s getting to be by the water that I enjoy the most. Even though I have done the same job for fifty years no day is the same.”

Her advice for any newcomers to the ports industry is unfussy and generous.

“Just give it a go. It’s a rewarding industry to work in.”

Images for download

Image | NQBP CEO Brendan Webb thanked Bronnie for half a century of dedication and service to the Port of Mackay.

Image | Bronnie is celebrating 50 years of service with the Port of Mackay in 2025.

Image | On 21 October 1975 Bronnie started her maritime career as the Mackay Harbour Board receptionist.