News

Dripstone Year 8 Stars had their sea legs tested while touring Landbridge at Darwin Port during Term 2.

As part of the Education, Training and Employment pillar of the Stars Plan, the tour was designed to expand the girls’ horizons about the types of exciting work opportunities that are available to them.

The girls were introduced to the complexities of the Darwin Port Control Centre, where they were transfixed by the massive bank of monitors that use infrared radars to display the various ships in the harbour and help the technicians direct traffic in and out of the Port efficiently and safely.

The girls learned about importing and exporting and that many of the products that they and their families use every day, including cars and mobile phones, arrive in Darwin packed in huge shipping containers by the hundreds. As part of the tour, the girls were able to witness a ship being loaded with cargo ready for export.

A mock ‘day in the life’ of a Border Force marine tactical officer at sea was conducted on board an Australian Border Force Patrol Boat, where the girls learned about the range of duties that need to be undertaken every day.

While exploring the many secret nooks and crannies aboard the ship, the girls were surprised to hear that the crew sometimes stays out at sea for four weeks at a time – with no access to wifi and limited contact with their family and friends back home.

Thanks to Landbridge and tour guide, Kerri Small, for opening our Stars eyes to the very interesting career opportunities that are available at Darwin Port and with the Australian Border Force.