Charlton Rooney’s career at Engage Marine is a story of drive, opportunity, and steady progression. Starting out as a casual deckhand, Charlton has worked across several ports and roles to now hold a full-time Tug Master position in Port Hedland, one of the busiest towage locations in the country.
Getting Started at Engage
Charlton first joined Engage Marine through a family connection. His father, an engineer based in Cape Cuvier, flagged a casual deckhand opening, and Charlton stepped in. It was a temporary start, but the foundation for a career that would grow rapidly.
Progressing Through the Ranks
Charlton’s path from deckhand to Tug Master has included multiple locations and skillsets:
- Cape Cuvier: Started as a casual deckhand, moving to full-time after a year.
- Dampier: After three years, transferred and worked as a deckhand for five years, and later trained as a Lineboat Master.
- Cape Cuvier: Offered a full-time Lineboat Master position.
- Dampier: Completed sea time and training to qualify as a Tug Master. Accepted a job share and then full-time Tug Master role.
- Port Hedland: Now based in Port Hedland, operating as a full-time Tug Master.
Milestones Along the Way
A few key moments stand out:
- Gaining his Lineboat Master qualification and working in challenging conditions, including 3m swells and 30-knot winds alongside Cody Schutts, is a memory that sticks.
- The support he received while transitioning between roles helped unlock his full potential.
- Working alongside skilled team members like Cody Schutts in tough weather remains a career highlight.
Mentors and Support
Charlton’s journey has been guided by a strong network of mentors across the business.
“It really was a team effort. I was fortunate to have so many people offer guidance, support, and belief in my potential.”
He extends special thanks to:
Ben Campbell, Peter Rooney, Lex Buick, Chris Duckett, Cameron Maughan, Jayson Hughan, Daniel Jordan, Clay Bussenschutt, Tom Mitchell, Mark Ellis-Smith, Dave Mellor, Matthew Grieves, Ian Doust, Sandy Featch, Daniel Holmes, Jay Wilson, Zoe Brooking, Rodney Tripplet and Benny Guest, for their support, mentorship and the opportunities they provided.
Charlton especially credits Rodney and Benny for sharpening his tug handling skills during his most recent transition to Port Hedland, and acknowledges the camaraderie and professionalism of the entire team who backed him along the way.
Working in Port Hedland
For Charlton, Port Hedland was always a goal:
“I’ve always considered Port Hedland to be the Mecca of towage and a bucket list item, so to be afforded the opportunity with Engage Marine is a dream come true.”
He enjoys the challenge, the daily learning, and the strong morale of the crew he works with.
Advice for New Trainees
“You’ll be given equal parts responsibility, opportunity, and accountability. Cherish it. It really is an incredible ride.”
Charlton’s journey reflects the career possibilities available at Engage Marine for those who are ready to step up, learn, and make the most of every opportunity.