Ahoy there, meet our new team member.
We are absolutely thrilled to announce the latest addition to our crew, the seasoned mariner and marine industry expert, Matthew Johnston, also known as ‘Johno’. With a career as deep and expansive as the open ocean, Johno brings a wealth of experience, a passion for all things nautical, and a lifelong commitment to the marine industry.
A sea of expertise
Matthew Johnston's maritime odyssey began many tides ago, when he embarked on a career that would take him from the bustling decks of private enterprises to the helm of state-owned companies. His voyage of experience includes two remarkable anchor points:
1. Muir Engineering Group Pty Ltd: Johno's dedication to Muir Engineering Group Pty Ltd spanned over 11 years (from 2005 to 2016), where he ascended from General Manager to Managing Director. Here, he played a pivotal role in the business's day-to-day operations and, notably, in expanding its horizons through export sales in the superyacht markets. Johno was a globe-trotting ambassador, rubbing shoulders with international sailors and industry leaders at prestigious events like the Monaco Yacht Show, Ft. Lauderdale (USA), and METS (Holland).
2. Tasports (formerly Hobart Ports): After charting his course at Muir Engineering, Johno joined the Tasports team, formerly known as Hobart Ports, where he served in various roles. His final appointment as the Executive General Manager of the marine division from 2016 to 2020 tasked him with the comprehensive management of shipping activities within the state. He oversaw critical aspects such as pilotage, towage, safety, and vessel traffic management, ensuring smooth sailing in Tasmania's waters.
Captain of knowledge
Johno has an MBA from Southern Cross University in New South Wales, adding a strategic touch to his maritime expertise.
Johno is a man of action on the water, holding the prestigious title of Past Commodore of the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania (RYCT). His 11-year tenure on the board, coupled with his membership since 1985, speaks volumes about his dedication to the RYCT community. Johno's sailing journey began as a junior in 12' cadet dinghies, and he's since navigated his way through various classes and thrilling races.
Notably, Johno has conquered the treacherous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race not once, but four times! Add two Melbourne to Hobart races and a string of victories in the popular SB20 class both at home and abroad, and you have a sailor whose passion for the marine industry knows no bounds.
Setting sail with Johno
As we welcome Matthew Johnston to our crew, we anticipate great things on the horizon for our team and the marine industry as a whole.
His expertise, dedication, and love for the sea will undoubtedly bring a fresh breeze of innovation and enthusiasm to our business. So, prepare to set sail on an exciting new chapter as we navigate the future together with Johno at our side.
Come by and say hi, we’d love to see you.