
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Tweed Heads New South Wales for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There is 1 course available in Tweed Heads New South Wales for experienced learners with prior experience or qualifications.
Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Key questions
How can I become a ship mate?
To become a ship mate in Tweed Heads, you may want to consider completing the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal). This qualification will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in this industry.
Are there training providers in Tweed Heads?
You can train to become a ship mate by completing a qualification with TAFE NSW. Find a course provider near you. Once you make an enquiry, a course advisor will get in touch to discuss your study options and course fees.
What study modes are available?
There are several campuses within the Tweed Heads area that provide ship mate training. The closest campus is 81km away from the center of Tweed Heads. Find a course provider that best suits your study needs.
Related occupations
Explore related occupations in the ship mate sector.
General Purpose Hand
A General Purpose Hand performs various duties on a marine vessel, assisting passengers, managing cargo, cleaning, and conducting safety checks.
Coxswain
A Coxswain steers small vessels, navigates courses, communicates with crew, and prioritises safety during journeys and emergencies.
Second Engineer
A Second Engineer repairs and maintains equipment on a vessel, handling mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems while ensuring smooth operations.
Chief Cook
A Chief Cook prepares meals on a vessel, ensuring ingredient availability, hygiene, and special dietary needs while managing tasks efficiently.
Sea Captain
A Sea Captain navigates and manages a vessel, ensuring safety and leadership while transporting passengers or cargo and communicating with the crew.
Chief Engineer
A Chief Engineer oversees machinery maintenance, designs equipment, supervises teams, and requires strong analytical and leadership skills.
Marine Mechanic
A Marine Mechanic repairs boats and maritime equipment, specialising in engines and systems while demonstrating problem-solving skills.
Marine Engineer
A Marine Engineer maintains and repairs shipping equipment, working on various vessel systems and ensuring effective operation through servicing and problem-solving.
Boat Builder
A Boat Builder constructs and repairs maritime vessels, customising designs to client specifications and specialising in areas like interiors or masts.
Shipwright
A Shipwright builds and repairs ships, requiring strong technical skills, attention to detail, and teamwork to meet customer needs.
Assistant Shipwright
An Assistant Shipwright aids in constructing and maintaining vessels, following instructions and working in teams while ensuring attention to detail.
Engineer Watchkeeper
An Engineer Watchkeeper ensures the effective operation and maintenance of ship machinery, requiring technical skills, attention to detail, and clear communication.
Marine Surveyor
A Marine Surveyor inspects vessels for safety compliance, prepares reports, and conducts scheduled checks, requiring attention to detail, organisation, and strong communication skills.
Master Mariner
A Master Mariner is responsible for navigating and operating a large ship, ensuring the safety of crew and passengers while complying with regulations and communicating effectively with authorities.
Watchkeeper Deck Officer
A Watchkeeper Deck Officer oversees navigation, supervises cargo loading, liaises with the captain, manages equipment, and communicates with crew and passengers.
Deckhand
A Deckhand performs cleaning, maintenance, cargo handling, mooring, and safety patrols on a ship, requiring physical fitness, teamwork, and strict adherence to safety procedures.
Ship Master
A Ship Master oversees vessel operations, navigation, crew coordination, and regulation compliance, requiring strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Naval Architect
A Naval Architect designs ships and marine vessels, developing innovative solutions, meeting client needs, and adapting skills for varied projects.
More about ship mate courses in Tweed Heads
If you're looking to advance your maritime career, the Ship Mate courses in Tweed Heads are an excellent choice for those aiming to develop essential skills and qualifications. With just one available course in the area, the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal) MAR40320, you can gain the expertise necessary to excel in various maritime roles while enjoying the beautiful coastal surroundings of Tweed Heads.
Completing a Ship Mate course not only opens doors to enhanced job opportunities but also equips you with the confidence to take on responsibilities in the maritime industry. Graduates can explore exciting career paths, such as a General Purpose Hand, Coxswain, or even a Sea Captain. Each of these roles requires a unique set of skills that can be cultivated through formal training and practical experience.
Moreover, the maritime sector in Tweed Heads offers opportunities in various specialised fields. For instance, pursuing roles such as a Chief Engineer, Marine Surveyor, or Ship Master can provide a fulfilling career while contributing to the region's vibrant maritime community. As you navigate through your educational journey, you'll discover the array of options available to you once you complete your Ship Mate course.
Each step in your learning journey is crucial, and the Ship Mate courses available in Tweed Heads will set you on the right path. The vocational training not only prepares you for immediate job roles but also provides a strong foundation for future advancement, such as becoming a Master Mariner or a Naval Architect. Take the leap today, and secure your place in the maritime industry with the right training at your fingertips!
Further reading


How to start a career in Logistics
14th October 2021