Hunter trainee lands port role after Newcastle traineeship

HUNTER trainee Tilley Murgatroyd is taking her first steps into a maritime career as a Port Officer with Port Authority of NSW, after completing a hands-on traineeship delivered through a unique collaboration with Port of Newcastle and Svitzer.

Through the Newcastle-based industry traineeship, Ms Murgatroyd rotated across towage, pilotage support, on-water safety and port operations, gaining rare insight into the roles that keep one of the nation’s busiest ports operating safely and efficiently.

“Training in maritime operations here in the Hunter has been an incredible opportunity,” Ms Murgatroyd said.

“Hands-on training like this is rare, and learning to operate vessels across different conditions, including day and night operations, has given me real on-water experience and the confidence to start my maritime career in Newcastle,” she said.

Port Authority Chief Operating Officer John Finch described Tilley as an exceptional trainee, noting that she had been offered a 12-month contract as a Port Officer, based in Newcastle.

“This traineeship demonstrates how collaborative, hands-on training can open meaningful pathways into the maritime sector,” John said.

“By rotating across three organisations, trainees gain direct insight into the realities of maritime work and the teamwork, and specialist skills required to operate a safe, busy port.

“It is a merit-based pathway that provides a strong foundation for anyone aspiring to work on the water.”

Port of Newcastle Acting CEO Glen Hayward said programs such as this were important to support early-career entrants and strengthen the Hunter’s future workforce.

“Port of Newcastle, Port Authority, and Svitzer each play a vital role in the maritime supply chain, and this program reflects our shared commitment to developing local talent.

“Building the next generation of skilled maritime workers, including raising awareness and interest among women, is critical to developing the workforce required to keep up with the growing economy and the port’s diversified future.”

Svitzer General Manager East Dylan Sheehan said, “Towage is central to keeping Newcastle operating safely and efficiently, and we’re proud to help give young people a real understanding of how it works. Supporting trainees helps to build the local skills pipeline and ensure the Hunter has the maritime workforce it needs into the future.”