The Australian marine industry united in celebration and purpose at the 2025 Australian Marine Industry Awards, not only recognising excellence across the sector but also unveiling a new initiative designed to foster the future of the industry – the Superyacht Crew Scholarship.  Marking the beginning of a new pathway for young Australians aspiring to join the marine sector.

Bryce Lawrence, a 19-year-old Indigenous deckhand from the Gold Coast, was named the inaugural recipient of the scholarship.  Motivated by a love of boating and the opportunity to travel with work, Bryce took the initiative to post on a marine industry forum asking for advice on how to get started.

On 27 April, Bryce posted; “My name is Bryce Lawrence. I am a 19-year-old Indigenous male looking to start my career in the marine industry. I have my deckhand ticket and am located on the Gold Coast, but I can relocate to Sydney if needed. I’m willing to start any marine-related work to gain experience.”

His message was met with overwhelming support, drawing more than 40 responses including offers from offshore and rig operators. Among those who reached out was David Good, CEO of Superyacht Australia, and after engaging in conversation was immediately struck by Bryce’s drive and communication skills.

Recognising the potential to create real impact both for Bryce and other young people keen to enter the marine industry, Superyacht Australia formulated the Superyacht Crew Scholarship.  Bryce was invited to attend the Australian Marine Industry Awards on the Gold Coast on 20 May, as the first recipient of the scholarship.

During the event, a live painting was created by artist Elena Valerie and auctioned for $2,500 with the proceeds donated to the scholarship program. The artwork was purchased by Debbie Leenderts of CHAPMAN Yachting, who has committed to helping Bryce secure his first role in the sector.  Bryce is now set to undertake his Standards of Training, Certifications and Watchkeeping (STCW) at the Superyacht Crew Academy in Frenchs Forest, Sydney

At the Awards night and in the days that followed in the AIMEX Garden at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, Bryce was introduced to key industry figures and quickly overwhelmed with job offers, career advice and support from recruitment agencies and industry leaders alike. His potential was clear to everyone he met.

“I still can’t believe it happened,” said Bryce. “I was approached by so many people with information about how to get into the marine industry and was also offered jobs.  I am so thankful, and I hope this scholarship will give me a chance to travel and work in the Mediterranean.”

Debbie Leenderts, Partner and Managing Director of CHAPMAN Yachting commented; “When I first started the recruitment division at CHAPMAN, it was driven by my passion for the industry and a desire to help others get their start. I can’t think of a better way to support that mission than by donating to the scholarship program”.

Bryce’s story identified the need to formalise a pathway for other young people with the same ambition but lacking direction or access.  Superyacht Australia hopes the Superyacht Australia Crew Futures Scholarship is the beginning of a new direction and opportunity to open doors for young Australians by providing access to training, mentorship, and career opportunities within the global marine industry.