Russell (Russ to his mates) is one of the owners, and First Mate of BoatSmart HQ Townsville, and Whitsundays (Airlie Beach)
Russell started as an apprentice boat builder with Riviera in 2001 and continued working with Riviera until 2009 when he decided to join the Australian Army. He first joined the Army as a Radar Operator and progressed into flying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV’S). In 2012 he served 8 months in Afghanistan as an Intelligence Imagery Analyst with the UAVs.
In 2015 he trade transferred and completed his qualification as a Helicopter Technician which led him to being posted to Townsville in 2016 and working on MRH-90s. Russell completed further studies in Marine Surveying and also acquired his Master <24 and MED 2 skipper and engineer qualifications with more qualifications still in progress. In 2022 he decided to discharge from the Army pursue a different career path and coming back in to the Marine Industry as he has a huge passion for being on the water and working and maintaining boats.
His partner Rachel is a current serving member for the RAAF as a Personnel Capability Specialist in Townsville and we share 4 children, 13, 9 and 3 1/2 and 5months.
When he is not busy working Russ enjoys spending time with family and friends either fishing, working on his golf game (still cant beats his Mrs) and camping.
Coral Sea Marina Resort has emerged as a premier boating and tourism destination on Australia’s east coast. In the heart of the Whitsundays on the beautiful tropical coast of Queensland, Coral Sea Marina Resort is the gateway to Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Islands and the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef.
Breakwater (Townsville) Marina serves as an ideal boating destination thanks to our location amongst the natural wonders of north Queensland. Situated on the northern east coast of Australia in Wulgurukaba & Bindal Country, the area is a vibrant mix of sub-tropical rainforests, sandy beaches, rugged outback plains and quaint coastal townships. Breakwater Marina is located within Townsville’s City whilst still having immediate ocean access to spectacular islands and secluded beaches
Maggie Island Marina, located just 20 minutes from Townsville mainland is a gateway to glorious cruising pathways, and ensures unlimited adventure for all sailors, fisherman and boaties alike. Maggie Island marina provides brand new first class facilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible and our friendly staff make customer service their priority, making Maggie Island Marina your home away from home.
The NQCYC is situated right at the Bowen boat harbour and is known for its spectacular views, relaxed atmosphere and ice cold beer. We offer berths in front of the club as well as hardstand spaces for your trailer-able vessel.
Home to the world's finest yachts and cruisers, find your safe haven at Shute Harbour Marina.
With 395 berths, Shute Harbour Marina will be built to world-leading international standards, catering to all yachting and boating needs.
The Hamilton Island Marina is located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, where your boating paradise awaits. With a jet airport serviced by Virgin Australia, Qantas and Jetstar, and with direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, upon arrival you are just minutes away from being on your vessel. This makes it the perfect location to keep your vessel to cruise and explore hidden bays, iconic beaches and discover your own piece of the Great Barrier Reef.
Port of Airlie is the newest marina in the Whitsundays, known for its magnificent 74 Whitsunday islands. The marina features various sized marina berths, The Cove residential apartments, waterfront blocks and now the bustling maritime passenger terminal for Cruise Whitsundays. It is also home to a number of dining and café precincts and retail outlets as well as marina services.