Newcastle’s First Permanent Female Ferry Captain Reflects on Her Journey Breaking Barriers

Earlier this month, Newcastle’s first permanent female Ferry Master, Jess, shared her journey in the maritime industry as part of the Women on Water program created by students from St Pius X Adamstown. The initiative aims to show local students the possibilities of a maritime career, attracting more women to the workforce.

With a decade of experience, Jess reflected on her career path from a young deckhand on Newcastle’s ferries, to navigating superyachts across Europe, and recently, returning to Newcastle to take the reins as Ferry Captain.

Jess’s passion for the water guided her from uncertain beginnings to a fulfilling career. “When I left school, I had no idea what I wanted to do,” she said. “But I knew I loved anything to do with water.” This passion led her to a deckhand course and, shortly after finishing Year 12, to a position on the Newcastle Ferry.

At just 18, she and her friend, Alies has become the first female deckhands in the ferry’s history. “Working on the ferries was an amazing start to my career. I learned what it was like to work on the water, and I knew I’d found my passion.”

Eager to expand her skills, Jess took a bold leap and joined the superyacht industry in Europe. She gained invaluable experience, exploring remote islands and meeting people from around the world. “A lot of people thought I was crazy to give up such a great job, but I now know it was the right decision,” she said.

The journey was not without challenges. As First Officer on a charter superyacht, Jess learned the weight of responsibility as she led diving, fishing, and snorkelling trips. “Knowing I was solely responsible for the vessel’s safety, as well as the safety of the guests and crew, was a huge step,” she recalled. “I’d be lying if I said it didn’t scare me, but I took on the challenge, and it helped me grow in so many ways,”

After several years abroad, a permanent captain position at Newcastle Transport opened, and Jess saw the opportunity to return to her roots. She now captains the ferries on the same waters where she began her journey. “One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that opportunities don’t just happen—you create them,” Jess said.

She encouraged the aspiring mariners, “It’s important not to try to prove anything to others—prove it to yourself. The standards and morals you hold yourself to will make you proud and drive your success.”

Jess’s inspiring story captured the hearts and minds of St Pius X students, as she encouraged them to follow their passions. She also assured them, “If a career in maritime is for you, remember that you have a community of fierce women supporting you.”