Set sail on a new career path with NQBP

Now, NQBP is offering another experienced maritime professional the opportunity to take that next step as a Trainee Marine Pilot at the Port of Hay Point.

NQBP Manager Pilotage Services Tony Gofton knows what a long-term career in pilotage can offer. This year, Tony is celebrating 10 years with NQBP, bringing decades of maritime experience to a role focused on the safe and efficient movement of vessels through the port.

“Pilotage is a great opportunity to take the experience you’ve built as a mariner and apply it in a different way,” Tony said.

“You’re still working with ships and people, but you’re also developing a strong understanding of the port and playing an important role in keeping vessel movements safe and efficient.”

From life at sea to life in the port

Marine Pilot Tomlin Morgan made the move from ship to shore with NQBP three years ago, after a decade working at sea.

“I was looking to move ashore into a town and employer that offered a sense of community and purpose,” Tomlin said.

The move brought its share of challenges – starting a new job, moving his family to Mackay and adjusting to being home more regularly.

But those challenges have also become some of the most rewarding parts of his experience.

“Succeeding in a new job, watching my family thrive in a new community, and being more involved locally, while utilising the skills I developed at sea,” he said.

Since joining NQBP, Tomlin has achieved his Port of Hay Point Level 1, unrestricted Marine Pilot licence.

His advice to other seafarers considering their next move is simple.

“If you are thinking of a sea change, have a go and apply,” Tomlin said.

“Everyone has their own unique experience as a seafarer and the team here is no exception.

“Don’t be afraid to reach out to marine pilots in the industry. We are always happy to talk about the career and the pathway to this job.”

From the deck of a dredge to the pilot’s chair

For Marine Pilot Reid Hall, a maritime career began nearly 15 years ago as a greaser on a dredge with Van Oord.

He went on to complete his cadetship with Teekay Shipping, progressing through every deck officer rank before becoming a Captain.

After more than a decade at sea, Reid joined NQBP in September 2024 and began a new chapter in his maritime career.

For Reid, one of the most rewarding parts of the move has been the support he has received from the people around him.

“The most rewarding part of working for NQBP has been the support I’ve received from everyone within the organisation through my training and even now as an unrestricted pilot,” Reid said.

“The managers, training coordinator and other pilots are all very approachable and fantastic mentors.”

Since joining NQBP, Reid has developed a strong knowledge of port operations and pilotage in the region and achieved his unrestricted Marine Pilot licence for the Port of Hay Point.

His advice for anyone considering the move is to bring your experience but stay open to learning.

“Be an easy-going but professional person who is open and receptive to feedback. No matter your experience, there is always another way to approach a task.”

And while Reid enjoyed his years at sea, the lifestyle that comes with pilotage has been a major highlight.

“The work-life balance is fantastic, and I’ve found pilotage to entail an enormous amount of job satisfaction,” he said.

“Having a smiling Captain shake your hand and say, ‘Very nice job, Mr Pilot’ as you’re leaving the bridge is very rewarding.

“I enjoyed my time at sea, but getting to go home every day and be part of this team has been exceptional.”

A career built on experience

Marine Pilots are responsible for the safe and efficient pilotage of vessels in the Port of Hay Point, drawing on their ship-handling skills, port knowledge, planning and risk management experience.

It’s also a highly collaborative role.

Pilots work closely with vessel bridge teams, linespersons, tug crews and other stakeholders to coordinate vessel movements and maintain a clear understanding of what’s happening throughout each passage.

And while maritime experience provides the foundation, Tony says there is always more to learn.

“You never stop learning in this job. Every vessel, movement and set of conditions can bring something different, and you’re constantly working with the team to find the safest and most effective way to do things.”

The successful trainee will undertake a structured, competency-based training program, supported by experienced pilots and mentors, while developing the specialist skills and knowledge required to become an unrestricted Marine Pilot.

There will also be opportunities to contribute to the ongoing development of NQBP’s Pilotage Services, including safety systems, training, technology and new ways of working.

Your next chapter

For Tony, 10 years at NQBP has been another significant chapter in a career spent in the maritime industry.

For Tomlin and Reid, moving ashore has brought new opportunities, new skills and a different way of life.

For the next Trainee Marine Pilot, it could be the beginning of their own new chapter.

Applicants must hold, or have previously held, an AMSA or MNZ Master Unlimited Certificate of Competency, along with a current driver’s licence. Experience as a competent mariner, ideally with a variety of ships and experience as a Chief Officer or Master, is highly regarded.

The role is based in Mackay, with Marine Pilots working flexibly across a 24-hour roster (currently 7 on 7 off roster). Working hours are managed through a fatigue risk management system, and pilots must hold a current AMSA medical fitness certificate while undertaking duty.

If you’re an experienced mariner ready to take your career in a new direction, your next journey could start with NQBP.

Find out more and apply via the SEEK job ad before 4 October 2026.