Well, here we are again at the end of another year — and what a year it’s been!
Firstly, the major revision of Marine Order 504 has certainly caused more than a few headaches for mariners and increased our workload tenfold. While it’s vital to ensure the health and safety of everyone in our industry, this change required a complete redevelopment of the Safety Management System (SMS).
Whether you see this as a positive or a challenging shift, it’s a change nonetheless — and here at Shorlink, our team has fully embraced it, as have many mariners across the industry.
With change comes more AMSA inspections. One of the biggest areas of focus — and where many mariners found themselves non-compliant — has been the introduction of a Fatigue Risk Management Plan for every commercial vessel.
Unfortunately, we’ve seen vessels taken out of service and even businesses forced to close as a result. The sad part is — it’s completely avoidable.
Not only have we been focused on developing SMSs for our existing clients, but we’ve also been busy consulting during inspections and creating new Safety Management Systems for our many welcome new clients.
With all the above, compliance is one thing — induction is another entirely. Ensuring that the revised SMS has been properly inducted with everyone on board is not only a requirement but can also protect you in the event of an incident — legally and otherwise.
As a result, our Crew Induction Courses have seen a massive increase in participation, and we couldn’t be happier to play a part in ensuring the marine industry remains both educated and safe.
Without slowing down, both Lindsay (our Head Trainer) and I have travelled to every corner of Australia — completing SMS handovers, crew inductions, and emergency training, while also meeting new clients and building valuable industry connections.
It’s truly been a great year! I’m also making a conscious effort to maintain a healthy work–life balance — not only for myself and my family, but for Tracey and other staff as well.
At this time of year, I always like to highlight the importance of mental health. There have been many ups and downs for people across our industry — both personally and professionally. Sadly, we continue to see members of the marine community leave us too soon, which is a sobering reminder of why mental wellbeing matters so deeply.
If you’re a business owner, take the time to check in with every team member — whether they’re onboard or onshore. And if you run your own business, pause to reflect and make sure you’re maintaining a healthy work–life balance and that both your health and your business demands are in check.
Your mental health matters. It’s time to start the conversation — and you can always call Wayne for a confidential chat on (07) 4242 1412.
If you or someone you know needs extra support, you can also reach out to Beyond Blue anytime, 24/7, on 1300 22 4635, or chat online via their website.
We haven’t seen any indication of changes from AMSA at this stage, so let’s hope for some smooth sailing operationally for everyone!
As always, we encourage our commercial clients to continue investing in their businesses and crews. Safety, education, and compliance should always remain paramount. If you’re unsure where to begin — or how to implement improvements — give us a call. We’re always ready to help you grow your business safely and effectively.
To our new clients – welcome one and all! And there have been many! Thank you for entrusting your safety and education needs to the team here at Shorlink. We’re here to assist with everything from training and incident support to business and operational advice.
And to our valued boat owners – you play an integral role in the safety and education of the marine industry. We’re encouraged to see more recreational owners taking this responsibility seriously through training, operational manuals, and marine consultancy services.
We’re also excited to announce that Shorlink will be exhibiting at Marina26 on the Gold Coast from 25–27 May 2026! We look forward to showcasing our world-class emergency and fire training unit, and our team will be there to greet you — we’d love to see you at our stand.
As we wrap up another busy and rewarding year, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey — our clients, partners, and friends within the marine industry. Your trust, commitment, and collaboration continue to inspire us every day.
On behalf of the entire Shorlink team, I wish you and your families a safe, happy, and prosperous 2026. May the year ahead bring smooth seas, continued success, and good health for all.
Fair winds and following seas,
Wayne Linklater
Managing Director – Shorlink
