Change at the top

From there, Sarah managed a dive shop in Egypt’s Red Sea before transitioning to the superyacht industry, where she spent six years as a dive instructor, deckhand, and mate on vessels ranging from 42 to 80 metres.

One of the standout moments of Sarah’s career came in 2007, when she became the first female pilot of the SEAmagine submarine off the coast of Barcelona, Spain – a groundbreaking achievement.

With over 10 years’ experience teaching the Superyacht Deckhand Course for Crew Pacific, training more than 1,000 students now thriving in the yachting industry, Sarah’s knowledge of superyachts and marina operations is unrivalled. Her recent roles at Cairns Marlin Marina and Rivergate Marina & Shipyard have further honed her understanding of captains’ and crews’ needs, as well as her expertise in working alongside maritime authorities like the Australian Border Force (ABF) and Biosecurity.

Angela Pennefather: A Cultural and Maritime Ambassador

Sarah is joined by Angela Pennefather, a woman of rich cultural heritage and extensive maritime experience. Born to Australian and Papua New Guinean parents, Angela grew up in the heart of Papua New Guinea, giving her unique insights into Melanesian culture. Fluent in neo-Melanesian languages, Angela has a deep connection with her homeland, having spent much of her life exploring its diverse and remote regions.

Angela’s maritime journey spans more than two decades, including 13 years on superyachts and eight years working on liveaboard dive boats. A qualified chef, she understands the intricate needs of yacht owners and captains, which makes her a vital asset to any yacht cruising through Melanesia’s uncharted waters.

Currently the owner of Melanesian Luxury Yachts, Angela has made it her mission to showcase the beauty and culture of the Pacific to the world. Her ability to blend her understanding of both Melanesian and European cultures allows her to offer authentic and immersive experiences to yacht owners, while also contributing to the protection and preservation of her native region’s delicate environment.

Female Leadership in a Male-Dominated Industry

Sarah and Angela taking the helm at Carter Marine Agencies builds on the foundations laid by Carrie Carter and signals a continuing shift in the maritime industry, historically dominated by men. Both women bring a wealth of expertise, leadership and unique perspectives that reflect the changing tides of the industry.

Their diverse backgrounds and passion for the ocean promise to take Carter Marine Agencies to new heights, while also inspiring a new generation of women in maritime roles.

Sarah Toxward’s experience in marina management and her pioneering role as a submarine pilot, combined with Angela Pennefather’s deep cultural knowledge and extensive yachting background, offer a complementary blend of skills and experience that will benefit Carter Marine Agencies’ clients and partners.

“We’re excited to take this next step with Carter Marine Agencies and continue the legacy that Carrie Carter has built,” said Sarah. “The maritime world has always been a huge part of our lives, and we look forward to bringing our passion and dedication to the company’s future.”

Future Plans: Expanding the Legacy

Carter Marine Agencies is set to expand its presence with plans to establish a new base in Brisbane while continuing operations in Cairns. The Brisbane office will allow the company to service a broader client base and improve its connectivity to Australia’s southeastern coast. This expansion is part of the agency’s strategy to grow its reach and offer superior service to a wider range of clients, without compromising the high standards that have defined the company for over 20 years.

Together, Sarah and Angela will ensure that Carter Marine Agencies continues to deliver the highest standard of service while expanding its reach in the marine industry. Their leadership marks not only a new chapter for the company but also a broader movement toward greater female representation in maritime roles.

First up on the agenda, is attending the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, 30 October to 3 November.

“Our objective there is to connect with marine industry contacts, introduce ourselves in this new capacity, and strengthen established relationships, as well as meet with our own contacts and introduce them to our services,” said Sarah.

“The other major aim is to promote Australia as a destination and how we can assist visiting superyachts over all our refit facilities and service centres. Now based in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Cairns, we can cater to even more vessels. With our combined contacts, including Angela’s in-depth knowledge of PNG, Solomon Islands and the South Pacific, our reach is even greater.”

After FLIBS, Sarah will travel to Auckland, New Zealand to meet with local marina and superyacht proponents.

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