Ambitious Wonga Beach teenager takes over the reigns of family business, features on Coast to Coast
TAFE QUALIFICATIONS
An ambitious 19 year-old Wonga Beach teenager is on the road to achieving his dreams of one day working on the international boating scene after gaining TAFE QLD qualifications that now enables him to run the family business.
Ashton Davenport recently completed a certificate three in maritime operations (master up to 24 metres near coastal) and later a certificate three in maritime operations (marine engine driver grade two coastal) thanks to a TAFE QLD scholarship.
It’s those qualifications that now sees him run the business.
Over the weekend the ambitious young worker and his rise to skipper was featured on popular weekend TV show Coast to Coast.
“I have been helping on the boat since I was five years old when I did my first trip during my school holidays.
“I have spent a lot of holidays on the boat, driving and mooring it under my dad's supervision and helping him to maintain it.
“I completed a coxswain course while I was at high school and when I finished Year 12, I started working with my dad full time as first mate."
The young worker said gaining the qualifications has been paramount in being able to do what he now does for a living.
"I took over running the boat for my family as it's the only source of income we have,” he explained.
“I attained my commercial fishing ticket and enrolled at the Great Barrier Reef International Marine College for training.
"Getting the scholarship was really helpful as it covered fees and my travel expenses to study away from home. It meant I didn't have to work and save that money, especially given how impacted my work and industry have been because of COVID-19.
"The simulator is excellent. It was good to have access to hands-on facilities and practical scenarios as it helps to clarify all of the theory.
“The teachers are like walking maritime encyclopaedias, they know what they're doing and they're really knowledgeable."
"It's great that I now have two qualifications as it expands my career opportunities.
“If I ever wanted a change from commercial fishing, my qualifications could help me pursue work in tourism or tug and barge.
“My ultimate goal is to work internationally on boats."