General News
2 September, 2026
Maritime expo opens career doors
A CONVERSATION at last year’s Cairns Maritime Careers Expo helped Super Global Services (SGS) find its newest apprentice, highlighting an alternative approach to attracting workers to the region’s marine trades.
SGS has faced an ongoing challenge in attracting apprentices who understand what the work involves before signing on.
Managing Director Andy Guarrera has looked beyond school leavers, considering mature-age applicants with prior work and life experience.
In November 2025, SGS hosted an exhibition stand at the Cairns Maritime Careers Expo, organised by Marine Futures with support from the Cairns Regional Jobs Committee.
Rather than relying on managers to promote the business, SGS had two apprentices speak directly with visitors.
Among them was mature-age jobseeker Sarah Adkins, who spoke with the apprentices about the work. Her TAFE teacher also visited the stall and spoke with Mr Guarrera, prompting SGS to contact Ms Adkins for an interview.
“She rocked up to the interview in hi-vis, ready to work, and talked me through work experience she had done with Ergon. That told me everything I needed to know about her attitude,” said Mr Guarrera.
Ms Adkins secured the position, enabling her to transition from casual hospitality work at Woree to a skilled trade. The appointment also further strengthened SGS’s existing relationship with TAFE.
“Having our own apprentices on the stall made all the difference; people hear it from someone actually doing the job, not from the boss. My advice to other employers is simple - get behind these expos and don’t overlook mature-age applicants”, said Mr Guarrera.
The event is aimed at people considering careers in the Marine, Maritime or Defence Industry, as well as businesses seeking to attract staff.
SGS will return to the 2026 Cairns Maritime Jobs & Careers Expo on August 29. The
expo will be held at the Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron, 42/48 Tingira Street,
Cairns City, from 9am to 1pm.
