What is your role at Norman R. Wright & Sons?
I completed my apprenticeship on the 5th of November this year so I’m now a fully qualified Boat Builder. I’ve been with NRW for 4 years and 9 months.
Can you tell us a little about your background?
My Pop had a 30ft Bay Cruiser that had sunk and he wanted to fix it up. Unfortunately he passed away during that time so Dad and I continued on and completed the boat. It took us 6 years to complete, and I enjoyed it so much I thought I would really like to be a Boat Builder. Mum was talking to Tony Riek one day and he mentioned that NRW may be looking for some apprentices, so in year 11 I started my school based apprenticeship in Boat Building joining NRW fulltime at the end of year 12.
We still have the Bay Cruiser and keep her down at Redland Bay.
What’s the most exciting or rewarding project you have worked on and why?
Working on the 60ft game boat “Aura” was a highlight for me, as I worked on it from start to finish and also worked alongside Nick Nolan and Ian Lauman so I learnt so much. I had the opportunity work on a range of different tasks so it gave me a great opportunity to experience all elements of the trade.
Where do you see yourself in a few years?
Ideally I’d still like to be with NRW and in a leadership or mentoring role.
What do you do in your spare time?
I like to play Oztag and also really enjoy getting our on the boat and camping and fishing in Moreton Bay.
If you have an interest in boat building then go for it. It’s a great trade as you learn so many different skills that can cross over into other trades as well.
What advice would you give to anyone considering a Boat Building career with Norman R. Wright & Sons?
If you have an interest in boat building then go for it. It’s a great trade as you learn so many different skills that can cross over into other trades as well.
