About Us
Rob & Sue Ellen – Owners
Both being part of multiple generation local families, our “bosses” are big on family and most days it seems like “everybody” knows us. Even the boats are considered members of the family – and, as with every family, some are higher maintenance than others. Due to Rob’s deteriorating health, he is unable to play a physical part in the business any longer, though he keeps a tight reign on everything and the family report to him frequently.
Sue Ellen has an accounting background and certainly needed to learn how to write letters to guests rather than the Tax Office, the approach is totally different and much more exciting. Now days, the experience with government departments is coming in handy dealing with the ever-increasing licencing/survey requirements.
Having operated on the Tweed since 1994, it is safe to say Rob & Sue Ellen have established a business that is now ingrained as a part of the region and has its’ place in the area history.
Operations Manager
Ian ( The eldest son ), our marine operationd manager, Is respnsible for coordinating our "turn around" team, a well as maintenance and repairs. He joined our business in 2007 after working for Rivera building luxury boats. Ian's skill set and expericne have been invaluable in the operation of our business. Although Ian is our eldest son, he has earned his position as our marina operations manager through hard work and dedication to our business.
Maintenance Officer
Peter (the youngest son) has been working behind the scenes work for many years. As a young teen, he was responsible for filling gas bottles. In 2011, when his father's health deteriorated, Peter joined us full-time to provide extra help. Currently, he is responsible for maintaining our large number of tender outboard motors. Peter is extremely conscientious and always diligently discharges his duties. He has quick wit and a fiery nature, and th eperfect way to stir him up is to remind him how much he looks like his dad!
Service Team Leader
Barry is another family member and is expanding the family with another child on the way! He has a background in air-conditioning and is a jack of all trades. Barry has an excellent work ethic and has already helped us improve efficiency in our team operations. Other leaders frequently request his presence to fix minor problems.
Captains/Briefings Officers
Murray and Stuart are our very own "odd couple" captains, both with many years of experience on the Tweed River. Murray has a background in the water police, and Stuart in the Navy. They will be sure to give you all the information you need for a safe and enjoyable adventure on the water.
Maintenance Crew
Despite the old adage that caustions against employing family members, we couldn’t resist – Bryce, our nephew, is now part of the team. His resemblance to his father often catches us off guard, as if Bryce’s dad has made an unexpected appearance. Bryce is rapildy adapting to the team dynamic, even dropping his first phone in the river! We have also discovered an unexpected use for an anchor, slowing Bryce down. Once he has learnt a new task, it is full speed ahead. As Bryce continues to learn the ropes, it won’t be long before he earns the title of “Captain Bryce” and he will soon be briefing our guests and assisting them on the river. Peter and Bryce have quickly formed a fishing club and their encounter with whales in our river generated quite a buzz!
Guest Services
Mawai is our wonderful laundry lady from across the ditch! She is responsible for the never-ending cycle of sheets and linen to wash, dry, and iron, ensuring your stay is as clean and comfortable as possible. Mawai is also one of our head serviceing team members, so be sure to say G'day to her when you are disemarking from your adventure! she is always smiling and happy, and very much a part of our extended family.
Admin/ Bookings
Rachel is the member of our administration team that you will rarely meet though she is always ready for a chat when you call. Since joining us in January 2023, we have frequently shared a laugh over her colourful language. Her expressions such as "Oh darling!", "Lovely Jubbley", "Im on it like a fat kid on a smartie", "Its all higgildy piggildy", and others never fail to bring a smile to our faces.
Meet 'N' Greet/Social Media
Sofia is the youngest member of our team and is our little Selfie Queen. Fia has taken over from Amy in keeping you up to day on our social media profiles and she loves to be creative. You will also find Fia, bright and bubbly, in the marina office to assist you checking in for your adventure. If you notice lots of photos/videos of Bryce on our socials, that’s ‘cause they are a couple and she thinks he’s “hot”. Such a relief, another member of the family for Rob to pick on!
Gone But Not Forgotten
Amy (Ian's wife) has been a part of our team since she first started making beds aboard the boats back in 2009. After many years dealing with with enquiries, bookings and customer service then working in marketing, particularly our electronic media such as Facebook and Instagram. Many of you will remember Amy from all her assistance preparing for your adventure and when she greeted you and your guests at the marina. After all these years, Amy has deceided to venture out into another industry. We will certainly miss her presence both in the office and at the marina, but don't worry, Amy is still family, so we will share all your gossip 🙂
Guest Services Team
Our team at Guest Services comprises not only the main team but also up to 15 other members who work hard to prepare the houseboats for your enjoyment. During our turnaround days, we scrub decks, clean windows, and perform other tasks to ensure that you have comfortable and memorable stay. Some of our cleaning staff have been with us for nearly 10 years, and we take pride in being one big family.
