28 | WATERLINE March 2025 FEATURE WOMEN IN INDUSTRY SILVIA JURA has been the Administration & Communications Coordinator at MIA for almost two years. With a Bachelor of Business and a Diploma in Human Resources Management, she has experience with Emirates, Aer Lingus, and Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services, giving her a solid background in business and operations. A local from Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Silvia is all about travel, food, and wine—especially when she can combine all three! For her, exploring new places and diving into different cultures is the ultimate way to spend her time. Right now, she’s focused on the Marinas26 International Conference and Trade Exhibition, ensuring the exhibition space is sold out before delegate registration opens. She’s keeping things on track and working behind the scenes with Suzanne and Kellie to help bring this fantastic event together. Silvia also manages MIA membership and the Clean Marina Program, ensuring the association’s members have the support they need. LILY PEEL's career in the marina industry is just beginning. While studying, she gained experience as a Marina Attendant at Sydney Superyacht Marina, worked onboard superyachts, in sail lofts, and served as a sailing coach. Now, as the Industry Training and Development Coordinator at the MIA, Lily is focused on creating educational and training opportunities to make the marina industry accessible to all, regardless of ability, gender, or background. Lily is also heavily involved in various associations. She has served on the State and National Committees of the Cherub Association, a skiff class she has raced for over a decade. As President of the Dinghy Division at Drummoyne Sailing Club, she promotes and supports the club’s growing sailing community. Beyond her commitment to competitive sailing, Lily is a strong advocate for women in the marine industry and serves on the Women in Boating Committee for the Boating Industry Association. Lily loves the close-knit community of the Marina Industry. “It’s full of great people, and you always feel welcome,” she says. “There’s always a great story to hear if you take the time to listen.” Lily is dedicated to ensuring the Marina Industry remains accessible and thriving for future generations. Q & A WITH JENNIFER FARRELLY MARKETING MANAGER, CLUB MARINE What is your background, your industry experience and what does your role with club marine involve? I started my journey at Sandringham Yacht Club just as the 99 Worlds Sailing Regatta was underway, which proved to be both an exciting and rewarding challenge. Over the years, I took on various roles within the club, including launching the Club Marine SYC Boating Academy and had the privilege of being involved in prestigious events like the Melbourne to Osaka Yacht Race and the Volvo Ocean Race. Now celebrating 18 years with Club Marine, I remain passionate about my work. My responsibilities encompass representing the Club Marine brand at boat shows nationwide, managing many sponsorships and events, and overseeing Club Marine TV, our YouTube channel dedicated to educating boaters. With more than 7 million views, Club Marine TV has become an invaluable resource for the boating community. What inspired you to become involved in the marine industry? I've always had a deep passion for the water and the amazing marine lifestyle it offers. Growing up, I spent my time waterskiing and wakeboarding on Lake Eildon. I’m a certified diver and most weekends in summer I enjoy snorkelling at the local marine sanctuary with my family. What have been some of your greatest successes in the marina industry? For me, success is about building strong connections within the marine community and with Club Marine members as well as delivering exceptional events. On a personal level, one of my proudest moments was receiving the Club Marine Annette Serisier award in 2023. Annette was a beloved staff member of Club Marine for over 25 years, and this award, which honours her legacy as a coach and mentor, is given to a staff member who exemplifies the same qualities Annette brought to our culture. From your exposure to our generally male dominated industry, tell us honestly about your experience as a woman. Do you think you are treated differently? I have always felt welcomed and respected in the marine industry, regardless of its male-dominated nature. I don’t feel that I’ve ever been treated any differently; there’s a genuine sense of respect and care for one another within the industry, which has made my experience incredibly positive. What advice would you give other women working in the marine industry? My advice would be to stand tall, trust in your abilities, and believe in yourself. Many of the connections I’ve made in the marine industry have turned into lifelong friendships, and I feel fortunate to be part of such a wonderful community.
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