Top Training for Crew at all Levels at The Boat Works

Training, licensing and certification in all areas of boating are now available at The Boat Works along with the arrival of new partners, Paradigm Training.

With boat ownership on the Gold Coast forecast to treble in the next 25 years and an influx of superyachts anticipated to head to south-east Queensland over the next decade, maritime training is in high demand.

Established nine years ago by Rikky Burkett and Julianne Zalite, both of whom have many years’ experience implementing training and leadership programs in Malaysia, China and the Middle East, Paradigm Training was previously based in Southport.

The company is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) specialising in maritime, and Rikky and his team of 11 are dedicated to delivering a range of accredited and non-accredited courses designed for marine professionals to attain their dream jobs, further their careers or enable boaties and PWC-owners to get on the water with the highest levels of safety and awareness, offering licensing and refresher courses for the recreational sector.

Shane and Rikky Burkett of Paradigm Training

Now conveniently located on-site at The Boat Works, Paradigm Training comprises a training room and vessels on-water.

“We are thrilled to be located at The Boat Works,” stated Rikky. “The Boat Works’ professionalism, values and culture resonated with us. It’s the ideal location for us, as we specialise in maritime and we wanted to be in the heart of the marine hub. The Coomera River is right on our doorstep, so we conduct theory in a classroom environment, then practical on-water.”

From jetski and boat licenses to advanced commercial programs for skippers, engineers and government, Rikky and his experienced team have a tailored training program and access to vessels ranging from a 5m runabout, 8m RIB, 14m multihull and larger commercial craft as required.

“We offer Master 24, Coxswains and Marine Engine Drivers Grade 2 Certification, and hope that soon we’ll be able to offer Master 35 and 80m licenses as well as International licenses. In addition, we have Business, Leadership, Management, First Aid, Fire and Workplace Health & Safety courses.”

According to Rikky, the objective of Paradigm Training is “helping people change their lives through development and training. It’s no exaggeration to say that education changes lives. We aim to raise the bar, delivering courses that improve employment outcomes,” he says.

The Boat Works’ General Manager, Shane Subichin, said Paradigm Training would be a major asset to the entire Marine Precinct.

“The Boat Works is the ideal training ground and learning platform for boaties and marine professionals,” said Shane, who is an assessor with the Marine Industries Association (MIA), specialising in operations and maintenance.

“For Skippers, when their boats are out of water for between three and six months, they now have a training facility they can rely on to update or upgrade their qualifications. For dealers selling new or brokerage boats, their customers can undertake their boat licenses or complete a refresher course right here on-site. Welcoming Paradigm Training is another box ticked for The Boat Works as the perfect yard.”