On Tuesday 6 May, the industry gathered to celebrate the best of the best in the 2025 Nautilus Marine Insurance Marina of the year awards.
In this series, we celebrate the those that were recognised as finalists and winners of each award.
Marina Industry Woman of the Year Award
In what has been a very male dominated industry throughout the course of time, it is one of the great celebrations of where the industry is now to see so many women have taken on every aspect of the industry, from marina and dock staff, design, construction, management and shipyards. It’s for this reason we celebrate the achievements of this year’s Industry Woman of the Year Award.
Winner – Stephanie Trounce
Stephanie Trounce joined Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM) in 2022 as the WHS Property and Compliance Manager, bringing 15 years of experience in high-risk industries such as mining, civil, and commercial construction.
At GCCM, Stephanie applies her extensive knowledge of safety systems and compliance to manage the marina’s safety and property standards, whilst embracing all she can learn in the marina and shipyard space. Stephanie’s approach is proactive and tailored to the unique demands of a shipyard, where safety challenges can often be complex and multifaceted.
Highly Commended – Mintira Sawangphong
Mintira Sawangphong – Min has dedicated over three decades to Ocean Marina, becoming an indispensable member of the Ocean Property marina team since being recognised for her potential in 2010 by the current marina manager. She works professionally with government departments, including Immigration, Customs, and the Thai Marine Department, while also managing a team of 37 Captains, deckhands, launching staff, maids, and golf cart drivers. Min has played a key role in shaping the growth and character of the marina.
Finalist – Kate Purdie
Kate Purdie was appointed as General Manager of Abell Point Marina in 2018. She was instrumental in the development of the business to form Coral Sea Marina Resort (CSMR) in 2019 and was promoted to the role of Chief Executive Officer, Coral Sea Marina, in 2020.
Kate’s strong business acumen affords her the ability to see the bigger picture whilst at the same time effectively manage the daily operations of a very dynamic and diverse business. Kate’s impact extends beyond her personal contributions, as she has also mentored the women on her team who have grown in their roles to become board members themselves of many organisations in the region.
Finalist – Nicky Vaux
Nicky Vaux built a foundation in customer service that she has applied to Empire Marinas over the last 15 years. Nicky has been responsible for creating the premium presentation and customer focus of Empire Marinas.
Nicky’s approach and leadership creates a wholistic inclusive approach where all opinions are heard and considered. Her Boating Princess social media experience highlights how involved she is with industry promoting its successes and strengths. Nicky volunteers a considerable amount of her time to support the growth and sustainability of our industry through promoting its benefits and opportunities to women within the industry.
Finalist – Ange Melville
Ange Melville commenced her Australian marine industry career as a back-packing yard hand at River Quays Marina on the Parramatta River. Now Ange has developed a raft of technical and operational skills from navigating commercial and wetland leases, regulatory requirements, bookkeeping, accounting basics, customer service and her true love for lifting heavy vessels.
Ange was appointed Service Manager at White Bay 6 Marine Park where she is firmly entrenched with her wealth of industry skills and experience including where she still has time to mentor talent and manage a quality yard!
Finalist – Woranart Wongwanich
Woranart Wongwanich, a Director of Royal Phuket Marina, is a respected leader with over 20 years of experience in Thailand’s marine industry. She remains on of the few Thai women in a senior marina management role and has been instrumental in driving the marina’s growth and operational excellence.
Woranart has been instrumental in bringing international attention to yachting sector, organizing major yacht shows, regattas, and high-profile berthing arrangements. Through her expertise and leadership, Woranart has elevated the standards of marina management, contributing to the industry’s long-term growth and success.
For more information, visit or contact the Marina Industries Association HERE
Full MIA 2025 Awards Picture Library
