Now working in sales with Family Boats, Tony began his career as an apprentice outboard mechanic at Peter Harrison Marine in Papatoetoe in 1975. He spent four years there, also attending Manukau Institute to gain a Powerboat Serviceman qualification.
Interested in powerboats from a young age, Tony bought his first boat even before he bought his first car.
In his early days as an outboard mechanic with Peter Harrison, and later at Just Marine, he became very involved in powerboat circuit racing. He also took full advantage of courses offered by engine manufacturers like Evinrude and Johnson.
“Back then, organisations like the Manukau Institute didn’t know much about powerboats, so we tried to learn from people who did, like outboard manufacturers,” explained Tony.
During this period, he teamed up with offshore powerboating legend Richard Shores over several seasons to successfully campaign the iconic raceboat Eta Ripples all over the country.
After a few years with Just Marine, Tony went out on his own, including running a workshop in Pine Harbour, before joining Peter Carlson at Family Boats in 1995 in a sales role.
“What do you say about Tony?” asks Peter. “He’s been around so long that he’s basically part of the furniture! There’s no one in the industry with more knowledge and experience than Tony. He’s highly regarded and greatly appreciated as part of the team.”
Tony’s also club captain at Maraetai Beach Boat Club and actively involved in Beachlands Boating Club. He’s always ready to help out the community. At MBBC last year, he even got dressed up as Santa, riding in on the Coastguard boat to deliver presents to the children.
Asked what keeps him interested, Tony told Boating NZ it was the ever-changing technology: two-stroke outboards to turn-key four-strokes and electronic everything – ignition, steering systems, controls, and more.
“Powerboats are so much more advanced than when I started. It’s been exciting to experience all the changes and to share them with our customers. And who knows what’s coming next? I can’t wait,” said Tony.
And as if Tony doesn’t spend enough time on the water at work, in his spare time, you’ll find him out fishing in his own boat, called Fred.
Congratulations from us Tony on 50 years of service to powerboating.
Congratulations 🎉
Good on ya mate always helped in our hour of need, not just me but everyone. Solid bloke our Tony. All the best mate