When the iconic Lady Northcott ferry was being retired, Transport Learning and Development Associate Mark Champley had an idea. Mark, a Kamilaroi man and a former Sydney Ferries worker, suggested giving the ferry a second life by donating it to Tribal Warrior for the training of Aboriginal youth.
Tribal Warrior, Australia’s largest Aboriginal maritime charity, has trained more than 5000 people in the maritime and hospitality industries since its inception in 1998. It also has a youth mentoring program and a self-empowerment strategy for troubled youth.
Mark’s idea was embraced by Transport’s leaders, and the ferry was officially handed over to Tribal Warrior in May 2021. The donation of the Lady Northcott has enabled them to employ and mentor Aboriginal trainees whilst running commercial operations with their qualified crew. They’re also assisted by the Friends of Lady Northcott, a group of retired crew from Sydney Ferries.
The Lady Northcott ferry was repurposed, joining the Tribal Warrior fleet where it is used for cultural tours and training youth on Sydney Harbour, Eora nation. This photo was captured by Mark Champley’s son-in-law, Nick Baker, who is a Manly Ferry Captain.