The port industry has been part of Kailee, Sharnie and Graisea’s family story for five generations. Their father, brother, and other relatives have worked in maritime roles all around Australia, in every state, offshore and overseas. Today, these three sisters are continuing that legacy in their own way—working in diverse, professional roles within the Port of Newcastle that reflect a more modern, inclusive industry.
Their work might look different to the hands-on maritime roles of their dad and brother, but the sense of pride and purpose is just as strong. Each of them plays a part in keeping Australia’s largest east coast port running through operations, scheduling, and administration. It’s a shared commitment shaped by history, but reimagined for the future.
Kailee was the first of the three sisters to join Port of Newcastle as a Vessel Scheduler, coordinating the safe and efficient movement of vessels to, from and within the Port. With over ten years in the maritime industry—including seven years at Port of Newcastle—she’s seen a clear shift in how the industry operates, not just in terms of technology but in workplace culture too.
She reflects, “I’ve watched the industry evolve in ways that are really exciting. Growing up, we heard so many stories about the Port, but I never pictured myself working here. It’s empowering to now be a part of shaping its future.”
One moment that stood out to Kailee was a Port initiative that invited local schools to help name the new mobile harbour cranes. Among the shortlisted names was “Kenny,” which happened to be her grandfather’s name. Seeing the name sparked something personal, and Kailee quickly rallied friends, family, and colleagues to vote. When one of the cranes was officially named Kenny, it felt like a special link between generations—a small but powerful way to feel even more connected to the place that means so much to them.
Her sister Sharnie came to the Port from a very different background. After running her own business, becoming a teacher, and supporting the family earthmoving business, she never expected to end up in maritime. But when a role opened at Port of Newcastle, the pull was both personal and practical. The Port had always been a part of their family history—but now, with flexible work options and supportive leadership, it offered her a chance to grow her career while raising her own family.
“The port wasn’t something I pictured for myself, but I’ve found so much purpose here,” she says. “There’s pride in knowing I’m contributing to something that’s been such a big part of our family’s story.”
What makes her proud isn’t just the legacy—it’s the transformation she’s witnessing. From her father’s early days on the wharves to now, the industry has moved towards smarter, more sustainable practices.
Sharnie speaks with enthusiasm about the diversity of roles emerging at Port of Newcastle, from female engineers and security officers to women in dredging and operations, and the focus on community and innovation that’s shaping the Port’s next phase of growth.
Graisea, the youngest of the three, knew she wanted to be part of the Port, but it took time to figure out where she fit. Now working in reception, she’s the first face many people see at Head Office, connecting across teams and learning something new every day.
“If I could go back and speak to my younger self,” she says, “I’d tell her not to count herself out. I’ve actually always wanted to work in the port industry—I guess it’s kind of in the blood! I just didn’t really know how or where I’d fit in.”
One moment that made everything click came during a particularly chaotic day on the front desk—phones ringing, visitors arriving, deliveries piling up. It was the kind of day that could easily feel overwhelming. But instead of being left to manage alone, her colleagues stepped in to support her, and later thanked her for the way she handled it. “It might sound small,” she says, “but in that moment, I felt valued, like I really belonged here.”
Together, the sisters are shaping a new narrative. One that honours the past but isn’t bound by it. They’ve each taken different paths to get here, but what connects them is a sense of purpose and the knowledge that their contributions, however different from previous generations, are just as meaningful.
Their careers are a testament to how industries like maritime can evolve—welcoming new voices, new skills, and new career pathways. They show us that legacy doesn’t have to look the same to carry the same pride, and that a strong family history can be the foundation for a future that’s uniquely your own.
If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a place for you in this industry, this is your sign. There is.
