Engage Marine was pleased to welcome key stakeholders to its operations in Bowen, on the 1st of December, as part of its inaugural open day.
Celebrating the successful commencement of operations in October, guests were invited to join tours of the three new-build tugs (the Engage Rebel, Engage Raider and Engage Rogue) to learn more about the technical aspects of the tugs and view the state of art design and components.
The occasion was marked with a smoking ceremony and traditional dance, performed by members of the Juru people, who are the traditional owners of the land in which the event took place. Further cementing the relationship with the Juru people, is the unique artwork incorporated onto the structure of the tugs. Each tug features the design of three different marine animals, a mantra ray, turtle and dugong, which acknowledge the strong connection between the juru people and the sea creatures and represent the slow moving, large and powerful presence of the tugs. The designs were created by local artist, Robbie Paul.
The event was wrapped up with short speeches from Engage Marine’s CEO, Mark Malone, North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO, Nicolas Fertin and Mayor Andrew Willcox, from the Whitsunday Regional Council. The speakers paid homage to the work undertaken in order to deliver the tugs on time and on schedule, ensuring the successful commencement of operations. The commitment to supporting the local Bowen community, people and businesses was also a key focus.
Engage Marine CEO Mark Malone said, “It’s a testament to all of the parties we worked with [to get the tugs here on time] and I’d like to acknowledge all of them and thank them”.
Nicolas Fertin, Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO, added “The new towage arrangement with Engage Marine provides the framework required for safe and efficient port operations for now and into the future. A commitment to the local community, including regional employment, was also a key requirement of the new licence and Engage Marine is ensuring all employees are based less than two hours’ drive from Bowen.”
