Winner of IMM Scholarship Announced

by Marina Industries Association on 20 Jul 2013 Superior and Marina Industries Association (MIA) are pleased to announce the winner of the keenly contested Superior Intermediate Marina Management (IMM) Scholarship is Robert Ditcham, Senior Dockmaster at Queenscliff Harbour in Victoria.

Nine applications were received and reviewed by the MIA Education Committee. MIA Education Officer Ian Winestock said it was an excellent field of applicants from Australia and New Zealand.

The scholarship is offered annually as an incentive for those in the marina industries to further their education and advance their career. The scholarship covers the cost of the IMM course which is being held on the Gold Coast from 4-8 August 2013. The five day course is endorsed by the Global Marina Institute (GMI) and delivered by industry professionals.

IMM focuses on operations, policies and procedures in the marina industry and exposes participants to innovative ways of dealing with issues and challenges. The course is a pre requisite as part of the career path leading to the globally recognised Certified Marina Manager (CMM), Marina Operator (CMO) and Marina Professional (CMP) qualifications.

Superior Victorian State Manager Dave Bate and Stefan Borzecki, MIA and GMI Director presented Robert with his Scholarship Certificate, together with Sean Blackwood, General Manager of Queenscliff Harbour at the marina on Thursday 18th July.

Robert started work at Queenscliff seven years ago as a trainee and has successfully worked up through the operations to his current position. He said 'Mentoring and a commitment to continual training have provided me with knowledge and useful skills in vessel manoeuvring, mooring, preventative maintenance, OH&S, planning and general management. My experience and level of responsibility has increased with the growth and expansion of Queenscliff Harbour's maintenance yard from a 80 tonne toa150tonne slipway with a150 tonne straddle carrier and a 10 tonne forklift capable of storing 120 vessels in a drystack facility.'

'I am pleased to be able to offer the scholarship to Robert,' said Superior CEO, John Hogan. 'He shows a dedicated and professional approach to his work and has a thorough understanding of the industries’ challenges. He possesses skills and determination highly valued in the marina industry.'

Robert’s future plans are to gain further qualifications and progress within the marina industry to attain the Certified Marina Manager (CMM) accreditation. 'Understanding the industry from the ground up plays an important part in decision making and in receiving the scholarship I will take pride in bringing a high level of professionalism to the marina industry' said Robert. He is looking forward to the learning opportunities the course offers and networking with the other students.

More at www.marinas.net.au and www.superiorjetties.com